78th birthday of S. Kudakwashe Emmanuel ZINHUMWE (born this day in 1994).
Birthday:
115th birthday of P. Graham Edward PUGIN (born this day in 1957).
On this day in our Jesuit history...
Old Jesuit Martyrology. Bl. Leonard Kamura and five companions. 1617. The death of Mathias de la Saulx, a Belgian lay brother. Being tempted to desire the priesthood, he thought of leaving the Society, but was threatened by St. Ignatius. He died a martyr of charity.
1526
At Alcala the examination of St. Ignatius before the Inquisition begins, concerning the novelty of his mode of life and his teaching.
1680
Athanasius Kircher dies A universal genius, but especially a leader in science and archeology. As a scholastic he was dull and sickly, but being carried to our Lady's altar, he was suddenly cured and endowed with extraordinary talent. He invented the magic lantern and developed the mercury thermometer. Cecil is born. deMille said that "the real pioneer of movies is a Jesuit - Kircher - who invented the magic lantern in the 17th century."
1680
In Rome the death of Athanasius Kircher, considered a universal genius, but especially knowledgeable in science and archeology.
1911
Louis Billot, S.J. was made a cardinal. He was a theologian, and professor. He would crown Pius XI with papal tiara. In 1927 he resigned from the College of Cardinals.
1988
In Madagascar, Fr. Philibert Randriambololona, S.J. is ordained Coadjutor Bishop. Twice Provincial, he was also Fr. General’s Assistant for Africa and Madagascar.
2016
Death of Fr. Kolvenbach, Retired General. Letter of Fr. General on this.
