The Role and Influence of the Church

In the Middle Ages peoples' lives were not simply ruled by the King or the local Lord.  For most people the Church had a huge impact on their lives.  The Roman Catholic Church dominated Europe.  The Pope was the head of the Church and he had great influence.  In many ways it is probably easier to think of him being like a King.  Popes would try to control and influence Medieval Kings; but the Kings did not like the Pope interfering in their Kingdoms.  This often could lead to disagreement.  However, Medieval Kings also wanted to show their piety or faith and this meant they often led Crusades to the Holy Land.  In Medieval England the Church was a rich and powerful force.  It was a major landowner and Archbishops and Bishops would be tenants-in-chief.  This meant they would help advise the King.  Churchmen could read and write and played a useful role in government.  This meant they were often called Clerics and were used to keep records.  The King's main minister was called the Chancellor.  He was the keeper of the Great Seal which was used to prove that the King had approved important documents.  The Chancellor was Head of the Chancery and was an important church leader

Check out the PowerPoint on the Role of the Church here.  The worksheet is here and some doom paintings are here.