There is much we can learn from the Great Schism of 1054. “The
church was split along doctrinal, theological, linguistic, political and
geographical lines” (Lumen). The Roman empire was in
decline; there were invasions by the barbarians, from Islam and from the
Scandinavians. By 410, Rome was conquered, and its emperor deposed. The period
resulting was characterized by Tony Lane (88) as “a period of turmoil and
anarchy, with the near collapse of civilization”. By 800, Charlemagne (King of
the Franks) was declared the new Roman emperor. This move was strategic for the
Christian church. As with all events, there are opportunities and challenges,
depending on if you see the glass as half empty or half full.
