December 22

On December 22, 1216, Pope Honorius III issued the papal bull Religiosam vitam, formally recognizing the Dominican Order. Founded by Saint Dominic one year earlier, the Order of Preachers emphasized preaching, education, and poverty. This approval granted the Dominicans autonomy and the right to preach throughout Christendom. The bull outlined rules for communal life, preaching missions, and the establishment of convents. The Order rapidly expanded, playing a crucial role in theological education and the Inquisition. Its endorsement marked a significant development in the Church’s efforts to combat heresy and promote learning.

Ludwig van Beethoven took the stage at the Theater an der Wien on a frigid winter night in 1808. The program stretched over four hours and featured the premieres of his Fifth and Sixth Symphonies. Audiences also heard the Fourth Piano Concerto and the dramatic Choral Fantasy. Beethoven himself conducted some pieces and played the solo piano part in others. The concert became legendary for its length, the composer’s energetic performances, and the lack of modern amenities like a proper rehearsal. Despite chilly conditions and audience restlessness, the evening marked a pivotal moment in the composer’s career. Scholars celebrate it as one of the most significant premieres in classical music history.