On This Day: Three Roman legates break relations between Western and Eastern Christian... (1054)

On July 16, 1054: Three Roman legates break relations between Western and Eastern Christian churches through the act of placing a papal bull of excommunication on the altar of Hagia Sophia during Saturday afternoon divine liturgy. Historians frequently describe the event as the formal start of the East-West Schism.

This historical event can serve as a powerful sermon illustration about the enduring nature of faith through history. Consider using it when preaching about faith.