This week in Christian history: Mars Hill holds final service; hymnwriter dies in train accident
![An 1877 depiction of the 1876 Ashtabula Bridge disaster on Dec. 29, 1876, near Ashtabula, Ohio. Over 90 people died when a bridge collapsed while a train was traveling over it. Among the dead was notable hymnwriter Philip P. Bliss and his wife.](https://cdn.christianpost.com/images/cache/image/14/72/147250_w_700_473.jpg)
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 other happenings 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 first publishing of the Auburn Affirmation, the death of a notable hymnwriter in a major train accident, and Mars Hill’s final service.