On the Accession of Edward VI the reforming party came into power and proceeded to reshape the National Church. There was the greed of those who wished to profit by the break-up of the great monastic estates there were the hopes of others who had long looked for the reform of religious abuses. In so doing he set in motion forces hitherto latent. In England, Henry VIII wished to overset the power of the Pope. The desire for reform did not easily take shape. So encrusted had she become with sub-Christian tradition that the practical duties of the Christian life were often obscured by unethical practices so involved was her organisation with secular politics that its high offices were a standing temptation to worldly ambition. For centuries earnest men and women seeking the way of Christ had been deeply dissatisfied with the state of the Church. They emerged as separate communions during the ferment of the Reformation. The Free Churches are a factor to be reckoned with in the history of England and in the history of Christendom they claim to be part of the mainstream of Christian Tradition.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |