May 28

Born around 496, Germain served as Bishop of Paris during a time of political fragmentation following the fall of Roman authority in Gaul. He was celebrated for his charity, founding churches and hospices to care for the poor and sick and for mediating disputes among Frankish rulers. His humility led him to live simply while championing reforms to clerical discipline and liturgical practice. Miracles attributed to him after his death in 576 enhanced his reputation and established a cult in his honor. His legacy endures in the Cathedral of Saint Germain-des-Prés and in his feast day on May 28th.

Born in the late 10th century, Wulfstan rose through the ranks of the church to become Bishop of Worcester and later Archbishop of York. He authored influential homilies and legal codes that helped harmonize English and Danish traditions under King Cnut. His writings combined biblical exegesis with social commentary, warning against moral decline and injustice. Wulfstan's contributions to ecclesiastical reforms and royal legislation left a lasting mark on English church-state relations. He died on May 28, 1023, and was later revered as a saint for his piety and scholarship.

Appointed Bishop of St Andrews in 1271, William Wishart guided the Scottish church during the reign of King Alexander III. He navigated tensions between the crown and the papacy, defending ecclesiastical rights while supporting royal initiatives. Wishart oversaw the construction and endowment of religious institutions, strengthening monastic communities across Scotland. His leadership coincided with relative political stability, allowing for reforms in clerical education and discipline. He died on May 28, 1279, leaving a legacy of church reform and pastoral care.

Richard Hurd (1720–1808) was an English churchman, educator, and literary scholar who served as Bishop of Worcester from 1781 until his death. Educated at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, he became known for his edition of Alexander Pope’s works and his essays on taste and criticism. A close friend and disciple of William Warburton, Hurd was appointed Bishop of Gloucester in 1769 before translation to Worcester. He wrote extensively on moral philosophy, literature, and the cultivated life, blending theological insight with literary analysis. Hurd’s correspondence and lectures contributed significantly to 18th-century intellectual and ecclesiastical discourse. He was admired for his erudition, piety, and support of charitable and educational initiatives.

Philippe Desranleau dedicated his life to pastoral ministry and church leadership in Canada. Ordained in the early 20th century, he served in various parishes before rising to the rank of archbishop. In his tenure, he focused on expanding Catholic education and social programs. His efforts supported immigrant communities and strengthened church institutions. He passed away in 1952 after a lifetime of service to the Roman Catholic faith.

Stefan Wyszyński (1901–1981) served as Archbishop of Warsaw and Gniezno and was named a Cardinal in 1953. Known as the 'Primate of the Millennium,' he resisted communist pressure on the Church and was imprisoned from 1953 to 1956 for defending religious freedoms. After his release, he negotiated agreements that preserved the Church’s role in Polish society and supported the rise of leaders such as Pope John Paul II. Wyszyński emphasized social justice and national identity rooted in Catholic faith. His leadership strengthened the Church’s moral authority during decades of oppression. He remains a powerful symbol of spiritual resilience in Poland.