History - The reformation - religion

Before the Reformation

England was catholic, and the churches were covered in stained glass, ornaments, religious items, and statues and pictures of saints. Many rituals were performed, such as communion (transubstantiation) and there were many festivals.

King Henry XIII

During King Henry XIII’s rule, the country changed from catholic to protestant, as the catholic church did not allow divorce. He established the Church of England, breaking away from the authority of the Pope. Ornaments were taken down, and churches became simpler in decoration. Many new rules were installed, including rules that every church had to have an English bible, and priests had to preach in English.

Edward VI

The son of King Henry VIII, Edward VI became king at a young age and furthered the Protestant Reformation in England. His reign saw the introduction of more Protestant reforms, including the Book of Common Prayer and the establishment of a more reformed English church. Churches remained bland and lifeless, with no decoration and nothing honouring the saints.

Mary I

Under Mary’s rule, the country switched back to catholic, as she was the daughter of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon, a devout Catholic. Decorations went back up, saints were reintroduced and many catholic traditions were reinstated. The Protestant book of prayer was banned, and she persecuted Protestants, earning her the nickname "Bloody Mary."

Elizabeth I

Under the rule of Elizabeth I, daughter of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, a middle ground was established between Catholics and Protestants, known as the Elizabethan Religious Settlement. She reinstated the Book of Common Prayer and sought to unify the church, promoting Protestantism while allowing some Catholic practices. Churches were slightly decorated and services were in English, aiming to appease both factions.