January 02

Born Marie-Françoise Thérèse Martin in 1873 in Alençon, France, she entered the Carmelite convent at Lisieux at age 15. She composed 'Story of a Soul,' a spiritual memoir that details her philosophy of finding holiness in small, everyday actions. Her 'Little Way' emphasizes simplicity, humility, and trust in God's love. Thérèse was canonized in 1925 and declared a Doctor of the Church in 1997, one of only four women to receive this title. She is the patroness of missionaries, florists, and the sick. Her writings continue to inspire millions around the world. Thérèse died of tuberculosis in 1897.

Born in 1940, Jim Bakker rose to fame alongside his then-wife Tammy Faye Bakker, building the PTL Club into one of the most-watched Christian television programs. He oversaw the creation of Heritage USA, a religious theme park that drew millions of visitors before financial scandal led to his resignation in 1987. Bakker faced legal challenges, including a conviction for fraud and conspiracy, but later returned to televangelism with a new ministry focusing on charismatic healing broadcasts. His charismatic style and dramatic rise and fall have made him a controversial figure in American religious history. Despite setbacks, Bakker's influence on televangelism endures in modern Christian media.