April 03

Born in 1781 in the village of Chhapaiya, Swaminarayan embarked on missionary tours across India as a young man. He taught principles of non-violence, compassion, and strict moral discipline, gaining a large following. In 1826, he codified his teachings in the Shikshapatri, a scripture guiding daily conduct for his followers. Swaminarayan oversaw the construction of temples in Gujarat and other regions, creating centers for worship and community service. His movement also emphasized social reform, including efforts to improve the status of women and outcast groups. He passed away in 1830, and his legacy endures through millions of devotees worldwide.

Born in Ohio, Lorenzo Snow (1814–1901) became a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1836 and served multiple missions abroad. He was ordained as the fifth President of the Church in 1898 and led until his death in 1901. Snow is credited with revitalizing the church’s finances by emphasizing the law of tithing and encouraging self-reliance among members. Under his administration, welfare programs and educational initiatives took shape, laying foundations for future growth. He authored hymns and poems reflecting his deep faith and intellectual curiosity. Snow’s leadership helped stabilize church operations in Utah and abroad, and his teachings continue to influence church policy. He is remembered for his compassion, scholarship, and commitment to religious service.

Edward Everett Hale (1822–1909) was an influential American Unitarian minister who served as pastor of Boston’s South Congregational Church and chaplain of the U.S. Senate. He wrote the famous 1863 short story 'The Man Without a Country', which bolstered Union sentiment during the Civil War. Hale authored dozens of books and essays on history, religion, and social issues, blending scholarly research with engaging narrative. A passionate advocate for prison reform and civic responsibility, he founded the Lend-a-Hand Clubs to promote community service. His leadership in humanitarian causes extended to support for freed slaves during Reconstruction. Hale’s writings and activism bridged moral philosophy and practical action, earning him widespread respect. His legacy endures in American literature and social reform movements.

Born in Saint-Léonard, Quebec, Desranleau was ordained in 1906 and served in pastoral roles before his appointment to Sherbrooke in 1936. He became the first archbishop when the diocese was elevated in 1951. Desranleau championed charitable initiatives, expanding hospitals, schools, and social services to support the community. He promoted liturgical renewal and oversaw the creation of new parishes for a growing Catholic population. Under his leadership, the Archdiocese of Sherbrooke strengthened its outreach and education programs. Archbishop Desranleau's pastoral care and institutional developments had a lasting impact on Quebec's Church.

Emmett 'Fr. Emmett' Johns was a Canadian Roman Catholic priest who founded Dans la Rue, a charity dedicated to helping homeless youth in Montreal. Known affectionately as 'Pops', he walked the streets nightly to offer food, clothing, and support to young people in need. Under his leadership, Dans la Rue grew into a comprehensive outreach program providing shelter, day centers, and health services. Johns received multiple awards for his humanitarian work, including the Order of Canada. His compassionate approach and tireless advocacy transformed the lives of thousands of disadvantaged youth.

Rabbi Harold S. Kushner served at Temple Israel in Natick, Massachusetts for over 25 years. After losing his young son to progeria, he authored 'When Bad Things Happen to Good People,' a groundbreaking guide on faith and meaning in adversity that sold millions of copies worldwide. His compassionate teachings emphasized hope, human resilience, and the integration of faith into everyday life. A sought-after speaker, Kushner contributed to Jewish thought and interfaith dialogue through more than a dozen books and numerous lectures. His work continues to comfort and inspire readers facing personal challenges.

Megan Rohrer is an American pastor and advocate for transgender rights born on April 3, 1980. They made history as one of the first openly transgender pastors ordained in a major US Christian denomination. Rohrer has served congregations in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, focusing on inclusivity and social justice. Beyond their pastoral work, they are a vocal activist, speaking at conferences and engaging in community outreach for LGBTQ+ equality. Their leadership extends to organizing support networks and educational programs for transgender individuals and allies. Rohrer’s commitment to faith and advocacy continues to inspire conversations about diversity and acceptance within religious communities.