There have been 11 popes named Innocent. Please pick one.
Between the papacies of Pope Gregory VII and Pope Innocent III, the political power of the Catholic Church significantly increased. Pope Gregory VII (1073-1085) asserted the Church's authority over secular rulers, particularly through the Investiture Controversy, which challenged lay investiture. By the time of Pope Innocent III (1198-1216), the Church had solidified its influence, wielding considerable power over monarchs, exemplified by his ability to excommunicate King John of England and place England under interdict. This period marked a transition from a church seeking independence to one that actively engaged in and shaped political affairs across Europe.
Pope Innocent VI was reigning in 1357.
Pope Innocent III called for a crusade against heretics in France primarily to combat the Albigensian heresy, which threatened the unity and authority of the Catholic Church. The Albigensians, who held dualistic beliefs that contradicted orthodox Christianity, gained significant support in the region. By launching a crusade, Innocent aimed to restore religious purity, eliminate heretical teachings, and reinforce the power of the Church in France. This campaign, known as the Albigensian Crusade, also served to consolidate royal power and expand the influence of the Church in the region.
The Pope's move and the establishment of a rival pope divided the Church's supporters.
Pope Innocent III unfairly treated King John of England by excommunicating him and placing England under interdict in 1208 due to John's refusal to accept the pope's choice for Archbishop of Canterbury. This severe action not only isolated John from the Church but also effectively undermined his authority and control over his subjects, as the interdict suspended religious services and sacraments. Innocent's actions were seen as politically motivated, aiming to assert papal power over the English monarchy. Ultimately, this conflict contributed to John's increasing unpopularity and his eventual loss of territories in France.
When the pope took power and led the army of soldiers, women, and elderly, it made it seem like the pope had plenty of power of everything. Not only that, it also expanded the power in the church.
Pope Innocent I died on 417-03-12.
Pope Innocent V was born in 1225.
Pope Innocent IV was born in 1195.
Pope Innocent VI was born in 1282.
Pope Innocent III was born in 1160.