How did the Reformation affect the Catholic Church's power?

The Reformation had a profound impact on the power of the Catholic Church, ultimately leading to a significant diminishment of its authority and the emergence of various Protestant denominations. This religious movement, sparked by figures such as Martin Luther and John Calvin, challenged the Catholic Church's practices, doctrines, and governance. As a result, many individuals and groups began to distance themselves from Catholicism, seeking alternative interpretations of Christianity that emphasized personal faith and scripture over Church tradition.

With the establishment of Protestantism, the once-unified Christian community fragmented into multiple sects, each with its own beliefs and practices. This diversification of religious thought weakened the Catholic Church's hold on the populace, as many chose to adhere to these new denominations rather than the traditional teachings of Catholicism. Additionally, the Reformation prompted the Catholic Church to initiate its own Counter-Reformation in an attempt to recover lost followers and reform some of its practices. However, the emergence of Protestantism marked a decisive shift in the religious landscape of Europe, significantly altering the power dynamics that had long favored the Catholic Church.