November 23

Born around 1190, he was elected Pope Clement IV in 1265 after a protracted conclave. As a member of the French clergy, he maintained close ties with King Charles of Anjou and supported his campaign in Sicily. His papacy focused on organizing new crusades to the Holy Land and asserting papal authority in Italy. He entered into conflict with Manfred of Sicily and enforced papal claims over key territories. He commissioned theological and scientific studies, including protecting the work of Roger Bacon. His pontificate ended with his death in 1268, leaving unresolved tensions between papal and imperial powers.

Born in 1632, Jean Mabillon entered the Benedictine Order at Saint-Germain-des-Prés in Paris. He became a leading scholar in the Congregation of Saint-Maur, renowned for rigorous historical and textual research. His landmark work 'De re diplomatica' (1681) set new standards for authenticating medieval manuscripts and documents. Mabillon's methods established palaeography and diplomatics as independent academic disciplines. He also contributed to liturgical studies and edited critical editions of early Church fathers. His scholarship influenced generations of historians, and he died in 1707, celebrated as a pioneer of modern archival science.

Jan Roothaan was born in Amsterdam and entered the Society of Jesus during its restoration in the early 19th century. Elected Superior-General in 1829, he led the Jesuits through a period of revival and global expansion. Roothaan reorganized Jesuit provinces, promoted missionary work in Asia and the Americas, and strengthened educational institutions worldwide. He founded new colleges and universities, emphasizing intellectual rigor and spiritual formation. His extensive correspondence shaped Jesuit constitutions and practices, guiding the order through complex political environments. Roothaan’s 24-year generalate cemented the Jesuits’ reputation for scholarship and missionary zeal.

Born Sathya Narayana Raju, he claimed to be the reincarnation of Shirdi Sai Baba and attracted followers globally. He founded numerous educational institutions, hospitals, and drinking water projects in his birthplace of Puttaparthi. His philanthropic activities served people of all faiths and backgrounds. Devotees attributed miracles such as healing and materialization to him, enhancing his reputation. He delivered discourses on love, peace, and selfless service that drew large crowds. Despite controversies over the authenticity of miracles, his organization continues charitable work through the Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust.

Angelo Sodano held the influential position of Vatican Secretary of State from 1990 to 2006 and served as Dean of the College of Cardinals until 2019. He played a central diplomatic role, representing the Holy See to governments and international bodies. He participated in papal conclaves and guided Vatican policy under John Paul II and Benedict XVI. Elevated to cardinal in 1991, he chaired several synods of bishops. His tenure emphasized interfaith dialogue and church reform. He retired to his native region before his passing in 2022.

Hal Lindsey was an evangelist whose 1970 book 'The Late, Great Planet Earth' popularized modern interpretations of biblical prophecy. He co-hosted 'The 700 Club' on the Christian Broadcasting Network and hosted the television program 'Future of the World'. He founded the Hal Lindsey Report, offering weekly insights on current events through a biblical lens. His writings and broadcasts influenced evangelical views on end-times theology. He authored over thirty books and spoke at conferences worldwide until his death in 2024.

Born in 1932 in Salerno, Italy, Renato Raffaele Martino was ordained a priest in 1958. He held various diplomatic posts for the Holy See, including apostolic nuncio to Cameroon and apostolic delegate to the United States. In 2005, Pope John Paul II appointed him president of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, where he championed human rights and ethical economic development. Created cardinal in 2007, he later served as prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. He was renowned for his efforts in promoting global solidarity and his influential writings on Catholic social teaching. Martino passed away in 2024, leaving a legacy of compassion and diplomacy.

Born in Liverpool in 1938, Patrick Kelly was ordained a priest in 1963. He served in various parishes before being appointed auxiliary bishop in 1982. In 1996 he became Archbishop of Liverpool, guiding the archdiocese through periods of change. Known for his advocacy for the poor and commitment to interfaith dialogue, he expanded community services. His tenure saw the restoration of historic churches and strengthening of Catholic education.