December 04

Hasan al-Askari (846–874) was the eleventh Imam in Twelver Shia Islam, known for his deep knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence and theology. Born in Medina, he led the Shia community during a time of political tension under the Abbasid Caliphate. Despite restrictions and surveillance by the caliphs, he maintained a network of disciples and correspondences to guide his followers. His teachings emphasized piety, justice, and adherence to the Prophet’s family. His early death at age 28 left a lasting legacy and set the stage for the concept of the Hidden Imam in Shia belief.

John Cotton (1585–1652) was a leading Puritan minister whose sermons and writings shaped New England’s religious foundations. Born in Derbyshire, England, he studied at Trinity College, Cambridge before serving parishes in England. In 1633, he emigrated to Massachusetts Bay Colony to escape religious conflict, becoming the pastor of Boston’s First Church. Cotton’s theological treatises on covenant theology and church governance deeply influenced colonial society and the development of Congregationalism. His debates with Roger Williams and others highlighted the complexities of religious liberty. Cotton’s legacy persisted in American Protestantism for centuries.

Franz Xavier Wernz was born in Germany in 1844. He joined the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) and was ordained as a priest. In 1906, he became the 25th Superior General, leading the Jesuit order. Wernz guided the society through political and social challenges of the early 20th century. He emphasized education and missionary work in expanding Jesuit influence. His leadership helped shape modern Jesuit institutions worldwide. Wernz died in 1914, leaving a legacy of spiritual and organizational renewal.

Nick Vujicic was born on December 4, 1982 in Melbourne, Australia with tetra-amelia syndrome, a rare condition that left him without arms or legs. Despite early challenges, he overcame adversity through faith and founded the nonprofit organization Life Without Limbs in 2005. Vujicic travels to over 70 countries each year delivering motivational speeches to audiences of all ages. He is the author of multiple best-selling books, including 'Life Without Limits' and 'Unstoppable'. His work continues to encourage people around the world to find purpose and resilience in the face of hardship.