From a historical point of view, the issue of indulgences (indulgentia) became the starting point of the Reformation. Serious abuses occurred in the granting of absolutions towards the end of the Middle Age. This was strongly opposed by Martin Luther who compiled his 95 theses in 1517, in which he condemned the Church for being greedy because of selling sacred things as a commodity. According to Luther's judgment, the practice of selling indulgences caused the Church great harm. His theses caused a religious conflict and a Lutheran Reformation. Martin Luther was charged with heresy and was excommunicated on the 3rd January 1521. After 500 years we find that the Reformation was not only triggered by Luther's theses, but above all by the lack of mutual tolerance, respect and rational judgment. The question of indulgences today no longer receives any particular attention in ecumenical dialogues between Catholics and Evangelicals. The Protestant Reformation is undoubtedly one of the most important indicators of where a lack of discourse on the burning issues of religion can lead to. Today, therefore, it is above all necessary to listen and try to understand other's views and not rush with criticism and reckless judgment from afar.
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