July 27

Births - Religious Figures & Clergy

774day.year

Kūkai

(774 - 835)

Japanese Buddhist monk, founder of Esoteric Buddhism

Japanese Buddhist monk founder of Esoteric Buddhism

Japanese Buddhist monk who founded the Shingon school of Esoteric Buddhism and became a renowned scholar and calligrapher.

Born in 774 in present-day Japan, Kūkai traveled to China to study Esoteric Buddhism. After returning to Japan, he established the Shingon school on Mount Kōya and introduced tantric practices to the country. A gifted calligrapher and poet, he also contributed to the development of the kana syllabary. His scholarship influenced Japanese religion, art, and culture for centuries. Revered as Kōbō Daishi, he remains one of Japan’s most venerated religious figures.

774 Kūkai Esoteric (Shingon) Buddhism

1818day.year

Agostino Roscelli

(1818 - 1902)

Italian priest and saint

Italian Catholic priest who founded the Sisters of Divine Zeal and was canonized as a saint for his charitable works.

Born in 1818 in Italy, Agostino Roscelli was ordained as a priest and dedicated his life to serving the poor and educating young people. In 1871, he founded the Congregation of the Sisters of Divine Zeal to provide education and social support for girls from disadvantaged backgrounds. He was known for his compassionate ministry, efforts to combat illiteracy, and commitment to social reform. Roscelli's work earned him widespread respect and numerous followers across Italy. After his death in 1902, his cause for sainthood advanced, and he was eventually canonized. His legacy continues through the religious congregation and the institutions established in his name.

1818 Agostino Roscelli