Question

Why could the Pope not appoint priests and bishops in France from 1789-1801? Who had the right to do so?

a) The French monarchy appointed priests and bishops during that period.

b) The French Revolutionary government seized control of the Church and made appointments.

c) The Pope voluntarily relinquished his authority in France during that time.

d) The French clergy appointed their own priests and bishops without papal involvement.

Answer 1

The Pope could not appoint priests and bishops in France from 1789-1801 because the French Revolutionary government asserted control over the Church's appointments.

b is correct

Step-by-step explanation:

The reason the Pope could not appoint priests and bishops in France from 1789-1801 is because the French Revolutionary government took control of the Church during this time. Thus, the correct answer to the question is (b) The French Revolutionary government seized control of the Church and made appointments.

During the French Revolution, the relationship between the Church and the state underwent significant changes, including the enactment of the Civil Constitution of the Clergy in 1790, which brought the election of priests and bishops under the control of the state. Despite the historical practice of popes appointing church officials, dating back to the investiture controversy and the subsequent transitions of power between monarchs and the papacy, during this revolutionary period, the government asserted its authority, thereby restricting the Pope's influence within French borders.