July 23

Born Giovanni Francesco Albani in 1649 into a noble Italian family, he was elected Pope Clement XI in 1700. His papacy coincided with the War of the Spanish Succession, where he balanced relations among major Catholic powers. Clement XI issued the bull Unigenitus, condemned Jansenism, and promoted missionary work across the globe. A great patron of scholars and artists, he commissioned significant architectural and artistic projects in Rome. He died in 1721, remembered for his complex diplomacy and cultural contributions to the Church.

Alexandre-Antonin Taché was appointed Bishop of St. Boniface in 1853 and later became its first Archbishop, overseeing vast territories in what is now Manitoba. He worked tirelessly among Métis and Indigenous communities, establishing missions, schools, and hospitals. A defender of local cultures, Taché sought to integrate faith with respect for traditions. His correspondence and diaries provide valuable insights into the challenges of missionary work on the Canadian frontier. Archbishop Taché's legacy endures in the institutions and communities he helped build.

Father Benedict Groeschel (1933–2014) was a Franciscan friar and theologian celebrated for his work in pastoral counseling and psychology. He founded St. Francis House in New York, offering shelter to the homeless and marginalized. Groeschel authored over 30 books on spirituality, psychology, and ethics, blending faith with practical advice. He hosted popular radio and television programs, including Sunday Night Live, engaging thousands in discussions on faith and morality. As a speaker, he traveled internationally, delivering lectures on mental health and spirituality. Despite controversy, his empathetic approach and frank style touched many lives. His dedication to service and outreach left a lasting impact on social ministry.

Wasyl Medwit (1949–2024) was a Polish-born hierarch of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church who dedicated his life to the spiritual revival of Ukrainian Catholics after the fall of the Soviet Union. Ordained a priest in 1974, he later became an auxiliary bishop, providing pastoral care and leadership within the Archeparchy of Lviv. Medwit played a key role in restoring historic churches and establishing new parishes across Western Ukraine. He was also committed to theological education, guiding seminarians and promoting ecumenical dialogue. Known for his compassionate approach and deep faith, Bishop Medwit supported numerous charitable initiatives, aiding communities in need. His efforts significantly strengthened the presence and unity of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church until his passing in 2024.