RLG100Y1 Lecture : christianity
1 Apr 2011
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Document Summary
Major historical agent in christianity: constantine, early 4th century. Wife and mother were converts; whether or not he actually converted is debated, but he was sympathetic towards christians. While constantine"s supposed christening is still debated, his mother was baptised. He reversed many of the persecuting laws of christianity- laws that were discriminatory against christianity; 313 edict of toleration. gave them the freedom to practice their religion and supported them through political patronage, state support, resources. After his death, next emperors supported constantine"s decision and christianity became the state religion, the official religion of roman empire. Theodisius was the first to officially do so. Christians" personal safety wasn"t at risk any more and political gain was to be acquired by becoming christians. Christianit ywas a way to get ahead politically and socially. Establishment of churches, architecture, symbology, music, rituals, etc. There was also the council of nicaea and other theological developments within roman christianity.
