Christianity in the 14th century ever more complex and subtle in its distinctions and arguments. There was a rise to dominance of the nominalist or voluntarist theologies of men like William of Ockham. The 14th century was also a time in which movements of widely varying character worked for the reform of the institutional church, such as conciliarism, Lollardy and the Hussites. Spiritual movements such as the Devotio Moderna also flourished. Notable authors include: Under church tradition the practice of Hesychasm has it beginnings in the bible, Matthew 6:6 and the Philokalia. The tradition of contemplation with inner silence or tranquility is shared by all
Emma Churchman Hewitt of the Home", 1889. She made her residence at 4105 Chester Avenue, Philadelphia. Emma Churchman was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, February 1, 1850. Her parents were John and Lydia (Starr) Churchman. At three years of age, she moved north with her parents, who settled on a farm in Rahway, New Jersey, afterward moving to Burlington, New Jersey, and later to Camden, New Jersey, where she resided until she moved to West Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was a direct descendant of John Churchman, who was a prominent member of Friends. Hewitt was a graduate of Miss Churchman's private school, in Philadelphia.