September 06

Guillaume Dubois was born in 1656 and entered the Orléans court as chaplain to the young Philippe II, Duke of Orléans. He rose rapidly through ecclesiastical ranks to become Archbishop of Cambrai and a cardinal in 1723. As chief minister for the Regent, Dubois shaped French foreign policy and domestic affairs after Louis XIV's death. He negotiated treaties, managed court factions, and solidified the Duke of Orléans' power during the minority of Louis XV. Dubois died later in 1723, remembered as a shrewd political operator and churchman.

Henry Muhlenberg was born in Germany in 1711 and ordained before emigrating to Pennsylvania in 1742. He organized disparate Lutheran congregations into a unified church body, drafting a constitution that laid the foundation for American Lutheranism. Muhlenberg traveled extensively, serving communities in Pennsylvania, New York, and Maryland. He established educational programs and mentored future church leaders. He died in 1787, and his work earned him recognition as the Father of American Lutheranism.

Emir Abdelkader was an Algerian religious scholar and military commander who led resistance against French colonial forces in the 1830s. Born into a prominent Wahhabi family, he united various tribes under a banner of jihad to defend Algerian sovereignty. Abdelkader established a disciplined state with its own administration and army, emphasizing justice and Islamic law. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, he engaged in guerrilla warfare and diplomatic negotiations with the French. After years of struggle, he surrendered in 1847 and was imprisoned before later being released and recognized for his humanitarian conduct. Renowned for his chivalry and mercy, Abdelkader spent his later years in exile, advocating for peace and interfaith dialogue.