Page 56 - 12 The French Reformation

towns and cities which had been strongholds

of popery, opening their gates to the gospel.

The little parish where he had first labored

soon accepted the reformed faith. The cities

of Morat and Neuchatel also renounced the

Romish rites and removed the idolatrous

images from their churches.

Farel had long desired to plant the Protestant

standard in Geneva. If this city could be won,

it would be a center for the Reformation in

France, in Switzerland, and in Italy. With this

object before him, he had continued his

labors until many of the surrounding towns

and hamlets had been gained. Then with a

single companion he entered Geneva. But

only two sermons was he permitted to

preach. The priests, having vainly

endeavored to secure his condemnation by

the civil authorities, summoned him before