September 04

Felix V, born Amadeus VIII, Duke of Savoy, became an antipope in 1439 during a schism with Pope Eugene IV. His election by the Council of Basel marked the last instance of a major papal rival in the Western Church. As antipope until 1449, he maintained a court at Lausanne and issued decrees in opposition to the recognized pontiff. After reconciling with the papacy, he resigned his claim and was made a cardinal. His tenure highlighted the tensions between conciliarism and papal authority in the 15th century. Felix V's legacy remains a significant chapter in the history of the Catholic Church.

Job Orton was an English dissenting minister and theological writer in the 18th century. He became known for his thoughtful sermons and commentaries on biblical texts. Orton also edited and published works by prominent Puritan theologians, helping to preserve their writings. His refusal to subscribe to the 39 Articles led to his resignation from a teaching position, highlighting his commitment to his principles. Active in charitable causes, he supported the education of poorer children and maintained correspondence with leading religious figures. Orton's influence persisted through both his published works and his efforts in Nonconformist communities.

Shneur Zalman (1745–1812) was a prominent Russian rabbi and scholar, best known as the founder of the Chabad-Lubavitch Hasidic movement. Born in Tulchin, Podolia, he studied under leading Hasidic masters and became a spiritual leader dedicated to intellectual engagement with Jewish law. His magnum opus, the Tanya, lays out the theological and philosophical foundations of Chabad thought and remains a central text in Hasidic Judaism. Under his guidance, Chabad grew into a widespread movement emphasizing contemplative prayer and outreach, attracting followers across Eastern Europe. Despite facing imprisonment and persecution by the Russian authorities, he continued his work and solidified the movement's teachings. His legacy endures through a global network of Chabad institutions, educational centers, and emissaries that carry forward his vision for Jewish spiritual life.

Antonio Agliardi was born in 1832 in Italy. He entered the Catholic Church and rose through ecclesiastical ranks in the late 19th century. Agliardi served as a diplomat and papal nuncio, representing the Holy See in various countries. In 1907, he was elevated to the rank of Cardinal by Pope Pius X. His diplomatic missions strengthened the Vatican's foreign relations. Cardinal Agliardi died in 1915 after nearly six decades of service to the Church.

Antonio Bacci was born in 1885 in Italy and ordained as a priest in the early 20th century. He held various pastoral and administrative roles within the Vatican. Bacci was elevated to cardinal in 1953 by Pope Pius XII. He participated in significant church events, including the Second Vatican Council. Known for his theological scholarship, he contributed to ecclesiastical institutions. Cardinal Bacci died in 1971, leaving behind a legacy of service to the Church.

Albert Orsborn started his career as a Salvation Army cadet in 1905 and rose through the ranks. He served in various leadership roles before being elected as the sixth General in 1946. During his tenure, he expanded the Army's social services and outreach programs globally. He focused on post-war recovery efforts, helping communities rebuild and providing relief across Europe. Orsborn was known for his compassionate leadership and emphasis on spiritual renewal. He retired in 1954 and left a legacy of growth and modernization within the organization.

Rabbi Shmuel Wosner was recognized for his profound scholarship in Jewish law and ethics. Born in Austria, he later settled in Jerusalem where he led a prestigious yeshiva and guided students worldwide. Wosner authored the influential multi-volume series Shevet Halevi, addressing complex questions of religious practice. His clear and authoritative rulings made him a leading halachic authority in the 20th century. Wosner's contributions continue to shape Jewish legal discourse and practice today.

Born in Vienna in 1926, Ivan Illich was ordained as a Catholic priest in 1951. He became a pioneering thinker and author whose works, such as "Deschooling Society" and "Tools for Conviviality", challenged conventional approaches to education, medicine, and technology. Illich advocated for decentralized, human-scale institutions that empower individuals and communities. He spent much of his career in Latin America and Europe, influencing discussions on institutional critique and social justice. His interdisciplinary writings continue to inspire scholars, activists, and educators worldwide.