INSTITUTION AND INDIVIDUAL IN THE ECCLESIAL REFORM OF LUTHER AND FRANCIS

Abstract

The text seeks to confront both Luther's and Francis' Reform in the perspective of relationship between ecclesial institution and the Christian individual. The first part takes on the necessary connection and inter-dependency of the historical context and the personal experience of Christian faith, not always evident throughout Christianity's history. This is followed by Luther's Reform: how the ecclesial situation decayed in his time and his fight for both Christian freedom and his personal relationship with God. The next part studies, under the same perspective, Pope Francis' ecclesial reform, which calls for changes in both mindsets and ecclesial structures in favor of the human person with greater respect and a constant embrace from a merciful God. Finally, the text mentions, succinctly, the Reform's possible ecumenical dimension over its 500 years.