TORONTO – While scholars concur that there have been several reformations throughout church history, there is only one that people tend to think of when they refer to “the Reformation,” and that is the Protestant Reformation. It began in 1517 when a German monk and theologian named Martin Luther circulated Ninety-Five Theses, which objected to certain practices by the Roman Catholic Church. This fall Wycliffe College at the University of Toronto will mark the 500th anniversary of that historic occurrence, by hosting a series of special events designed to communicate the background, context, key personalities, and ideas of the Protestant Reformation, while exploring its legacy for the church today.
“Wycliffe College was founded in and stands by the tradition of the Reformers,” says Thomas Power, Adjunct Professor of Church History, and Theological Librarian. “Its reformed ethos is reflected in its Six Principles which uphold the authority of Scripture, the uniqueness of Christ’s sacrifice, the priesthood of all believers, the presence of Christ in the hearts of believers, all of which were central to the reformers. Given these commitments, it’s appropriate for Wycliffe College to mark the anniversary of the Reformation.”
Offerings in this one-time series of special events include Of Passion, Politics, Power and Protest: Rediscovering the Reformation, a free 12-week, online, non-credit course available to all, which will provide participants with a solid academic overview of the Reformation. The Bible and Mission in the Wake of the Reformation is a one-day conference (to be held October 13 beginning at 9:00 a.m.) featuring internationally renowned scholars Alec Ryrie (University of Durham), Carl Trueman (Westminster Theological Seminary), Eckhard Schnabel (Gordon-Conwell), and Cheryl Peterson (Trinity Lutheran Seminary).
In addition to his participation in the conference, Ryrie, who is Professor of the History of Christianity at Durham University (UK), will also give a series of talks in October. “He is a prolific author, who, in a number of ground-breaking works traces the progress of the Reformation in England and Scotland, its implications for society, and its impact on private and domestic devotional life,” Power adds. “Join us in October to hear Prof. Ryrie talk on How the Reformation Made Our World (And It’s Not Done Yet) and Protestant Mission 500 Years After the Reformation: A Hidden History and a Secret Weapon.”
For information on all the planned events and details about how to participate, visit: https://www.wycliffecollege.ca/Reformation500
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About Wycliffe College:
Wycliffe College is a graduate theological school, affiliated with the University of Toronto and Toronto School of Theology. Located at the centre of the University of Toronto in the heart of Canada’s most multicultural city, Wycliffe College is an evangelical seminary with roots in the Anglican tradition, educating and equipping students to thrive as future church and community leaders.
Founded in 1877, Wycliffe today is one of this country’s largest seminaries. It boasts a world-class teaching staff, fees among the most affordable in Canada, and a low student-to-faculty ratio. Known for an enduring commitment to intellectual rigour, evangelical vision, and practical action, Wycliffe College attracts more than 250 students from a broad range of denominations, backgrounds, and nations each year.
Contact:
Thomas Power
Adjunct Professor of Church History, and Theological Librarian
Ph: 416-946-3526
Email: thomas.power@wycliffe.utoronto.ca
Web: www.wycliffecollege.ca
