This week in Christian history: Padre Pio, Papal infallibility disputed, first black Episcopal priest ordained

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Sunday, September 18, 2022

More than 300 delegates of the Vatican Synod on Family wearing green robes listen to Pope Francis preach in St. Peter's Church on Sunday, October 4, 2015. | Courtesy of Thomas Schirrmacher

Throughout the extensive history of the Church, there have been numerous events of lasting significance.

Each week brings anniversaries of impressive milestones, unforgettable tragedies, amazing triumphs, memorable births and notable deaths.

Some of the events drawn from over 2,000 years of history might be familiar, while other happenings might be previously unknown by most people.

The following pages highlight anniversaries of memorable events that occurred this week in Christian history. They include the ordination of the first African American Episcopal priest, a gathering of Catholics opposed to papal infallibility, and the reported beginning of Padre Pio’s stigmata.