There was no real attempt to replace Purgatory during the
English Reformation. The Act of Supremacy, which separated the Anglican Church from
Rome, contained no specific theological canons. Later, the Prayer Book of Edward VI
established liturgy for the church; but again there was no mention of Purgatory. The
Book of Common Prayer espoused the doctrine of salvation by faith alone. Since Purgatory
was based on good works, this doctrine had no bearing on ones just deserts after death.
The doctrine of Purgatory had been a strictly Catholic doctrine espoused by the church
on the authority of the Pope. There was no scriptural reference to it. As the English
church separated itself from the authority of the Pope, so it separated itself from the
doctrine of Purgatory.
Elizabeth I did more than anyone
else to placate English Catholics. She famously stated that she did not wish to
establish "windows into men's souls," and therefore settled for outward conformity in
religious matters. Only two sacraments were recognized, but sufficient Catholic practice
maintained as to not offend the consciences of most Catholics.
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