July 19

Born in Bukhara in 810, Muhammad al-Bukhari devoted his life to collecting and verifying the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad. He traveled across the Islamic world, evaluating thousands of narrators for reliability. His magnum opus, Sahih al-Bukhari, is revered for its rigorous methodology and remains central to Islamic jurisprudence. Al-Bukhari's meticulous criteria for hadith authentication set new standards in the field. He authored other works on methodology, history, and theology, influencing generations of scholars. Despite facing political challenges, he continued his scholarship until his death in 870. His legacy endures through his works, which are studied in mosques and universities worldwide.

Giuseppe Castiglione joined the Jesuit order and was sent to China as a missionary and artist in 1715. At the Qing court, he became the favorite painter of emperors Kangxi, Yongzheng, and Qianlong. Castiglione introduced Western techniques like chiaroscuro and linear perspective to Chinese painting. He created grand portraits, battle scenes, and decorative works that fused European realism with traditional Chinese aesthetics. Beyond painting, he advised on court ceremonies and contributed to military engineering projects. His unique style influenced generations of Chinese artists and remains celebrated in both East and West.

Born Prokhor Moshnin in 1759, Seraphim of Sarov entered monastic life at Sarov Monastery. He spent years in strict asceticism, prayer, and solitude, gaining a reputation for holiness. Seraphim emphasized the pursuit of inner peace and the acquisition of the Holy Spirit. He became known for his visions, miracles, and compassionate counsel to pilgrims. In 1903, he was canonized by the Russian Orthodox Church and remains one of its most beloved saints. His life and writings continue to inspire Orthodox Christians worldwide.

Joseph Fielding Smith was born in 1876 in Salt Lake City, Utah, into a prominent Latter-day Saints family. He served as Church Historian and Recorder before becoming the 10th President of the LDS Church in 1970. Smith was known for his conservative doctrinal interpretations and prolific writings on church theology. He authored numerous books and articles, including the multi-volume Church History and Doctrines of Salvation. As president, he emphasized genealogy and missionary work, overseeing significant membership growth. Despite his short tenure, his teachings influenced the church's direction for decades. Smith passed away in 1972, just 17 months after his appointment. His contributions to church scholarship and administration remain influential today.

Born in Shelton, Connecticut, Gerety was ordained a priest in 1938. He served as auxiliary bishop of Newark before being appointed Bishop of Portland in 1969. In 1974, he became Archbishop of Newark, guiding the archdiocese through post-Vatican II changes until 1986. Gerety was known for his commitment to social justice, civil rights, and ecumenical dialogue. After retirement, he became the oldest Catholic bishop in the world. He celebrated his 100th birthday in 2012, marking over seven decades of service. Gerety served as a mentor to countless clergy and laypersons. He passed away in 2016 at the age of 104, leaving a legacy of faith and leadership.

Harold Camping was born in Colorado in 1921 and began his career as a civil engineer before dedicating himself to ministry. In 1958, he co-founded Family Radio, a Christian broadcasting network that reached millions through radio and television. As an author and broadcaster, Camping published numerous books and commentaries interpreting biblical prophecy, culminating in widely publicized forecasts for the date of the Rapture. His dramatic predictions in 2011 sparked global attention and controversy when they did not materialize. Despite criticism, he remained influential in evangelical circles and continued writing and broadcasting until health issues led to his retirement. Camping passed away in 2013, leaving a complex legacy in modern Christian media.