How much power is too much?

The Catholic Church was the most powerful institution in Europe in 1500

The Pope was the leader of the Catholic Church and the most powerful man in Europe

Some church leaders abused their power, eventually causing a rift in the church

Corruption in the Catholic Church

In Europe, bishops and the clergy often lived like the very wealthy, and seemed part of the ruling elite.

In France, the king rather than the Pope chose people for church positions.

Church sold "indulgences" – payments to the Church in exchange for a release from sin.

Cont. – Corruption in the Catholic Church

Catholic churches were full of works of art: statues, shrines, paintings, relics of saints, altars ornamented with gold and jewels.

The Church charged followers huge fees and tithes (tax- 1/10th of income). Those who couldn’t pay faced excommunication (refusal of sacraments).

Heretics (people who spoke out against the Church) were usually excommunicated or put to death.

What was the result of corruption in the Catholic Church?