John Hus (1369- 1415)

John Hus or Huss was a pre-reformation reformer. In 1360 the king of Bohemia (similar in size to modern Czechoslovakia) invited Conrad of Waldhausen to come and preach to the corrupt church. From that time there was a national reform movement in Bohemia.John stood firmly within that tradition.

John lived during the time of the Great Schism when Europe was divided between 2 or 3 Popes. It was the Council of Constance which brought the Schism to an end and resulted in John’s martyrdom at the stake.

John studied theology at the University of Prague. He became a preacher at the Bethlehem Chapel in Prague. In his church the services were conducted in Czech and not Latin, the Bible readings and sermons were also in the common language. He preached actively against the worst abuses of the Roman church of his day-the low morality of the clergy, the Bible read in Latin, sale of indulgences, Pope infallibility. (See The Movarian Church for the full 4 main factors).

His criticisms and call for reforms were seen as a stumbling block to reconciling the divided Church. He was excommunicated. Promised safe conduct by Sigismund, the Holy Roman Emperor, he went to the Council of Constance. He was imprisoned (1414-8). He was accused of being a Wycliffe. He was not allowed to defend himself or his beliefs. He refused to recant his beliefs and was called a heretic. On 6th July 1415 he was burned at the stake.

Aftermath - Hussite Wars. The Hussites won 4 crusades against them ( Read how his followers rebelled)

John was an important member of an ongoing movement which would become a national movement of reform.

Martin Luther, many years later, came across some of John Hus sermons.
I was overwhelmed with astonishment. I could not understand for what cause they had burnt so great a man, who explained the Scriptures with so much gravity and skill.
Sources used
Great leaders of the Christian Church edited by Woodbridge
contribution from A.N.S. Lane
Christian history
wikipedia