Questions and Answers
What is the Great Schism?
Break of Communion between the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church.
What was the problem between the East and the West about priests?
The Eastern priests could marry before they became priests; the West didn't agree.
What did the Roman and the Eastern Church disagree about their Mass?
The Roman Church used unleavened bread in their mass; the East thought this was too 'Jewish'.
In 1054, what was the final straw?
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Who is Michael Cerularius?
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What is excommunication?
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Who was the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church?
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Who was the Patriarch of the Eastern Orthodox Church?
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Study Notes
Overview of the Great Schism
- The Great Schism represents the division between the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church.
- This split marked a significant moment in Christian history, leading to lasting theological, political, and cultural differences.
Key Issues Contributing to the Schism
- Priestly Celibacy: Eastern Orthodox priests had the right to marry prior to ordination, contrasting with the Roman Catholic Church's enforced celibacy for priests.
- Mass Practices: The Roman Catholic Church utilized unleavened bread during Mass, while the Eastern Orthodox Church viewed this practice as excessively "Jewish" and non-traditional.
Major Events Leading to the Schism
- Filioque Clause: The addition of the filioque clause to the Nicene Creed by the Western Church in 1054, asserting that the Holy Spirit proceeds from both the Father and the Son, was a pivotal point of contention.
Key Figures
- Michael Cerularius: As the Patriarch of Constantinople, he played a crucial role in the schism, particularly through his excommunication of Pope Leo IX.
- Pope Leo IX: His interactions with Cerularius and insistence on papal authority contributed to the fracture between the two Churches.
Important Terms
- Excommunication: This is the most severe punishment in the Christian Church, involving exclusion from the community of the faithful.
Current Leadership
- Pope Francis: The current Pope leading the Roman Catholic Church.
- Patriarch Kirill: The head of the Eastern Orthodox Church, representing its interests and traditions.
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Description
Explore key concepts related to the Great Schism, including differences between the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches. This quiz will help you understand the historical context and doctrinal disagreements that led to this significant split in Christianity.
