Project Gutenberg
2012-07-11
Public domain in the USA.
215
Carlile, Richard
1790
1843
Philanthropos
Carlisle, Richard
Deist
Church Reform
The Only Means to That End, Stated in a Letter to Sir Robert Peel, Bart., First Lord of the Treasury
Produced by David Widger
"Church Reform" by Richard Carlile is a political treatise written in the early 19th century. The work addresses the urgent need for reform within the Church of England, advocating for a transformation from a mysterious institution burdened by superstition to one that is a center for knowledge and moral uplifting. Carlile articulates a vision of the Church that dispels mystery, promotes education, and emphasizes practical morality as foundational to Christianity. The opening of the treatise reveals a correspondence between Carlile and prominent figures such as the Bishop of London and Sir Robert Peel. Carlile lays out his arguments for reform, suggesting that the current establishment not only fails to educate its constituents but also perpetuates ignorance that fosters dissent. He critiques the Church's reliance on allegorical interpretations of scripture, arguing that a better understanding of spiritual principles, combined with knowledge and reason, is essential for genuine reform that would unite diverse beliefs under a common purpose. Through this correspondence, Carlile emphasizes his commitment to a Church that could serve as a moral and educational foundation for the people, rather than a venue for empty rituals. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Reading ease score: 59.1 (10th to 12th grade). Somewhat difficult to read.
en
Rationalism
Bible -- Criticism, interpretation, etc.
Church and state -- Church of England
BL
DA
Text
Category: British Literature
Category: Philosophy & Ethics
Category: Religion/Spirituality
Category: Politics
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