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Protestantism encompasses the forms of Christian faith and practice that originated with the doctrines of the Reformation. While the faiths and churches born directly or indirectly of the Protestant Reformation constitute Protestantism, in common usage, the term is often used in contradistinction to Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy[4]. This usage is imprecise. There are many non-Roman-Catholic, non-Eastern-Orthodox communions that long predate the Reformation (notably Oriental Orthodoxy). The Anglican Church, although born of the Protestant reformation, differs from the reformation principles of most other Protestants and is referred to as a middle path?a via media?between Roman Catholic and Protestant doctrines.
The Protestant Reformation was a movement in Europe that began with Martin Luther's activities in 1517, with roots further back in time. It ended with the Peace of Westphalia in 1648.[1] The movement began as an attempt to reform the Roman Catholic Church. Many western Christians were troubled by what they saw as false doctrines and malpractices within the Roman Catholic Church, particularly involving the teaching and sale of indulgences. Another major contention was the practice of buying and selling church positions (simony) and the tremendous corruption found at the time within the Roman Catholic Church's hierarchy. This corruption was systemic at the time, even reaching the position of the Pope.
All mainstream Protestants generally trace their separation from the Roman Catholic Church to the 16Th century.
On 31 October 1517, in Saxony (in what is now Germany), Martin Luther nailed his Ninety-Five Theses to the door of the Wittenberg Castle Church, which served as a notice board for university-related announcements. These were points for debate that criticized the Church and the Pope. The most controversial points centered on the practice of selling indulgences and the Church's policy on purgatory.
Protestants are varied to a great great deal, far to much to agree on a set of holidays. Generally, though they celebrate Christ's birth on Christmas and his death/resurrection/ ascension on Easter. (there is controversy even over these, though) Remember, there is no general central authority (like the pope) outside of the Bible, and there is of course much controversy about the meanings of scripture.
I think this has earned me a best answer. . . if you know what I mean. . . . . . . (hint hint!)
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protestantism? plz help!?
