Today in History: Martin Luther’s Monastic Journey, Bowen University’s Founding, and Other Remarkable Events on July 17

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By Victor Olubiye



From major religious milestones to historical personal stories, July 17 holds a unique place across centuries. Below are notable events that happened on this day:

1505 — Martin Luther Joins Monastic Life in Search of Faith

At just 21 years old, German theologian Martin Luther entered the Augustinian Monastic Order in Erfurt, Germany. Driven by a quest for spiritual enlightenment, this step eventually led to his pivotal role in the Protestant Reformation with his famous 95 Theses published on October 31, 1517.

180 AD — Scillitan Martyrs Stand Firm in North Africa

Twelve North African Christians, known as the Scillitan Martyrs, were executed by beheading for refusing to renounce their faith. Tried before Roman Proconsul Saturninus, they were found in possession of sacred Christian texts, including letters of Paul, and chose martyrdom over betrayal of their beliefs.

1674 — Hymn Writer Isaac Watts Is Born
Isaac Watts, born in Southampton, England, on this date, became one of the most influential English hymn writers. His legacy includes timeless hymns such as “When I Survey The Wondrous Cross,” “O God, Our Help in Ages Past,” and “Jesus Shall Reign.”

1917 — Charles E. Fuller Finds Faith, Later Establishes Seminary

American Baptist evangelist Charles E. Fuller was converted on July 17, 1917. Ordained in 1925, Fuller became a pioneer in radio evangelism with The Old Fashioned Revival Hour in 1937 and founded Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California.

2001 — Bowen University Opens Its Doors in Nigeria

On this day in 2001, Bowen University was established by the Nigerian Baptist Convention. Situated in Iwo, Osun State, it became one of Nigeria’s leading private Christian universities, blending academic excellence with spiritual values.

2021 — Daniel Abioye Weds Temilola Adeleye in Abuja

A notable personal event occurred on July 17, 2021, as Daniel Abioye, son of Bishop David Abioye—Executive Vice President of the Living Faith Church—married Temilola Adeleye. The wedding took place at The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM) in Utako, Abuja, drawing attention from Nigeria’s Christian community.

July 17 continues to mark moments of faith, education, sacrifice, and family legacy across different generations and continents.





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