Tudor History with Claire Ridgway17 Sep 2025

The Quiet Power Behind the Reformation: Bullinger

On 17 September 1575, Zurich lost one of its great reformers: Heinrich (Henry) Bullinger.

While Luther thundered, Calvin systematised, and Zwingli fought and died, Bullinger quietly anchored the Swiss Reformation, and his writings reached far beyond Switzerland, shaping the faith of Tudor England.

In this episode, I explore:

Bullinger’s rise from Bremgarten priest’s son to Zurich’s leading pastor
His household with Anna Adlischweiler—marriage, 11 children, orphans, and refugees
His leadership after Zwingli’s death in 1531, keeping Zurich’s church steady
The Decades - sermons that became required reading in Elizabethan England
His covenant theology - grace freely offered, faith shown through conduct
His role as a bridge-builder: the First and Second Helvetic Confessions, and a vast correspondence that reached Edward VI and Elizabeth I

Bullinger’s death on this day in 1575 marked the end of an era, but his influence endured - quiet, steady, and lasting.

Had you heard of Bullinger before today? And which Reformation voice - Luther, Zwingli, Bullinger, or Calvin - do you find most compelling? Tell me in the comments.

If you enjoy these daily glimpses into Tudor history, please like, subscribe, and ring the bell. For exclusive extras—zoom calls, behind-the-scenes content, and my monthly magazine—consider joining my channel membership.

\#OnThisDay #TudorHistory #Reformation #Bullinger #ChurchHistory #ProtestantReformers #ClaireRidgway #ElizabethanEngland

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