June 17

Drogo of Metz was appointed Bishop of Metz at a young age, leveraging his imperial lineage. As an illegitimate son of Emperor Louis the Pious, he helped manage ecclesiastical affairs and promoted culture and learning in the Carolingian realm. He founded churches and monastic communities, leaving a legacy of religious patronage. Renowned for his piety and administrative skills, Drogo bridged royal and clerical spheres. His influence contributed to church reforms and stability in 9th-century Francia.

Joseph of Cupertino, born Giuseppe Desa, joined the Franciscan Order and became famous for ecstatic experiences and reported levitations during prayer. Despite his academic struggles, he earned a reputation for deep humility and compassion toward the poor. His supernatural feats drew large crowds and created a lasting popular devotion. Canonized in 1767, he is venerated as the patron saint of aviators and astronauts. His life story remains one of the most remarkable examples of mystical devotion in the Catholic tradition.

Maria Izilda de Castro Ribeiro was born in Victorópolis, Brazil, in 1897. From an early age she demonstrated deep piety and compassion for the sick. Her reported healings and her devotion to the poor earned her a reputation as a miracle worker. She died of yellow fever in 1911 at the age of 14. After her death, devotees attributed numerous cures to her intercession, leading to widespread veneration. Today she is commemorated annually, and pilgrims visit her shrine seeking blessings.

J. Vernon McGee was born in Hillsboro, Texas, in 1904 and studied at Dallas Theological Seminary. He served as a pastor in Hawaii and Saipan before becoming a professor of Bible studies. In 1967 he launched the radio series Thru the Bible, covering every book of the Old and New Testaments in a conversational and accessible style. Translated into multiple languages, the program has reached millions and continues under his ministry's guidance. McGee authored commentaries, books, and study guides that remain popular among Bible students. Known for his humor and personal anecdotes, he engaged listeners with relatable teaching. He died in 1988, leaving a lasting impact on evangelical radio ministry.

Ajahn Chah Subhatto was born in Ubon Ratchathani Province in 1918 and ordained as a monk at age 20. He became a central figure in the Thai Forest Tradition, emphasizing meditation and simple living in accordance with early Buddhist teachings. In 1967, he established Wat Pah Pong, which grew into a monastic community attracting both Thai and international practitioners. His clear and straightforward teaching style inspired numerous Western disciples, leading to the founding of monasteries across Europe, North America, and Australia. Ajahn Chah’s legacy endures through his students and the global spread of the forest monk tradition.

Timothy Wright rose to prominence as a gospel singer in the 1970s, releasing albums that blended traditional hymns with contemporary gospel sounds. As pastor of a New York City church, he was admired for his spiritual leadership and community outreach. Wright's dynamic vocal style and heartfelt messages resonated with audiences nationwide. He recorded multiple successful albums and toured extensively, earning respect in the gospel music community. Wright passed away in 2009, but his musical legacy continues to inspire.