July 14

Born in 1634, Quesnel joined the Oratory of Jesus and became a leading advocate of Jansenist thought. His book 'Réflexions morales sur le Nouveau Testament' offered a rigorous moral interpretation of Scripture. The work was initially influential but later condemned by Pope Clement XI in the 1713 Bull 'Unigenitus'. Quesnel spent his final years in exile in the Netherlands, where Jansenist communities thrived. His writings continued to influence debates on free will, grace, and ecclesiastical authority. He died in 1719, remembered as a central figure in the Jansenist movement.

John Douglas was born in 1721 of Scottish descent. Educated at Westminster School and Christ Church, Oxford, he won several academic prizes before his ordination in 1745. Douglas served as Bishop of Carlisle from 1758 to 1761 and then as Bishop of Salisbury until 1787. A respected classical scholar and controversialist, he wrote influential works on biblical criticism and defended the orthodox doctrine of the Trinity against dissenters like Joseph Priestley. He contributed numerous sermons, essays, and editions of classical texts to the academic community. Douglas died in 1807, remembered for his erudition and clerical leadership.

Edward White Benson was born in 1829 in Birmingham, England. Educated at King’s College London and Cambridge, he became a respected theologian and clergyman. Benson served as the first Bishop of Truro, overseeing the completion of Truro Cathedral. In 1882, he was appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, guiding the Church of England during a period of social change and colonial expansion. He founded the Girls’ Friendly Society to support young women in domestic service and promoted the restoration of church music. Benson died in 1896, remembered for his devout leadership and liturgical contributions.