July 25

Thietmar of Merseburg (975–1018) was a medieval bishop and chronicler in the Holy Roman Empire. Appointed bishop around 1009, he oversaw the diocese of Merseburg during a period of regional tensions and church reform. He is best known for his Chronicon Thietmari, a detailed account of the reigns of German kings Henry II and Henry III and observations on Slavic tribes. His work provides invaluable insight into 11th-century politics, ecclesiastical affairs, and cultural life. Thietmar's chronicle remains a cornerstone for historians studying the early medieval period.

Born in Zaragoza in 1498, Hernando de Aragón came from a distinguished Aragonese noble family and was appointed Archbishop of Zaragoza, serving for over three decades. In this role, he oversaw the construction of religious buildings and implemented reforms following the Council of Trent. He managed church lands and revenues, ensuring the diocese’s financial stability amid wider religious upheaval. A patron of arts and letters, he commissioned works that reflected the flourishing Renaissance culture of Spain. His tenure coincided with the rise of Protestantism, and he worked to maintain Catholic orthodoxy in his archdiocese. Archbishop Hernando de Aragón died in 1575 after a long and influential clerical career.

Born in Segovia in 1532, Alphonsus Rodriguez experienced early personal tragedy with the loss of his wife and children. After working as a porter for his family’s business, he felt called to religious life and joined the Society of Jesus as a lay brother at age 32. For over forty years, he served as porter at the Jesuit college in Majorca, welcoming visitors and offering spiritual counsel to students and fellow brothers. His humble devotion, mystical insights, and letters of guidance inspired many, including future saints and scholars. He was known for his patience, intense prayer life, and focus on the compassion of Christ. Alphonsus Rodriguez was beatified in 1606 and canonized in 1888 by Pope Leo XIII, becoming the first Jesuit lay brother to be declared a saint. He died in 1617, leaving a legacy of humility and spiritual mentorship.

Platon (Paul Kulbusch) (1869–1919) was an Estonian Orthodox bishop. He served as Bishop of Reval and was known for his pastoral care and defense of the church. During the aftermath of World War I and the Russian Revolution, he stood against anti-religious violence. Platon was arrested and executed by Bolshevik forces, becoming a martyr. He was canonized by the Orthodox Church and is honored on July 25th. His legacy inspires Estonian religious communities and national identity.

Born in 1908, Ambroise-Marie Carré joined the Dominican Order and dedicated his life to pastoral work, preaching, and teaching. He authored numerous books and articles on spirituality, theology, and Christian living. Carré's accessible style made complex theological ideas understandable to a broad audience. He frequently appeared on radio and television programs in France, bringing religious discourse to the public. Over his career, he received several ecclesiastical honors for his contributions to faith and culture. Carré passed away in 2004, leaving behind a rich collection of spiritual literature.