August 10

Lawrence of Rome (born c. 225, died 258) served as a deacon under Pope Sixtus II in Rome, managing the Church's treasures and caring for the poor. During the Valerian persecution, he boldly presented the indigent as the Church's true treasures, leading to his arrest. According to legend, he was executed on a gridiron, embracing martyrdom with remarkable courage. His steadfast faith and selfless charity made him an enduring symbol of devotion and sacrifice. He was later venerated as a saint, becoming the patron of librarians and the poor.

Eanbald (d. 796) served as Archbishop of York from 779 until his death, succeeding his predecessor Egbert. He managed ecclesiastical affairs in northern England during a period of political transition under Mercian dominance. Eanbald was known for his administrative skills and for receiving a pallium from the Pope, affirming his authority. He played a key role in maintaining ties between the English church and Rome. His leadership helped stabilize the church's structure during turbulent times.

John of La Verna (1259–1322) was a Franciscan hermit who lived near La Verna in Tuscany. Renowned for his strict ascetic practices, he devoted himself to prayer, fasting, and caring for the sick and poor. Contemporary accounts describe him as experiencing visions and receiving the stigmata, which deepened his renown among the faithful. His humble lifestyle attracted disciples who preserved his spiritual teachings. After his death, he was beatified and remains an inspiring figure in Franciscan history.

Born into the influential Medici dynasty in Florence in 1509, Ippolito de' Medici was appointed cardinal by his uncle Pope Clement VII at a young age. He played a significant role in papal politics and diplomatic missions across Europe. Known for his refined taste, Ippolito became a patron of artists and poets of the High Renaissance. Despite his promising career, his life was cut short by illness at the age of 26. His early death curtailed what many contemporaries saw as a bright future in both church and state affairs. He is remembered for his cultural contributions and political acumen within the papal court.

Alfonso de la Cueva, 1st Marquis of Bedmar (1572–1655), was a distinguished Spanish churchman and diplomat. Elevated to cardinal by Pope Urban VIII, he represented the Papal States at European courts during the Thirty Years' War. As a skilled negotiator, he handled delicate missions between Spain, France, and the Holy See. He was also viceroy of Sicily, where he strengthened Spanish influence in the Mediterranean. His diplomatic efforts contributed to shifting alliances in a turbulent period of European history. De la Cueva's career blended ecclesiastical authority with political strategy, marking him as a significant figure of his age.

Guillaume Dubois (1656–1723) rose from humble origins to become a powerful figure in the court of Louis XV. He served as Bishop of Orléans and advisor to the Duke of Orléans, later becoming Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs. In 1720, he was elevated to cardinal by Pope Innocent XIII. Dubois played a pivotal role in French diplomacy during the War of the Quadruple Alliance, negotiating key treaties. As a chief minister, he wielded immense influence over domestic and foreign policy. His tenure was marked by both political skill and controversy, with critics accusing him of profiteering. Dubois's legacy is that of a shrewd statesman who shaped early 18th century France.

James E. Faust was born on July 31, 1920, in Delta, Utah, and became a prominent American lawyer and religious leader. He earned his law degree from Harvard Law School and practiced law before devoting his career to the LDS Church. He served as Second Counselor to President Gordon B. Hinckley from 1995 until his death, guiding church policy and humanitarian efforts. Faust was known for his emphasis on family values, education, and international religious freedom. He authored several books and delivered numerous talks on faith and personal development. Under his leadership, the church expanded welfare and self-reliance programs worldwide. He passed away on August 10, 2007, leaving a legacy of compassion and service.

Sister Dr. Ruth Pfau was a German-Pakistani nun and medical doctor. She arrived in Pakistan in 1960 and founded the Marie Adelaide Leprosy Centre. Pfau spent over five decades treating leprosy patients and worked toward eliminating the disease in Pakistan. She received the Hilal-i-Pakistan for her humanitarian work. Known as the 'Mother Theresa of Pakistan,' she opened numerous clinics nationwide. Pfau also trained local healthcare workers and advocated for patient dignity. She passed away in 2017, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and service.