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This week in Christian history: Philippine Independent Church founded, church historian dies
Pope Stephen III consecrated – Aug. 7, 768
This week marks the anniversary of the consecration of Pope Stephen III, a Benedictine monk and native of Sicily, who was known for his involvement in European politics.
Stephen III had a chaotic rise to power in the Catholic Church, as several figures attempted to become the bishop of Rome following the death of Pope Paul I in 767.
After securing his position as pope, Stephen III made efforts to limit the influence of nobility on the papacy and became involved in political matters between the Franks and the Lombards.
“The pope later became embroiled in a scheme to stop a proposed marriage alliance between the Frankish rulers and the family of the Lombard king. When Pope Stephen III finally accepted an alliance in 771 A.D. with the Lombards, it caused a backlash in Rome,” noted Pope History.
“The leaders of the pro-Frankish party in the Eternal City were murdered. In a twist of fate, Frankish King Carloman passed away before he was able to march down and exact vengeance for the injustice. This left his brother Charlemagne as the sole ruler of the Franks and King of the Romans.”
Confusingly, Pope Stephen III is sometimes known as Pope Stephen IV. This stems from an earlier individual who was elected pope and slated to become Stephen II, but who died before he was consecrated. Disagreements exist over whether to count that figure among the line of popes.
