The Catholic or Counter Reformation

Revived best features of medieval Catholicism and adjusted them

Revival of mysticism – St. Theresa of AvilaRevival of monasticism – old and new orders Capuchins Theatines Ursulines

Revival of the Old

The Society of JesusJesuits became the chief

instrument of the Catholic Reformation

Founded by Ignatius of Loyola

Spanish noblemanInjured in battle;

experienced religious torment; submitted his will to the will of the Church – unlike Luther

Soldier of God – The Spiritual Exercises

Society of Jesus recognized by papal bull in 1540

Order grounded on 4 principles: 1) Absolute obedience to papacy 2) Strict hierarchical order for the Society 3) Use of education to achieve goals 4) Dedication to engage in “conflict for God”

1) Established highly disciplined schools education crucial to combating Protestantism2) Propagation of the Catholic

faith among non-Christians Francis Xavier in the East Matteo Ricci in China3) Fight Protestantism Successful in parts of Germany and eastern Europe

Major

Activitie

s of the

Jesuits

Protestant Reformation jolted the papacyPope Paul III appointed reform cardinals: Contarini and Caraffa appointed reform committee to study churchColloguy in Regensburg – 1541Pope Paul IV (Cardinal Caraffa) increased power of Inquisition created index of Forbidden Books

Revived Papacy

Called by Pope Paul IIIThree major sessions 1545 – 1563Final doctrine reaffirmed traditional Catholic teachings 1) Scripture and tradition affirmed as equal authorities in religious matters 2) Both faith and good works necessary for salvation 3) Seven sacraments confirmed 4) Transubstantiation confirmed 5) Clerical celibacy confirmed 6) Purgatory and indulgences confirmed; but hawking forbidden

The Council of Trent