This week in Christian history: Francis Asbury dies, Russian bishop consecrated, Sylvester II becomes pope

The ordination of Francis Asbury at the Methodist Episcopal Church's "Christmas Conference," which was held at Lovely Lane Chapel in Baltimore, Maryland, from Christmas Eve 1784 to early January 1785. | Public Domain

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 the death of Francis Asbury, Sylvester II becoming pope, and Saint Nicholas of Japan becoming a bishop.