Today in 1521: Diet of Worms

In April 1521, Luther appeared before Emperor Chrales V to defend what he had taught and written (95 Theses and other works).



Unless I am convinced by the testimony of the Holy Scriptures or by evident reason-for I can believe neither pope nor councils alone, as it is clear that they have erred repeatedly and contradicted themselves-I consider myself convicted by the testimony of Holy Scripture, which is my basis; my conscience is captive to the Word of God. Thus I cannot and will not recant, because acting against one's conscience is neither safe nor sound. God help me. Amen.

At the end of his speech, the story goes, he spoke the famous words, "Here I stand; I can do no other. God help me."