Pope Paul III

Pope Paul III, who reigned from 1534 to 1549, was a significant figure in the Catholic Church during the Renaissance. He is best known for initiating the Counter-Reformation, which aimed to address issues raised by the Protestant Reformation. He convened the Council of Trent (1545-1563), which clarified Church doctrines and reformulated Church practices. Paul III also recognized the Jesuit order, strengthening Catholic education and missionary work. His papacy marked an effort to improve the moral integrity of the Church and rebuild its authority in a time of significant religious upheaval.