The Reformation, 500 Years Later
Oct. 31 marks the 500th anniversary of the Reformation when German monk Martin Luther denounced Roman Catholicism. Most of the concerns he raised have been resolved but some divisive issues remain.
Five hundred years after a rebellious act by a single German monk divided the Christian world, religious leaders on both sides of that split have finally agreed their churches share responsibility for the historic rupture.
On Oct. 31, 1517, an outspoken university lecturer and Augustinian monk named Martin Luther posted a list of objections to the dominant Roman Catholic beliefs and practices of his time. Chief among his grievances was the church's
