Georg Cassander

1513-1566. Roman Catholic theologian who sought to mediate between Catholics and Protestants (especially Anabaptists). Born at Pitthem, near Bruges, he graduated from the Collège du Chateau, Louvain (1533), and taught literature at Ghent and Bruges. After a tour of Italy he enrolled (1544) in the theological faculty of Cologne, and in 1549 undertook both the teaching of theology and the direction of the newly formed academy of Duisberg. He joined in the programs of emperors Ferdinand I and Maximilian II to promote unity in the church (1561-66). His writings met with strong opposition from both sides, being accused of excessive tolerance and readiness for compromise. His chief work, De Officio Pii ac Publicae Tranquillitatis vere amantis viri in hoc Religionis Dissidio (1561), was submitted to the Colloquy of Poissy.* His writings were placed on the Index in 1617.