History of the Church from reformation to Vatican II

History of the Church summary

1. History of the Catholic Church (Reformation to Vatican II) A Brief Overview of Key Events and Developments

2. The Protestant Reformation (1517) • Martin Luther’s 95 Theses (1517) • Criticism of indulgences and Church corruption • The rise of Protestant denominations • Major figures: Martin Luther, John Calvin, Henry VIII

3. The Catholic Counter-Reformation • Council of Trent (1545-1563): Doctrinal clarifications and Church reforms • Society of Jesus (Jesuits) founded by St. Ignatius of Loyola • Strengthening of Catholic doctrine and missionary activity • Baroque art and architecture as expressions of faith

4. The Enlightenment and the Church • Rise of reason and scientific thinking in the 17th-18th centuries • Challenges to Church authority and influence • Responses: Pope’s role, theological arguments, and resistance to secularism • French Revolution (1789): Suppression of the Church and persecution

5. The First Vatican Council (1869-1870) • Called by Pope Pius IX in response to modern challenges • Definition of Papal Infallibility (when speaking ex cathedra) • Reaffirmation of Church teachings against rationalism and liberalism • Interrupted due to the Franco-Prussian War

6. The 20th Century and the Church • Pope Leo XIII’s Rerum Novarum (1891): Social teachings on labor and justice • Growth of Catholic missions and theological development • Two World Wars and the Church’s role in humanitarian efforts • Increasing dialogue with modern society

7. The Second Vatican Council (1962-1965) • Called by Pope John XXIII for Church renewal • Emphasis on ecumenism and modern engagement • Liturgical reforms: Vernacular Mass, active participation of the laity • Documents: Lumen Gentium, Gaudium et Spes, Dei Verbum, Sacrosanctum Concilium

8. Conclusion • The Catholic Church adapted and responded to major historical challenges • Strengthened its teachings through councils and reforms • Engaged with the modern world while preserving its core traditions • Vatican II marked a significant renewal in Church life and mission