June 29

Gero served as Archbishop of Cologne in the Holy Roman Empire during the 10th century. He played a role in ecclesiastical governance and church reforms under the Ottonian rulers. His tenure saw the strengthening of church institutions in the Rhineland region. Although few records survive, he was respected for his leadership and administrative skills. He died on June 29, 976, leaving his office to successors who continued his work.

Jan Milíč of Kroměříž was a 14th century Czech priest who became a leading voice for church reform prior to the Hussite movement. Born near Kroměříž, he traveled through Bohemia delivering passionate sermons in Czech and German to ordinary people. He challenged corruption within the clergy and urged moral renewal among the faithful. His calls for change attracted both admiration and suspicion, leading to temporary papal recognition followed by exile to Avignon. Despite opposition, his preaching laid essential groundwork for later reformers like Jan Hus. He died in 1374, leaving a legacy as a pioneer of religious reform in medieval Europe.

Scipione Cobelluzzi was an Italian cardinal and archivist renowned for his dedication to cataloging the records of the Holy See. Serving in the Roman Curia, he implemented systematic methods for preserving and organizing ecclesiastical documents, greatly enhancing their accessibility. His administrative reforms laid the groundwork for future scholars and historians investigating church history. Cobelluzzi also undertook diplomatic missions, representing papal interests at European courts. Though his time as cardinal was brief, his impact on the Vatican's archival practices endured for centuries. He died in 1626, leaving a legacy as a meticulous steward of Catholic heritage.

Edward Taylor was an English-born poet, pastor, and physician who settled in colonial Massachusetts. After training at Cambridge, he emigrated in 1668 and became the long-serving minister of Westfield, tending to his congregation's spiritual needs. As a trained physician, he also cared for the sick, combining his medical practice with his pastoral duties. Privately, Taylor composed a rich body of metaphysical poetry marked by intricate religious symbolism and personal devotion. His poems remained undiscovered until the 20th century, when they were lauded for their depth, artistry, and lyrical power. Taylor's dual roles underscored his commitment to both the spiritual and physical well-being of his community. He died in 1729, leaving behind a unique poetic and pastoral legacy in early America.

János Szlepecz (1872–1936) was a Slovene priest serving in the Austro-Hungarian Empire and Hungary. He devoted his life to missionary work among Slovene-speaking communities. Szlepecz promoted education and the Slovene language through religious studies. He authored spiritual writings that reflected the traditions of his parishioners. His pastoral care strengthened communities during times of political change. He is remembered for his unwavering commitment to faith and cultural heritage.

Karekin I (1950–1999) served as Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia, one of the two sees of the Armenian Apostolic Church. Born in Aleppo, Syria, he was ordained as a bishop in 1983 and became known for his pastoral care and theological scholarship. As Catholicos, he worked to strengthen ties within the Armenian diaspora, promoting education, cultural preservation, and interfaith dialogue. He oversaw the expansion of church activities, including the establishment of schools, seminaries, and charitable organizations. Karekin I also played a key role in relief efforts for Armenian communities affected by conflict and displacement. His leadership and vision left a lasting legacy within the Armenian Church and its global community.