“Assess the contribution of 16th century popes to the Catholic Reformation” - Part 4

The reform movement needed a figurehead, and successors to Paul II included Sixtus and Pius IV, whose work further contributed to reform movement. Pius V was highly spiritual, unlike previous popes, concentrating on clearly expressing Catholic belief by issuing the new Missal; which turned out to be so popular that it was up until the 20^th century. The work of Sixtus is also seen as highly significant towards reform, reorganising the Curia and assigning cardinals to each new section created. These congregations had specific responsibilities, and were expected to fulfil certain tasks, but under the pope’s supervision. This contributed to reform in a way that the Church was made accountable for its decisions, and improved the efficiency of the church so that it was better equipped to make decisions towards reform and therefore implement these ideas quicker. Sixtus V has also been credited for not only reforming the Curia, but also changing the face of Rome to reflect the power and beauty of the Catholic Church. This was a very physical sign of the Catholic revival, as the Vatican library was constructed and clean drinking water established in Rome. Sixtus V understood the importance of status and image, highlighting the Catholic Church as a prestigious organisation, helping to cast off it’s previously sinful, rotten and decadent image.

Part 3                                                                                                            Part 5