October 08

Born in Prague, Yechezkel Landau emerged as a leading rabbinic authority in the 18th century. His responsa, compiled in the multi-volume work 'Noda BiYehuda,' addressed complex legal and ethical questions with clarity and moderation. Serving as chief rabbi of Prague, he navigated communal tensions and maintained a reputation for fairness. Landau balanced traditional halakhic methods with careful consideration of contemporary challenges. His scholarship continues to be studied by rabbis and scholars around the world.

Michel Benoist joined the Jesuit mission in China and arrived at the Qing court in Beijing in 1740. He collaborated with the Qianlong Emperor on calendar reform, constructing astronomical instruments and clocks. Benoist produced detailed maps of Chinese provinces and introduced European cartographic techniques to China. He translated Western scientific texts into Chinese and taught mathematics and astronomy at the imperial court. His work significantly advanced Sino-European scientific exchange during the 18th century.

Born in 1753 to King Adolf Frederick and Queen Louisa Ulrika, Sophia Albertina of Sweden was a member of the House of Vasa. In 1784, she was elected coadjutor abbess of the Imperial Abbey of Quedlinburg and took full control in 1793. She governed the principality with a focus on education, social welfare, and religious tolerance. Sophia Albertina supported arts and culture, sponsoring music and architecture projects within her territories. Despite the political upheavals of the Napoleonic Wars, she maintained stability in Quedlinburg until 1818. After the secularization of the abbey in 1803, she retained the title but saw her political power diminish. She died in 1829, remembered as a dedicated ruler and patron of her people.

Marios Makrionitis (1913-1959) was the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Athens. He guided the local Catholic community with a focus on pastoral care and spiritual growth. Makrionitis worked to strengthen church institutions and social services in the region. He fostered dialogue between Catholic and Orthodox populations in Greece. During his tenure, he prioritized education and charitable outreach programs. His leadership helped unify diverse congregations and support the faithful. He passed away in 1959.

Aloísio Lorscheider was born in Brazil on October 8, 1924. He was ordained a priest in 1950 and later appointed Bishop of Santo André. In 1973, Paul VI elevated him to cardinal, assigning him the title of Cardinal-Priest of San Pancrazio. As president of the Latin American Episcopal Council (CELAM), he played a central role in liberation theology debates. Lorscheider advocated for social justice and the rights of the poor within the Church’s teachings. He retired as Archbishop of Fortaleza in 1984 and remained a respected voice in ecclesiastical affairs. He passed away on September 23, 2007, leaving a legacy of pastoral reform and advocacy.

Jim Elliot was an American Christian missionary who joined the Ecuador Mission of the Gospel Missionary Union. In 1955, he and four companions attempted to make contact with the Huaorani (Auca) people. He kept detailed journals documenting his faith journey and preparations for cross-cultural outreach. On January 8, 1956, Elliot and his fellow missionaries were killed by Huaorani tribesmen. His diary and Elisabeth Elliot's book Through Gates of Splendor brought international attention to his story. His sacrifice inspired generations of missionaries and remains a symbol of faith and dedication.

Marion Russell Ballard was born in Salt Lake City, Utah. He served as a lieutenant in the United States Navy during the late 1940s and early 1950s. After his military career, he joined his family's business before being called as a general authority of the LDS Church. Appointed to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 1985, he presides over missionary programs and humanitarian initiatives. Ballard has traveled to over 50 countries, fostering interfaith dialogue and charitable work. He has authored many addresses and served on key church councils, influencing policy and global outreach.

Jesse Jackson is an American minister and activist who rose to prominence during the civil rights movement alongside Martin Luther King Jr. In 1971, he founded Operation PUSH to promote economic empowerment in African American communities. Jackson later co-founded the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition to address social justice issues and political advocacy. He was appointed United States Ambassador to the United Nations Human Rights Commission in 1975. Jackson made historic runs for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988, inspiring a generation of political activists. He continues to be an influential voice in American politics and civil rights.

Hansa Yogendra was born in 1947 into a family devoted to yoga when her mother, Shri Dharmawalla, became a disciple of the renowned master Sri Yogendra. Alongside her husband, Jayadeva Yogendra, she has co-led The Yoga Institute, the world’s oldest organized yoga center, since the 1970s. Under her guidance, the institute expanded its research in yoga therapy and published numerous books on holistic health. Yogendra has been a pioneer in bringing yoga to public schools and corporate environments, promoting it as a tool for wellness. She received national honors for her contributions to India’s cultural heritage and continues to teach and mentor new generations of yoga practitioners.