May 12

Born into the powerful Colonna family of Rome in 1479, Pompeo Colonna was elevated to cardinal at a young age by Pope Alexander VI. He served as papal legate in France and was a fierce defender of church interests against rival noble families. During the tumultuous sack of Rome in 1527, he controversially aligned with imperial forces. Under Pope Clement VII, he wielded significant political influence within the Vatican's inner circle. Cardinal Colonna was also a patron of art and architecture until his death in 1532.

Born Antonius Hennepin in 1626 in present-day Belgium, Louis Hennepin joined the Recollect missionaries and traveled to New France in 1675. He accompanied explorer René-Robert Cavelier de La Salle on expeditions down the Mississippi River and ventured into the Upper Midwest. Hennepin is credited with the first European accounts of Niagara Falls and Saint Anthony Falls in present-day Minnesota. His published works, including 'Description de la Louisiane,' captivated European audiences with vivid geographical and ethnographic details. After returning to Europe, he continued to write about his adventures until his death around 1705.

Anton Korošec was born in 1872 and ordained as a Catholic priest before entering politics. He co-founded the Slovene People’s Party and advocated for Slovenian autonomy within Austro-Hungary. After World War I, he became a key architect of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes and served as Prime Minister from 1928 to 1929. Korošec held several ministerial posts, including deputy prime minister and minister of interior. He worked to balance regional interests and was instrumental in drafting constitutional reforms. His dual roles as priest and politician made him a unique figure in Yugoslav history. He died in 1940, leaving a legacy of advocacy for Slovenian rights and Christian social principles.

Born in 1952, Domingos Maubere became a leading figure in East Timor's fight for independence. Ordained as a Catholic priest, he used his position to advocate for human rights under Indonesian occupation. He organized peaceful protests and provided shelter for those targeted by security forces. Despite facing imprisonment and persecution, he remained steadfast in his mission to support his community. Maubere’s sermons and activism inspired many to join the resistance movement. After East Timor's independence, he continued his pastoral work and focused on reconciliation and social development. He passed away in 2025, leaving behind a legacy of faith-driven activism and dedication to justice.