This week in Christian history: Pope rejects Henry VIII’s annulment request; German missionary dies

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Sunday, March 19, 2023

David Brainerd (1718-1747), a colonial American who served as a missionary to New England's indigenous population, preaching before a group of Native Americans. | Public Domain

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 previously unknown by most people.

The following pages highlight anniversaries of memorable events that occurred this week in Christian history. They include the missionary David Brainerd ending his work, the death of a prominent German priest and evangelist, and the pope refusing to end Henry VIII’s first marriage.