This week in Christian history: Samuel Ferguson elected bishop, UMC labels homosexuality ‘incompatible with Christian teaching’

By Michael Gryboski, Editor Sunday, April 20, 2025

During the opening worship service of the United Methodist General Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina, on April 23, 2024, five United Methodist bishops from around the world celebrate communion with participants. | Paul Jeffrey, UM News

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 Samuel Ferguson being elected bishop, Girolamo Savonarola becoming a friar, and the United Methodist Church labeling homosexuality “incompatible with Christian teaching.”

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