[annalex]

Is it possible that in fact Rome keeping the scripture from the people did contribute to the Protestant revolution in this way.

I would disagree with this premise. The use of Latin was salutary as it ensured solidity of doctrine across jurisdictions and languages. Note, also, that when the Chruch in Russia serves in the Slavonic no Russian, I assure you, can readily understand, it is probably the same degree of separation that a Frenchman or a Spaniard would have from Latin.

On the broader point, definitely the Reformation pointed out serious problems in the Church. It is not the impulses of the early reformers that I question, it is the lack of charity and ecclesial spirit that followed.

I am pinging our resident church historian Vladimir.

[vladimir998]

You wrote:

"I would disagree with this premise. The use of Latin was salutary as it ensured solidity of doctrine across jurisdictions and languages. Note, also, that when the Church in Russia serves in the Slavonic no Russian, I assure you, can readily understand, it is probably the same degree of separation that a Frenchman or a Spaniard would have from Latin."

I think you're right. Most people who could read in continental Europe, Ireland and Anglo-Saxon England could read Latin. There were also plenty of vernacular translations circulating in mss. form.

"On the broader point, definitely the Reformation pointed out serious problems in the Church. It is not the impulses of the early reformers that I question, it is the lack of charity and ecclesial spirit that followed."

I too would largely agree with that statement, but with a qualifier. I think the so-called reformers were filled with hubris. They believed they were right, even individually right, over all the Church that stood against them.

"I am pinging our resident church historian Vladimir."

Oh, boy. Our separated brethren will love that. I can't believe this thread has gone on this long!!! Oy vey!

[HarleyD]

The use of Latin was salutary as it ensured solidity of doctrine across jurisdictions and languages.

Hmmmm...then would you agree with Vatican II in doing away with the Latin Mass?