This week in Christian history: Thomas Becket murdered, Church of Ireland disestablished

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Sunday, December 29, 2024

Canterbury Cathedral stands under clouds, on July 16, 2008, in Canterbury, England. | Peter Macdiarmid/Getty Images

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 murder of St. Thomas a Becket, Pope Pius XI reaffirming the Catholic Church's opposition to abortion, and the disestablishment of the Church of Ireland.