Reigned from February 9, 1621 to July 18, 1623. Born in Bologna, Italy in 1554 as Alessandro Ludovisi; died in Rome, Italy on July 18, 1623. He was educated by the Jesuits, entered the papal service as a judge, was Archbishop of Cremona, nuncio to Savoy, and cardinal-priest. His Bull "AEterni Patris" laid down the rules, practically unchanged today, governing papal elections. In these he introduced the secret ballot. He established the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples to regulate missionary work; founded the InternatIonal college for Benedictines at Rome; issued the last papal ordinance against witchcraft, 1623; sent financial aid to Emperor Ferdinand II to regain Bohemia; secured more tolerance for Catholics in England; and aided the Catholic reaction in the Netherlands. War in the Valtelline, Italy, was averted when Gregory's army seized possession of it before Spain and Austria could open hostilities, and held it until its status was settled.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
Read More