1122: The Concordat of Worms was reached between Pope Callistus II and
Holy Roman Emperor Henry V. It settled the Investiture Controversy over who had the right
-- bishop or emperor -- to choose replacement clergy for vacant positions.
1595: Spain
launched an intensive missionary campaign in the American Southeast. During the next two
years, about 1,500 American Indians were converted to the Catholic faith.
1667: In
Williamsburg, Virginia, a law was passed, barring slaves from obtaining their freedom by
converting to Christianity.
1888: Birth
of Gerhard Kittel, German Lutheran Bible scholar. He was first editor of a 10-volume Greek
lexicon which took 43 years to complete (1933-76). In its English edition (1964-76), the
work is entitled, "Theological Dictionary of the New Testament" -- or
"TDNT" for short.
1960: While
mourning the recent death of his wife Joy Davidman, English apologist C.S. Lewis wrote in
a letter: 'My great recent discovery is that when I mourn Joy least I feel nearest to her.
Passionate sorrow cuts us off from the dead.'
Source: William D. Blake. Almanac
of the Christian Church, Minneapolis: Bethany House, 1987. Additional
information supplied by the author. Contact via E-mail: William D. Blake. (pilgrimwb@aol.com)