November 24

Born in Versailles in 1712, de l'Épée devoted his life to improving the lives of deaf individuals. He developed a system of hand gestures and signs to teach deaf students to read and communicate. In 1760, he established the world's first public institution for the education of the deaf in Paris. His methods earned him the title 'Father of the Deaf' and laid the groundwork for modern sign languages. He published influential works on deaf education, advocating for accessibility and inclusion. His legacy endures in contemporary deaf education and French Sign Language (LSF).

Born Miquel Josep Serra in 1713 on the island of Mallorca, he joined the Franciscan Order in 1730. In 1749, he sailed to New Spain, ministering first in Baja California before moving to Alta California. From 1769 until his death, he established nine of the 21 missions along California's El Camino Real. Serra's missions aimed to convert and educate Indigenous peoples, introducing European agriculture and livestock. He advocated for improved treatment of Native Americans within the mission system despite controversies. Canonized as a saint in 2015, his legacy remains influential and debated in California history.

Thomas Dick (1774–1857) was a Scottish Presbyterian minister renowned for his passionate advocacy of astronomy and natural philosophy. Serving as minister in Dundee, he combined his religious duties with a deep interest in science. His bestselling works, such as 'The Christian Philosopher' and 'The Sidereal Heavens', presented complex astronomical concepts in an engaging manner for general readers. Dick believed that the study of the heavens enhanced spiritual understanding and moral improvement. He also contributed to public education through lectures and support for schools. His legacy endures in the continued appreciation of science outreach and the dialogue between faith and reason.

William Webb Ellis (1806–1872) was an English clergyman who, according to popular legend, created the game of Rugby football in 1823 by picking up the ball and running with it during a school football match at Rugby School. Although the story’s authenticity is debated by historians, it remains a cherished origin myth of the sport. After his school days, Ellis was ordained as an Anglican priest and served as rector in Devon and later in Cornwall. He remained largely out of the public eye, but his name endured through the code of rugby football. Today, his legacy is honored by the Webb Ellis Cup, awarded to the winner of the Rugby World Cup.