The Gregorian Reform

The Gregorian Reform, occurring in the 11th century, was a movement led by Pope Gregory VII aimed at improving the moral integrity and independence of the Church. It sought to end practices like simony (the buying of church offices) and to reduce the influence of secular rulers over the Church. The reforms emphasized celibacy for clergy and promoted the idea that the pope held ultimate spiritual authority. This initiative significantly shaped the relationship between church and state, leading to conflicts, particularly with Henry IV of Germany, and set the stage for future church reforms and developments in Western Christianity.