June 28

Born Gian Pietro Carafa in 1476 into a noble Neapolitan family. He co-founded the Theatine order and built a reputation as a reformer and disciplinarian. Elected pope in 1555, he took the name Paul IV and pursued aggressive measures against heresy. He strengthened the Roman Inquisition and published an early index of prohibited books. His papacy was marked by conflict with secular rulers and strained relations with Spain and France. He died in 1559, leaving a controversial legacy in the Counter-Reformation.

Born in 1490 as a member of the Hohenzollern dynasty. Appointed Archbishop of Magdeburg at age 23 and later Archbishop of Mainz. Elevated to cardinal in 1518, he secured papal approval to sell indulgences. The proceeds funded his appointment as cardinal and church building projects. Martin Luther's Ninety-five Theses in 1517 were a response to Albert's indulgence campaign. He died in 1545, remembered as a key figure in the events leading to the Protestant Reformation.

Born in 1703 in Epworth, Lincolnshire, England, into a devout Anglican family. Educated at Christ Church, Oxford, he formed the Holy Club, earning the nickname "Methodists" for their rigorous piety. A pivotal moment in 1738 at Aldersgate felt like a profound spiritual awakening that shaped his ministry. He traveled thousands of miles on horseback across Britain and Ireland, preaching open-air sermons. Wesley emphasized personal holiness, charity, and social reform, establishing societies and class meetings. He authored hundreds of sermons and published hymns, many co-written with his brother Charles. His organizational skills and theological vision laid the foundation for modern Methodism, which spread worldwide.