May 30: Today in Christian History

May 30, 1431

On May 30, 1431, Joan of Arc, a French peasant girl who claimed to have received visions from God instructing her to support Charles VII and recover France from English domination, was burned at the stake in Rouen, France. She was later canonized as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church. 

May 30, 1252

Ferdinand III, King of Castile and León, who was canonized as a saint for his role in the Reconquista and his efforts to re-establish Christianity in Spain, died on May 30, 1252.

May 30, 1640

Peter Paul Rubens, a devout Catholic and renowned Baroque painter known for his religious artworks, died on May 30, 1640. His works have had a lasting impact on Christian art. 

May 30, 1744

Alexander Pope, an English poet and devout Catholic, died on May 30, 1744. His writings often reflected his faith and have influenced Christian literature.

May 30, 1778

Voltaire, a French Enlightenment writer known for his critiques of the Church, died on May 30, 1778. His works prompted significant discussions and reforms within Christianity. 

May 30, 1960

Boris Pasternak, a Russian novelist and poet best known for "Doctor Zhivago," which explores themes of faith and doubt, died on May 30, 1960. His work has been influential in Christian literary circles. 

May 30, 1964

Leó Szilárd, a Hungarian-American physicist who later in life engaged in discussions about ethics, religion, and the moral responsibilities of scientists, died on May 30, 1964. His reflections have contributed to Christian ethical debates.