December 27

Jean de Lamberville (1633–1714) was a dedicated French missionary active during the era of European colonial expansion. He traveled to various regions to spread Christianity and minister to local communities. Lamberville’s work often involved building relationships across cultural and linguistic divides. His correspondence and records provide a glimpse into the challenges and encounters faced by missionaries of the time. His efforts contributed to the historical development of early mission activities overseas.

Veronica Giuliani (1660–1727) was an Italian Capuchin nun and mystic known for her intense spiritual experiences and writings. She reported visions and ecstasies that drew widespread attention within the Catholic Church. Giuliani documented her mystical insights in detailed journals, which later influenced devotional literature. She was noted for her deep commitment to prayer, penance, and care for the poor. Canonized in the 20th century, her life continues to inspire those drawn to mystical and contemplative traditions.

Conyers Middleton (1683–1750) was an English priest of the Church of England and a noted theologian. He served as Master of Trinity Hall, Cambridge, and gained fame for his scholarly critiques of ecclesiastical traditions. Middleton’s writings, such as his critiques of miracles and church ceremonial, sparked significant controversy. He engaged in debates with contemporaries over historical accuracy and doctrinal matters. His work laid groundwork for the development of historical-critical approaches to religious texts.

Born in Gloucester in 1714, George Whitefield became a key figure in the Methodist revival under John Wesley's mentorship. Renowned for his powerful oratory, he preached to massive open-air crowds in Britain and the American colonies. His itinerant ministry helped spark the Great Awakening, reshaping Protestant worship and outreach. Whitefield emphasized personal conversion, heartfelt piety, and social reform, establishing charity schools and welfare initiatives. His dynamic style and evangelical fervor left a lasting impact on global evangelical movements. He died in 1770, celebrated for his devotion and transformative preaching.

Lars Oftedal was ordained in the Church of Norway and became a leading figure in Stavanger's religious community. He founded charities, schools, and clinics to address poverty and public health. As editor of the newspaper Stavanger Aftenblad, he influenced public opinion on social issues and moral reform. Oftedal served as a member of Parliament and as Norway's Interior Minister, promoting education and temperance laws. His combined roles as priest, editor, and politician made him a key architect of modern Norwegian social policy.

Michael Turnbull is an English Anglican bishop known for his pastoral leadership and theological insight.\nOrdained in 1960, he served in various parish roles before his consecration as Bishop of Rochester in 1988.\nIn 1995, Turnbull was appointed Bishop of Winchester, overseeing one of the oldest dioceses in the Church of England.\nHe advocated for church modernization and engaged in interfaith dialogue.\nAfter retiring in 2005, he remained active in ecclesiastical affairs and authored works on liturgy and pastoral care.\nHis tenure was marked by a commitment to community outreach and spiritual formation.