September 24

Born in Rome, Liberius became bishop during the height of the Arian conflict. He was a staunch supporter of Athanasius of Alexandria and the Nicene Creed. In 355, Emperor Constantius II exiled him to Beroea for refusing to condemn Athanasius. Three years later, he was restored to Rome following popular and clerical pressure. His papacy helped shape early Church doctrine amid imperial interference. Liberius’s legacy reflects the struggles of the Church to maintain orthodoxy against political pressures.

Born Gregorio Papareschi around 1072, he was elected pope after the controversial death of Honorius II. His election was contested by Anacletus II, leading to a schism that divided Europe for over a decade. With support from Bernard of Clairvaux and many European monarchs, Innocent II secured recognition across the continent. In 1139, he convened the Second Lateran Council, which addressed clerical discipline and condemned theological errors. He strengthened papal authority over secular rulers and intervened in Iberian and Norman affairs. Innocent II’s reign helped shape the medieval papacy’s role in European politics.

Born around 1160, Robert sought solitude after serving as a soldier during the Third Crusade. He settled near Knaresborough Castle, living in a cave and dedicating his life to prayer and charity. Local legends recount his fondness for animals and miracle-working abilities, attracting pilgrims to his hermitage. He constructed a chapel and hermitage complex that became a spiritual center in North Yorkshire. After his death in 1218, his tomb became a popular pilgrimage site and he was venerated as a saint. Robert’s example of piety and simplicity inspired devotion for centuries.

Albert of Brandenburg, known as Albert of Mainz, was born in 1490 into a noble German family. Appointed Archbishop of Magdeburg at a young age and later Archbishop of Mainz, he held one of the most influential ecclesiastical offices in the Holy Roman Empire. To finance his multi-faceted church positions, he authorized the sale of indulgences across German territories. This practice drew sharp criticism from reformers, most notably Martin Luther, who posted his 95 Theses in 1517. Albert played a significant role in both church politics and imperial affairs. He died in 1545, his tenure seen as instrumental in the unfolding of the Protestant Reformation.

Born in 1879 in Prekmurje, Klekl was ordained as a Catholic priest and served parishes in Hungary. Recognizing the power of the press, he founded and edited Slovene-language newspapers to preserve local dialects and traditions. His editorials advocated for cultural rights and education for Slovene communities under Austro-Hungarian rule. Klekl's leadership nurtured a sense of national identity during a period of political change. He also supported charitable works and the establishment of schools. Until his death in 1936, Klekl remained a respected spiritual guide and cultural activist.