Page:Luther's correspondence and other contemporary letters 1521-1530.djvu/79

 doctrine they have preached daily from Michaehnas Day [Sep- tember 29], 1521, to the present time. They continue firm in their opinion, and demonstrate it practically, for since Michael- mas Sunday they have not said mass in the church of their monastery. On this account there has been a great contest between the people, the doctors, the canons, spiritual and tem- poral, and other learned men who were induced to debate with the friars ; but the latter would not be convinced by argument, and remain firm in their determination. They will not cele- brate masses in the form hitherto observed, and celebrate but one sort of mass.

Subsequently the doctors of divinity assembled and sent a letter* to the Duke of Saxony [i.e.. Elector Frederic], ac- quainting him with what the friars are doing, and asserting that it is in accordance with the Christian faith. This took place on the day of All Saints [ist of November]. The letter purported that they intend to abolish the masses said for the dead, and the anniversaries and vigils in commemoration of departed souls; and all the doctors who are of this opinion signed the letter. The Duke's reply is said to be to the fol- lowing effect, — that they must be well grounded and thor- oughly understand Holy Writ with regard to these points of doctrine, so as not to cause disturbance amongst the people in course of debate, and be able to afford fundamental proof, and to present it in writing; requesting them not to set a bad example to the people.

The head of that church is a provost,* who preached in per- son both on All Saints' eve, and on the day [November i] Itself, when a great number of strangers came into the town for the plenary indulgence, which cost the Elector many thousands of ducats. The preacher impugned the indulgence, and proved by Holy Writ that the custom of masses for the dead and the indulgence likewise were abuses and false. He threw down the money box and scattered its contents. They have abolished the custom of inflicting penance on sin- ners in public, declaring that these penances and pardons are diabolical inventions ; and by specious doctrine, based on Holy

•Jonas.
 * October xo, ARC, vi, i84fF.; also other letters, but none of Norember x.

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