Events Emperor Go-Reizei ascends the throne of Japan. Edward the Confessor marries Edith of Wessex. Edward the Confessor begins construction on Westminster Abbey. January 20 — Pope Sylvester III becomes the 146th pope, succeeding former pope Benedict IX, who abdicated the previous year. April — Pope Sylvester III is deposed (election deemed invalid); Pope Benedict IX is elected once more, becoming the 147th pope. May 5 — Pope Gregory VI becomes the 148th pope, followi… (More on 1045)