August 12

Franciscus Sonnius (1506–1576) was a leading Dutch theologian and church reformer of the Counter-Reformation. Educated at the University of Leuven, he participated in early sessions of the Council of Trent and worked to translate its decrees for use in the Low Countries. As Bishop of Roermond, he convened synods to enforce clerical discipline, standardize liturgical practices, and combat Protestant influence. Sonnius authored theological treatises defending Catholic doctrine and promoting clerical education. His efforts strengthened the Catholic Church's structure and doctrine during a period of intense religious conflict in Europe. He is remembered as one of the principal architects of the Counter-Reformation in the Netherlands.

Louise de Marillac (1591–1660) was a French religious sister who, alongside Saint Vincent de Paul, founded the Daughters of Charity in 1633. Born into a noble family, she dedicated her life to caring for the sick, the poor, and marginalized communities in and around Paris. She organized mobile charitable teams to reach the destitute outside urban centers and established clinics, orphanages, and hospices. Louise emphasized practical service over contemplation, training sisters in nursing and social work to meet urgent needs. Her innovative model of active charity spread across France and beyond. Canonized in 1934, she remains a patron of social workers and healthcare professionals.

Michael J. McGivney was an American parish priest who established the Knights of Columbus in New Haven, Connecticut in 1882. He organized mutual aid and insurance programs to protect families of Catholic immigrant workers. Under his leadership, the Knights grew into a major fraternal organization dedicated to charity, unity, and fraternity. McGivney's vision fostered community service and provided social support for thousands of members. He was beatified by the Catholic Church in 2020, and his cause for sainthood continues.

Dallin H. Oaks earned his law degree from the University of Chicago and built a distinguished legal career. He served as a professor of law and as a justice of the Utah Supreme Court, shaping legal thought in academia and jurisprudence. In 1984, he was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the LDS Church, dedicating his life to religious leadership. Oaks has authored numerous speeches and writings on law, ethics, and faith, influencing church policy and doctrine. He continues to travel internationally, offering guidance on spiritual and social issues. His dual legacy as both jurist and religious leader has had a lasting impact on millions of followers.