September 11

Born in 1557 in Peralta de la Sal, Joseph Calasanz was ordained in Rome and devoted himself to the education of underprivileged youth. In 1617, he established the Congregation of Poor Clerics Regular of the Mother of God of the Pious Schools (Piarists), the first Catholic order dedicated to providing free schooling. His innovative methods combined religious instruction with a broad curriculum including mathematics and sciences. Despite facing opposition and challenges within the Church, Calasanz's schools spread across Europe and influenced later educational models. He died in 1648 and was canonized in 1767, remembered as a pioneer of universal education within the Catholic tradition.

Vincenzo Maculani was born in 1578 in Genoa and joined the Dominican Order at a young age. He rose through the ranks to become a cardinal in 1643 under Pope Urban VIII. As an inquisitor, he oversaw trials against alleged heretics and was involved in the proceedings of prominent figures. Maculani also contributed to the design and construction of key ecclesiastical buildings in Rome, working closely with leading architects. His strict enforcement of doctrinal orthodoxy and architectural vision left a significant mark on the Catholic Church. He continued to serve in the Roman Curia until his death in 1667.

John Ireland was born in 1838 in Ireland and emigrated to the United States as a child, later joining the priesthood in Minnesota. He became the second Bishop of Saint Paul in 1884 and was elevated to Archbishop in 1888, guiding the growth of the Catholic Church in the Upper Midwest. A champion of Catholic education, he founded schools and universities and encouraged the integration of immigrant communities. Ireland supported social reforms and fostered dialogue between Catholics and Protestants, earning respect across religious lines. His leadership shaped the religious and cultural landscape of Minnesota until his death in 1918.

Serbian Patriarch Pavle II was the spiritual head of the Serbian Orthodox Church for nearly two decades. He guided his church through the turbulent period of the Yugoslav Wars and its aftermath. Throughout his tenure, he was known for his humility, charitable work, and dedication to peace. He maintained strong pastoral connections with Serbian communities worldwide and advocated for reconciliation. Pavle remained a respected moral figure until his passing in 2009.