The Beginning of the Modern Age | History - Counter Reformation | 9th Social Science : History: The Beginning of the Modern Age
Chapter: 9th Social Science : History: The Beginning of the Modern Age
Counter Reformation
Counter Reformation
The Protestant
reformation posed a threat to the Catholic Church. In order to meet the
challenge Pope Paul III and his successors introduced a number of rigorous
reforms in the Church. They dealt with corruption severely and stopped the sale
of offices. The Council of Trent reemphasized the importance of ceremonies and
the significance of the mass. It also pronounced that only the Church
could interpret the scriptures. Further, it revitalized the Inquisition to deal
with opposition to the Church. It also gave official sanction to the Society of
Jesus. This reformation of the Catholic Church from within is known as Counter
Reformation.
St. Ignatius Loyola and Society of Jesus
St. Ignatius Loyola
founded the Society of Jesus to propagate Christianity. Its main work was
through education and service to the destitute. It started a number of
educational institutions, orphanages and homes for the destitute. Soon their
missionaries were present in all parts of the world to spread the Catholic
religion.
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