Glossary
Anathema
A formal ecclesiastical curse involving excommunication, used to expel individuals or groups from the Church's communion.
Example:
After challenging papal authority, a theologian might face anathema, effectively cutting them off from the Church.
Baroque Art
An artistic style prevalent in the 17th century, characterized by grandeur, drama, emotion, and dynamic compositions, used by the Catholic Church to promote the Counter-Reformation.
Example:
The elaborate frescoes and gilded altars in many Catholic churches exemplify Baroque Art's use of visual splendor to inspire awe and devotion.
Catholic Reformation
The Catholic Church's internal reform and renewal movement in response to the Protestant Reformation, aiming to address corruption, clarify doctrine, and win back followers.
Example:
The Catholic Reformation saw the Church launch new initiatives like missionary work in the Americas to expand its global reach.
Change (Catholic Reformation)
Reforms and new practices implemented by the Catholic Church during the Catholic Reformation to address corruption, clarify doctrine, and respond to Protestant criticisms.
Example:
The establishment of seminaries for priest training was a significant change, aiming to improve the education and moral standing of the clergy.
Continuity (Catholic Reformation)
Aspects of Catholic doctrine and practice that remained unchanged or were reaffirmed during the Catholic Reformation, despite the challenges posed by Protestantism.
Example:
A key continuity was the Church's unwavering belief in the necessity of both faith and good works for salvation, unlike the Protestant emphasis on faith alone.
Council of Trent
An ecumenical council of the Catholic Church (1545-1563) that addressed doctrine, discipline, and reform in response to the Protestant Reformation, defining Catholic teaching and reforming practices.
Example:
The Council of Trent reaffirmed the importance of all seven sacraments, a direct contrast to Protestant views.
Ignatius of Loyola
A Spanish nobleman who founded the Jesuit Order and authored 'Spiritual Exercises,' becoming a key figure in the Catholic Reformation focused on spiritual discipline and combating Protestantism.
Example:
Ignatius of Loyola's personal spiritual journey led him to create a highly disciplined order dedicated to serving the Pope.
Index of Prohibited Books
A list of books deemed heretical or dangerous for Catholics to read, first published in 1559, aimed at controlling the spread of ideas perceived as threats to the faith.
Example:
Galileo's works were placed on the Index of Prohibited Books due to their their perceived conflict with Church doctrine.
Jesuit Order
A new religious order, also known as the Society of Jesus, founded by Ignatius of Loyola in 1540, known for its dedication to education, missionary work, and intellectual rigor in spreading Catholic teachings and countering Protestantism.
Example:
The Jesuit Order established schools across Europe, becoming influential educators for the Catholic elite.