1986 Religion & Beliefs Events — Verified Historical Highlights
1986 Religion & Beliefs Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to
- 16 Jan Herbert W. Armstrong, founder of the Worldwide Church of God, dies at 93: Herbert W. Armstrong, the founder of the Worldwide Church of God and a pioneer in radio and television evangelism, died on January 16, 1986, at his home in Pasadena, California. He was 93 years old. Armstrong had been in declining health and had appointed Joseph Tkach as his successor shortly before his death. source: washingtonpost.com
- 02 Feb Dalai Lama meets Pope John Paul II in New Delhi: On February 2, 1986, during Pope John Paul II's visit to India, he met with the exiled Dalai Lama in New Delhi. The 20-minute private meeting took place at the Apostolic Nunciature, where the Dalai Lama presented the Pope with a traditional white silk scarf as a symbol of goodwill. Following their meeting, Pope John Paul II emphasized the need for all religions to collaborate in the cause of humanity. source: washingtonpost.com
- 13 Apr Historic interfaith meeting in Rome promotes dialogue: On April 13, 1986, Pope John Paul II hosted a historic interfaith meeting in Assisi, Italy, bringing together leaders from various religions to promote peace and dialogue. This gathering marked a significant moment in interfaith relations, emphasizing the importance of cooperation among different faiths in addressing global issues. The event is often remembered for its commitment to peace and mutual respect among diverse religious traditions. source: bbc.com
- 14 Apr Desmond Tutu elected Archbishop of Cape Town: On April 14, 1986, Bishop Desmond Tutu was elected Archbishop of Cape Town, becoming the first Black person to lead the Anglican Church in Southern Africa. His election was announced after a nine-hour meeting of the church's elective assembly, where he secured the required two-thirds majority from both clergy and laity. Tutu was installed at St George's Cathedral in Cape Town on September 7, 1986. source: washingtonpost.com
- 22 Apr Death of Mircea Eliade: Mircea Eliade, a prominent Romanian historian of religion, fiction writer, and philosopher, passed away on April 22, 1986. He is best known for his works on the history of religions and the concept of the sacred and the profane. Eliade's contributions have had a lasting impact on the study of religion and philosophy. source: britannica.com
- 06 May First Native American bishop appointed in the Episcopal Church: On May 6, 1986, the Episcopal Church appointed its first Native American bishop, the Rev. William C. Wantland. This historic appointment marked a significant milestone in the representation of Native Americans within the church and aimed to address issues of cultural inclusion and leadership. source: episcopalchurch.org
- 19 Jul Caroline Kennedy marries Edwin Schlossberg in Massachusetts: On July 19, 1986, Caroline Kennedy, daughter of President John F. Kennedy, married designer Edwin Schlossberg at Our Lady of Victory Church in Centerville, Massachusetts. The ceremony was attended by approximately 1,000 spectators, with a reception at the Kennedy compound in Hyannis Port. Notable attendees included Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, who escorted the bride down the aisle, and cousin Maria Shriver, who served as matron of honor. source: washingtonpost.com
- 07 Sep Desmond Tutu becomes first Black Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town: On September 7, 1986, Desmond Tutu was enthroned as the Archbishop of Cape Town, becoming the first Black person to lead the Anglican Church in Southern Africa. His election was a significant milestone in the church's history, reflecting a shift towards inclusivity and recognition of Black leadership within the religious community. source: washingtonpost.com
- 27 Oct World Day of Prayer for Peace in Assisi: On October 27, 1986, Pope John Paul II organized the first World Day of Prayer for Peace in Assisi, Italy. This historic event brought together over 160 religious leaders from 32 Christian denominations and 11 non-Christian religions, including the Dalai Lama, to pray and fast for global peace. The gathering emphasized the role of prayer in promoting peace and interfaith dialogue. source: vatican.va
- 09 Nov Election of Patriarch Teoctist Arăpașu: On November 9, 1986, Teoctist Arăpașu was elected as the Patriarch of the Romanian Orthodox Church, succeeding Patriarch Iustin. He was subsequently enthroned on November 16, 1986, as Archbishop of Bucharest, Metropolitan of Muntenia, and Patriarch of Romania. Patriarch Teoctist served until his death on July 30, 2007. source: patriarhia.ro
What happened in 1986?
Discover what the world looked like in 1986: