WHI-Chap20-Pope Gregory VII

Pope Gregory VII (1073-1085 CE) "ordered an end to the practice of lay investiture-the selection and installation of church officials by lay rulers such as the emperors" (Traditions and Encounters, 512) as a means to guarantee that the clergy "met appropriate spiritual criteria" (Traditions and Encounters, 512). He also outlawed simony, the practice of kings selling jobs to bishops, in 1075 and gave the church control over appointing officials. His orders and his excommunicating Emperor Henry IV for defying his policy and appointing his own bishop led to the Investiture Controversy.

Created by: Haley Cambra WHI Second Semester Home