December 06

Born in 846 in Medina, Hasan al-Askari was the eleventh of the Twelve Imams in Shia Islam. He succeeded his father, Ali al-Hadi, and led the community during a time of Abbasid persecution. Despite restrictions, he was known for his piety, deep knowledge of Islamic jurisprudence, and devotion to his followers. His brief public role and subsequent disappearance shaped the doctrine of the Hidden Imam among Twelver Shias. He died in Samarra in 874, leaving a legacy that deeply influenced Shia theology and religious practices.

Born in 1909, Rulon Jeffs became the head of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS), a breakaway Mormon sect. Under his leadership, the FLDS expanded its communities and reinforced its practice of plural marriage. Jeffs promoted strict religious and social codes, influencing thousands of followers. He presided over the church from the 1980s until his death, shaping its doctrines and organizational structure. Despite controversies surrounding polygamy and communal practices, he was revered by his followers as a prophet. Jeffs' tenure left a complex legacy of religious fervor and legal scrutiny. He died in 2002, passing leadership to his successor.

Born in 1917, Dean Hess was ordained as a Baptist minister before joining the U.S. Air Force during World War II. He served in Europe, then commanded the 4th Fighter Group in the Korean War, where he led the rescue of hundreds of war orphans. His experiences inspired the 1957 film "Battle Hymn" starring Rock Hudson. Hess retired with the rank of colonel and continued his pastoral work and public speaking. He wrote several memoirs and remained active in veteran and church communities until his death in 2015.

Born in 1936 in Lubbock, Texas, Kenneth Copeland is a prominent American evangelist known for pioneering the prosperity gospel movement. He founded Kenneth Copeland Ministries in the 1960s, which has grown into a global broadcasting network and resource for Christian teaching. Copeland has authored dozens of books on faith, healing, and financial stewardship, reaching millions through television, radio, and live events. His ministry emphasizes positive confession and living a victorious life through faith in Jesus Christ. While some of his messages have sparked debate, he remains influential in charismatic and evangelical circles worldwide.