This week in Christian history: Samuel Johnson dies, Isabella Thoburn arrives in India and Pope Innocent III elected

Pope Innocent III elected – Jan. 8, 1198

This week marks the anniversary of when Lothario of Segni, a member of a Roman aristocratic family, was elected pope while still in his 30s, and took the name Innocent III.

Educated at the University of Paris and the University of Bologna, Innocent III is considered one of the more prominent popes of the Medieval era, having engaged in efforts to both reform the Church and expand its power and influence in Europe.

“Innocent III sought to assert the supremacy of the papacy both spiritually and temporally,” noted EBSCO. “He intervened in numerous political matters across Europe, including disputes in the Holy Roman Empire and conflicts with English King John.”

“Despite the mixed perceptions of his motivations — some viewing him as overly ambitious for temporal power while others see his actions as extensions of spiritual duty — Innocent III played a crucial role in shaping the medieval Church's authority and influence, striving for unity among Christians during a time of significant upheaval.”