In 1517 Pope Leo X, empty-pocketed and needing funds to rebuild St. Peter’s Basilica issued a special “sale” of indulgences. The very word “indulgence” tends to convey dubious moral connotations, but these indulgences were particularly questionable. What was an “indulgence”? … Continue reading High Noon
Christian II, King of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden was so cruel that his own people booted him off the throne in 1522. He had killed Danish nobles and an archbishop lost Sweden through brutality and allowed his Dutch mistress to … Continue reading Lutheranism Made Official in Denmark
Swiss-born Henry Dunant needed water rights for a business venture in French-controlled Algeria. The person who could get him those rights was Napoleon III. The only problem was, Napoleon III was on the battlefield in Italy. Dunant did not let … Continue reading Christian Businessman Founded the Red Cross
He abolished crucifixions and ended gladiatorial contests as punishments. Continue reading In This Sign Conquer
At the 1771 Methodist Conference in England, John Wesley said, “Our brethren in America call for help. Who is willing to go over?” Francis Asbury, five-foot-six, 150 pounds, sat listening. For months the young man had longed to visit America. … Continue reading My Very Heart Melted
Thomas More was hard to dislike. “I am entirely devoted to this man,” wrote Italian scholar Niccolo Sagundino. “I often relax in his delightful company as one might lodge in some beautiful place. I never see him without his sending … Continue reading A Charming Man
Rhemalogy 
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