March 20

Born into the ducal family of Ferrara in 1479, Ippolito d’Este became a cardinal at an early age. He served as papal legate to various Italian states, shaping political alliances. Ippolito was a patron of the arts, commissioning works from Michelangelo and Leonardo. He played a key role in the papal politics of Alexander VI and Julius II. Despite his ecclesiastical status, he maintained close ties to his ruling family in Ferrara. His blend of political acumen and cultural patronage left a lasting mark on Renaissance Italy.

Juan de Ribera served as Archbishop of Valencia from 1568 until his death in 1611. A staunch defender of Catholic orthodoxy, he founded schools and charitable institutions. He implemented reforms of the Council of Trent, focusing on clergy education and discipline. Ribera was created a cardinal in 1599 by Pope Clement VIII. He played a central role in the Counter-Reformation efforts in Spain. Canonized as a saint in 1960, he is remembered for his pastoral zeal and social works.

Sheed moved from Australia to England in 1926, partnering with his wife Maisie Ward to launch Sheed & Ward. The press became renowned for publishing Catholic thinkers and converts during the interwar period. He authored classic works such as 'Theology and Sanity' and 'To Know Christ Jesus,' known for their clarity. A sought-after speaker, Sheed lectured across Europe and the United States on faith and reason. His writings and publishing efforts played a central role in the mid-century Catholic literary revival. Sheed's legacy endures through his accessible apologetic works and influence on Catholic education.

Born in Birmingham, Alan Harper was ordained in 1968 and served in parishes across England and Ireland. He was appointed Bishop of Connor in 1995 and became Archbishop of Armagh in 2007, leading the Church of Ireland. Renowned for his commitment to ecumenical dialogue, he played a key role in peace-building initiatives in Northern Ireland. Harper advocated for social justice and community outreach, serving on various church committees until his retirement in 2013. His leadership strengthened interfaith relations and modernized church engagement across the island of Ireland.