Call by MEP to celebrate life of John Calvin
23 February 2009
Statement by TUV MEP Jim Allister
With the 500th anniversary of the birth of John Calvin looming in July 2009, I have tabled the following Question in the European Parliament to the EU Commission:-
"Having regard to the immense contribution of John Calvin to Europe's religious, political and social history and to the enlightenment and development of Europe, what plans has the Commission to mark the 500th anniversary of his birth in July 2009?"
The object is to provoke an informed debate and provide an opportunity to record the very positive contribution of John Calvin, not just to religious life through the Reformation, but also the political and social development of Europe, as from his teaching flowed liberation and enlightenment in almost every sphere.
It would be quite unacceptable if Europe had no interest in celebrating one of the giants of its past; a man whose influence still lives on today and shaped so much of our culture and liberty, particularly in the UK, but also in Holland, France and elsewhere. The separation of church and state, as well as ordered civil government and resistance to tyranny, can all be rooted to Calvin. Moreover, the work ethic which helped build economic strength flows from his teaching. Without him Europe and the world would be a much darker and totalitarian place.
The EU likes to present itself as a union of values and freedoms, where here, then, is a man to celebrate as a father figure of civil and religious liberty."
