This week in Christian history: Maryland bans blasphemy; Pope Leo IX dies; Pandita Ramabai Sarasvati born

By Michael Gryboski, Editor Sunday, April 19, 2026

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

Each week marks anniversaries of milestones, tragedies, triumphs, notable births and deaths.

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

The following pages highlight anniversaries of memorable events from this week in Christian history, including the birth of Pandita Ramabai Sarasvati, the death of Pope Leo IX and Maryland banning blasphemy.

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By Michael Gryboski, Editor Sunday, April 19, 2026

Pope Leo IX dies – April 19, 1054

This week marks the anniversary of the death of Pope Leo IX, the head of the Catholic Church, known for his efforts at reform and for instigating the Great Schism, who died a couple of months shy of 52.

Born as Bruno of Egisheim, Leo IX began his reign in 1049 and championed reforms, such as efforts to crack down on simony, the selling of church offices for profit.

However, Leo IX is best remembered for instigating the Great Schism of 1054, as his efforts to exert authority over the Eastern churches led to the split between the Catholic and Orthodox churches. 

The schism was finalized a few months after Leo IX died, when Orthodox Patriarch Michael Keroularios of Constantinople excommunicated all who supported the pope’s claims of leadership.

Although both sides have since lifted their mutual excommunications, the schism remains to be mended. 

Leo IX was canonized, or made a saint in the Catholic Church, in 1087. His feast day is the anniversary of his demise.