The Council of Toulouse

The Council of Toulouse, held in 1229, was a significant assembly of church leaders aimed at addressing issues related to heresy, particularly the Cathar movement in southern France. It established strict measures against heretical beliefs, including prohibiting the laity from owning copies of the Bible. This council aimed to strengthen the authority of the Church and curb the spread of ideas deemed heretical. It reflected the Church's broader efforts during the Middle Ages to maintain doctrinal control and promote unity within Christianity amidst growing dissent and the rise of various religious movements.