- Publisher |
- Pontifacts
- Media Type |
- audio
- Podknife tags |
- Christianity,
- Comedy,
- History,
- Religion & Spirituality,
- Society & Culture
- Country Of Origin |
- Canada
- Produced In |
- British Columbia
- Premiere Date |
- 2018-05-21
- Frequency |
- Monthly
- Explicit |
- No
This podcast currently has no reviews.
Submit ReviewAs one of the most famous and bizarre moments in papal history, we had to spend some extra time digging through the Cadaver Synod! In this special bonus episode, we are joined by Gregg of the Popeular History podcast, to explore and review many things that this event inspired. We'll discuss sources, paintings, music, musicals, and more!
Images:
Jean Paul Laurens, “Pope Formosus and Stephen VI, the Cadaver Synod”, 1870 At the Musee des Beaux Arts in Nantes: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/bf/Jean_Paul_Laurens_Le_Pape_Formose_et_Etienne_VI_1870.jpg/1280px-Jean_Paul_Laurens_Le_Pape_Formose_et_Etienne_VI_1870.jpg
Unknown Alamy: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/56/Cadaver_Synod.jpg
The Cadaver Synod, the posthumous ecclesiastical trial of Pope Formosus, 897, engraving from the Middle Ages, 1892, by Francesco Bertolini (1836-1909), with illustrations by Lodovico Pogliaghi (1857-1950). Biblioteca Ambrosiana: assets-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/app/uploads/2022/11/23121220/GettyImages-935422378-770x1091.jpg.webp">https://discovery-assets-production.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/app/uploads/2022/11/23121220/GettyImages-935422378-770x1091.jpg.webp
Cadaver Synod by Hippolite Magen 1857 https://www.bridgemanimages.com/en-US/noartistknown/title/notechnique/asset/4944939
"Le pape Formose et Etienne VII". Le concile cadaverique Gravure pour illustrer Histoire des papes par Maurice Lachatre (1814-1900), librairie du progres, Paris. pape-formose-et-etienne-vii-le-concile-cadaverique-897-le-cadavre-du-pape-formose-formoso-formosus-pape-de-891-a-896-revetu-de-ses-habi-image331922551.html?imageid=6B83FC86-C1F1-4AFB-A17B-3CBB25432BED&p=1169799&pn=1&searchId=856dd054def096977f5ecc6bd8180f46&searchtype=0">https://www.alamy.com/le-pape-formose-et-etienne-vii-le-concile-cadaverique-897-le-cadavre-du-pape-formose-formoso-formosus-pape-de-891-a-896-revetu-de-ses-habi-image331922551.html?imageid=6B83FC86-C1F1-4AFB-A17B-3CBB25432BED&p=1169799&pn=1&searchId=856dd054def096977f5ecc6bd8180f46&searchtype=0
Wild Ambition Brewing: https://wildambition.beer/
Cadaver Synod Musical IndieGogo: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-cadaver-synod-a-pope-musical#/
Guests and Readings: Gregg of Popeular History: https://popeularhistory.podbean.com/ Liutprand - Brendan of Tsar Power: https://open.spotify.com/show/49JyFkdWvSy0sKv37W8YX6 Platina - Ben of Wittenberg to Westphalia: https://play.acast.com/s/wittenbergtowestphalia#:~:text=by%20Benjamin%20Jacobs%20Go%20to,Modern%20Period%20of%20European%20history. Mann - Rob of Totalus Rankium: https://totalusrankium.podbean.com/
We've finally made it to the mad Stephen!! Are you ready!? In his episode, we discuss the moment that changed papal history for hundreds of years. Welcome to the Cadaver Synod!!
What, were you expecting someone else?!
In his episode, we discuss potential viciousness, deprivation of clerical orders, and the hottest 90 year old man ever.
We're back!!! (Note: this episode was recorded BEFORE our hiatus) Formosus is one of the most famous popes in history, though not for anything he actually did in life. But this episode will be about his life anyways! In his episode, we'll have a look at his dramatic pre-pope career, the state of the Eastern Church and Holy Roman Empire, and the summer of George.
Please join us in giving a warm welcome to our new editor, Gregg Gassman, of Popeular History and Cardinal Numbers!
Pontifacts is coming back.
Get ready for Formosus!
Eric, host of Ranking '76 invite Bry and Fry to join several of the Rexypod family pods for some trivia fun!
Watch the full video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pX3yPYsy-mY&ab_channel=Ranking76Podcast
Check out Ranking '76: https://ranking76podcast.podbean.com/ Check out Tsar Power: https://open.spotify.com/show/49JyFkdWvSy0sKv37W8YX6 Check out Nobelesse Oblige: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nobelesse-oblige/id1637021887
Today, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI died.
In this episode, we provide a short obituary and what we know about the upcoming funeral, and discuss the future of Pontifacts
We're back into the TTRPG world!
With Kyle DMing the amazing new TTRPG that he designed, Under the Neighborhood, Ari from Quest Friends! and Rob from Totalus Rankium, Bry plays through the mysterious and strange "Historia Lane", where all Pontifacts and Totalus Rankium jokes are literal and real!
Listen for zombies, birds, elections, betrayal, heartbreak, revenge, and so much more.
Quest Friends: https://www.questfriendspodcast.com/pontifacts Under the Neighborhood: https://questfriends.itch.io/neighborhood Totalus Rankium: https://totalusrankium.podbean.com/
Who is going to be the next pope? This is a question that seems to have more and more traction every day, and many sources speculate on the possibility of each cardinal to come out on top of the next conclave. But what should we be looking at to determine papal potential?
Introducing Gabe, the creator of the Papability Index, an algorithm that determines the likelihood of a cardinal to be pope.
In this interview, Gabe and Bry discussed the creation of the formula, the factors that he feels are the most important, the most (and least) likely candidates, and how he has applied the formula to previous conclaves.
Find Gabe at: https://twitter.com/pope_predictor
Though the Vatican has been the literal 'old boys club', women have still made their mark on its history! Join Bry and James of The Other Half Podcast, as they discuss two medieval women who made waves in the church - Pope Joan, and Marozia of the Pornocracy.
James will be periodically joining us to discuss other significant women figures as we move through different eras in time.
You can find James and the Other Half Podcast here:https://www.theotherhalfpodcast.co.uk/
Important Note: One week after this interview, Pope Michael suffered a cerebral hemorrhage and died on August 2nd, 2022. We are releasing this episode because he was excited for us to do so, but we have left the content untouched.
On July 16th, 1990, 6 people gathered in a General Store in Belvue, Kansas, and elected a Pope.
And that Pope has spoken to us! Join us in an interview with Pope Michael, to explore sedevacantism, conclavism, and the papacy of the "One true" Catholic Church. Bry and Pope Michael discuss his beliefs, how his papacy came to be, his views on current struggles in the church, and what his church looks like in 2022.
Visit Pope Michael's website:
Although we've been on hiatus, Pope Francis has been busy! Tune in for an update on the show, and coverage of Pope Francis, delegations to the Vatican, Apostolic Visits, his health and mobility issues, and the new consistory.
Tickets for Intelligent Speech: https://www.intelligentspeechconference.com/ Use code Pope for a discount
Given that Pontifacts remains in unexpected hiatus, Bry was invited by Gregg of the Popeular History Podcast to discuss his favourite (and Bry's LEAST favourite) theory about Pope Francis!
In this episode, Gregg and Bry discuss Francis's attitude and commentary about retirement, the Apostolic Constitution, the College of Cardinals, and the one thing they both fervently agree on - their top pick for the next pope!
Find Gregg and the Popeular History Podcast here: https://popeularhistory.podbean.com/
We will once again be speaking at the Intelligent Speech Conference!
Intelligent Speech takes place online, on June 25th, from 10AM-6PM FST
Tickets are available below, use code POPE at checkout for a discount!
Due to naming confusion, Pope Stephen V is often called Stephen VI - but he is not THAT Stephen VI!
In his episode, we will discuss his response to the locust-caused famine, special dispensations in light of Saracen violence, the final decision on the Slavonic liturgy, and the END of the Carolingian Dynasty!
Sources on Adrian's papacy are very confused about just about everything!
In his episode, we discuss Hadrian's severe anti-corruption crackdown, a literal plague of locusts, a Diet in Worms (not -that- Diet of Worms), and whether any of it happened when we think it did.
In this very special Actual Play episode, we were invited by Zoe and Mac of the Maniculum Podcast to play through the Green Knight TTRPG game, inspired by the A24 release of the Green Knight Movie
Listen as we team up with Andy and John from Saga Thing, and Mary from BookSquadGoals on an adventure to redeem our honour, and face impending death at the hands of the Green Knight!
Playing through literature-inspired games is super fun with Medievalists!!
Visit the Maniculum Podcast: https://www.themaniculumpodcast.com/
This week, we're playing this terrible and nonsensical click-your-own-adventure game.
https://clickhole.com/can-you-keep-an-eye-on-the-pope-for-just-5-minutes-1825124327/
Although there is some confusion over Pope Marinus and his name, one thing that is perfectly clear is that his papacy set an important precedent in papal elections! In his episode, we discuss his approach to the ongoing Formosus situation, his relationship with a rexy king, and another spiritual blow in the Muslim conflict.
Please forgive our warbles, our mics were pure chaos this time around.
Pope Mad Hook assumes the papacy, and is faced with all the danger! In his episode, we discuss a full on pirate defense of Rome, difficult Guidos, a major shift in how the Holy Roman Emperors were chosen, and the first conflicts of Formosus - with shocking consequences!
Adrian refused being elected pope twice before his actual pontificate, most likely because he was a married family man!
In his episode, we discuss a surprise invasion of Rome, the somewhat resolution of the Lotharian divorce issue, courting the conversion of Buglars and Slavs, and the MOST perplexing murder.
"Few popes hold a more dominating place in the history of the Catholic Church than Nicholas I." So much so, that many church historians and scholars argue that he should be considered Pope Nicholas the Great! But does he hold up to Pope Leo and Gregory? We're going to decide once and for all!
In his episode, we discuss Nicholas's many conflicts against the troublesome Archbishop John of Ravenna, the haughty Archbishop Hincmar of Rheims, the illegitimate Patriarch Photius of Constantinople, and most importantly, the divorce of Lothair II.
It turns out he was the punchy ol' Saint Nicholas all along!
Audio note: Bry's working with a new microphone, there might be a warble or two. It's learning.
Huge thanks to Ben of Fukushima Laser Shark for our jingle!
During our exploration of the Frankish Papacy, Dr. Rutger Kramer has been our academic hero, providing access to sources, and inspiring thought-provoking discussions that resulted in much more informative episodes. So it only seemed right that we invite him on to the show, to provide his expertise!
In this episode, Bry and Rutger discuss the concepts of power, state, and church for both the Carolingians and the Papacy, the complicated dynamics of the Carolingian-Papal relationship, and critically evaluating our contemporary sources!
Find Rutger: https://twitter.com/AnotherAspirin
For this special Christmas crossover, we joined up with Battle Royale to talk about important French Saints, in all their grisly glory!
Check out Battle Royale:
https://battleroyale.buzzsprout.com/1804279?s=09
https://twitter.com/BattleRoyalePod
Show description:
The most wonderful time of the year was made even more wonderful by our first ever guests, Bry and Fry of the Pontifacts podcast, who rate all of the popes from Peter to Francis. Complemented as ever by the splendid humour of Fry and Eliza, Bry and Ben recount the tales of the five patron saints of France who have been woven into our story so far: Saint Petronilla, Saint Denis, Saint Martin, Saint Remy and Saint Radegund.
This is definitely not your average Christmas episode! We've got a guy carrying his own severed head, an emperor's butt being set on fire and a dove descending from the sky with a Molotov cocktail, just to name a few incidents. We also find out that not only could women read in the Dark Ages (shocker!), but one of them could even speak to frogs! How very French of her.
Pope Benedict was the actual pope to follow Leo IV, not Pope Joan! In his episode, we discuss a dramatic and confusing antipapacy, why his Liber Pontificalis entry is often missing, complicated consequences of the Iconoclasm, and... astral dew.
It's time to answer another important question – WHY Pope Joan? If she didn’t exist, what purpose does the legend of Pope Joan serve?
In this episode, we discuss what Pope Joan represents about the church, popes, and women, and who she might have been created to attack.
Note: In this episode, something went off-kilter with Bry's microphone! Please bear with us and our substandard audio quality.
The secret has been revealed, and now its time for the whole of the Pope Joan mythos!
In her episode, we discuss the origins of the legend, the arguments for and against her existence, possible 'hints' of Joan in art and architecture, and the ball touching chair - 'Testiculos habet, et bene pedentes!'
Pope Johannes has a secret.
Pope Leo may have been a 'despiser of the self', but there are plenty of reasons for us to like him! In his episode, we discuss the fortification of Rome and Leonine City just in time for the Battle of Ostia, some very important disobedient clerics, a surprise Rexy appearance, and Raphael dicks.
Pope Sergius "Hog's Mouth" was the most pure boy, but also a grumpy gouty man who faces one of the greatest losses in church history. In his episode, we discuss why popes aren't called Peter, what happens when you contend with an antipope and the Constitutio Romanum at once, what happens when God "sends pagans to avenge what Christians fail to amend", what happens when you leave your treasures outside, and all the blame we should bestow upon his brother.
We're back with Gregory IV, an energetic but mild small dog man. In his episode, we discuss fights over Farfa, the protracted Frankish civil wars, world-changing events being blamed on women, and ruses for betrayal!
Will Gregory be as frustrated with the Franks as Fry is?
Pontifacts is going on a brief hiatus, due to surprise moves!
We'll be back as soon as we possibly can - keep an eye on our social media for announcements as to when that will be.
Thank you as always for your understanding and support!
Pope Valentine (not that Valentine) was very close with our last pope, which lead to serious confusion about what exactly their relationship was. In his episode, we discuss his pre-papal status, the confusion over the Constitutio Romanum, and the very uncomfortable potential of scandal.
Brace yourselves, our podcast mascots had plenty to say this episode.
Pope Eugene, this time not a ghost, or spiders, wanted to ensure that he maintained a solid relationship with the Franks. And to do that, some compromises must be made. In his episode, we discuss the extremely important Constitutio Romanum, the Council of Rome 826, and which Jungle Book characters the Frankish kings should be.
We've reached 100 main episodes, just in time for our three year anniversary! And Paschal is about to make some significant changes!
In his episode we'll discuss a monumental building effort in Rome, the translations of saints relics, and factional, probably totally complicit murder.
Pope Stephen IV is NOT Stephen VI. In his episode, we discuss the symbolic importance of the coronation of Louis the Pious, Jesus's sandals, and we ask important questions about where you would rather be kissed.
As a non-noble elected to the Papacy, Leo received a terrible welcome. Fortunately, miracles and Charlemagne made things right. In his episode, we discuss the precedents of judging a pope and oaths of purgation, Holy Roman Emperors, and so much about Carolingian mythmaking that Fry can't take it.
Surprise! In this bonus episode, Bry is joined by Neil of War and Conquest Podcast to talk more about Charlemagne, more Papal States, and discuss whether Pope Hadrian should be on Top 10 pope lists.
War and Conquest: https://www.warandconquest.com/ https://twitter.com/warandconquest1
While Paul Afiarta conspired to secure the papacy, the elite and very popular Hadrian secured the votes instead - and things were about to change!
In his episode, we discuss the fall of Paul Afiarta, the fall of Desiderius and the Lombard Kingdom, the emergence of an empire, and the hardcore bromance with the French Man.
PS- Pontifacts mascot Ridley had plenty to say in this episode, apologies!
Pope Stephen's election comes at a time where the people of the newly established papal states are grappling with having the Pope as their new secular leader. Violence ensues.
In his episode we discuss Duke Toto and his antipope, King Desiderius and his antipope, the rise and fall of Chris and Serg, and the new Franks in charge.
The brother of our last Pope, Paul was a capable diplomat, and a fitting choice to continue Stephen's policies. In his episode, we discuss the threat of the Lombards, the threat of the Byzantines, the threat of a Byzantine-Lombard alliance, Saint Petronilla, and no-lady zones.
Intelligent Speech tickets available here:
https://www.intelligentspeechconference.com/ Use code PONT for 10% off
Intelligent Speech is back, and we will be speaking!
We will be joining forces with Steve of History of the Papacy to talk about the Pope's Secret Escape passageway, and Bry will be participating in a panel on Italy with Steve, Mike of History of Italy, and Marco of Storia d'Italia.
Tickets are available at https://www.intelligentspeechconference.com/
Use code PONT for 10% off your ticket.
The real pope Stephen II has a pontificate that marks many very important paradigm shifts that will change the role of the papacy from here on out.
In his episode, we discuss the beginning of the Frankish papacy, yet another Lombard threat, the Donation of Pepin, and the beginning of Popes crowning and legitimating the rule of Kings.
Stephen was elected to the papacy... that's about it. In his episode, we discuss the debate over when a pope becomes a pope, and the pontifical numbering confusion for the Stephens.
Pope Zachary, our last "Byzantine" pope, marks an important shift away from the Eastern Empire, towards... yet another empire.
In his episode, we discuss the ongoing Iconoclasm, calming the Lombard threat, evangelization in Germania, and how babies poop sometimes. Come for the bad Angelology, stay for "Here are your Hot Dogs": a broad overview of the Franks.
In this very special bonus episode and our first Agora collaboration, Bry and Fry sit down with Steve Guerra from the History of the Papacy to discuss favourite popes, favourite moments in papal history, and what draws us into the wild and complex legacy of the church.
Find the History of the Papacy here: https://www.atozhistorypage.com/
Pope Gregory III is the last non-European pope in the church until the election of Pope Francis. He also did not expect to be pope! In his episode, we discuss his unusual election, the frustrating obstacles to defending iconoclasm, the ongoing petty squabbles of the Lombards, horse meat, and some actual contact with Charles Martel!
Pope Gregory II, "the mouthy" has a lot to live up to in his namesake, and a lot of assassination attempts to see off. In his episode, we discuss a significant Tiber flood, an unusually specific synod, the beginning of the Papal States, and the ICONOCLASM. We also ask the important question... who is messing in the olive groves?!
Show Notes: Map of Rome: of-ROme-2.jpeg">https://theromanguy.com/wp-content/uploads/Hills-of-ROme-2.jpeg
Tonsure Image: tonsure.png">https://humoncomics.com/art/monk-tonsure.png
Papal Coat of Arms of Benedict XVI: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/68/Coat_of_Arms_of_Benedictus_XVI.svg/240px-Coat_of_Arms_of_Benedictus_XVI.svg.png
Lombard/Byzantine Italy: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liutprand,_King_of_the_Lombards#/media/File:Liutprand%27s_Italy.gif
After Sisinnius's sudden death, his brother Constantine was the perfect fit to succeed him as pope - he was attracted to the Eastern culture, he had a rapport with the Imperial family, and he had a streak of luck like we haven't seen in a long time. In his episode, we discuss weaboo-ing, vinegar blinding, and sneaky murdering.
Sisinnius would have made a great pope. In his episode, we discuss the growth of the Eastern influence in the Roman church, the state of the Aurelian walls, and gout.
Two Johns in a row! This one got the more unfortunate nickname... In his episode, we deal with John's gamble against the revenge driven Emperor Justinian No-Nose, regulations for clerical dress, and a possibly-definitely made up scandal Fry is not on board with.
Pope Salty Eye lived up to his name better than we could have ever hoped. In his episode, we discuss the unexpected arrival of the Exarch of Ravenna, the unexpected arrival of the Lombards, and the very expected arrival of Wilfrid of York. We also teach Fry's child how to use 'salty'.
(Narrator:"But Bry did not get her bad rolls, and her D&D character ended up insta-killed that very evening!")
We're extremely pleased to announce that Pontifacts is now a part of the Agora Podcast Network!
Visit the Agora website: https://www.agorapodcastnetwork.com/
After the death of Pope John V, a division between the Latin Romans and the new eastern Romans led to strong disagreements over who should be Pope. Enter Pope Conon. In his episode, we discuss famous Irish missionaries, Sicilian mistakes, and some Karenas.
Pope Blackfish was "in every way, temperate", but let's not get him out of bed.
In his episode, we discuss his role in the Third Council of Constantinople, continued imperial relations, presumptuous bishops, and we clearly don't know what Blackfish is about.
This second Benedict was yet another talented singer, and so was deeply loved by the Liber Pontificalis author. In his episode, we discuss the symbolic adoption of the Imperial sons, the latest appeals of Wilfrid of York, and... bountiful hands.
Shame Norman Boutin.
Leo made the greatest impression on the writer of the Liber Pontificalis, who has much to say about his beautiful singing voice. In his episode, we discuss the transfer of endangered relics, finalizing the Third Council of Constantinople, shoring up papal primacy in a contentious Ravenna, and Irish Bullies.
Notes: Celtic Monks - https://commons.m.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Meister_des_Book_of_Durrow_001.jpg#mw-jump-to-license
Pontifacts is 2 years old! To celebrate, we invited a group of our favourite podcasters to participate in an actual-play pope themed D&D adventure. Join us as this rag tag band of Byzantine ‘pilgrims’ attempt to kidnap Pope Martin I, and bring him back to the Emperor. Shenanigans ensue Cast: DM: Fry Constantine Constantius: Jamie of Totalus Rankium Constans: Rob of Totalus Rankium Milo: Ari of Quest Friends! Adesius: Josh of Drunk Church History Eanswythe: Bry
Hear our cast: Totalus Rankium: https://totalusrankium.podbean.com/ https://totalusrankiumap.podbean.com/ Quest Friends: https://www.questfriendspodcast.com/ Drunk Church History: https://drunkchurchhistory.podbean.com/ … all hail Bird Constans.
Campaign:
Pontifacts is 2 years old! To celebrate, we invited a group of our favourite podcasters to participate in an actual-play pope themed D&D adventure. Join us as this rag tag band of Byzantine ‘pilgrims’ attempt to kidnap Pope Martin I, and bring him back to the Emperor. Shenanigans ensue.
Cast: DM: Fry Constantine Constantius: Jamie of Totalus Rankium Constans: Rob of Totalus Rankium Milo: Ari of Quest Friends! Adesius: Josh of Drunk Church History Eanswythe: Bry
Hear our cast: Totalus Rankium: https://totalusrankium.podbean.com/ https://totalusrankiumap.podbean.com/ Quest Friends: https://www.questfriendspodcast.com/ Drunk Church History: https://drunkchurchhistory.podbean.com/
Campaign:
Pontifacts is 2 years old! To celebrate, we invited a group of our favourite podcasters to participate in an actual-play pope themed D&D adventure. Join us as this rag tag band of Byzantine ‘pilgrims’ attempt to kidnap Pope Martin I, and bring him back to the Emperor. Shenanigans ensue.
Cast: DM: Fry Constantine Constantius: Jamie of Totalus Rankium Constans: Rob of Totalus Rankium Milo: Ari of Quest Friends! Adesius: Josh of Drunk Church History Eanswythe: Bry Exarch: David of the Siecle Lady of the Night: Courtney of Cult of Domesticity
Hear our cast: Totalus Rankium: https://totalusrankium.podbean.com/ https://totalusrankiumap.podbean.com/ Quest Friends: https://www.questfriendspodcast.com/ Drunk Church History: https://drunkchurchhistory.podbean.com/ The Siecle: http://thesiecle.com/ Cult of Domesticity: https://domesticpodcast.podbean.com/
Campaign:
https://www.drivethrurpg.com/m/product/233069
Songs used: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVBgKCYrI-c https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yW4CySchxjI&list=PLhODZ6AEpil7QeRmoKNSvE5F6pJX8iRC6&index=8
We're still working on the Anniversary Special! Please bear with us!
For the time being, enjoy Bry being interviewed by Roifield Brown about the podcast, popes, and Intelligent Speech.
(Posted as is, interview recorded live)
Intelligent Speech is June 27th, 10 am to 6 pm EST, Online!We will be speaking about Pope Kids!Get your Intelligent Speech tickets here: https://www.intelligentspeechconference.com/10$ until June 10th/15$ until June 27th
The sixth ecumenical council of the church centered on the Monothelitism and Monoenergism controversies. After many years of struggle, the new emperor set his sights on religious reconciliation, and the result is a nearly yearlong council to confirm a dyothelite Christology. In this episode we discuss the Letter of Agatho, the acclamations of the fathers and anathemas of the besmirchers, and the spectacle of Polychronus and the corpse.
Agatho entered the church quite late after a full career in business, and life as a monk - two entire lives before the papacy. In his episode, we discuss a return of St Wilfrid of York, the papal letter that formed the foundation of the Third Council of Constantinople, and is there bugs?
Catch Maro at Storia D'Italia: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/ziyh4-a1352/Storia-d%27Italia-Podcast
Pontifacts will be appearing at Intelligent Speech 2020's virtual conference, with a talk on the children of the popes! Bry will also be sitting on a panel on Medieval history!
Intelligent Speech will be held on Saturday June 27th 10am-6pm EST
Find out more here: https://www.intelligentspeechconference.com/
Get your tickets here: https://www.intelligentspeechconference.com/product/online-ticket/
When Donus was elected to the papacy, he was already an old man, despite what his portrait would have you believe. In his episode, we discuss astronomical omens, the restoration of the autocephalous Ravenna, secret Nestorians, and an official fake pope who never existed. Also, we dive back down into the rabbit hole of the Celtic tonsure practices!
Pope Adeodatus spent the majority of his life as a monk, and brought his enthusiasm for monastic discipline to the papacy - but not like that zealot, Gregory. In his episode, we discuss new construction in Rome, the independence of Marmoutier Abbey in Tours, hints on the upcoming Doges of Venice, and omens.
PS - The Vatican virtual tour has been released, and we WILL be doing that together at some point soon.
Pope Vitalian had a new approach to the current conflicts between the Roman Church and Constantinople, which worked out in his favor. In his episode, we discuss the perplexing 663 Imperial visit to Rome, the problem of autocephalous Ravenna, what happens when a newly consecrated foreign bishop dies in Rome, and naturally, the devil’s ass hair and glass genitals.
Check out Lyceum at lyceum.fm
Given that Pope Martin never abdicated upon his arrest, Pope Eugene started his tenure as an antipope. Sort of. But meek Eugene would surprise everyone - including us, when he showed up to HAUNT US. Don't try new heresies, folks.
Real Dead Poets Society! Unrequited Love! Popes in Hell!
Dante Alighieri (1265 - 1321) was a nobleman, politician, and poet in Medieval Florence, Italy. Inspired by his childhood love, Beatrice, he went on to write the greatest piece of Italian poetry in the Divine Comedy—all while serving a lifelong exile from his beloved city.
(Fry and Bry join Josh from Drunk Church History to discuss Dante, because you know how much we love Dante!)
Listen to Drunk Church History: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/drunk-church-history/id1489613970 Drunk Church History on Twitter: https://twitter.com/dchpod
Martin had served as a papal legate in Dalmatia, and an apocrisiary in Constantinople, and he had come away from both with fairly sour opinions of the East. He took particular issue with Imperial interference in the papacy, and would repeatedly carry out bold decisions as pope that challenged the Emperor’s assumed hold over the church. In his episode, we discuss the aggressive escalation of the Monothelite conflict, the Council of the Lateran 649, and some very bad times.
Pope Theodore was born in Jerusalem, and found himself hastily relocating to Rome. In his episode, we discuss the Muslim conquest of the Levant, the worsening monothelite schism with Constantinople through the recanting recanter Pyrrhus and the doubling down Paul, and the Type of Constans. Also dog vomit.
We rolled a pretty euphemistic nickname for this pope. In his episode, we discuss the latest developments in the monothelite controversy, gentle defenses for Pope Honorius, and Slavic invasions in newly-Christianizing Dalmatia.
Potatoes.
(Bry is still struggling with coughs and respiratory stuff, apologies for weird sounds.)
Monothelitism is on the rise, and Pope Honorius's gag order hasn't held the discussion at bay. So when Severinus is elected to the papacy, he will be faced with a choice: cooperate, or not be pope. In his episode, we discuss the Ecthesis, a Roman-Byzantine standoff, cloacas, and how little we know about Tinder.
Check out https://everypope.wordpress.com/ for some cool pope pictures we mentioned on the show.
Pope Honorius has one of the most unique legacies in the history of the papacy, making him the subject of debate all the way through to the first Vatican Council in 1870. In his episode, we discuss monumental restoration efforts in Rome, disruptions in Lombard rule, connections throughout the universal church, and a new heresy with posthumous consequences.
Besmirch the besmirchers.
Boniface is our first Neopolitan pope, but he is certainly the vanilla. In his episode, we'll discuss the origin of church sanctuary and its first universal implementation, a rebellion in the exarchate that put Rome under direct threat, and the continued expansion of English evangelization.
Adeodatus, or Deusdedit, was the first priest elected to be the Pope since John II, and he held the first ordinations for new priests since the beginning of Pope Gregory's papacy. In his episode, we discuss the rebellion in the exarchate of Ravenna, preview the instability in the Lombard Kingdom, investigate the first papal bullae, and get up front and personal with leprosy.
Boniface was a protégé of Pope Gregory, and he maintained a very Gregorian tone during his papacy. Which makes sense, since he was doing all the work anyway. In his episode, we'll discuss the conversion of the Pantheon from a pagan temple to a Catholic basilica, the first visit of an English bishop to Rome, a return to a long, long, never-ending issue, and part-time popery.
Pope Sabinian is the anti-Gregory, in every possible way. He had a bad time in Constantinople, and then a worse time in Rome. He replaced monks with clerics in ecclesiastical roles, and made a massive error in judgment that made him one of the most despised popes of the era. But at least he will have one of the strangest papal deaths of all time!
Is it any surprise that Pope Gregory the Great ended up with a place in Dante's Paradiso? And yet, he is never named! Join us as we introduce the spheres of paradise, and explore the sixth sphere, reserved for the just rulers. We'll parse out where the pope appears, and deal with a singing eagle eyeball.
In this episode, we discuss the 900 epistles of the Registrum Epistolarum, the Liber Pastoralis (Rules for the Pastor), the Commentaries on Job, the Dialogues, and Gregory’s controversial legacy on the conceptualization of a biblical figure.
Pope Gregory I, the second pope to earn “the Great” epithet, and like our first Great Pope Leo, he had a prolific career before becoming pope, including holding the highest civic office in Rome and serving as an apocrisiarius in Constantinople. But neither of these were jobs he wanted because he much preferred a monastic life, removed from the world. Imagine his disappointment when he is acclaimed as the next pope! In his episode, we discuss Gregory’s efforts to defend the whole of Italy from Lombard aggression through military strategy and co-opting secular authority, the evangelization of Britain through bad dad puns, more miracles than you can shake a stick at, hot grapes and too many eyes.
And thanks to Ben Vanbuskirk of Fukushima Laser Shark for our Gregory Ditty, and Totalus Rankium for Gregory singing!
The papacy of Pope Pelagius II is fortunately blessed with more sources than poor Pope Benedict I, although the sources exist almost exclusively to pay attention to his future successor. But it is a busy time with Lombards, Franks, and the first confirmed outbreak of smallpox in Rome. In his episode, we say a sad goodbye, start the Ecumenical Patriarch feud, and come back to dicks out for celibacy!
Pope Benedict, the first of many eggs, exists in the period of chaos caused by the invasion and establishment of the Lombard Kingdom, so information is scarce. In his episode, we'll discuss the political developments of the Lombards, the current state of Rome, another holy Benedict, and wargs.
Pope Silky Dog chose to be a John, but we're not sure when. We're not sure about quite a lot of things, because we've hit a medieval shrouding. And yet, in his episode, we are still able to discuss the distinction of the 'Byzantine Papacy' period, the introduction of the Lombards into Italy, the Exarch, Narses, and even a return to living in the catacombs!
We last left Pelagius arrested and imprisoned in a monastery, AND excommunicated, having denounced Pope Vigilius. But thanks to a strong bond with the Emperor Justinian, he still ended up as the next Pope.
In his episode, we'll discuss his many diplomatic roles, more roman sacking, his dramatic efforts to clear his name from scandal, more diptychs, and how Fry says 'picture' weird.
The fifth Ecumenical Council of the church was about Monophysitism! Or Nestorianism! Wait, its both! And the Three Chapters are caught in the middle. Its also political intrigue and boycott bolstering and character assassination, doesn't that sound like a good time?
Bry and Fry talk about their experiences at Sound Education, as well as their wonderful adventures in Boston and Salem and the wonderful people they spent time with!
Buckle in for a wild ride.
Pope Silverius, son of Pope Hormisdas assumed the papacy in a very unconventional way - and it's not nepotism! In his episode, we discuss King Theodahad's scramble to stave off Emperor Justinian, plots to make the papacy Monophysite friendly, and another seige on Rome. Come for the schemes, stay for the ultimate scandal!
In this episode, we talk about the controversial upheaval of the Ostrogothic Kingdom, the arrival of the Imperial John Wick, new precedents set in Constantinople, and some really negative feelings about mustache preservation.
ope John II AKA "Poor Devil" was the first pope to take a pontifical name! In this episode, we discuss the first crackdown on simony in the church, the budding relationship of the church and Emperor Justinian, and long long men (listen to the end!)
Pope Boniface is the pope who was never supposed to be, and is only accepted on a technicality. In his episode, we discuss the outcomes of popes choosing their own successors, an extremely complicated but short lived antipapacy, and the sexiest of oranges.
Pontifacts is appearing at Sound Education Conference this year, giving a talk on the wildest papal elections in history! Sound Education is October 9-12 in Boston, Massachusetts. Find out more here: https://www.soundeducation.fm/ Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sound-education-2019-an-educational-audio-conference-tickets-58605170643
Pope John I, aka "Blue Hook", was an old man by the time he was elected to the papacy - which made King Theoderic's demands on him all the more unreasonable. In his episode, we will discuss the shifting dynamic between the Ostrogothic West and the newly re-orthodox Byzantine East, new expressions of papal primacy in Constantinople, and what happens when you accomplish exactly what a paranoid jealous king wanted you to do.
This podcast could use a review! Have anything to say about it? Share your thoughts using the button below.
Submit Review
