August 19

Born in Ohio in 1843, Cyrus I. Scofield served as a lawyer and soldier before turning to ministry and theology. In 1909, he published the Scofield Reference Bible, which popularized dispensationalist theology and became a cornerstone of evangelical study. His annotations and commentary guided generations of readers in understanding biblical texts. Scofield’s work had a lasting impact on American Protestantism and missionary movements. He remained active in preaching and teaching until his death in 1921, leaving behind a legacy of theological scholarship.

Luis Martín was born in Valencia, Spain, in 1846 and entered the Society of Jesus in 1866. He rose through the ranks as a theologian, educator, and Jesuit provincial before being elected Superior General in 1892. During his tenure, he guided the order through modern challenges and expanded its educational and missionary activities worldwide. Martín emphasized rigorous scholarship and spiritual formation, strengthening Jesuit institutions in Europe and the Americas. He led the order until his death in 1906, leaving a legacy of intellectual renewal and global outreach within the Society of Jesus.

Saint Alphonsa Muttathupadathu, born Anna Muttathupadathu, was an Indian nun of the Franciscan Clarist Congregation. She suffered from chronic illnesses and physical pain throughout her life, which she offered in solidarity with Christ's suffering. Alphonsa's deep spirituality and acts of charity inspired many in Kerala and beyond. After her death in 1946, reports of miracles at her tomb led to her beatification in 1986 and canonization in 2008 by Pope Benedict XVI. She is celebrated annually on August 19, and her shrine at Bharananganam attracts thousands of pilgrims each year. Saint Alphonsa remains a symbol of faith, endurance, and compassion for Catholics worldwide.

Richard McBrien was born in Chicago in 1936 and ordained as a Catholic priest in 1962. He earned his doctorate in theology and joined the faculty at the University of Notre Dame, where he taught for over four decades. McBrien authored the bestselling textbook Catholicism and served as a consultant to the Second Vatican Council. His work made complex theological ideas accessible to students and lay readers. He was a frequent commentator on church reform and modernization until his death in 2015.

John Cootes is a former Australian rugby league player who made his mark with the Eastern Suburbs and represented both New South Wales and the Australian national team. After retiring from professional sport, he pursued theological studies and was ordained as a Catholic priest, serving communities in Sydney. Cootes later founded and managed several business ventures, applying his leadership skills off the field to the corporate world. He has also been involved in charity work and youth development programs, reflecting his diverse career and commitment to service. His journey from sports icon to clergyman and businessman highlights a unique blend of athletic, spiritual, and entrepreneurial achievements.

Michael Nazir-Ali was born in Pakistan and ordained in the Church of England in the 1970s. He served as Bishop of Rochester from 1994 to 2009, one of the Church’s most senior positions. Nazir-Ali is recognized for his work in interfaith dialogue and social ethics. He has written extensively on theology, migration, and the role of religion in public life. After retirement, he became a professor and continued to speak on global religious issues. His multicultural background and scholarship have made him a prominent voice in Anglican circles.

Khandro Rinpoche is a Tibetan Buddhist lama renowned for her teaching, scholarship, and humanitarian efforts. Born in India, she trained under masters in the Nyingma tradition and received full ordination as a nun. Rinpoche has established educational and health programs for communities in the Himalayas. She travels internationally, offering retreats and teachings on meditation, compassion, and Buddhist philosophy. Author of several books, she bridges Eastern spiritual practices with Western audiences. Her work emphasizes women's roles in Buddhism and promotes interfaith dialogue. Rinpoche's teachings have made her a respected guide for practitioners worldwide.