Edict of Thessalonica
380 AD
📂 DOCUMENT
📖 About This Event
In 380 AD, Emperor Theodosius I issued the Edict of Thessalonica (also known as the Cunctos Populos), which established Nicene Christianity as the official religion of the Roman Empire. The edict commanded all subjects of the empire to profess the faith that the bishops of Rome and Alexandria had received: 'that we shall follow the religion which the divine Peter the Apostle transmitted to the Romans; and which it is clear that the same divine Apostle, following the succession of his apostolate, handed down to the Romans; and which it is clear has come down to us. And we believe that this confession is called Catholic.'
The Edict of Thessalonica marked a decisive turning point in the relationship between Church and State. Christianity, which had been persecuted for three centuries, was now the established religion of the most powerful empire in the world. This would have profound consequences: the Church would gain unprecedented resources and influence, but it would also face the challenge of navigating its relationship with political power. The centuries that followed would see both the golden age of the Church Fathers and the gradual corruption of clericalism and worldliness.
The Catholic Church recognizes the edict as part of God's providential plan—the establishment of Christianity in the Roman Empire facilitated the spread of the Gospel throughout Europe and laid the foundation for Christian civilization. Key Scripture: 1 Timothy 2:1-2; Romans 13:1-7; CCC 2241
📜 Key Facts
Date
380 AD
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Document
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