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Which religious orders did Pope Paul III encourage during his papacy?
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Paul III
Paul III, contemporary medallion; in the coin collection of the Vatican Library.
During his papacy, Pope Paul III actively encouraged the foundation and growth of several new religious orders and congregations, which became instrumental in his efforts to reform the church and promote the Counter-Reformation.1
The religious orders he supported included:
- The Jesuits (Society of Jesus): Paul III officially established this order in 1540. Their confirmation was particularly significant, as they became a primary instrument of the papacy in promoting the Counter-Reformation and reconstructing church life.21
- The Theatines: A religious order founded by Gaetano da Thiene and Gian Pietro Carafa (later Pope Paul IV), which focused on the correction of church abuses.21
- The Somaschi and Barnabites: These congregations were also among those encouraged by the pope during his pontificate.1
- The Ursuline Nuns: Paul III also extended his support to the Ursulines, an order founded by St. Angela Merici in 1535 that was dedicated to the education of girls.13