Religion Past and Present

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Waldenses
(2,367 words)

[German Version]

I. Middle Ages

Waldenses (Valdesi), supporters of the townsman Waldo from Lyon, made their first historical appearance in 1179 at the Third Lateran Council, where they vainly requested permission to preach freely. In 1180, Waldo and his companions (fratres) committed themselves to an orthodox creed at a synod in Lyon and pledged to lead a life according to the counsels of perfection. By doing so, the community of the “Poor of Lyon” attained public visibility. In …

Cite this page
Köpf, Ulrich, “Waldenses”, in: Religion Past and Present. Consulted online on 28 March 2024 <http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/1877-5888_rpp_COM_124034>
First published online: 2011
First print edition: ISBN: 9789004146662, 2006-2013



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