This week in Christian history: ‘The Philadelphia Eleven,’ inquisitor murdered

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Sunday, July 28, 2024

Washington National Cathedral of Washington, DC. A congregation of The Episcopal Church, it is one of the largest church buildings in the world. | Courtesy Washington National Cathedral

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 others might be unknown to many people.

The following pages highlight anniversaries of memorable events that occurred this week in Christian history. They include the first women ordained in The Episcopal Church, the murder of a Catholic Church inquisitor, and Isaac Hecker joining the Catholic Church.