Protestantism & The Reformation

In the 16th century, a new denomination of Christianity was formed and spread quickly throughout Europe. Many cultural, religious, and political factors caused the split of the Christian Church. Firstly, the leaders of Catholic Church in the west and leaders of the Orthodox Church in the east of Europe both made claims to be the Pope. Catholic and Protestant priests and bishops tried to hold and gain power to legitimize their claim and in doing so engaged in war, resisted reform, and built up their coffers, which angered the laity. Furthermore, England was becoming much more powerful in Europe and following the direction of a Pope in Rome was inconvenient for one particular King, Henry VIII. King Henry had so far been unable to produce a male heir to the throne with his current wife, Catherine of Aragon, and lusted for Anne Boleyn. The King, unable to full-fill his desire to be with Anne while married, requested a divorce from Pope Celment VII. The Pope denied the divorce. King Henry then claimed that the Pope did not have jurisdiction over England and eventually divorced Catherine without approval from Rome. This was the final break from Rome. The reformation swept across the United Kingdom and soon it became treason to remain Catholic.

Protestants share the core beliefs of all other Christians: the Old Testament and New Testament of the Bible, the Trinity, and the divinity of Christ. Different to other denominations however, Protestants adhere to the scripture in the Bible alone and it is the supreme authority for the church. Less importance is placed on traditional liturgy as the path to Salvation is a personal journey based on faith in Jesus. For example, Protestant clergy are allowed to marry and have children. Another example is the departure from the traditional hierarchy of the Catholic church. Instead of a hierarchy of priests and bishops Protestants believe in a universal priesthood of believers, and that the laity may take in government and public affairs of the church. 

Today there are many variations of Protestantism around the world; Anglican, Presbyterian, Baptists, Lutheran, and Episcopalian the most prevalent. Protestants are most concentrated in the U.K., Scandinavian countries, Germany, the United States, Australia, and South Africa.