As contemporary Christians look back to sixteenth century Europe, there is a great interest in its theological heritage. The Reformation (or Reformations) altered the shape of Christianity, especially in the West, and set the trajectory of expansive growth for Christian churches across the globe. However, this period is often better known for its theological divisions than a spirit of Christian unity. How would one discern a catholic spirit in a time where new theological traditions (and subsequent denominations) are birthed, often forged through public debates and published disputes?
It is true that emerging theological positions created deep rifts among Christian communities and pastoral peers. In Wittenberg, the excitement of Luther’s reforms was demurred by the growing divide between Luther and his Wittenberg colleague, Andreas Karlstadt. In Zurich, Zwingli eventually stood by as his former pupil, Felix Manz, was executed for his religious views (and resistance to civil orders).[1] Calvin not only supported the public trial of Michael Servetus but also had ongoing strains with Christian members of the Genevan city council. Bloody episodes such as the reign of Mary Tudor in England, the execution of Balthasar Hubmaier, the deaths of Cardinal Beaton and George Wishart in Scotland, and the Münster
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