September 05

Born in 1880, José María of Manila served the Catholic Church across Spain and the Philippines. As a priest, he ministered to the poor and dedicated his life to missionary work. In 1936, he was arrested amid anti-clerical unrest and executed for his faith. His steadfast witness in the face of persecution inspired many believers. He was beatified by the Catholic Church and is commemorated as a martyr.

Fred McCarthy (1918–2009) was an American cartoonist and Benedictine monk who introduced Zen Buddhism to Western audiences through humor. Under the pen name 'Fred Juniper,' he created the beloved 'Brother Juniper' comic strip, appearing in numerous publications. His simple drawings and witty dialogue made complex philosophical concepts accessible and entertaining. McCarthy's work played a key role in popularizing Zen in the United States during the mid-20th century. As a monk at St. Gregory's Abbey in Oklahoma, he balanced contemplative practice with artistic creation. His legacy endures through collected volumes of his cartoons and continued appreciation among Zen practitioners.

Francisco Javier Errázuriz Ossa (born September 5, 1933) is a Chilean prelate of the Roman Catholic Church. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1959 and served in various episcopal roles in Chile. In 2001, Pope John Paul II elevated him to the rank of cardinal. As a cardinal, he has held leadership positions within the Chilean Episcopal Conference. Errázuriz has participated in major Church synods and contributed to pastoral care.

Paul Josef Cordes (1934–2024) was a German prelate of the Roman Catholic Church. He was ordained in 1959 and spent much of his career serving in the Vatican's Curia. In 1995, he was appointed president of the Pontifical Council Cor Unum, overseeing the Church's charitable work. Pope John Paul II created him cardinal in 2007. Cordes was known for promoting lay participation and social outreach within the Church.