July 10

Born in 1509 in Noyon, France; initially trained in law and humanities. Converted to Protestantism and settled in Geneva as a reformer. Wrote the Institutes of the Christian Religion, a foundational work of Reformed theology. Emphasized doctrines of predestination, divine sovereignty, and moral discipline. Established Geneva as a model Protestant republic with strict church governance. His correspondence and debates influenced Reformed churches across Europe. Died in 1564, leaving a lasting impact on Protestant thought and practice.

Born in 1517 into the influential Coligny family. Appointed cardinal at a young age under King Francis I. Embraced Protestantism and renounced his Catholic vows, marrying in 1563. Was excommunicated and stripped of his cardinalate by Church authorities. Played a diplomatic role during the French Wars of Religion on behalf of Huguenots. Spent his final years in exile after the St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre. Died in 1571, his life reflecting the turmoil of religious reform and conflict.

John Ernest Grabe was a prominent German theologian and scholar who converted to Anglicanism. Educated at the University of Leipzig, he dedicated his career to the study of patristics and early Christian history. Grabe produced critical editions of the works of Church Fathers, including Eusebius and Clement of Alexandria, laying the groundwork for modern biblical scholarship. Living in London, he became a respected academic, consulted by bishops and scholars on theological matters. Grabe’s meticulous textual criticism and deep knowledge of ancient manuscripts earned him a lasting reputation. His contributions influenced the development of Anglican theology and historical studies of early Christianity.

Emma Hale Smith was born in Pennsylvania and became the wife of Joseph Smith, founder of the Latter Day Saint movement. She served as the first president of the Relief Society, establishing one of the earliest organized women's groups in America. She played a crucial role in church bookkeeping, publication efforts, and maintaining the Kirtland and Nauvoo communities. After the death of Joseph Smith in 1844, she faced challenges and was excommunicated before later reconciling with Latter Day Saint splinter groups. Her efforts helped define women's contributions to church leadership and charitable outreach. She is remembered as a pioneering religious figure whose work shaped the structure of women's organizations in her faith.

Born in Kobe, Kagawa studied theology at Princeton and returned to Japan to live among the poor. He pioneered Christian socialism and advocated for labor rights, often working alongside coal miners. Kagawa established cooperative enterprises to combat poverty and wrote extensively on pacifism and faith. He authored numerous books and received multiple Nobel Peace Prize nominations. His legacy continues in social welfare movements in Japan and abroad.

Sampson Sievers was a Russian Orthodox hieromonk celebrated for his deep mysticism, healing prayers, and charitable work. After enduring imprisonment in Soviet labor camps, he emerged with an enduring faith that inspired many. Known to perform spiritual healings and counsel the faithful, Sievers documented his experiences in diaries that offer insight into religious life under persecution. His unwavering devotion and mystical writings have left a lasting legacy in the Orthodox Church.

Ernest Bertrand Boland was an American Roman Catholic bishop recognized for his dedication to missionary service and interfaith dialogue. Born in 1925 in Rhode Island, he was ordained a priest and later appointed bishop of the Diocese of Multan in Pakistan, where he served from 1966 to 1984. During his tenure, he established schools and educational programs to support underprivileged communities and foster cultural understanding. After returning to the U.S., Boland continued pastoral work, advocating for social justice and community outreach. He was admired for his humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment to the poor. Even in retirement, he mentored young clergy and remained active in charitable initiatives. Bishop Boland passed away in 2023, leaving a legacy of faith-driven service.

Born in 1928, Moshe Greenberg combined his rabbinical training with academic scholarship to become a leading Bible scholar. He taught at institutions including Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion and the Jewish Theological Seminary. His works, notably commentaries on the Books of Samuel and Leviticus, are celebrated for their literary insight and historical depth. Greenberg received numerous awards, including the National Jewish Book Award, for his contributions to biblical studies. He also served as a rabbi in communities across the United States and Israel, bridging religious and academic worlds. Greenberg's scholarship continues to shape modern understanding of biblical texts and theology.

Born in the Bronx, New York, Margaret McEntee entered the Sisters of Charity and dedicated her life to education. She taught at St. Nicholas of Tolentine Grammar School, where she became a beloved figure for her students and colleagues. In the 1960s, her teaching and personality inspired playwright John Patrick Shanley to model the character Sister James in his acclaimed play 'Doubt: A Parable.' The play received the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and a Tony Award for Best Play, bringing McEntee's educational work to international attention. Beyond her role as a muse, Sister McEntee continued to mentor young educators and advocate for faith-based education. She has given lectures and interviews about her experiences and the lasting impact of 'Doubt' on perceptions of Catholic education. Her legacy spans both spiritual guidance and contributions to American theater. She remains active in community service and education to this day.