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WOF 048: The Reformation, 500 Years Later

October 31st, 2016 marked the beginning of the 500th year anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, which is decidedly the greatest split in Christian Church history. Pope Francis traveled to Sweden that Halloween weekend to meet with Lutheran Church leaders, commemorate the historical significance of the Reformation, and emphasize unity amongst the Christian faithful. In today’s episode, Bishop Barron offers a brief history of the Reformation and explains his hopes for continued dialogue between Protestants and Catholics. The listener question asks about St. Augustine’s views on the theological topic of predestination.

Topics Discussed

  • 0:17  – Introduction, Bishop’s meeting with Pastor Rick Warren
  • 2:50 – What is the Reformation and who were the major players?
  • 5:13 – What are some points of doctrinal contention in the Reformation?
  • 6:40 – What does Bishop Barron make of Pope Francis’ visit with the Lutherans?
  • 09:21 – Why is it a sign of respect that Protestants can’t receive Catholic Communion?
  • 12:10 – Was the Reformation an entirely bad thing?
  • 15:08 – What is the Catholic Counter-Reformation?
  • 17:00 – Should Catholics actively try to convert Protestants?
  • 19:02 – What should the Catholic Church do to end this schism?
  • 20:38 – Question from listener: What does St. Augustine think about predestination and what does the Church teach about it?

Bonus Resources

  • Websites