Thomas of Villanova (1488 – 8 September 1555), born Tomás García y Martínez, was a Spanish friar of the Order of Saint Augustine who was a noted preacher, ascetic and religious writer of his day. He became an archbishop who was famous for the extent of his care for the poor of his see. In 1544 he was nominated as Archbishop of Valencia and he continued to refuse the position until...

Saint Cloud, also known as Clodoald, Clodoaldo, Clodoaldus, and Claud, was born in the year 522 in Gaul, which is modern-day France. He was born into French royalty as the son of King Clodomir and Clotilde, and he was also the grandson of King Clovis and Saint Clotilda. Tragically, Saint Cloud's father died in battle when Cloud and his siblings were still young. Following this, the...

Saint Bega, also known as Saint Bee, was born in the 7th century in Ireland to a noble family. According to historical accounts, she was betrothed to the Prince of Norway as part of an arranged marriage. However, Bega had a strong desire to dedicate her life and virginity to the Lord, so she refused the arrangement and decided to flee. Legend has it that Saint Bega miraculously crossed the...

St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta (1910–1997), known simply as Mother Teresa, was born to a family of Albanian descent in what is now Macedonia. As a young girl Mother Teresa was fascinated by stories she heard of missionaries serving in India. By age 12 she discerned a vocation to the religious life, and at the age of 18 joined the Sisters of Loreto as a missionary to India. She arrived in...

Saint Ida of Herzfeld (c. 770 – 4 September 825) was the widow of a Saxon duke who devoted her life to the poor following the death of her husband in 811. While there is disagreement as to her precise parentage, it is generally agreed that she was closely related to the Carolingians. The daughter of a count, Ida received her education at the court of Charlemagne, who gave her in marriage...