This week in Christian history: ‘Martyr Synod,’ John Wesley attacked, Puritan leader dies

By Michael Gryboski, Mainline Church Editor Sunday, August 20, 2023

Methodism founder John Wesley preaching at a church yard in Epworth, England in 1742. | Public Domain

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 others might be unknown to many people.

The following pages highlight anniversaries of memorable events that occurred this week in Christian history. They include the Anabaptists’ “Martyr Synod,” John Wesley being attacked while preaching in an English town, and the death of a prominent Puritan minister.