September 19

Born into Milanese nobility in 1608, Alfonso Litta pursued a career in the Catholic Church. He was created cardinal by Pope Urban VIII and later appointed Archbishop of Milan. Litta implemented the Tridentine reforms, strengthening clerical discipline and education. He supported Baroque art and architecture, commissioning works for his cathedral. His tenure bolstered the archdiocese’s spiritual and cultural life during the Counter-Reformation. He died in 1679, remembered for his zealous leadership and patronage of the arts.

Born in 1638 in Kent, Isaac Milles was educated at Cambridge and ordained in 1662. He served as rector of Barley in Hertfordshire for over five decades. Milles was renowned for his devout piety, simplicity of life, and dedication to parishioners. His letters offer valuable insights into 17th-century Anglican church life and social mores. Despite the upheavals of the Restoration and Glorious Revolution, he maintained steady leadership. He died in 1720, leaving a legacy of pastoral commitment and written records of his ministry.

Jean-Paul Bignon (1662–1743) was a French priest and scholar who served as the Royal Librarian to Louis XIV. He was the first perpetual secretary of the Académie des Inscriptions et Belles-Lettres. Bignon led the Bignon Commission to regulate printing privileges and advance bibliographical knowledge. He compiled influential catalogs and modernized the Bibliothèque du Roi. His efforts laid the groundwork for systematic library classification in France. He corresponded with leading intellectuals and supported scientific and artistic endeavors.

William Kirby (1759–1850) was an English priest and pioneering entomologist. He co-authored 'Introduction to Entomology', one of the first comprehensive works on insects. Kirby served as a rector in rural parishes while conducting detailed studies of insect life. He is often called the 'Father of Entomology' for his contributions to insect classification. His work laid foundations for modern taxonomy and inspired future generations of naturalists. Kirby was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in recognition of his scientific achievements.

Orson Pratt (1811–1881) was an American mathematician and influential Mormon apostle. He joined the Latter-day Saint movement in 1830 and served on the original Quorum of the Twelve. Pratt helped map the western territories and conducted overland expeditions for the church. He published mathematical and theological works, including tracts on celestial navigation. Pratt was a vocal advocate for church organization and missionary work in the United States and abroad. His scientific background informed his religious writings, making him a key figure in LDS history.