Western Schism

Western schism 1378-1417

Habemus Papam 1415

Tafel paepste

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Coat of arms of the Holy See (Renaissance shape)

C o a Johannes XXIII (antipapa)

Western Schism refers to a period in the history of the Roman Catholic Church from 1378 to 1417, during which there were rival papal claimants to the Papacy. The schism originated from the election of two popes after the death of Pope Gregory XI, leading to a division within the church as different factions supported either the Roman Pope or the Avignon Pope. This article provides an overview of the events, causes, and resolution of the Western Schism.

Background

The Western Schism is often viewed within the broader context of the Avignon Papacy, a period from 1309 to 1376 when the seat of the Papacy was moved from Rome to Avignon, a city in present-day France. This relocation led to significant political and spiritual challenges within the church, culminating in the schism.

Causes

The immediate cause of the Western Schism was the election of two popes in 1378. After the return of the papacy to Rome in 1377, Pope Gregory XI died, leading to the election of Urban VI. However, Urban VI's reforms and temperament led to dissatisfaction among the cardinals, who then elected Clement VII as a rival pope, returning the papal court to Avignon. The deeper causes of the schism were both political, involving the power struggles between the Papal States and secular European powers, and ecclesiastical, concerning the authority and unity of the church.

The Schism

The schism resulted in a divided allegiance among Europe's ruling dynasties, with France, Scotland, and some Spanish kingdoms recognizing the Avignon papacy, while England, most of Italy, and the Holy Roman Empire supported the Roman claimant. This division affected not just the church's hierarchy but also its ordinary believers, leading to confusion and conflict over ecclesiastical authority and legitimacy.

Resolution

The schism was resolved through the Council of Constance (1414-1418), which deposed or accepted the resignation of the rival popes and elected Martin V as the sole pope in 1417, effectively ending the schism. The council also initiated reforms aimed at preventing future schisms and addressing some of the church's structural weaknesses.

Impact

The Western Schism had a profound impact on the Roman Catholic Church, highlighting the need for reform and questioning the nature of papal authority. It also paved the way for the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century by undermining the papacy's moral authority and exposing the political dimensions of ecclesiastical decisions.

See Also

• Avignon Papacy
• Council of Constance
• Papal States
• Protestant Reformation

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