March 13 in Christian History: Key Events and Figures
March 13 has seen many important moments in Christian history, from the election of Pope Francis in 2013 to the missionary work of Mary Slessor and the death of John Cassian in 435. This article looks at key events, notable births, and important figures who have shaped the faith on this date. March 13 has seen several notable events in Christian history. Here are a few key moments:
1. Election of Pope Francis (2013)
On March 13, 2013, Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Argentina was elected as the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church, taking the name Pope Francis. He became the first pope from the Americas, the Southern Hemisphere, and the Jesuit order. His papacy has been marked by themes of humility, social justice, and church reform.
2. Death of John Cassian (435)
John Cassian, a monk and theologian, passed away around March 13, 435. He was influential in introducing Eastern monasticism to the Western Church and is known for his writings on prayer, asceticism, and the spiritual life. His works influenced St. Benedict and Western monastic traditions.
3. The Edict of Amboise (1563)
On March 13, 1563, the Edict of Amboise was signed in France, bringing an end to the first phase of the French Wars of Religion. It granted limited religious freedom to Protestants (Huguenots), allowing them to worship in certain areas. This was a step toward religious tolerance but did not fully resolve tensions between Catholics and Protestants.
4. Birth of Joseph Jenkins (1859)
Joseph Jenkins, a key figure in the Welsh Revival of 1904–1905, was born on March 13, 1859. His revival meetings in New Quay, Wales, helped ignite a movement that spread across Wales and influenced revival movements worldwide, including the Azusa Street Revival in the U.S.
5. Missionary Mary Slessor Leaves for Nigeria (1876)
On March 13, 1876, Scottish missionary Mary Slessor set sail for Calabar, Nigeria, under the United Presbyterian Church’s mission board. She later became famous for her work in stopping the killing of twins, advocating for women and children, and spreading the Gospel in Africa.
Notable Birthdays:
1. Joseph Jenkins (1859) – Welsh Revival Leader
- Born on March 13, 1859, Joseph Jenkins was a Welsh pastor and a key figure in the 1904–1905 Welsh Revival.
- His passionate preaching in New Quay, Wales, helped spark a nationwide spiritual awakening, influencing revivals across the world, including the Azusa Street Revival in the U.S.
2. James Oglethorpe (1696) – Founder of Georgia, Defender of Religious Freedom
- Born on March 13, 1696, James Oglethorpe was an English general, philanthropist, and founder of the colony of Georgia (USA).
- He welcomed persecuted Protestants, including Moravians and Lutherans, into Georgia, promoting religious tolerance in early America.
3. F. W. Dillistone (1903) – Theologian and Apologist
- Born on March 13, 1903, Frederick William Dillistone was an Anglican theologian and apologist known for his writings on Christianity and symbolism.
- His book, The Christian Understanding of Atonement, remains an influential theological work.
Notable Deaths:
1. John Cassian (c. 435) – Monastic Father and Theologian
- Died around March 13, 435. He was a monk and writer who helped bridge Eastern and Western Christian monastic traditions.
- His works influenced St. Benedict and Western monasticism.
2. Susan Anthony (1906) – Christian Social Reformer
- Died on March 13, 1906. Although widely known for her work in women’s suffrage, Susan B. Anthony was also a devout Christian who believed that equality was rooted in biblical teachings.
- She co-founded the Women’s Christian Temperance Union and fought for justice based on Christian moral principles.
3. Lucius III (1185) – Pope and Reformer
- Died on March 13, 1185. Pope Lucius III led the Catholic Church during turbulent times and issued decrees against heresies.
- He played a role in strengthening church authority but is also known for initiating early efforts against heretical groups in medieval Europe.
See Also: March 11: This day in World Christian History
Content Credit| Ajibola Emmanuel .A
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