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Definition:
Jansenism is a Roman Catholic group which was named after Cornelius Jansen
(1585-1638), Bishop of Ypres, and which owes a lot to the theological work done by
John Calvin. Both Jansen and his followers were characterized by their moral severity
and deriving their position on grace from Augustine, without modification. Other
characteristic beliefs include the idea of the total sinfulness of humanity,
predestination, and the need for Christians to rely upon a faith in God which cannot
be validated through human reason.
Jansenism often came into conflict with the Jesuits and was condemned by the pope in 1653 and 1713, but it continued to have a strong following among those who tended to reject papal authority, but not strong moral beliefs. The diocese of Utrecht, Holland, was heavily influenced by Jansenist beliefs and it separated from the Roman Catholic church in the 18th century, leading to the development of the Old Catholic Church.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
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