one's relatives, especially in matters of employment, promotion, or other benefits, often without regard for their qualifications. In terms of the Reformation, nepotism was a prevalent issue within the Roman Catholic Church, especially during the period leading up to and following the Protestant Reformation.
During the Renaissance, the papacy became increasingly involved in secular affairs, and many popes appointed their relatives to key positions of power within the Church, such as bishoprics and cardinalships. This practice was widely criticized by reformers, who saw it as corrupt and contrary to the Church's mission to serve the spiritual needs of its followers.