POPE CELESTINE IV AND THE FIRST CONSISTORY

by | Dec 27, 2022 | Popes

Goffredo (Godfrey) de Castiglione was Pope Celestine IV for only sixteen days. How did the cardinals elect such a fragile old man? Little is known of the man who would be Pope Celestine IV. He was born in Milan some time between 1180 and 1187. He likely entered the...

POPE GREGORY IX AND THE FIGHT FOR CONTROL

by | Dec 14, 2022 | Popes

Pope Gregory IX, born Ugolino of Anagni, was a man of deep moral integrity and dedication. This dedication allowed him to follow Innocent III’s policy of papal supremacy. Unfortunately, his quickness to anger and his impatience with opposition caused tension...

POPE HONORIUS III AND THE FIFTH CRUSADE

by | Dec 2, 2022 | Popes

Medieval knight Pope Honorius III was the Pope of the Fifth Crusade. Manu call him the lesser of the three popes in succession, Innocent III, Honorius and Gregory IX. But, maybe not. Honorius III, named Cencio, son of Aimerico, was born in Italy probably between 1150...