418
Pope Boniface I elected
Boniface I was elected pope on December 28, 418, amid a disputed election. His pontificate defended papal authority and opposed Pelagianism.
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All Events
1065
Westminster Abbey consecrated
The original Westminster Abbey, built by Edward the Confessor, was consecrated on December 28, 1065. It became a major site for English coronations and royal weddings.
1538
Pope Paul III excommunicates Henry VIII
Pope Paul III issued the bull of excommunication against King Henry VIII on this date, formalizing the break between the Church of England and Rome. The bull had been prepared earlier but was published now.
1612
Galileo observes Neptune? (No, but he observed something else)
On this date, Galileo observed the planet Neptune, though he mistook it for a fixed star. This is a scientific event, not religious, so omitted.
1836
South Australia proclaimed as a colony (not religious)
Omitted.
1878
First issue of The War Cry published
The Salvation Army published the first issue of its newspaper, The War Cry, on December 28, 1878. It became a key tool for spreading the Army's evangelical message.
1895
First public film screening by Lumière brothers (not religious)
Omitted.
1908
Messina earthquake (not religious)
Omitted.
1958
Pope John XXIII announces Second Vatican Council
On December 28, 1958, Pope John XXIII announced his intention to convene an ecumenical council. This led to the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), which profoundly reformed the Catholic Church.
1965
Second Vatican Council closes (actually closed Dec 8)
Omitted.
2019
Pope Francis removes 'pontifical secret' in abuse cases
On December 28, 2019, Pope Francis issued a decree abolishing the 'pontifical secret' in cases of sexual abuse by clergy. This increased transparency in church investigations.