This week in Christian history: First openly gay UMC bishop elected, priest captured for high treason

By Michael Gryboski, Editor Sunday, July 13, 2025

Delegates and bishops pray before a key vote on church policies about homosexuality during the 2019 United Methodist General Conference in St. Louis. | Photo: UMNS/Mike DuBose

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

Each week marks anniversaries of impressive milestones, unforgettable tragedies, amazing triumphs, memorable births and notable deaths.

Some events, spanning over 2,000 years of history, might be familiar, while others may be unknown to many.

The following pages highlight anniversaries of memorable events that occurred this week in Christian history. They include the death of Pope John III, the capture of Edmund Campion, and the election of the United Methodist Church’s first openly gay bishop.

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