In the year 1523, two Augustinian monks from Antwerp who had embraced the teachings of Martin Luther were executed in Brussels. Their deaths marked a significant moment in history, as they became the first martyrs of the Reformation in the Low Countries. This brutal act of persecution sent shockwaves through the Protestant community, making it clear that open support for reformist beliefs could result in severe consequences, including execution. As a result, Protestant reformers were driven underground, forced to abandon public gatherings in favor of secretive, small-scale meetings known as conventicles.

Conventicles were informal yet essential gatherings where reformists met in secrecy to discuss their beliefs, read religious texts, and support one another in the face of increasing persecution. These meetings often took place in private homes, workshops, or other inconspicuous locations to avoid detection by the authorities. The fear of being discovered was ever-present, as those caught practicing or spreading Protestant teachings could face imprisonment, exile, or even execution. Despite these dangers, the Protestant movement continued to grow, with individuals committed to their faith risking everything to keep their beliefs alive.

Leadership within these clandestine groups primarily came from former Catholic priests who had converted to Protestantism. These individuals, having once been part of the established Church, possessed theological training and a deep understanding of religious doctrine, which enabled them to guide and educate their fellow reformists. However, evidence suggests that laypeople also played an active role in the leadership and organization of conventicles. As the Reformation progressed, more individuals from various social backgrounds began to take on responsibilities within the movement, contributing to its expansion and resilience.

The social composition of Protestant reformists in the Low Countries was diverse, yet they shared certain common characteristics. Many of them were independent-minded individuals who valued personal religious conviction over traditional Church authority. The majority were urban craftsmen, artisans, and skilled workers who lived in cities where trade and intellectual exchange flourished. These urban environments provided a degree of anonymity and access to books and ideas that were crucial to the spread of Protestant teachings. Some reformists were artists who used their work to subtly critique the Catholic Church and promote reformist ideas. Others were former members of the clergy who had grown disillusioned with the corruption they witnessed within the Church hierarchy.

Despite their diverse backgrounds, reformists were united by a shared desire for religious and social change. The increasing pressure from authorities only strengthened their resolve, as they sought new ways to practice their faith and resist persecution. The martyrdom of the two Augustinian monks in 1523 served as a powerful symbol of the movement’s struggles and sacrifices, inspiring others to continue their efforts despite the risks. The underground nature of the Reformation in the Low Countries allowed it to survive and ultimately thrive, laying the foundation for future religious transformations across Europe.