March 28

Flodoard served as a canon at the cathedral of Reims and became one of the most important chroniclers of early medieval France. His Annals of Reims provide a year-by-year account of events from 919 to 966, offering valuable insight into political and ecclesiastical affairs. He meticulously recorded coronations, church councils, and regional conflicts. His work remains a key source for scholars studying the Carolingian and post-Carolingian era. Flodoard’s balanced perspective and careful use of sources set a high standard for medieval historiography.

Originally a monk at Molesme Abbey, Stephen Harding joined forces with Robert of Molesme and Alberic to establish the Cistercian order in 1098. He drew up the Charter of Charity, which became the order’s guiding rule and emphasized austerity, manual labor, and liturgical simplicity. Under his leadership, the order rapidly expanded across Europe, founding numerous abbeys. Harding served as abbot of Cîteaux and promoted the ideals of monastic reform. His writings and organizational skills laid the foundation for one of the most influential religious movements of the Middle Ages. He was revered for his humility and devotion to monastic ideals.

Originally Simon de Brion, he was elected pope in 1281 and took the name Martin IV. His papacy was marked by political entanglements in Italy and France, including support for Charles of Anjou’s ambitions in Sicily. Martin IV excommunicated the Byzantine Emperor Michael VIII Palaiologos and attempted to launch crusades in the eastern Mediterranean. He had a fraught relationship with the powerful city-states of Italy and navigated complex alliances. His decisions influenced the balance of power between the papacy and secular rulers in late 13th-century Europe.

Born in 1304, Venturino joined the Dominican Order and became renowned for his eloquent and passionate sermons across Italy and France. He led missionary expeditions and advocated for Church reform during a time of political and spiritual turmoil. Venturino was appointed papal legate by Pope Clement VI to preach a crusade in the Holy Land. His campaign raised funds and recruits, though the initiative ultimately failed. He authored theological treatises emphasizing pastoral care and the importance of preaching. Venturino’s dynamic style left a lasting imprint on mendicant spirituality.

Joseph Cassidy was a Canadian-born priest and academic who became principal of St Chad's College at Durham University in 2003. He earned degrees in theology and classical studies, bringing a scholarly approach to his clerical duties. Cassidy was known for fostering ecumenical dialogue and engaging students in both spiritual and intellectual growth. Under his leadership, the college expanded its academic programs and community outreach. He published articles on contemporary theology and participated in international conferences. His tenure was marked by a commitment to academic excellence and pastoral care.