Synod of the Dead: how Catholics brought the dead pope to court (5 photos)

It seems that the representatives of the higher clergy should be a model of ethics, humility and sublimity. But they can too make wild decisions and burn like a child.





This historical fact is unique in its kind. Similar was not recorded either before or after. In 897 papal Pope Stephen VI ascended the throne. And for some political reasons he decided to arrange

demonstrative flogging

judgment to his predecessor. Stephen did not mind that Bishop Formosus safely reposed a year earlier and was, as expected, buried.



Stephen and Formos

The body was removed from the grave, dressed in appropriate robes and was placed on the throne in the Lateran Basilica. Let there be judgment! who entered into history as synodus horrenda - a terrible (or corpse) synod. And the judgment has begun with accusations of perfidious behavior, holding illegal Christian sacraments and other sins.

Due to the inability to answer independently (at unfortunate and the language, most likely, was no longer there), sat behind the throne deacon and imitated the voice of the late Formosus.



The dead man, as expected, was found guilty on all counts. And in the punishment was cut off on the right hand, with which he blessed the flock, fingers. Then the remains, tied to a horse, were demonstratively dragged all over Rome and thrown into the river.



But Stefan was not happy for long. The public revolted pissed off at this behavior. The uprising began. Dad was put in dungeon, where they were soon safely strangled. And he should be grateful that the second corpse synod with him in the title role was not organized.



Saint Paul's Cathedral

Subsequently, this synod was formally condemned by the clergy. Poor Formosa, who was fished out and secretly buried by the monks, rehabilitated and reburied now in St. Peter's Cathedral with corresponding honors. All documents were destroyed, and Pope John IX introduced an official ban on judging the dead. It must be assumed that active servants of the Lord no longer arranged such senseless and creepy performances.