November 04

Augustus Montague Toplady (1740–1778) was an English Anglican minister and theologian who authored numerous hymns and polemical writings. He is most famous for writing 'Rock of Ages' in 1763, a hymn that remains one of the most enduring pieces of Christian music. Toplady was educated at Trinity College, Dublin, and served in various parishes in England, where he engaged in a doctrinal debate with Methodist leader John Wesley. His works reflect his Calvinist convictions and commitment to evangelical ministry. Though his life was relatively brief, Toplady's hymns and theological writings influenced Anglican worship practices. He died in 1778 and is commemorated in several hymnals.

Anastasios Yannoulatos (1929–2025) served as the Archbishop of Tirana, Durres, and All Albania from 1992 until his death. He played a central role in rebuilding the Albanian Orthodox Church after the fall of the communist regime banned religious practice. Born in Piraeus, Greece, he studied theology in Greece and abroad before dedicating his life to missionary work in Africa and the Balkans. As Archbishop, Anastasios restored churches, seminaries, and social programs, fostering interfaith dialogue and community development. He received numerous international honors for his humanitarian efforts and commitment to peacebuilding. His leadership helped revive religious life and cultural heritage in post-communist Albania.

Bernard Francis Law (1931–2017) was appointed Archbishop of Boston in 1984 and elevated to the College of Cardinals by Pope John Paul II in 1985. He oversaw significant expansion of archdiocesan programs in education and social services. Law’s tenure became controversial due to criticism of how the archdiocese handled cases of clergy sexual abuse, leading to his resignation in 2002. Shortly thereafter, he was named Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy, serving in a senior Vatican role until 2011. Despite the scandal, Law remained an influential figure in the Church, known for his administrative acumen. His complex legacy continues to shape discussions on accountability and reform within the Catholic hierarchy.

Born in Mansoura, Egypt, he studied pharmacy and earned a doctorate before entering the clergy. He was elected as the 118th Pope of Alexandria in November 2012 following the passing of Pope Shenouda III. As Pope, he has focused on interfaith dialogue and modernizing church operations. He has overseen the restoration of historic churches and expanded educational and charitable programs. Under his leadership, the Coptic Church has grown both in Egypt and among the diaspora. He continues to advocate for peace and religious tolerance in the Middle East.