1. Homework MA #1 due tomorrow Next current events article due Friday

2. Aim #4: How did the Roman Catholic Church bring stability to Western Europe after the fall of the Roman Empire? Do Now: Describe three achievements of the Byzantine Empire that we discussed on Thursday and Friday. Do you think the history of the Byzantine Empire confirms or contradicts the fact that the Middle Ages were the “Dark Ages?”

3. I. The Organization of the Roman Catholic Church A. Lowest Level - Parish Priest: Connects people to the church on a local level - Preaches gospels and teachings of the Church, administers the seven sacraments (including baptism, confirmation ceremony, confession, marriage ceremonies, last rites).

4. I. The Organization of the Roman Catholic Church B. Middle Level - Bishop: Responsible for all priests and Christians in his diocese (city or community over which he has authority). Multiple diocese might be under the authority of an archbishop. The most powerful Bishops are in: Rome, Jerusalem, Alexandria and Antioch.

5. I. The Organization of the Roman Catholic Church C. Highest Level - Bishop of Rome becomes the Pope, head of the Catholic Church. Pope Gregory I (590-604)

6. II. Monasticism A. Monks and Nuns were men and women who wanted to live a life cut off from human society so they could dedicate all of their time to God. Monks = Live in MonasteriesNuns = Live in Convents

7. II. Monasticism B. Three vows of monks and nuns : - Obedience to the abbot or abbess (head of the monastery or convent) - Poverty: Does one have to be poor to be truly spiritual? - Chastity: Do you think this rule should be changed today? Does it bring people closer to god?

8. II. Monasticism C. How did monasteries and convents come to play such a powerful role in Western European society during the Middle Ages?

9. II. Monasticism - Schools - Hospitals - Lodging for travelers - Translated ancient texts / centers of learning - Missionaries