The Necessity of Reforming the Church

In this 1543 work, John Calvin critiques the Catholic Church, describing it as "very miserable, and almost desperate," while addressing Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. He outlines the church's failures and calls for meaningful reform, advocating for a return to sound doctrine and a reevaluation of worship practices, governance, and sacramental administration. This compelling text serves as a significant plea for change from the reformers' perspective.