September 10

Eutychius served as the Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Alexandria from 932 until his death in 940. He was a prolific scholar who compiled one of the earliest chronicles of world history, drawing on Greek and Arabic sources. His Annals remain a valuable resource for understanding early medieval Eastern Mediterranean affairs. Born in 877, he spent much of his career in the Fatimid Caliphate, balancing ecclesiastical leadership with scholarly pursuits. Eutychius is remembered for his efforts to preserve Christian traditions and for his contributions to historiography.

Born Giovanni Maria Ciocchi del Monte in 1487, he ascended to the papacy as Julius III. He is remembered for reconvening the Fifth Council of the Lateran and supporting the Council of Trent. Julius III was a significant patron of the arts, commissioning works from Raphael and Michelangelo. His papacy faced criticism for nepotism and the volatile political climate of Reformation Europe. He died in 1555, leaving a mixed legacy of religious reform and cultural flourishing.

Born in 1497 in what is now Germany, Musculus became a leading figure in the Protestant Reformation. He composed important commentaries on the New Testament and authored numerous sermons and hymns. Musculus served as a teacher and pastor in Switzerland, contributing to the development of Reformed doctrine. His works were widely circulated, shaping Protestant worship and biblical interpretation. He died in 1563, leaving behind a legacy as one of the era’s most respected theologians.

Marie Laveau was the legendary 'Voodoo Queen' of New Orleans, celebrated for her expertise in herbal remedies, rituals, and spiritual healing. Born to a free woman of color, she skillfully blended African, Native American, and Catholic traditions into her vodou practice. Laveau's public ceremonies at places like Congo Square drew followers from diverse backgrounds seeking guidance and cures. She was also known for her charitable work, providing aid and advocacy for the poor and marginalized communities. Her enduring legacy has inspired countless stories, artworks, and popular culture depictions, making her a central figure in New Orleans folklore.

Isaac Kaufmann Funk was an American clergyman-turned-publisher who co-founded Funk & Wagnalls in 1877. After training as a Presbyterian minister, he shifted his focus to producing reference works that were both scholarly and accessible. The company became renowned for its dictionaries, encyclopedias, and popular ready-reference publications. Funk's dedication to education and literacy helped democratize knowledge for schools and households across America. His entrepreneurial spirit set new standards in publishing and left a lasting legacy in the world of lexicography.

Johannes de Jong (1885–1955) was a Dutch Cardinal and Archbishop of Utrecht. He was appointed Archbishop in 1936 and elevated to cardinal in 1946 by Pope Pius XII. During World War II, de Jong defended Catholic institutions and spoke out against Nazi persecution. He played a crucial role in post-war reconstruction of the Dutch Church and guided his congregation through a period of social and political upheaval. His leadership strengthened the position of the Catholic Church in the Netherlands.

Boyd K. Packer (1924-2015) was a prominent leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving as President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles from 2008. He was ordained an apostle in 1970 and played a key role in church governance and doctrinal instruction. Packer authored numerous talks and publications emphasising faith, family values, and church teachings. Prior to his full-time church service, he worked as an educator and school principal in California. He was known for his passionate sermons and influence on LDS Church policy until his death in 2015.

Dick Lucas (born 1925) is an English Baptist minister and influential evangelical preacher. He served at the Metropolitan Tabernacle in London and founded the Proclamation Trust to train preachers. Lucas has authored numerous books and resources on biblical teaching and pastoral ministry. He has been a leading voice in British evangelicalism for over six decades. His lectures and writings continue to shape church leaders and congregations today.

Walter Ralston Martin (1928–1989) was an American Christian minister and author who founded the Christian Research Institute. He became a leading voice in evangelical scholarship, analyzing and responding to emerging religious movements. Martin authored numerous books and articles aimed at clarifying Christian doctrine and combating misleading teachings. His research and radio broadcasts reached a wide audience, influencing public understanding of theology and cults. He is remembered for his analytical approach and dedication to defending historic Christian beliefs.