THE POPE AND THE EMPIRE

1
THE POPE AND THE EMPIRE

• Position of pope grew in importance during
  barbarian invasions
• Became political leader of the West, as well as
  spiritual leader of Church
• St Damascus I366-384---first to use term
  Apostolic See to refer to his office
• Connection between papacy and St. Peter

2
POPE AND THE EMPIRE

• Emperor Theodosius ordered all inhabitants of
  empire to follow form of religion advocated by
  Pope Damascus
• Around 382, Damascus asked St Jerome to translate
  Bible from Greek to Latin, and changed liturgy
  from Greek to Latin
• Strengthened position of papacy, but added to
  growing separation between Latin and Greek Church

3
FATHERS OF THE CHURCH

• Great thinkers of early church (p. 77)
• 39 men from Western Church
• 51 from Eastern Church
• Also a number of women (whose writings are few)
• People of conviction, courage, wisdom, and faith
• Influence has continued through centuries

4
SAINT AMBROSE

• 339-397
• Became governor of northern Italy
• Was baptized, confirmed, ordained a priest, and
  then bishop in quick order
• Made sure poor were taken care of
• Trained clergy and strengthened process for those
  preparing for Baptism
• Stood up to Arian troops