January 22

Born in 1263 in Harran, Ibn Taymiyyah grew up in a family of scholars and memorized the Quran at a young age. He studied under prominent teachers in Damascus and Baghdad, earning renown for his expertise in Hanbali jurisprudence. His works, including the multi-volume 'Majmu al-Fatawa', sought to return to the practices of the early Muslim community. He was a vocal critic of certain Sufi practices and philosophical interpretations he viewed as un-Islamic. His ideas later influenced reform movements within Islam, and he is regarded as a forerunner to modern Salafi thought. He faced imprisonment for his views but continued to write until his death in 1328.

Ernest Wilberforce (1840–1907) served as Bishop of Newcastle and later Bishop of Chichester. Grandson of abolitionist William Wilberforce, he combined spiritual leadership with social activism. He championed the building of new churches to serve growing industrial communities. Wilberforce was active in education, founding schools and theological institutions. His writings on faith and society influenced Anglican thought in the late 19th century.

William Conway was ordained in 1936 and rose through the ranks of the Catholic Church in Ireland. Appointed Archbishop of Armagh in 1963, he participated in the Second Vatican Council. He was created a cardinal by Pope Paul VI in 1965 and advocated for peace during the Troubles. Conway balanced traditional theology with pastoral care in a period of social change. He left a legacy of reconciliation and ecclesiastical leadership until his death in 1977.

Carl F. H. Henry earned his doctorate from Boston University and taught theology at Fuller Seminary. He authored 'The Uneasy Conscience of Modern Fundamentalism', critiquing religious separatism. In 1956, Henry launched 'Christianity Today' to engage culture and scholarship with evangelical faith. His writings promoted social engagement, academic rigor, and a global outlook for evangelicals. Henry's influence extends through his books, articles, and the magazine he led for decades.

Heinrich Albertz was born in 1915 in Germany and trained as a Protestant theologian. He became active in the Social Democratic Party and entered politics after World War II. Albertz was appointed Mayor of West Berlin, where he faced the challenges of student protests and Cold War tensions. He was known for his commitment to social justice and his efforts to bridge political divides in the divided city. After leaving office, he returned to church leadership and continued to advocate for peace and reconciliation. Albertz remained a respected figure in both religious and political circles until his death in 1993.

Ján Chryzostom Korec was born in 1924 in Slovakia and ordained a priest in 1950. Amid Communist crackdowns, he was secretly consecrated bishop in 1951 and ministered in secret for decades, risking arrest and imprisonment. Despite surveillance and harassment, he remained devoted to his flock and the preservation of faith. Following the Velvet Revolution in 1989, he emerged from the underground, was publicly recognized, and served as Bishop of Nitra. In 1994, Pope John Paul II elevated him to cardinal, honoring his courageous service. Cardinal Korec wrote extensively on theology and social justice, influencing the post-Communist spiritual renewal in Central Europe.

Born in 1935 in Moscow, Alexander Men became a prominent Russian Orthodox priest. He studied theology and languages, authoring numerous books explaining the Bible to a modern audience. Known for his work promoting religious understanding and interfaith dialogue during the Soviet era. Translated biblical texts into Russian and lectured extensively across the USSR. His sermons and writings attracted wide followings, introducing Christianity to many young seekers. Men founded Sunday schools and wrote over 50 books on theology and spirituality. He was tragically assassinated in 1990 near his Moscow home, a moment that shocked religious communities. His legacy endures through his published works and the ongoing influence of his teachings.

Born in 1945, Christoph Schönborn was ordained a priest in 1970 and appointed Archbishop of Vienna in 1995. He was elevated to the College of Cardinals in 1998 by Pope John Paul II. A respected theologian, he contributed to the drafting of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. He is known for his writings on modern faith challenges and his engagement in ecumenical dialogue. As a church leader, he guides one of Europe's most historic archdioceses and frequently addresses global audiences.

Born in 1945, Alojz Uran was ordained a priest in 1965 and became Auxiliary Bishop of Ljubljana in 1990. He was appointed Archbishop in 2004 and guided the archdiocese through a period of renewal until his resignation in 2009 due to health reasons. Uran was praised for his pastoral care, support of youth programs, and dedication to social outreach. He continued to serve the church until his passing in 2020, leaving a legacy of compassion and leadership.