John Calvin, an eminent reformer, and founder of the religious sect known as the Calvinists was born in 1509.  He was early destines for the church, being presented with a benefice when only twelve years old.  He was educated in Paris for the ministry; but becoming dissatisfied with the tenets of the Romish Church, he turned his attention to the law.  He soon received the seeds of the reformed doctrine, and so strongly defended them that he was obliged to leave France.  He retired to Bale, Switzerland, where he composed hi famous Institutes of Christianity, which was translated into several languages.  He then settles at Geneva as minister and professor of divinity, but was compelled to leave for refusing to obey some papal forms.  Going to Strasburg, he raised up a French church, where he officiated.  By the divines of this town he was sent as deputy to the Diet of Worms.  He returned to Geneva after repeated solicitation, and was actively engaged as speaker and writer in the interests of the Reformation, until his death in 1564.