Need for Reform
Why the call for reform?
The corruption is one reason!
From 1450 to 1520 renaissance popes failed to meet the requirements for the church's spiritual needs.
Popes were supposed to be spiritual leaders.
As leaders of the papal states, they were all too often more concerned with Italian politics and world interests instead of spiritual matters.
Nicolas V
the first Pope to use church funds to further artistic development. This page traces the Renaissance Popes. Note how interest in art and immorality marks their reigns.
Callixtus III
the first Spanish Pope since the fourth century. Callixtus, or Alfonso, came from the significant Borgia family. He returned the papacy to nepotism appointing two nephews Cardinals.
Pius II
Historians consider Pius, a thorough humanist, one of the better Popes of his generation. Quite well educated although immoral,
Many Church officials used their church offices to advance their careers and wealth.
Other people Sought certainty of salvation known as modern devotion.
The modern devotion downplayed religious dogma and stressed the need to follow the teachings of jesus.