February 05

Born into a noble Dalmatian family, Drašković rose through church ranks to become bishop of Pécs and later archbishop of Zagreb. He participated in the Council of Trent, advocating for reforms and the strengthening of Catholic doctrine. Elevated to cardinal in 1573, he held significant sway in both religious and secular affairs of the Habsburg Empire’s Croatian lands. Drašković championed education by founding seminaries and supporting Jesuit missions to counter Protestant influence. He also served as chancellor of Croatia, advising the Croatian Sabor on spiritual and political matters. His leadership left a lasting imprint on the Catholic revival in the region.

Gilbert Tennent was a prominent Irish-American Presbyterian clergyman born in Ulster who became a leading voice of the evangelical revival in colonial America known as the First Great Awakening. Educated at the Log College in Pennsylvania, he was ordained in 1726 and soon earned a reputation for passionate preaching. His famous sermon, 'The Danger of an Unconverted Ministry,' challenged complacent clergy and sparked controversy within the church. Tennent helped to organize intercolonial synods and supported the establishment of new Presbyterian congregations across the American colonies. He later served as pastor in various churches and as a trustee of the College of New Jersey (now Princeton University). His fervent advocacy for revivalism influenced religious thought and practice in early America. Tennent's legacy remains as a key figure in the spread of evangelical Presbyterianism and American religious history.

John Witherspoon was a Scottish Presbyterian minister who emigrated to the American colonies and became a prominent educator and political leader. In 1768, he was appointed president of the College of New Jersey (now Princeton University), where he emphasized moral philosophy and trained future leaders. Witherspoon served as a delegate to the Continental Congress and was the only college president to sign the Declaration of Independence in 1776. He advocated for the union of the states and contributed to debates on republican government and education. His works on ethics and civic virtue influenced generations of American statesmen. Witherspoon balanced his roles as clergyman, scholar, and patriot during a formative period in U.S. history. His impact endures through his writings and through the many students he mentored.

Born in 1837 in Northfield, Massachusetts, Dwight L. Moody began his career as a shoe salesman before entering Christian ministry. Converted at age seventeen, he rose to prominence as an evangelist, drawing vast crowds with his simple yet powerful sermons. In 1864, Moody founded the Moody Church in Chicago, emphasizing accessible worship and Sunday School programs. He established the Moody Bible Institute in 1886 to train future ministers and produced widely circulated publications. Moody's transatlantic campaigns popularized revivalist preaching in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Known for his practical theology and organizational skills, he influenced the growth of evangelicalism. He continued his work until his death in 1899, leaving behind institutions that bear his name worldwide.

Born in 1847 in Estonia, Eduard Magnus Jakobson combined his religious vocation with artistic talent. After studying at a theological seminary, he served as a missionary, working to spread education and faith among rural communities. Jakobson mastered the art of engraving, producing delicate prints depicting biblical scenes and Estonian folk life. His works were published in chapbooks and newspapers, bringing visual narratives to the public. Through his art, he documented traditions and moral stories, becoming a cultural bridge between religion and everyday life. He exhibited his engravings at regional fairs and inspired future Estonian graphic artists. Jakobson passed away in 1903, leaving behind a body of work that merges faith and artistry.

Duraisamy Simon Lourdusamy was born in 1924 in Urachich, Tamil Nadu, India. He was ordained a priest in 1951 and served in various pastoral and educational roles. In 1969, Pope Paul VI elevated him to the College of Cardinals, making him the first curial cardinal from Asia. He held key positions in the Roman Curia, including Prefect of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches. Known for his diplomatic skills and dedication to interreligious dialogue, he advocated for the Eastern Catholic Churches. Lourdusamy retired in 1990 but continued to counsel bishops and clergy worldwide. He passed away in 2014, leaving a legacy of bridging cultures within the global Church.

Born in 1928, Andrew Greeley was ordained as a Catholic priest and pursued a dual vocation in sociology and literature. He published dozens of novels exploring themes of faith, love, and contemporary social dynamics. As a sociologist, he conducted influential research on the Catholic Church and American communities, authoring numerous academic articles. Greeley bridged scholarly analysis and popular writing, making complex religious and social topics accessible to a wide audience. He remained an active voice in discussions on religion and culture until his death in 2013.

Ha Seung-moo has published numerous volumes of poetry that explore faith, history, and the human experience. As an ordained pastor, he leads congregations and offers spiritual guidance within the Presbyterian tradition. His academic work focuses on historical theology, especially the development of Protestantism in Korea. He teaches at theological seminaries and participates in international conferences on religion. Ha's interdisciplinary approach bridges literature, faith, and scholarship. He has been recognized for promoting ecumenical dialogue and preserving church heritage. His writings continue to inspire theologians, poets, and believers across Asia.