Ecclesiastical Reforms

Ecclesiastical reforms refer to efforts aimed at improving the church's structure, practices, and morality. These reforms often emerged in response to issues like corruption, political interference, and lax religious practices within the clergy. Historically significant movements include the Gregorian Reforms in the 11th century, which sought to eliminate simony (the buying of church offices) and enforce clerical celibacy. These reforms aimed to restore the integrity and spiritual authority of the church, ensuring it aligned more closely with its religious mission. Ultimately, ecclesiastical reforms shaped the relationship between the church and society, influencing religious practices and governance.