January 31

Ordained in England, he became a leading Puritan voice and scholar before migrating to the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1635. He led a group of settlers to establish Concord, where he served as the town's first minister and civic leader. Bulkley authored several theological works defending Puritan doctrine and church governance. He played a key role in shaping early colonial society by advocating for educational and religious institutions. His descendants became prominent figures in American history. Bulkley is remembered as a pioneering spirit in the founding of New England communities.

Born in 1597 in Fontcouverte, he joined the Society of Jesus and was ordained in 1630. He devoted his life to preaching missions across rural France, often traveling on foot and ministering to the sick and impoverished. Regis famously cared for repentant prostitutes, opening safe houses and offering spiritual guidance. He founded several hospitals and schools to support vulnerable communities. Canonized in 1737, he is honored as a patron saint of social workers and catechists. His gentle approach and zeal for the marginalized left a lasting impact on the French Church.

Born in 1673 in Montfort-sur-Meu, he entered the seminary and was ordained in 1700. Montfort became famous for his itinerant missions, preaching in remote villages and emphasizing Marian consecration. He authored the influential work 'True Devotion to Mary,' which has guided Catholic spirituality for centuries. In addition to spiritual teaching, he founded the Daughters of Wisdom and the Company of Mary to serve the poor and educate girls. His steadfast faith and innovative approach to ministry led to his canonization in 1947 by Pope Pius XII. He is celebrated for blending theological insight with practical charity work.

Shastriji Maharaj was born in 1865 in Gujarat, India, as Dungar Patel. He became a devoted disciple in the Swaminarayan tradition and studied under his guru, Shri Swaminarayan. In 1907 he established BAPS to promote the teachings of Akshar Purushottam Maharaj with an emphasis on devotion and social welfare. Maharaj traveled extensively across India, inspiring followers with his discourses on spirituality, morality, and community service. He oversaw the construction of the first BAPS mandir in Bochasan and laid the groundwork for future temples. His leadership emphasized ethical living, dietary discipline, and the power of satsang (spiritual association). Shastriji Maharaj's work led to the rapid growth of BAPS, which today operates hundreds of temples worldwide. He passed away in 1951, leaving a vibrant religious organization in his legacy.