1204
Fourth Crusade captures Constantinople
Crusaders sacked Constantinople, a major event in Christian history that deepened the East-West schism. The Latin Empire was established, and many relics were taken to Western Europe.
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All Events
1557
Cuenca Bible published in Spanish
The first complete Bible in Spanish, translated by Casiodoro de Reina, was published. It became the basis for the widely used Reina-Valera version.
1606
Union of Brest confirmed by papal bull
Pope Paul V issued a bull confirming the Union of Brest, which brought Ukrainian and Belarusian Orthodox communities into communion with Rome. This created the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church.
1770
John Wesley ordains preachers for America
Methodist founder John Wesley ordained Thomas Coke and Francis Asbury as superintendents for the American Methodists. This action helped establish the Methodist Episcopal Church in the United States.
1847
First Baptist church in China founded
The first Baptist church in China was established in Hong Kong by missionaries from the American Baptist Missionary Union. It marked the beginning of Baptist work in the region.
1861
Fort Sumter attacked during American Civil War
The attack on Fort Sumter began the Civil War, which had profound effects on American churches, leading to denominational splits over slavery. Many denominations later reunited or remained divided.
1947
First Dead Sea Scrolls discovered
A Bedouin shepherd found the first Dead Sea Scrolls in a cave near Qumran. These manuscripts transformed biblical studies and understanding of early Judaism and Christianity.
1963
Pope John XXIII's encyclical Pacem in Terris published
The encyclical Pacem in Terris (Peace on Earth) was published, addressing peace, human rights, and international relations. It was notable for its positive tone toward non-Catholics and non-Christians.
1968
Baptist World Alliance meets in Tokyo
The Baptist World Alliance held its congress in Tokyo, Japan, the first in Asia. It emphasized global Baptist cooperation and mission.
1980
Pope John Paul II visits Zaire
Pope John Paul II began a pastoral visit to Zaire (now DR Congo), his first trip to sub-Saharan Africa. He encouraged inculturation of the Catholic faith in African contexts.
2015
Pope Francis declares Jubilee Year of Mercy
Pope Francis announced the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy, a Holy Year focused on mercy and forgiveness. It ran from December 8, 2015, to November 20, 2016.