How a Murder Solved a Theological Debate

Rome, 897.On a gray January day, the streets of the Eternal City fill with bakers, monks, and merchants, all walking toward the Lateran Basilica. Inside, beneath flickering candles and the scent of incense, a corpse sits on the papal throne. What follows is one of the strangest trials in church history: a pope on trial months after his death.This is the story of the Cadaver Synod. A mix of political revenge, theological controversy, and public outrage that forced the Church to answer a question still relevant today: Does the validity of a sacrament depend on the holiness of the person who gives it?Theology Made is a reader/listener-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Theology Made at theologymade.substack.com/subscribe