December 05

Born in 1389 into a noble Silesian family, Oleśnicki became bishop of Kraków at a young age and was made Poland’s first cardinal in 1423. He served as regent during the minority of King Władysław III, guiding both domestic and foreign policy. A fierce defender of Catholic orthodoxy, he opposed Hussite movements and reinforced church authority. Oleśnicki was a patron of the arts and oversaw the construction of landmark churches in Kraków. His leadership strengthened the bond between the Polish monarchy and the Catholic Church. He died in 1455, leaving a legacy as a central figure in medieval Polish history.

Born Giuliano della Rovere in 1443, he became a cardinal at age 27 and was elected pope in 1503. Nicknamed the 'Warrior Pope,' he personally led military campaigns to reclaim and expand the Papal States. He commissioned Michelangelo to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling and Bramante to begin rebuilding St. Peter’s Basilica, ushering in the High Renaissance in Rome. Julius II convened the Fifth Lateran Council to address church reform and administration. His bold political and cultural initiatives transformed the city of Rome. He died in 1513, remembered for blending military might with enormous artistic patronage.

Andrew Yeom Soo-jung was ordained a priest in 1971 and served in various pastoral roles throughout South Korea. Appointed Archbishop of Seoul in 2012, he focused on youth engagement and charitable initiatives. Pope Francis created him a cardinal in 2014, making him one of the most senior Catholic figures in Asia. Yeom has promoted dialogue between religions and advocated for peaceful reunification of the Korean peninsula. He continues to champion educational and social programs for underprivileged communities.