In a return engagement, retired Episcopal priest Mike Russell told us more about the history of Christianity, starting in 1500s with the Reformation. The Reformation had a tremendous impact as it broke hold of Catholic Church on Western religion. Martin Luther believed that scripture was the only authority. It was also the beginning of use of printing press to spread a message. Luther’s 95 theses were distributed quickly around Germany. The Reformation was also the beginning of the end of power of Holy Roman Empire. Other reformers came along after Luther – the Anabaptists, who were the predecessors of Mennonites and Amish; the Calvinists - radical scripture only movement that was run locally; Richard Hooker, who said the authority of the Scripture was provided by the reader, and others. In the 17th century, the 30 years’ war occurred, which was Rome's attempt to retake the Protestant duchies, but it doesn't change anything. At the end of 17th century, the battles shifted to the Americas - Spain in the southern areas and the English and French in the northern areas with the French & Indian War. Rhode Island was first American colony with freedom of religion. Rev. Russell pointed out that there is no religious test for office put in U. S. Constitution. The debates on that issue even included discussions about Jews and Moslems – it was pressed by dissenters such as Baptists. Rev. Russell’s talk was so interesting that it was hard to bring it an end by 1pm. Perhaps he will come back one more time?