Famous American Priests

Jim Elliot was an American Christian missionary known for his dedication to spreading the Gospel. He was part of Operation Auca, a mission to evangelize the Huaorani people of Ecuador, during which he tragically lost his life. Elliot's commitment to sharing his faith and serving others has inspired many to continue his mission work. His legacy lives on through his writings, teachings, and the impact he made on the lives of those he encountered during his missionary work.

Marie Laveau was a Louisiana Creole practitioner of Voodoo, herbalist, and midwife known for her expertise in spiritual practices. She was renowned in New Orleans for her skills in rootwork, conjure, and a blend of Native American and African spiritualism. Marie Laveau also incorporated elements of Louisiana Voodoo and traditional Roman Catholicism into her practice. Historians recognize her as a significant figure in the realm of spiritual and mystical traditions, and her impact on the cultural and spiritual landscape of New Orleans remains influential.

Mychal Judge was an American Franciscan friar and Catholic priest known for his role as chaplain to the New York City Fire Department. He dedicated his life to serving others and providing spiritual guidance and support to firefighters and their families. Tragically, he lost his life on September 11, 2001, during the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. Mychal Judge's selfless devotion to his community and his ultimate sacrifice have left a lasting impact on those he served.

Daniel Berrigan SJ was a prominent American Jesuit priest known for his activism as an anti-war advocate, Christian pacifist, playwright, poet, and author. His protests against the Vietnam War, including the Catonsville Nine incident, led to multiple arrests and a three-year prison sentence for destruction of government property. Despite facing adversity, Berrigan continued his advocacy work and co-founded the Plowshares movement in 1980, focusing on anti-nuclear protests. He was also a respected author with around 50 books to his name and a dedicated educator.

Richard Allen was a prominent minister, educator, and writer who founded the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME) in 1794, the first independent Black denomination in the United States. Elected as the first bishop of the AME Church in 1816, Allen focused on creating a place where free and enslaved black people could worship without racial oppression. He worked tirelessly to elevate the social status of the black community by organizing educational programs and advocating for political strategies. Allen's dedication and leadership greatly impacted the lives of African Americans during his time.

James Smith Bush was a prominent American attorney, Episcopal priest, and religious writer. He led a distinguished professional life, making significant contributions to the legal and religious fields. His work as an attorney showcased his expertise and dedication to upholding justice. As an Episcopal priest, he served his community with compassion and faith, impacting the lives of many. Additionally, his writings reflected his deep spiritual insights and intellectual prowess, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of religious thought.

Solomon Burke was a pioneering American singer and one of the founding fathers of soul music in the 1960s. He was known for his prodigious output and is considered a key transitional figure bridging R&B and soul. Despite minimal chart success compared to other soul greats, he was hailed as the greatest male soul singer of all time. Burke's smooth, powerful articulation and blending of sacred and profane themes helped define soul music. He released 38 studio albums, had 35 charting singles, won a Grammy, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Kateri Tekakwitha, also known as the Lily of the Mohawks, was a Mohawk Catholic saint and virgin. She contracted smallpox as a child, which left her scarred. At the age of nineteen, she converted to Catholicism and took a vow of perpetual virginity. She left her village and lived the remaining years of her life in the Jesuit mission village of Kahnawake. Her devotion and piety led to her beatification in 1980 and canonization in 2012 by the Catholic Church.

Avery Robert Dulles SJ was an eminent American Jesuit priest, theologian, and cardinal within the Catholic Church. Throughout his illustrious career, he held teaching positions at prestigious institutions such as Woodstock College, the Catholic University of America, and Fordham University. Dulles was revered for his expertise in religion and society, and he gained worldwide recognition as a prolific author and captivating lecturer. His scholarly contributions and intellectual pursuits left a lasting impact on the fields of theology and academia.

Aiden Wilson Tozer was an influential figure in American Christianity, known for his work as a pastor, author, magazine editor, and spiritual mentor. He received recognition for his contributions through honorary doctorates from Wheaton and Houghton colleges. Tozer's professional life was marked by a deep commitment to his faith, evident in his writings, pastoral work, and mentoring relationships. He left a lasting impact on the Christian community through his teachings and literary works that continue to inspire and guide believers worldwide.

D. Todd Christofferson is an American religious leader and former lawyer who serves as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He has been a general authority of the church since 1993. Christofferson served as an LDS missionary in Argentina before studying English literature at Brigham Young University and attending law school at Duke University. He clerked for Judge John Sirica on the U.S. District Court and later worked in private practice and as an in-house lawyer for NationsBank.

Increase Mather was a prominent New England Puritan clergyman and served as the president of Harvard College for two decades. He played a significant role in the administration of the Massachusetts Bay Colony during a turbulent period that included the infamous Salem witch trials. Mather's leadership and influence were felt in both the religious and educational spheres, where he worked tirelessly to uphold Puritan values and promote academic excellence. His professional legacy is characterized by his contributions to the colony's governance and his impact on higher education in early America.

Lieutenant-General Leonidas Polk was an American Confederate military officer and bishop who founded the Protestant Episcopal Church in the Confederate States of America. He transitioned from an ecclesiastical position to become a major-general in the Confederate States Army, earning the nickname "Sewanee's Fighting Bishop." Polk played significant roles in various battles during the Civil War, including the Battle of Shiloh, Battle of Chickamauga, and Atlanta Campaign. Known for his contentious relationship with General Braxton Bragg, he was killed in action during the Atlanta Campaign in 1864.

Philip Berrigan was an American peace activist and Catholic priest with the Josephites. He was known for his commitment to nonviolent civil disobedience in the pursuit of peace and nuclear disarmament. Berrigan frequently engaged in acts of protest that led to his arrest. He married former nun Elizabeth McAlister and both were excommunicated from the Catholic Church before being reinstated. Throughout their marriage, they spent a significant amount of time separated due to serving time in prison for their activism.

Paul Casimir Marcinkus was an American archbishop and prominent figure in the Catholic Church. He served as the president of the Vatican Bank, officially known as the Institute for the Works of Religion, from 1971 to 1989. During his tenure, Marcinkus played a key role in managing the financial operations of the Vatican Bank, overseeing various investments and transactions. He was known for his involvement in international financial dealings and his controversial reputation due to scandals and legal issues surrounding the Vatican Bank during his leadership.

Richard Rohr is an American Franciscan priest known for his prolific contributions to the field of spirituality. Ordained in 1970, he founded the New Jerusalem Community in 1971 and later established the Center for Action and Contemplation in Albuquerque in 1987. With a focus on Christian mysticism and the perennial tradition, Rohr has become a renowned author and speaker, with works such as The Universal Christ, Falling Upward, and Everything Belongs earning him international acclaim as one of the most popular figures in spiritual literature and discourse.

Max Lucado is an American author and minister known for his inspirational Christian writings. He has authored numerous best-selling books that focus on faith, spirituality, and personal growth. Lucado serves as a minister at Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas, where he delivers sermons and provides spiritual guidance to the congregation. Through his books, speaking engagements, and work as a church leader, Lucado has established himself as a prominent figure in the Christian community, inspiring and uplifting readers and listeners worldwide.

Theodore Edgar McCarrick is a laicized American Catholic bishop and former cardinal. He served as Archbishop of Washington from 2001 to 2006. McCarrick was ordained a priest in 1958 and held various positions within the Church, including serving as an auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of New York and Bishop of Metuchen. He was later Archbishop of Newark. McCarrick was known for his fundraising abilities and political connections in Washington, D.C. He was ultimately removed from public ministry and laicized in 2019 due to credible allegations of sexual abuse.

Theodore Parker was an influential American transcendentalist and Unitarian minister known for his role as a reformer and abolitionist. His powerful words and popular quotations inspired many, including speeches by prominent figures such as Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr. Parker's professional life was marked by his dedication to social justice causes and his work as a minister advocating for a more inclusive and compassionate society. His legacy continues to impact the realms of politics, civil rights, and social reform.

Samuel Seabury was the first American Episcopal bishop, serving as the second Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church in the United States of America and the first Bishop of Connecticut. A prominent figure during the American Revolution, Seabury was a staunch Loyalist in New York City. He was known for his rivalry with Alexander Hamilton, a founding father. Seabury's professional life was marked by his leadership within the Episcopal Church and his significant role in the religious and political landscape of early America.

Michael Louis Pfleger is an American Catholic priest and social activist based in Chicago. Since 1981, he has served as the pastor of St. Sabina Catholic Church located in Chicago's Auburn Gresham neighborhood. Pfleger is known for his pro-Black stance on social issues, which has sparked controversies and led to his suspension at times. Despite facing multiple sex abuse allegations over the years, all such claims have been deemed unsubstantiated by the Archdiocese of Chicago.

Howard W. Hunter was an American lawyer who served as the 14th president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) for a brief nine-month period. He was the first LDS Church president born in the 20th century and the last to pass away in it. Hunter was appointed as an LDS apostle at the age of 51 and dedicated over 35 years to his service as a general authority within the church.

Francis Eugene George was a prominent American prelate of the Catholic Church, serving as the eighth Archbishop of Chicago, Illinois from 1997 to 2014. Prior to this role, he held positions as bishop of the Diocese of Yakima and Archbishop of Portland. As a member of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, he was appointed as a cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 1998. George also served as the president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops from 2007 to 2010. His tenure was marked by notable contributions to the Church, despite battling cancer from 2006 until his passing in 2015.

Gregory Joseph Boyle, S.J. is an American Catholic priest renowned for his work in gang intervention and rehabilitation. As the founder and director of Homeboy Industries, he leads the world's largest program dedicated to helping individuals leave gang life behind. Boyle's impactful career includes serving as the former pastor of Dolores Mission Church in Los Angeles, where he continues to make a significant difference in the lives of those seeking a path away from gang involvement towards positive transformation and community reintegration.

Tony Campolo is an influential American sociologist, Baptist pastor, author, and public speaker. He is recognized for his role as a spiritual advisor to former U.S. President Bill Clinton and his leadership within the evangelical left. Campolo is a prominent advocate for progressive thought and reform within the evangelical community. He is a key figure in the Red-Letter Christian movement, emphasizing the teachings of Jesus. Campolo is widely respected for his commentary on religious, political, and social issues and has made numerous appearances on popular programs.

Helmut Richard Niebuhr was a prominent Christian theological ethicist in 20th-century America. He is best known for his influential works, including "Christ and Culture" and "The Responsible Self." Niebuhr taught at the Yale Divinity School for many years and played a significant role in the neo-orthodox theological school within American Protestantism. Along with his colleague Hans Wilhelm Frei, he contributed to postliberal theology, known as the "Yale school." His work has had a lasting impact on theologians such as James Gustafson, Stanley Hauerwas, and Gordon Kaufman.

Andrew M. Greeley was an American Catholic priest, sociologist, journalist, and novelist known for his contributions to various publications such as the Chicago Sun-Times, The New York Times, National Catholic Reporter, America, and Commonweal. He held positions as a professor of sociology at the University of Arizona and the University of Chicago, as well as being a research associate at the National Opinion Research Center (NORC). Greeley's professional life was characterized by his prolific writing, research, and teaching in the fields of sociology and Catholicism.

The Public Universal Friend was an American preacher who claimed to have died and been reanimated as a genderless evangelist, shunning birth name and gendered pronouns. Preaching in androgynous attire, the Friend emphasized free will, opposed slavery, and advocated for sexual abstinence. The Friend attracted followers who formed the Society of Universal Friends, with a core group of unmarried women taking on leadership roles. The Society acquired land in Western New York, establishing the town of Jerusalem. The Friend's legacy is debated, with interpretations ranging from fraudster to transgender pioneer.

Theodore Hesburgh was a prominent American Catholic priest and academic known for his 35-year presidency at the University of Notre Dame. He was a public servant, social activist, and author involved in various civic, governmental, and international projects. Hesburgh received prestigious awards like the Presidential Medal of Freedom and Congressional Gold Medal. He played a key role in Notre Dame's growth and transition to a respected educational institution. Hesburgh also held leadership roles in civil rights, atomic energy, immigration reform, and Third World development initiatives.

Francis Asbury was a British-American Methodist minister and one of the first bishops of the Methodist Episcopal Church in the United States. He dedicated 45 years to ministry, traveling extensively on horseback and by carriage to reach those on the frontier. Asbury played a key role in spreading Methodism during the Second Great Awakening in the British colonies and the United States. Despite limited formal education, he founded schools and left behind a valuable journal documenting frontier society, making him a significant figure in Methodist history.

Raymond E. Brown was a distinguished American Sulpician priest and biblical scholar known for his expertise on the Johannine community's influence on the Gospel of John. He conducted research on the birth and death of Jesus, contributing valuable insights to biblical studies. Serving as a professor at Union Theological Seminary in New York City for nearly three decades, he was highly regarded for his teaching abilities and became the first Catholic professor to achieve tenure at the institution.

Eddie Long was an American pastor known for leading New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Georgia from 1987 until his passing in 2017. Under his leadership, the church grew significantly from 300 to 25,000 members. Long faced scrutiny during a Senate investigation regarding his church's tax-exempt status but was not found guilty of any wrongdoing. He also faced civil lawsuits accusing him of sexual abuse, which he denied and settled out of court. Long's professional life was marked by both success and controversy.

Isaac Mayer Wise was an American Reform rabbi, author, and editor known for his impactful professional life. Serving as the rabbi of congregation Beth-El of Albany, he implemented significant changes, including permitting a mixed-sex choir, allowing gender-integrated seating in family pews, and eliminating Bar Mitzvah ceremonies. Wise's forward-thinking approach and progressive reforms revolutionized the practices within the congregation, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of American Jewish religious leadership during his tenure.

Stephen Samuel Wise was an influential American Reform rabbi and Zionist leader in the early 20th century. He followed in his family's footsteps by becoming a rabbi, serving congregations in New York and Portland, Oregon. Wise played a key role in the Progressive Era, advocating for social justice and civil rights. He was a prominent figure in the Zionist movement, working to establish a Jewish homeland in Palestine. Additionally, Wise was a founding member of the NAACP, demonstrating his commitment to advancing racial equality.

Hiram Bingham I was a prominent figure in American Protestant missionary work, leading the first group of missionaries to bring Christianity to the Hawaiian Islands. His efforts played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity in the region. Bingham's leadership and dedication to his mission helped establish churches, schools, and a written language in Hawaii. He was known for his commitment to education and promoting Western values in the Hawaiian society, leaving a lasting impact on the culture and history of the islands.

John Courtney Murray SJ was an American Jesuit priest and theologian recognized for his work in reconciling Catholicism with religious pluralism. He focused on the intersection of religious freedom and democratic governance. Murray's influence was significant during the Second Vatican Council, where he played a pivotal role in advancing the Declaration on Religious Liberty, Dignitatis humanae. Through his writings and advocacy, he emphasized the importance of religious freedom within the context of modern, democratic societies, leaving a lasting impact on Catholic thought and practice.

Gene Robinson is a retired bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of New Hampshire. He was elected as bishop coadjutor in 2003 and later became bishop diocesan in March 2004. Before his bishopric, Robinson served as Canon to the Ordinary for the Diocese of New Hampshire. He is widely recognized for being the first openly gay priest to be consecrated a bishop in a major Christian denomination. His consecration sparked controversy and led to the formation of the Anglican Church in North America by theologically traditional Episcopalians. Robinson announced his retirement in 2010 and was succeeded by A. Robert Hirschfeld in 2013.

Ted Arthur Haggard is an American Methodist pastor known for founding and serving as the former pastor of New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He also co-founded the Association of Life-Giving Churches and served as president of the National Association of Evangelicals. Haggard's career took a controversial turn in 2006 when allegations of drug use and sexual misconduct with a male prostitute surfaced, leading to his resignation from New Life Church. Despite this, he later established Saint James Church in Colorado Springs with his wife.

Marcelino Manuel da Graça, also known as Charles Manuel "Sweet Daddy" Grace, was the founder and first bishop of the United House of Prayer For All People. He gained recognition as a religious leader among African-Americans and was considered a contemporary of influential figures such as Father Divine, Noble Drew Ali, and Ernest Holmes. His ministry was characterized by reported acts of faith healing and followers attributing his leadership to divine signs. Grace's professional life was marked by his establishment of the United House of Prayer For All People and his influence within the African-American community.

John Dominic Crossan is an Irish-American New Testament scholar, historian of early Christianity, and former Catholic priest known for his controversial views on the historical Jesus. He is a prominent member of the Jesus Seminar, emphasizing the historical context of Jesus and his followers post-death. Crossan's work challenges traditional beliefs about Jesus' divinity and the Second Coming, focusing on free healing and communal meals to disrupt societal hierarchies. He is a leading figure in contemporary historical Jesus research, advocating for a non-eschatological interpretation of Jesus and prioritizing certain noncanonical gospels.

Angela Warnick Buchdahl is an accomplished American reform rabbi, breaking barriers as the first East Asian-American to be ordained both as a rabbi and a hazzan (cantor). Her influence and impact in the Jewish community have been widely recognized, being named one of America's "Most Influential Rabbis" by Newsweek and The Daily Beast. Additionally, she was listed as one of America's "Top 50 Rabbis" and recognized in The Forward's prestigious "Forward Fifty" for her significant contributions to the national Jewish scene.

John McCloskey had a distinguished professional life as an American Catholic prelate. He served as the first American-born Archbishop of New York from 1864 until his death in 1885, after previously serving as Bishop of Albany. In 1875, he became the first American cardinal. McCloskey also played a significant role in education, serving as the first president of St. John's College, now Fordham University, beginning in 1841. Throughout his career, he made lasting contributions to the Catholic Church in the United States.

James Cardinal Gibbons was a prominent American Catholic prelate, serving as Apostolic Vicar of North Carolina, Bishop of Richmond, and Archbishop of Baltimore. He played a significant role in the Catholic Church, attending the First Vatican Council and voting in favor of papal infallibility. Gibbons was known for defending the rights of organized labor and advocating for labor unions, influencing Pope Leo XIII to support them. He was appointed to the College of Cardinals, making him the second cardinal in American history. Gibbons left a lasting legacy as a respected Catholic figure in the United States.

Helen Prejean CSJ is a Catholic nun and prominent advocate for the abolition of the death penalty in America. Her influential work includes the best-selling book "Dead Man Walking," which delves into the impact of the death penalty through her experiences as a spiritual adviser to death row inmates. This book was later adapted into a film and an opera. Prejean has held leadership roles in organizations such as the National Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty and has founded groups to support families affected by murder and related crimes.

Samuel Moor Shoemaker III was a prominent priest of the Episcopal Church known for his exceptional preaching skills. He founded Faith At Work magazine and served as the rector of Calvary Episcopal Church in New York City and later in Pittsburgh. Shoemaker played a significant role in the Oxford Group and Moral Re-Armament movements, influencing the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous. His contributions to AA had a global impact, shaping programs used worldwide to combat alcoholism and other addictions.

Phillips Brooks was a prominent figure in the American Episcopal Church, serving as the Rector of Boston's Trinity Church for a significant period and also holding the position of Bishop of Massachusetts briefly. He was known for his contributions as an author and clergyman, with one of his most notable works being the lyrics of the beloved Christmas hymn, "O Little Town of Bethlehem". His influence and legacy are recognized within the Episcopal Church, where he is honored on the liturgical calendar.

George A. Smith was a key figure in the early days of the Latter Day Saint movement, serving in leadership positions within the LDS Church. He was a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles and also held a position in the First Presidency. Smith played a significant role in the settlement of various communities in southern Utah. His involvement in the events leading up to the Mountain Meadows Massacre in 1857 is noted. The city of St. George, Utah, is believed to have been named in his honor.

Diane Hegarty was an American religious leader and co-founder of the Church of Satan. She served as High Priestess for approximately 25 years alongside Anton LaVey. Hegarty was involved in the administration of the Church and played a key role in typing and editing several important Satanic texts. She also handled administrative, press, and member relations work for the Church. Later in life, she dedicated herself to helping her grandson's career and worked as a graphology specialist.

Robert Farrar Capon was an American Episcopal priest, author, and chef known for his radical views on the grace of God. He served as a parish priest in Port Jefferson, New York, before transitioning to a writing career. Capon authored twenty books, including notable works such as "Between Noon and Three" and "The Supper of the Lamb." He also served as an assisting priest in East Hampton and as the Canon Theologian to the Episcopal Bishop of Long Island. Capon was passionate about food and cooking, writing cookbooks and teaching cooking classes.

James Augustine Healy was the first known African American to serve as a Catholic priest or bishop. Born into slavery, he was later freed and ordained a priest in 1854. He served as Bishop of Portland in Maine from 1875 until his death in 1900. Despite his predominantly European ancestry, Healy passed for a white man and identified as such. Healy's professional life was marked by his significant contributions to the Catholic Church, particularly in his role as a bishop.

William Taylor was an American Methodist missionary reverend who dedicated his life to spreading Methodism worldwide. He was elected as bishop over Methodist missions in Africa in 1884, following extensive missionary work in various countries including England, Ireland, India, South America, Australia, New Zealand, and Africa. Taylor's missionary efforts were instrumental in establishing self-supporting missions and introducing Methodism to many regions. He is also credited with introducing the eucalyptus tree to California from seeds he collected during his missionary work in Australia.

Justin Francis Rigali is an American cardinal of the Catholic Church. He served as the Archbishop of St. Louis from 1994 to 2003 and later became the eighth Archbishop of Philadelphia. Rigali was elevated to the cardinalate in 2003 but resigned in 2011 following a sex abuse probe. He also held the position of the Committee for Pro-Life Activities chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Rigali's professional life has been marked by his leadership roles within the Catholic Church and his involvement in pro-life activities.

Charles Edward Coughlin, also known as Father Coughlin, was a Canadian-American Catholic priest based near Detroit, USA. He was the founding priest of the National Shrine of the Little Flower and gained fame as "The Radio Priest" for using radio to reach a mass audience. Initially a supporter of Franklin D. Roosevelt and the New Deal, he later formed the National Union for Social Justice, advocating for monetary reforms and labor rights. Coughlin's broadcasts turned antisemitic and supportive of Nazi and Fascist policies in the late 1930s, leading to his radio program's cancellation during World War II.

Paul Shanley was an American Roman Catholic priest who gained notoriety for his role in a sexual abuse scandal within the Archdiocese of Boston. He was accused of child sexual assault, which the archdiocese covered up, allowing him to be transferred to different states. Shanley was convicted of child rape, removed from the priesthood in 2004, and later appealed his conviction unsuccessfully. He served time in prison from 2005 to 2017 before his death in 2020.

Bruce Ritter was a Catholic priest and Franciscan friar known for founding the charity Covenant House in 1972 to aid homeless teenagers. Under his leadership, Covenant House expanded into a prominent agency with a substantial budget and multiple centers across the United States, Canada, and Latin America. Ritter's career took a controversial turn in 1990 when he resigned amidst allegations of sexual and financial misconduct, although no charges were filed against him. Despite the scandal, he continued to serve as a priest and eventually retired to upstate New York.

Philip Whalen was a prominent American poet known for his association with the San Francisco Renaissance and the Beat generation. He was deeply influenced by Zen Buddhism, which reflected in his work. Whalen's poetry often explored themes of nature, spirituality, and the human experience. He was a key figure in the countercultural literary scene of the 1950s and 1960s, contributing significantly to the development of American avant-garde poetry. Whalen's unique style and philosophical insights continue to inspire readers and poets worldwide.

Hosea Ballou D.D. was an influential American Universalist clergyman and theological writer. Originally a Baptist, he converted to Universalism in 1789 and went on to preach in various towns in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. He served as the pastor of the Second Universalist Church of Boston from 1817. Ballou authored several theological works, hymns, essays, and sermons, and also edited two Universalist journals. His contributions have earned him the title of one of the fathers of American Universalism.

Patrick Joseph Hayes was an American Catholic prelate who served as Archbishop of New York from 1919 until his death. Known for his dedication to social justice and education, Hayes was instrumental in expanding Catholic schools within the archdiocese. He played a significant role in supporting the Catholic Charities organization and was a vocal advocate for the rights of immigrants and the poor. Elevated to the cardinalate in 1924, Hayes continued to be a prominent figure in the American Catholic Church, leaving a lasting legacy of service and leadership.

John Joseph O'Connor was a prominent American Catholic prelate who held various significant roles throughout his career. He served as a U.S. Navy chaplain for almost three decades, including a term as chief of chaplains. He then transitioned to the role of an auxiliary bishop within the Military Vicariate of the United States before becoming the Bishop of Scranton. O'Connor's most notable position was serving as the Archbishop of New York until his passing, during which he was elevated to the rank of cardinal in 1985.

Frederick Taylor Gates was an influential American Baptist clergyman and educator who served as the principal business and philanthropic advisor to John D. Rockefeller, Sr., from 1891 to 1923. Gates played a crucial role in shaping Rockefeller's business strategies and philanthropic endeavors, helping to establish the Rockefeller Foundation and implementing innovative management practices in various industries. As a trusted advisor, Gates utilized his expertise to guide Rockefeller in making significant financial decisions and fostering social change through strategic philanthropy.

Edward Egan was an American Catholic prelate who held significant positions within the Church hierarchy. He served as the Bishop of Bridgeport from 1988 to 2000, overseeing the diocese's spiritual and administrative affairs. Egan then became the Archbishop of New York from 2000 to 2009, where he played a prominent role in leading the Catholic community in the region. In recognition of his contributions, Egan was elevated to the rank of cardinal in 2001, further solidifying his influence within the Church.

Augustus Tolton was the first openly Black Catholic priest in the United States, ordained in Rome in 1886. Despite facing rejection from North American seminaries, he was supported by Bishop Peter Joseph Baltes and became a missionary to African Americans in the United States. Tolton spearheaded the development of St. Monica's Church as an African-American "national parish" in Chicago and was known for his fluent speaking and exceptional singing voice. He died at the age of 43 due to a heat stroke and was declared venerable by Pope Francis in June 2019.

David Jeremiah is an American evangelical Christian author and pastor known for his leadership in Turning Point Radio and Television Ministries. He is the senior pastor of Shadow Mountain Community Church, a prominent Southern Baptist megachurch in El Cajon, California. Jeremiah's professional life is dedicated to spreading the message of Christianity through his writing, broadcasting, and pastoral work. He has established a significant presence in the field of evangelical ministry, reaching a wide audience with his teachings and sermons.

John Joseph "Jack" Geoghan was an American Catholic priest assigned to parishes in the Archdiocese of Boston, Massachusetts. Despite receiving treatment for pedophilia, he was reassigned to various parish posts involving interaction with children. Geoghan's actions were part of a wider scandal in the 1990s and 2000s involving priests accused of child sexual abuse, leading to the resignation of Boston's archbishop. He was convicted of sexual abuse, laicized, and sentenced to prison, where he was later murdered by another inmate.

Alexander Campbell was an Ulster Scots immigrant who became an ordained minister in the United States and, along with his father Thomas Campbell, led the Restoration Movement. This movement emphasized a return to New Testament Christianity, resulting in the development of non-denominational Christian churches. Campbell merged his reform efforts with Barton W. Stone's movement in Kentucky, leading to the formation of congregations known as Disciples of Christ or Christian churches. His influence is seen in various church groups, including the Churches of Christ, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), and others globally. Campbell also founded Bethany College in Bethany, West Virginia.

Michael Wigglesworth was a Puritan minister, physician, and poet known for his influential work, The Day of Doom. As a minister, he preached sermons to his congregation, emphasizing Puritan beliefs and values. In his role as a physician, he provided medical care to members of his community, combining his knowledge of medicine with his dedication to serving others. Wigglesworth's poetry, particularly The Day of Doom, captured the attention of early New England readers with its vivid descriptions of sin, judgment, and salvation.

Innocent Lotocky O.S.B.M was an American Bishop of the Ukrainian Catholic Church. Before becoming a bishop, he dedicated many years to serving as a pastor at Immaculate Conception Ukrainian Catholic Church in Hamtramck, Michigan. His professional life was marked by his commitment to the church and his parishioners. He demonstrated strong leadership skills and a deep devotion to his faith, which he shared through his pastoral work and later as a bishop within the Ukrainian Catholic Church.

Richard John Neuhaus was a prominent writer and Christian cleric who transitioned from the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod to the ELCA and later the Catholic Church. He was the editor of Lutheran Forum and later founded and edited First Things. A prolific author, Neuhaus penned numerous books and was known for his defense of the Catholic Church's teachings on abortion and other life issues. He also advised President George W. Bush on bioethical matters, showcasing his influence in both religious and political spheres.

John W. Beschter SJ was a Catholic priest and Jesuit from Luxembourg who emigrated to the United States in 1807 as a missionary. He served as a pastor at St. Mary's Church in Lancaster and St. John the Evangelist Church in Baltimore, Maryland. Beschter also worked at other German-speaking churches in Pennsylvania. He was the master of novices at the White Marsh Manor novitiate and briefly served as president of Georgetown College. Beschter later taught German at Georgetown before spending his final years in Paradise, Pennsylvania, continuing his ministry.

John Carroll was an American Catholic prelate who became the first Bishop and later the first Archbishop of Baltimore. He administered the entire U.S. Catholic Church until 1808. Born in Maryland, he spent his early priesthood years in Europe before returning to America in 1773 to organize the Catholic Church. He played a significant role in establishing the American Catholic hierarchy and founded Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., as well as St. John the Evangelist Parish in Silver Spring, Maryland.

Wilton Daniel Gregory is an American prelate of the Catholic Church. He served as an auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Chicago, bishop of the Diocese of Belleville, and archbishop of the Archdiocese of Atlanta. In 2019, he became the archbishop of the Archdiocese of Washington. Gregory made history as the first African-American cardinal when Pope Francis elevated him in 2020. He was also the first Black president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, leading during the development of the "Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People" in response to the sexual abuse scandal.

Roger Michael Mahony served as an American cardinal and prelate of the Catholic Church, holding various positions within the Diocese of Fresno and the Diocese of Stockton before becoming the Archbishop of Los Angeles in 1985. He was the first native of Los Angeles to hold this position. Mahony played a significant role in the division of the archdiocese into administrative subdivisions and the construction of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. However, he has also been linked to the cover-up of sexual abuse scandals within the Catholic Church.

John Shelby "Jack" Spong was an American bishop of the Episcopal Church who served as the Bishop of Newark, New Jersey from 1979 to 2000. He was a liberal Christian theologian, author, and religion commentator known for his progressive and controversial views on Christianity. Spong advocated for a fundamental rethinking of Christian beliefs away from theism and traditional doctrines. He was a vocal supporter of LGBTQ rights, promoted interfaith dialogue, and made appearances on national television broadcasts. Spong's work included contributions to the Living the Questions DVD program.

William Lombardy was an American chess grandmaster, writer, teacher, and former Catholic priest. He was a prominent figure in American chess during the 1950s and 1960s, known for his skill and achievements. Lombardy won the World Junior Championship in 1957 with a perfect score, a unique accomplishment. He also led the U.S. Student Team to victory in the 1960 World Student Team Championship. Lombardy played a significant role in the chess world as a player, mentor, and contributor to the game's development.

Thomas Coke was the first Methodist bishop, ordained as a priest in 1772 before being expelled from his Anglican pulpit for his Methodist beliefs. He met John Wesley in 1776 and played a key role in co-founding Methodism in America. Coke was instrumental in establishing Methodist missions overseas, leading to the global spread of Methodism in the 19th century. His professional life was dedicated to expanding and solidifying the Methodist movement, both in America and internationally.