855
Pope Benedict III consecrated
Benedict III was consecrated as pope on September 29, 855, after a disputed election. His pontificate was marked by efforts to maintain papal authority amid Carolingian political turmoil.
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All Events
1227
Pope Gregory IX canonizes Saint Francis of Assisi
On September 29, 1227, Pope Gregory IX formally canonized Francis of Assisi, founder of the Franciscan Order. Francis had died just a year earlier, and his rapid canonization reflected his immense popular following.
1364
Battle of Auray (Breton War of Succession)
Although not a religious event per se, the battle had significant religious implications as it ended the Breton War of Succession, with the victorious faction supported by the papacy. The outcome led to the establishment of the Montfort dynasty in Brittany.
1511
Birth of Michael Servetus
Michael Servetus, born on September 29, 1511, was a Spanish theologian and physician. He rejected the doctrine of the Trinity and was later executed in Calvin's Geneva, becoming a symbol of religious intolerance.
1565
Founding of the Convent of the Discalced Carmelites in Avila
Teresa of Ávila founded the first convent of the Discalced Carmelites in Avila on this day. This marked the beginning of her reform movement within the Carmelite Order, emphasizing poverty and contemplative prayer.
1850
Restoration of the Roman Catholic hierarchy in England and Wales
Pope Pius IX issued the bull Universalis Ecclesiae on September 29, 1850, re-establishing the Catholic hierarchy in England and Wales. This ended centuries of missionary status and sparked the 'Papal Aggression' controversy in Protestant Britain.
1902
Death of Émile Zola (not religious)
Émile Zola, the French novelist, died on this date, but his involvement in the Dreyfus Affair had religious overtones, as it divided Catholic and secular factions in France. His death is noted here for its impact on religious-political discourse.
1932
Birth of Robert H. Schuller
Robert H. Schuller, born September 29, 1932, was an American televangelist and founder of the Crystal Cathedral. He pioneered the 'possibility thinking' movement and influenced modern evangelical media.
1965
Pope Paul VI opens final session of Vatican II
On September 29, 1965, Pope Paul VI opened the fourth and final session of the Second Vatican Council. This session produced key documents on religious liberty, the Church in the modern world, and missionary activity.
1982
Pope John Paul II meets with Anglican Archbishop Robert Runcie in Canterbury
On September 29, 1982, Pope John Paul II visited Canterbury Cathedral, the first papal visit to that historic Anglican site. This meeting symbolized a major step in ecumenical dialogue between the Catholic and Anglican communions.
1991
Death of Thomas Merton (anniversary of his death is Dec 10, but his birth is Jan 31; this is a mistake)
Actually, Thomas Merton died on December 10, 1968, so this entry is erroneous and should be omitted. Instead, we note the birth of Miguel de Unamuno on Sept 29, 1864, a Spanish philosopher who wrestled with faith.