Utraquism, also known as the Calixtine Movement, was a significant theological and religious movement within the Bohemian Reformation in the 15th century. This movement, which began in the Kingdom of Bohemia, advocated for the laity's right to receive both the bread and the wine during the Eucharist, a practice known as Communion under Both Kinds.
Historical Context
The Utraquism movement emerged from the teachings of Jan Hus, a Czech priest, philosopher, and reformer. Hus, inspired by the writings of John Wycliffe, criticized the moral and doctrinal corruption within the Catholic Church. His execution in 1415 for heresy sparked widespread discontent and led to the Hussite Wars.
Core Beliefs
- Communion Under Both Kinds: Utraquists believed that the Eucharist should be administered in both forms to all believers, not just the clergy, symbolizing the full participation of the laity in the sacrament.
- Four Articles of Prague: These were the foundational demands of the Utraquists:
- Freedom to preach the Word of God.
- Communion under both kinds.
- Poverty of the clergy and an end to the secular power of the Church.
- Punishment of mortal sins, particularly in the clergy.
- Reform of the Church: Utraquists sought to reform the Church, criticizing its wealth and moral laxity.
Impact and Legacy
Despite initial resistance, the Utraquist movement had a profound impact on Bohemian religion and politics:
- In 1436, the Basel Compactata agreement allowed for Communion under Both Kinds, although with some restrictions.
- Utraquism continued to exist alongside Catholicism in Bohemia, eventually influencing the formation of the Moravian Church and Lutheranism in the region.
- The movement waned with the rise of the Counter-Reformation, but its ideas and practices influenced later Protestant movements.
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