This week in Christian history: Bill Gothard resigns, Navigators founded, Pierre Viret appointed pastor

A view of the Reformation Wall with statues of William (Guillaume) Farel, John (Jean) Calvin, Theodore de Beze, and John Knox, from left to right, at Bastion Park in Geneva, Switzerland, Friday, June 19, 2009. | AP/ KEYSTONE/Salvatore Di Nolfi

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

Each week marks 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.

The following pages highlight anniversaries of memorable events that occurred this week in Christian history. They include Pierre Viret becoming pastor of Geneva, the founding of the Navigators, and the resignation of Bill Gothard.