Deep Dive into Foxe's Book of Martyrs by John Foxe - Attack upon the Protestant Churches

Following the Duke d'Angouleme's visit to Nismes and his promise of protection, the Protestant consistory decided to reopen their smaller church for worship, as encouraged by the Duke. Despite guarantees of safety from General La Garde, who vowed to "answer with his head", the atmosphere was immediately hostile.As Protestants cautiously gathered for the service, they encountered numerous hostile groups in the streets and on the church steps. Threats of violence were openly made, with shouts of "Down with the Protestants! kill them! kill them!". M. Juillerat Chasseur, the pastor scheduled to lead the service, proceeded despite sensing danger, even opening the door himself when the sexton was too afraid.The service began, but a violent interruption occurred as individuals entered the church with dreadful cries. Although gendarmes managed to exclude them and close the doors, the noise and tumult outside redoubled, with the mob attempting to break in, causing terror among the congregation inside. Pastors tried to console their flock, but their voices were inaudible over the noise. Worshippers, like Madame Juillerat, faced the prospect of death with faith.Authorities proved insufficient; the national guards refused to act, and the mob capitalized on the absence of General La Garde and their increasing numbers. Relief eventually came when a detachment of soldiers returning from Mass arrived, positioning themselves to help the Protestants escape. Many fled among the soldiers' ranks, but the streets remained dangerous.Individuals were targeted in the aftermath. The elderly Pastor Olivier Desmond, between seventy and eighty years old, was surrounded and threatened by "murderers" but was protected by officers, including his son. M. Juillerat and his family were attacked with stones, and his mother was injured. In total, between seventy and eighty Protestants were more or less ill treated during this attack.Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianPatreon: patreon.com/edi_reformed