The Great Western Schism was one of the most confusing and sorrowful chapters in Church history — a time when there were two, and eventually three, men each claiming to be the true Pope. It wasn’t a split in belief or doctrine, but a deep wound in leadership and trust that shook the faithful for nearly forty years.
Many people don’t realize that this crisis began not from heresy, but from politics and fear. In 1309, the Popes had moved from Rome to Avignon (in modern France), influenced by French power and protection. When Pope Gregory XI finally returned the papacy to Rome in 1377, he died soon after. Under pressure from the Roman people to elect an Italian, the cardinals chose Pope Urban VI — but his harsh reforms and temper soon alienated them. Claiming the election was made under duress, the same cardinals elected another man, Clement VII, who established his papal court back in Avignon.
For the next several decades, Christendom was torn. Kings and nations chose sides: France, Scotland, and Spain supported Avignon; England, Germany, and Italy supported Rome. Faithful Christians were left wondering — who is the real successor of Peter?
The Church eventually sought healing through councils. The Council of Pisa in 1409 tried to resolve the issue but made things worse by electing a third Pope. Finally, the Council of Constance (1414–1418) restored unity. The council deposed or accepted the resignations of all claimants and elected Pope Martin V in 1417 — a single, universally recognized Pope who reunited the Church.
The Great Western Schism taught the Church something enduring: that human weakness can cloud even sacred offices, but the Holy Spirit never abandons Christ’s Church. Despite division and scandal, God guided His people back to unity.
When we look back at that time, it reminds us that the Church’s holiness doesn’t come from the perfection of her leaders, but from Christ Himself. His promise still stands: “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church” (Matthew 16:18). Even in our own age, when we see confusion or division, we can trust that the Lord continues to keep His Church in His hands.
Let us pray for unity in Christ’s Church, that we may never lose sight of the One Shepherd who leads us through every storm.
— Fr. John Matthew, for Christian Way
