Council of Florence

Definition

The Council of Florence was an ecumenical council held from 1431 to 1445, aimed at addressing issues of Church reform and the reunification of the Eastern and Western Christian churches. It played a crucial role in the development of Roman Catholic doctrine, especially regarding the understanding of salvation, the sacraments, and the authority of the Pope.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Council of Florence was initiated to reconcile differences between the Roman Catholic Church and Eastern Orthodox Churches, which had been separated since the Great Schism of 1054.
2. One of the most significant outcomes was the endorsement of the doctrine that the Holy Spirit proceeds from both the Father and the Son, which became known as 'Filioque'.
3. Despite its intentions for unity, the council ultimately failed to achieve lasting reconciliation between the two branches of Christianity.
4. The Council affirmed various doctrines on salvation, emphasizing that salvation comes through faith and works as part of God's grace.
5. It also addressed issues related to Church governance, reinforcing papal authority and establishing norms for future ecumenical councils.

Review Questions

• How did the Council of Florence attempt to address the schism between the Eastern and Western churches?
  • The Council of Florence aimed to mend the rift caused by the Great Schism by inviting representatives from both Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches. It facilitated discussions on theological disagreements, such as those surrounding papal authority and doctrinal beliefs like 'Filioque'. Despite attempts at reconciliation, including agreements on doctrinal points, many Eastern leaders rejected these outcomes upon returning to their communities, highlighting the deep-seated divisions that remained.
• What were some key theological doctrines affirmed at the Council of Florence, and why were they significant?
  • At the Council of Florence, key theological doctrines included reaffirmation that salvation is obtained through faith and works combined with God's grace. The council also addressed the Filioque controversy, asserting that the Holy Spirit proceeds from both the Father and the Son. These affirmations were significant as they not only clarified Catholic beliefs but also marked a response to Orthodox critiques, ultimately shaping how Catholic doctrine would be articulated in subsequent centuries.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of the Council of Florence on Roman Catholic doctrine and its relations with other Christian denominations.
  • The long-term impact of the Council of Florence on Roman Catholic doctrine was profound as it solidified key theological positions, particularly regarding salvation and papal authority. The council's failure to achieve unity with Eastern Orthodox Churches illustrated ongoing divisions within Christianity that would influence relations for centuries. Additionally, its emphasis on papal supremacy set a precedent for future councils and shaped Catholic identity during periods of reform and conflict, ultimately affecting how Catholicism interacted with Protestant movements in later years.

Related terms

Ecumenical Council: A formal assembly of bishops convened to discuss and settle matters of Church doctrine and practice across different Christian denominations.

Papal Authority: The supreme authority held by the Pope over the Roman Catholic Church, particularly in matters of faith, morality, and Church governance.

Filioque Controversy:

A theological dispute between Eastern Orthodox and Western Catholic churches concerning the phrase 'and the Son' in the Nicene Creed, which was addressed at the Council of Florence.