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The Rise of the Roman Catholic Church

The Rise of the Roman Catholic Church. Dark Ages: The Rise of Christianity. The word Catholic derives from the Middle English  word ' catholik ' and from the Old French ' catholique ' and the Latin word ' catholicus ' meaning universal or whole.

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The Rise of the Roman Catholic Church

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  1. The Rise of the Roman Catholic Church

  2. Dark Ages: The Rise of Christianity • The word Catholic derives from the Middle English  word 'catholik' and from the Old French 'catholique' and the Latin word 'catholicus' meaning universal or whole. • During the Dark Ages Christianity was represented by the Roman Catholic Church. • The Catholic Church was the dominant religion and source of power in Europe. • The Roman Catholic Church controlled religion, philosophy, morals, politics, art and education following the collapse of the Roman Empire in 476AD. • Following the collapse of the Roman Empire, the Roman Church provides; structure, education, faith, community, power or influence, and wealth.

  3. Rise of Christianity in Ancient Rome • Following his success at the Battle of Milvian Bridge, the Emperor Constantine in 313AD passed the Edict of Milan which declared the Roman Empire neutral to religious views. • The Edict of Milan was an important step in legalising Christianity and providing Christians the freedom to practice and spread their faith. • Constantine also converted to Christianity during his reign as Emperor.

  4. Constantine and the Church • Constantine considered himself the patron of the Christian faith. • Constantine supported the Church; • Financially, loans and gifts; • Had Basilicas and churches built; • Promoted Christians to high ranking offices; • Exempt religious clergy from certain taxes; • Gave the Church land and property.

  5. Church Organisation • The Church was controlled by the Bishop of Rome (Pope), who was elected by Cardinals (and still is today). • The Roman Catholic Church had its own lands and wealth. They also imposed their own taxes and laws across Europe. • The Church sent missionaries throughout Europe. These missionaries established monasteries in communities

  6. The Monasteries • St Benedict introduced Monastic Rule around 500AD. • Monastic rule was important in the early structure of the Catholic Church. Monasteries acted as a bastion of Christianity. • A monastery complex typically comprises a number of buildings which include a church, dormitory, cloister, refectory, library, balneary (baths) and infirmary (hospital). • Monastery were centres of intellectual progression and education. • Welcomed aspiring priests to come study and learn, allowing them even to challenge doctrine in dialogue with superiors. • Monasteries cared for travellers and people in the community tending to injuries or emotional needs.

  7. Christianity and Great Leaders • We have already looked at two leaders that converted to Christianity: • Alfred the Great (King of Wessex) • Clovis I (King of the Salic Franks) • There are many more, including one famous individual that helped spread Christianity: • Charlemagne (King of the Frankish Empire and Holy Roman Emperor)

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