THE MINOR ORDERS IN THE ROMAN CHURCH OF THE FOURTH AND EARLY FIFTH CENTURIES ACCORDING TO PAPAL EPISTLES

In the article, the authors raise the question of the formation and evolution of the hierarchical order of the clergy and, in particular, of the so-called minor orders in Rome in the fourth and fifth centuries. They examine their institutional evolution on the basis of the papal epistles. The authors conclude that the papal decretals of Siricius (384–399), Innocent I (401–417), and Zosimus (417–418) reflect a transition from a system of independent offices to a hierarchy resembling the imperial cursus honorum or military hierarchy. However, this process appeared to be incomplete. In turn, the emerging hierarchy of minor orders serves as a barrier separating sacramental clergy from the laity as well as allowing for the vetting and selection of worthy candidates for deacons, presbyters, and bishops.

Rome, Catholic Church, Papacy, Early Middle Ages, history of the clergy