October 28

Ibas of Edessa served as bishop from 435 until his death in 457 and became a central figure in the early Christological debates. He corresponded with leading theologians and supported positions later associated with Nestorianism, which led to his deposition in 448. He was reinstated by imperial decree at the Council of Constantinople in 449 and his teachings influenced the Three Chapters controversy. Ibas’s writings and letters played a significant role in shaping the doctrines of the Eastern Church. His tumultuous career highlights the complex interplay of theology and imperial politics in the 5th century.

Remigius of Lyon served as Archbishop of Lyon until his death in 875 and was a prominent leader in the Frankish Church. He participated in ecclesiastical synods, guided clergy reforms, and negotiated between the Carolingian monarchy and church authorities. Remigius defended church lands from external threats, including Viking raids, to preserve monastic communities. He corresponded with regional rulers to maintain ecclesiastical privileges and support charitable works in his diocese. His tenure strengthened the institutional foundations of the Western Church during a period of political turbulence.

Born into the aristocratic Fujiwara family in 1155, Jien became a Tendai Buddhist monk on Mount Hiei and rose to prominence as a court historian and poet. He authored the Gukanshō, a foundational historical work reflecting on the cyclical nature of dynasties through a Buddhist lens. Jien also contributed waka poetry to imperial anthologies, showcasing his literary skill. As abbot of key monasteries, he influenced both religious thought and political affairs during the transition from Heian to Kamakura rule. His blended legacy of scholarship and spirituality continues to inform studies of medieval Japanese history and literature.

Arsenije I Sremac succeeded Saint Sava as the second Archbishop of the Serbian Orthodox Church in 1233 and led the church until 1266. A devoted monk from the Hilandar Monastery, he organized dioceses and fostered monastic communities across medieval Serbia. He oversaw the construction of churches and promoted religious art and literature. Arsenije navigated turbulent political alliances to protect church autonomy, supporting the Nemanjić dynasty. Venerated as a saint, he is commemorated on October 28 for his spiritual leadership and lasting impact on Eastern Orthodoxy.

Athanasius I of Constantinople, born around 1230, was elected patriarch in 1289 at a time of deep tension over the Union of Lyon. He vehemently opposed reunification efforts with the Catholic Church and resisted pressures from Emperor Andronikos II. Deposed and exiled in 1293, he returned to the patriarchal throne in 1303 and continued to defend Eastern Orthodox doctrine. Athanasius championed monastic reforms, commissioned liturgical texts, and worked to restore theological orthodoxy. His dynamic leadership and unwavering stance against Latin influence marked his tenure until his death in 1310.

Agustín Moreto y Cavana was born in Madrid in 1618 and entered the priesthood before gaining fame as a playwright. He joined the Order of Saint Augustine and wrote for the vibrant theatrical scene of the Spanish Golden Age. His comedy El Desdén con el Desdén became a classic, celebrated for its clever dialogue and engaging plot. Moreto's works are noted for their wit, refined language, and elegant dramatic structure. He also adapted and expanded upon themes from Lope de Vega, influencing subsequent generations of Spanish dramatists. Moreto died in 1661, leaving a lasting legacy in Baroque literature.

Cardinal Renato Raffaele Martino held several important roles in the Roman Catholic Church, including Apostolic Nuncio to Haiti and Canada, and Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development. Elevated to the College of Cardinals by Pope John Paul II in 2003, he later served as President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. Martino was known for his outspoken views on globalization, ethical economics, and the rights of the marginalized. He participated in numerous synods and papal councils, influencing church policy on social and international issues. His leadership bridged diplomatic service and doctrinal advocacy until his death in 2024.