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Also known as: Pilgrim
Pope; Apostolic Pilgrim
Profile
Cousin of Emperor Conrad II. Deacon. Soldier and officer, he commanded
troops under emperor Conrad II in the invasion of Italy in 1026. While
still in the military, he was chosen bishop of Toul, a position he held
for 20 years. Very disciplined; brought order to the monasteries in his
see, discipline to the clergy, and the Clinic reform to many of his
houses. Pope.
Brought Hildebrand, later Pope Saint Gregory VII, as his spiritual
advisor. Leo brought his reforming, disciplinary ways to the Church as a
whole, reforming houses and parishes, fighting simony, enforcing clerical
celibacy, encouraging liturgical development and the use of chant. Fought
the coming Great Schism between the Eastern and Western churches. He
received the nickname of Pilgrim Pope due to his travels through Europe,
enforcing his reforms, insisting that his bishops, clergy, and councils
follow suit. Condemned the heresy of Berengarius of Tours. Peacemaker in
Hungary. Made the proposal that Popes be elected only by cardinals.
Leo's papacy was ruined by his military ambitions. He added new Italian
regions to the papal states, then when Normans invaded these areas in
1053, he personally led an army to throw them out. This drew wide
criticism, defeat in the field, his capture, and several months
imprisonment at Benevento. He spent his time there well, learning Greek to
better understand the writings of the Eastern Church, but his health
suffered badly. He died in Saint Peter's Basilica soon after his release.
Born: 21 June 1002 at Alsace as Bruno of Toul
Died: 19 April 1054 at Rome, Italy
Papal Ascension: 12 February 1049
Canonized: 1082 by Pope Victor III
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