March 21

Benedict of Nursia was born around 480 in Nursia, Italy. He is often called the father of Western monasticism. Around 529, he founded the monastery at Monte Cassino. His 'Rule of Saint Benedict' established guidelines for monastic life focusing on prayer, work, and community. The Rule spread throughout medieval Europe, shaping Christian monastic practice. He was canonized as a saint and remains a patron of Europe.

Absalon was born around 1128 into the noble Hvide family. He served as Bishop of Roskilde before becoming Archbishop of Lund in 1178. Absalon was a close advisor to King Valdemar I of Denmark. He led naval campaigns against the Wends, helping secure Danish dominance in the Baltic. A patron of culture, he founded Sorø Abbey and supported ecclesiastical reforms. Absalon died in 1201, commemorated as one of Denmark's greatest medieval statesmen.

Nicholas of Flüe was born in 1417 in the Swiss canton of Obwalden. He married and fathered ten children before leaving family life for a hermit’s solitude. Around 1467, he retreated to a grotto on the Ranft mountain, living on minimal food. He became known for his mystical visions and counsel to the Swiss Confederation. Nicholas never wrote down his revelations, but disciples recorded his teachings. Declared a saint in 1947, he remains a symbol of peace and spiritual devotion in Switzerland.

As Archbishop of Canterbury from 1533 to 1555, Cranmer profoundly reshaped the Church of England. He annulled King Henry VIII’s marriage to Catherine of Aragon and was principal author of the Book of Common Prayer. His theological reforms laid the foundation for Anglican doctrine and liturgical practice. Though he navigated volatile political shifts under Henry VIII, Edward VI, and Mary I, he remained committed to Protestant principles. Ultimately, he was executed for heresy under Mary I, becoming a Protestant martyr.

Born into the influential Coligny family, Odet was made a cardinal at a young age. He later embraced Protestantism, causing a major scandal at the Catholic court of France. His conversion became emblematic of the religious tensions fueling the French Wars of Religion. He was excommunicated and spent his final years under the protection of Huguenot nobles. Odet de Coligny died in Rome, leaving a legacy of faith and controversy in 16th-century France.

As Archbishop of Armagh, Ussher led the Church of Ireland during a tumultuous era. He produced extensive biblical commentaries and the renowned Ussher chronology. His works influenced theological and historical scholarship across Europe. Despite political unrest, he maintained strong ties with English academia and religious authorities. His legacy endures in discussions of biblical interpretation and early modern historiography.

Born in 1713, Lacaille joined the French Academy of Sciences as a youthful scholar. He led a pioneering expedition to the Cape of Good Hope, cataloging nearly 10,000 southern stars. He introduced a systematic naming scheme for constellations still in use today. Back in Paris, he refined astronomical instruments and advanced studies in lunar motion. Lacaille’s blend of religious vocation and scientific exploration marked him as a polymath of the Enlightenment.

Born in 1911 in Ampfield, England, Awdry served as an Anglican curate before turning to writing for his young son’s enjoyment. In 1945, he published The Railway Series, introducing friendly locomotives like Edward, Henry, and the iconic Thomas. His charming stories combined detailed railway knowledge with gentle life lessons, captivating children worldwide. Awdry continued to write more than 26 books in the series and collaborated with his son Christopher on later volumes. His work laid the foundation for a global media franchise, including television adaptations, toys, and theme parks.

Ignatius Zakka I Iwas was born in 1933 and became the spiritual leader of the Syriac Orthodox Church. He was enthroned as the patriarch, guiding the church through times of change and challenge. Zakka I Iwas worked to promote unity and understanding among Christian communities in the Middle East. He engaged in interfaith dialogue, advocating for peaceful coexistence with other religions. His leadership extended beyond theology to humanitarian efforts in conflict-affected regions. He passed away in 2014, leaving a lasting impact on Eastern Christianity.