February 01

Born in 1261 in Devon, Walter de Stapledon rose through ecclesiastical ranks to become Bishop of Exeter. In 1310, he was appointed Lord High Treasurer of England and Chancellor of the Exchequer. Stapledon founded Stapledon Hall, which later became Exeter College at Oxford University. As a close advisor to King Edward II, he managed the royal finances during a turbulent period. His reforms aimed to stabilize the economy and strengthen royal authority. In 1326, he was attacked and killed by a mob in London during conflicts between the king and barons. His legacy endures through Exeter College and his contributions to medieval English governance.

Born in 1663 in Manila, Ignacia del Espíritu Santo dedicated her life to faith and charity. In 1684, she founded the Beatas de la Inmaculada Concepción, the first all-female religious congregation in the Philippines. Her community focused on education, spiritual guidance, and care for the poor. She navigated colonial challenges and gained respect from church authorities. Her legacy lives on through the Religious of the Virgin Mary, which continues its work across the Philippines and abroad.

Thomas Campbell was born in 1763 in Ireland and emigrated to the United States as a Presbyterian minister. His 1809 'Declaration and Address' called for Christian unity and a return to New Testament practices. Campbell’s teachings emphasized believer’s baptism and congregational autonomy. He became a key leader in the American Restoration Movement. His ecumenical vision shaped denominations like the Churches of Christ.

Abraham Emanuel Fröhlich was born near Zürich in 1796 and served as a Protestant minister. He gained fame for his lyrical poetry inspired by nature, faith, and Swiss landscapes. Fröhlich championed modern educational methods in church-run schools. His pedagogical writings influenced curriculum development and moral instruction. He is remembered for blending spiritual leadership with literary artistry.

George Hendric Houghton was born in 1820 and served as an Episcopal clergyman in New York City. He founded missions and charitable programs to support the poor and immigrant communities. Houghton composed hymns and theological tracts emphasizing compassion and social justice. His leadership in church reform reflected the growing role of religion in civic life. He is remembered for pioneering urban ministry and outreach.

Ignacy Tokarczuk (1918–2012) served as the Archbishop of Przemyśl from 1965 until his retirement in 1992, guiding the diocese through decades of political turmoil. Born in southeastern Poland, he was ordained a priest in 1942 and later consecrated as bishop amidst the challenges of communist rule. Archbishop Tokarczuk championed religious freedom, fostering deep connections between the Church and the faithful under an oppressive regime. He played a key role in the pastoral care of his community, promoting education and social outreach programs that strengthened parish life. After stepping down, he continued to advise successors and remained a respected figure until his death in 2012, remembered for his steadfast faith and moral courage.