Waldensians

The Waldensians are a Christian movement that originated in the late 12th century in the Catholic Alps of what is now France and Italy. They were founded by Peter Waldo, a wealthy merchant from Lyon, who gave away his possessions and began preaching in the vernacular, emphasizing poverty, a literal interpretation of the Bible, and the right of all believers to read and study scripture. This emphasis on lay preaching and direct access to the Bible challenged the authority of the established Church and its hierarchy.

The Waldensians were often persecuted by the Catholic Church, which deemed their teachings heretical. They faced condemnation and were driven underground, leading to their dispersal across various regions, particularly in the Piedmont region of Italy, which became a stronghold for the movement. Despite centuries of persecution, including organized crusades and inquisitions, the Waldensians maintained their distinct identity and faith.

During the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, the Waldensians aligned themselves with reformed theology. They adopted many of the doctrines of Calvinism and maintained close ties with Protestant churches, especially in Geneva. Their resilience and persistence through periods of intense suppression earned them recognition as one of the oldest surviving Protestant denominations. Today, Waldensian communities exist primarily in Italy and South America, and they continue to be a testament to enduring faith and religious freedom.