What are three reasons for the decline of the papacy?

Answer 1

The decline of the papacy can be attributed to several factors: first, the rise of nation-states led to increased political power among secular leaders, diminishing the pope's influence over European monarchs. Second, the Protestant Reformation challenged the authority of the papacy, resulting in the fragmentation of Christianity and the establishment of alternative religious institutions. Finally, internal corruption and scandals within the Church diminished its moral authority, leading to widespread disillusionment among the faithful.