John Wycliffe was a vocal critic of the Church, advocating for the radical idea that all clergy should embrace poverty. He is regarded as a forerunner of Protestantism. Though modern scholars suggest his involvement may have been minimal, Wycliffe is traditionally credited with the creation of the Wycliffe Bible, the first English translation of the Scriptures. On May 4, 1415, the Church declared Wycliffe a heretic posthumously, condemning his teachings and ordering his works to be burned. Additionally, it was decreed that his remains be exhumed from consecrated ground. This order was reaffirmed by Pope Martin V in 1428. Wycliffe's remains were exhumed, burned, and his ashes were scattered in the River Swift. 443