What is a reformed church?
Five points of exclusivity formed a rallying point for churches in sixteenth century Switzerland and the rest of Europe as they sought to reform the Roman Catholic church: 1) Scripture alone above tradition, 2) Christ alone above all church leaders, 3) Grace alone brings us salvation we do not earn it, 4) Faith alone is the way to salvation not works, and 5) Glory to God alone. The Latin word for alone is sola/solo and so these five points are often called the solas. In 1618-1619 a regional gathering of these church leaders was held in Dordrecht, Holland (also known as Dordt or Dort) to settle a dispute that had developed over the doctrine of salvation. The gathering (or synod) had representatives from all the major Protestant churches of the time (except for the Huguenots who, because of the severe persecution they faced in their native France, were unable to send representatives). The Canons of Dort composed by this synod, present the doctrine of grace which emphasizes the sovereignt
