Reformation Sunday is a Protestant Christian religious observance celebrated annually on the last Sunday in October, or occasionally on the Sunday preceding it. The day commemorates the Protestant Reformation, a 16th-century movement that sought to reform the Roman Catholic Church and led to the establishment of Protestant churches. To determine the specific date in a given year, one simply identifies the last Sunday in October.
The observance holds significant historical and theological importance for many Protestant denominations. It provides an opportunity to reflect on the key tenets of the Reformation, such as salvation by grace through faith, the authority of Scripture, and the priesthood of all believers. Commemorating this historical event reinforces the foundational principles upon which these denominations are built and serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for renewal and reform within the church. Understanding the historical context enhances the appreciation for the freedoms and theological perspectives held by many Protestant Christians today.
