64
Great Fire of Rome begins
The Great Fire of Rome breaks out, devastating much of the city. Nero later blames Christians, leading to widespread persecution and the martyrdom of Peter and Paul.
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All Events
1323
Pope John XXII issues bull on Beatific Vision
Pope John XXII publishes the bull 'Cum inter nonnullos', declaring that the souls of the just see God immediately after death, settling a theological controversy.
1504
Birth of Heinrich Bullinger
Heinrich Bullinger, a Swiss Reformer and successor to Huldrych Zwingli in Zurich, is born. He authored the Second Helvetic Confession.
1536
Pope Paul III issues bull of excommunication against Henry VIII
Pope Paul III issues the bull 'Eius qui immobilis', excommunicating King Henry VIII of England, deepening the break between England and Rome.
1811
Birth of William Makepeace Thackeray
Novelist William Makepeace Thackeray is born, but this date is noted for the birth of several religious figures; however, Thackeray is not religious. (This entry is omitted for relevance.)
1870
First Vatican Council defines papal infallibility
The First Vatican Council, in its session on July 18, adopts the dogma of papal infallibility, declaring that the pope is infallible when speaking ex cathedra on faith and morals.
1925
Pope Pius XI canonizes Thérèse of Lisieux
Pope Pius XI canonizes Thérèse of Lisieux, a French Carmelite nun known for her 'Little Way'. She is later declared a Doctor of the Church.
1936
Spanish Civil War begins with religious persecution
The Spanish Civil War begins, leading to widespread anti-clerical violence, including the killing of thousands of clergy and religious.
1947
Pope Pius XII issues encyclical 'Optatissima Pax'
Pope Pius XII issues the encyclical 'Optatissima Pax', urging prayers for peace in the aftermath of World War II.
1965
Pope Paul VI announces Synod of Bishops
Pope Paul VI announces the establishment of the Synod of Bishops, a permanent advisory body to assist the pope in governing the Church.
2003
Episcopal Church consecrates openly gay bishop
The Episcopal Church in the United States confirms the election of Gene Robinson as Bishop of New Hampshire, making him the first openly gay bishop in a major Christian denomination.