November 19

Jean-Antoine Nollet (1700–1770) was ordained as a priest before devoting himself to physics and natural philosophy. He conducted groundbreaking experiments on atmospheric electricity and the behavior of electric sparks. In 1746, he invented the electroscope to detect electric charge and studied the properties of the Leyden jar. Nollet traveled across Europe demonstrating electrical phenomena to royal courts, spreading knowledge of electricity. He authored 'Leçons de physique expérimentale', which systematized experimental teaching for wider audiences. Nollet's public lectures and writings played a key role in popularizing Enlightenment science.

Billy Sunday was born in 1862 in Iowa and began his career as a professional baseball outfielder with the Chicago White Stockings. After retiring from sports, he experienced a religious conversion and entered the ministry under the influence of evangelist Dwight L. Moody. Sunday became known for his dynamic and theatrical preaching style, traveling the country to lead large-scale revival campaigns. He spoke directly to working-class audiences, using plain language, dramatic gestures, and modern illustrations. His sermons often addressed social issues such as alcohol abuse, leading him to support the Prohibition movement. Over his career, Sunday preached to tens of millions of people and influenced American religious life profoundly. He also wrote books and pamphlets that circulated widely. Billy Sunday died in 1935, remembered as one of America’s most influential evangelists.

Abu al-Qasim al-Khoei was born in 1899 in Khoy, Iran, and rose to become a leading Shia scholar. He headed the religious seminary in Najaf, Iraq, for over four decades, teaching thousands of students. His works in jurisprudence and theology are considered authoritative in Twelver Shia Islam. Al-Khoei played a central role in shaping modern Shia thought and institutional structures. He passed away in 1992, leaving a lasting legacy in religious scholarship and education.

Bernard Joseph McLaughlin was ordained a priest in 1938 and devoted his life to the Diocese of Buffalo. He was appointed auxiliary bishop in 1968 and served until his retirement in 1988. Bishop McLaughlin was known for his pastoral care, commitment to education, and community outreach programs. He supported the growth of Catholic schools and charities in western New York. After retirement, he continued to mentor young clergy until his death in 2015.

Peter Ruckman earned a Ph.D. studying the King James Version of the Bible and became a staunch defender of its use. He founded the Pensacola Bible Institute in 1965, training thousands of students in his strict Baptist tradition. Ruckman authored numerous books and a widely circulated reference Bible bearing his name. His controversial stance and fiery preaching style made him both influential and polarizing in evangelical circles. He continued teaching and writing until his death in 2016, leaving a devoted following among King James Only adherents.

Robert Barron (born November 19, 1959) is an American Catholic bishop, theologian, and author. He founded Word on Fire Catholic Ministries to engage contemporary culture through digital media and outreach. Barron's books, such as Catholicism and To Light a Fire on the Earth, have become international bestsellers and sparked widespread discussion. A former seminary professor, he holds advanced degrees in theology and philosophy. In 2015, Pope Francis appointed him Auxiliary Bishop of Los Angeles. Barron frequently appears on television and radio, and his online videos have garnered millions of views. He is renowned for making complex theological ideas accessible to modern audiences.

Shmuley Boteach is an American Orthodox rabbi, author, and television host who has gained international recognition. He has written over 30 books on relationships, ethics, and Jewish thought, including the bestseller 'Kosher Sex.' Boteach hosted the cable show 'Shalom in the Home' and has appeared on major talk shows as a relationship expert. Known as 'America's Rabbi,' he has advised celebrity clients and lectured at universities worldwide. His work bridges traditional religious scholarship with contemporary culture, promoting ethical living and interpersonal harmony. Boteach remains active in philanthropy and public speaking, influencing audiences across the globe.