Which of the following was NOT a result of the Council of Trent?

• A. Ended the practice of indulgences
• B. Reaffirmed Catholic doctrine
• C. Strengthened church discipline
• D. Initiated reforms for clergy education

Answer: (A)

The question tests understanding of what the Council of Trent actually accomplished in response to Protestant criticism. The Council reaffirmed Catholic doctrine, providing official definitions on key beliefs, the authority of tradition alongside Scripture, and the nature of the sacraments. It also strengthened church discipline by targeting clerical abuses and requiring tighter oversight by bishops. It initiated reforms for clergy education by establishing seminaries to train priests. The statement about ending indulgences is not accurate; the Council condemned abuses and regulated indulgences but did not abolish the practice, which continued in a reformed form.