While rereading some of this thread I realize that some of us imagine the catholic church (or any religious movement) to be a monolitic political body. I don't think they are.
However, in case of chaos, they have a great advantage over civil political forces. They obey to the same agenda and don't need any kind of modern communication to maintain this. They act for the greatness of God and to expend the power of their church.
As a result, even when isolated, they will work toward this goal (at least that will be their main point). What is interesting is that this will generate all kinds of attitudes and actions (these are limited exemples):
- A monk can enter a crusade as with the "Black Madona" in Poland.
- A community might focus on relief the locals and providing them with some kind of stability (food, health care...).
- A Bishop can take over a small piece of land and rule it as a middle ages prince.
- A depraved priest can turn people into sexual slaves.
- I did some research on a monastery in Portugal. At some point (around the 17th century), this community was engaged in the commerce of women.
Last edited by Mohoender; 06-29-2009 at 10:18 AM.
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