March 28

Teresa of Ávila (1515–1582) was a Spanish noblewoman who became a Carmelite nun and a leading figure in the Counter-Reformation. Renowned for her mystical visions and contemplative writings, she founded the Discalced Carmelites alongside John of the Cross. Her works such as The Interior Castle and The Way of Perfection remain classics of Christian spirituality, exploring stages of prayer and union with God. Teresa emphasized prayer as an intimate dialogue with the divine and championed reform within her order. Canonized in 1622, she became one of the first women declared a Doctor of the Church and is revered for her theological insight and spiritual legacy.

John Amos Comenius (1592–1670) was a Czech philosopher and theologian who is often called the Father of Modern Education. As a bishop of the Moravian Church, he sought to reform both religious practice and educational methods, promoting learning for all children regardless of class or gender. His educational treatise Didactica Magna introduced concepts such as structured curriculum and visual aids, laying foundations for modern pedagogy. Exiled during the Thirty Years' War, he lectured across Europe and influenced educational thinkers from Sweden to England. Comenius believed education should foster moral and intellectual development, earning him a lasting reputation as a pioneer of universal schooling and progressive teaching methods.

Andrew Kippis (1725–1795) was an English nonconformist minister, scholar, and prolific biographer. He served as a clergyman at various chapels while contributing to the Biographia Britannica with insightful lives of eminent British figures. Kippis emphasized rigorous scholarship and empirical research, pioneering a more critical approach to writing history. His separate biographies of figures such as Captain Cook displayed his narrative skill and commitment to accuracy. A supporter of religious toleration and education reform, he embodied Enlightenment ideals in both his sermons and writings. Kippis's scholarly dedication and literary style influenced the development of modern biography as a respected historical genre.

John Nepomucene Neumann was born in 1811 in Bohemia and emigrated to the United States in 1836, dedicating his life to missionary work. Appointed the fourth Bishop of Philadelphia in 1852, he traveled extensively on horseback to minister to scattered Catholic communities. Neumann established over 40 Catholic schools, laying the groundwork for the American parochial school system. Renowned for his humility and pastoral zeal, he was beatified in 1963 and canonized as a saint in 1977 by Pope Paul VI. He remains a patron saint of immigrants and Catholic educators throughout the United States.

Donald Grey Barnhouse was born in 1895 in Pennsylvania, USA. He emerged as a leading evangelical pastor and scholar, known for his dynamic preaching style. In 1931, he founded the weekly magazine 'Revelation' to explore biblical teachings in depth. Barnhouse launched 'The Bible Study Hour' radio program in 1938, reaching audiences nationwide. He authored numerous books and commentaries on Christian doctrine and biblical studies. His influential work and mentorship shaped a generation of Protestant leaders until his death in 1960.

Spencer W. Kimball was born in 1895 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He served in various church leadership roles before becoming the 12th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1973. Kimball guided church expansion, overseeing the construction of temples worldwide. In 1978, he announced the extension of priesthood to all worthy male members regardless of race. He authored several doctrinal books and was known for his compassionate pastoral approach. Kimball led the church through significant growth and change until his death in 1985.