Download Roman Catholic Church - CLIO History Journal

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.
• 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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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)