July 18

Heinrich Bullinger was born in 1504 in Bremgarten, Switzerland, and studied theology at Leipzig and Basel. After Zwingli's death in 1531, Bullinger became the primary leader of the Reformed Church in Zürich. He authored the Second Helvetic Confession in 1566, which became a foundational doctrinal statement for Reformed churches across Europe. Bullinger also maintained a vast correspondence network with Protestant leaders, promoting unity and theological clarity. His writings addressed both practical church matters and deep doctrinal issues. He guided the Zürich church through decades of religious transformation before his death in 1575. His legacy endures in the shape of Reformed Protestantism today.

Zacharius Ursinus was a German theologian born in 1534 in Breslau who studied in Strasbourg and Lausanne. He became a professor of theology at the University of Heidelberg and quickly gained a reputation for his scholarly lectures. In 1563, Ursinus co-authored the Heidelberg Catechism, one of the most important confessions of the Reformed tradition. His work provided a clear and pastoral exposition of Protestant doctrine, influencing countless congregations. Throughout his career, he emphasized the practical application of theology in church life. Ursinus's writings and teaching helped shape the identity of Reformed churches across Europe. He died in 1583, leaving a lasting mark on Protestant confessional literature.

Alberto di Jorio was born in 1884 in Italy and ordained as a priest before entering the Vatican's financial offices. He served as President of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See, managing the Church's assets and real estate. In 1959, Pope John XXIII elevated him to the College of Cardinals in recognition of his financial expertise. He worked to modernize the Vatican's accounting and investment practices during a period of rapid change. Di Jorio was an influential figure throughout the Second Vatican Council and into the post-conciliar era. He retired in the late 1960s and died in 1979, leaving a lasting impact on the Church's economic affairs.

Born Mildred Norman in 1908, Peace Pilgrim adopted her name after a spiritual awakening and spent the next 28 years walking over 25,000 miles across the United States for peace. She carried no money or possessions, relying on the kindness of strangers and living by her message of nonviolence and inner transformation. Pilgrim held no official affiliations but spoke at universities, churches, and civic groups, inspiring thousands with her minimalist lifestyle and profound insights. She authored essays compiled in posthumous books that continue to resonate with peace activists. Pilgrim’s life exemplified her belief that personal change can lead to global harmony. She died during one of her journeys in 1981, leaving a powerful legacy of compassion and simplicity.

Andrea Gallo was an Italian Catholic priest and prolific author whose writings explored theological themes and social concerns. Born in 1928, he devoted his life to both spiritual guidance and literary expression. Gallo's published works ranged from essays on faith to reflections on contemporary society. His thoughtful insights fostered dialogue between religious and secular communities. He left a lasting impact through his dual vocation until his death in 2013.

Born in Tamil Nadu in 1935, Jayendra Saraswathi became the spiritual leader of one of Hinduism’s oldest monastic institutions, the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham. Known for his scholarly discourses on Vedic texts, he expanded the Peetham’s philanthropic efforts in education, healthcare, and rural development. His tenure saw modern outreach through interfaith dialogues, though it was also marked by controversy. Revered by millions of followers, his teachings emphasized compassion, service, and the preservation of ancient Indian traditions.