The Catholic Reformation: A beginner's guide with Dr. James Kelly Artwork

Gospel Simplicity Podcast

The Gospel Simplicity Podcast is centered around the conviction that the gospel is really good news. Here you will find conversations with Christians from various traditions as we seek to unpack the beautiful simplicity and transformative power of the gospel. Gospel Simplicity is known for ecumenical dialogue that is charitable and open to learning from people with whom you might disagree. We believe that God desires for his Church to be one, united in love for God and neighbor, and on mission to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ to all people.

All Episodes

Gospel Simplicity Podcast

The Catholic Reformation: A beginner's guide with Dr. James Kelly

October 20, 2025 • Austin Suggs

In this interview, I'm joined by Dr. James Kelly to discuss the Catholic Reformation. We cover why "Catholic Reformation" is a better name than "Counter Reformation," the Council of Trent, the spread of Catholicism during colonialism, and the impact of the Catholic Reformation on daily life.

Dr. James Kelly is Associate Professor in the History of Catholicism in the Department of Theology and Religion at Durham University. Read his full bio: https://www.durham.ac.uk/staff/james-kelly3/

The Catholic Reformation: A Very Short Introduction: https://amzn.to/4hahvK4

Want to support the channel? Here's how!
Give monthly: https://patreon.com/gospelsimplicity
Make a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/gospelsimplicity
Book a meeting: https://calendly.com/gospelsimplicity/meet-with-austin
Read my writings: https://austinsuggs.substack.com/

00:00 What is the Catholic Reformation?
05:25 Sources of the Catholic Reformation
09:54 Relationship to Protestant Reformation
13:00 The Council of Trent
16:15 On the Ground Reality
20:58 Protestant Reaction
23:30 Spirit of the Council
27:24 Colonialism and Missions
36:39 Religious Orders
42:40 Daily Life
49:30 Was it a Success?
53:53 Reform of Superstition
57:02 Going Further

Support the show