Franciscans Escape Avignon to Avoid Papal Sentence
May 26th, 1328
May 26th, 1328

How Long Ago?
696 years, 9 months, 17 days ago
Location
Avignon, France
Category
Religion & Philosophy
People
- William of Ockham
- Michael of Cesena
Links & References
Tags
Franciscans Escape Avignon to Avoid Papal Sentence
William of Ockham, along with Franciscan Minister-General Michael of Cesena and two other Franciscan leaders, made a clandestine departure from Avignon. They fled due to fears of a death sentence imposed by Pope John XXII as tensions between the Pope and Franciscan scholars intensified over theological disputes and poverty within the Church. This secretive exit aimed to ensure their safety amid increasing threats.
William of Ockham was a key philosopher of his time.
The escape was motivated by fears of persecution.
Conflict arose over issues of poverty in the Church.
Their actions marked a significant dissent movement.
What Happened?
William of Ockham, a prominent Franciscan theologian and philosopher, found himself increasingly at odds with the papacy during the early 14th century. Alongside Michael of Cesena, the Minister-General of the Franciscan Order, and two other leaders, Ockham opted for a dramatic and secretive escape from Avignon. This decisive flight from the papal seat was inspired by a growing climate of fear surrounding Pope John XXII's intentions, particularly his threats to condemn them for heretical views concerning the nature of poverty and authority within the Church.The conflict reached a boiling point as the Papacy sought to assert its control over religious communities and their interpretations of divine will. Ockham and his associates were staunch advocates for a more austere interpretation of Christian life, favoring absolute poverty and the need to renounce earthly possessions, which clashed with the Pope's more opulent policies. The escape was not just an act of self-preservation but also a demonstration of resistance against what they perceived to be a corrupt ecclesiastical hierarchy.While fleeing Avignon, these Franciscan leaders sought refuge in places where they could continue their theological work without the threat of persecution. Their departure symbolized a significant rift within the Church, highlighting the tensions between papal authority and the emerging thoughts of reformers who were beginning to question the practices and policies of the Church. This incident marked a notable moment in ecclesiastical politics, foreshadowing future confrontations between reform-oriented scholars and the established Church.
Why Does it Matter?
The departure of William of Ockham and his companions represents a crucial moment in the ongoing struggle between ecclesiastical power and the rise of reformist thought within the Church. Their actions signified a larger trend of dissent against authority, reflecting the increasing desire among religious leaders to advocate for change and challenge established norms. This scenario contributed to the subsequent developments in Christian thought leading up to the Reformation.
Discover More Historic Events from May 26th
Mass Shooting at VTA Rail Yard in San Jose
A shooting at the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) rail yard in San Jose resulted in the deaths of ten individuals, including the suspect, who later took his own life. The incident occurred during the morning hours and sent shockwaves through the community. Law enforcement responded promptly, identifying the shooter as a VTA employee, leading to concerns about workplace safety and mental health issues among workers in stressful environments. The tragedy prompted discussions nationwide about gun control and workplace violence.
Continue ReadingProtests Erupt Following George Floyd's Killing
Protests erupted in Minneapolis–Saint Paul following the murder of George Floyd, a Black man who died after a police officer knelt on his neck for over nine minutes during an arrest. The video of the incident sparked outrage, leading to demonstrations that quickly spread across the United States and around the world, demanding justice and an end to police brutality. Activists gathered in large numbers, calling for systemic change and accountability for law enforcement.
Continue ReadingSevere Flooding in Eastern and Southern China
Severe flooding affected eastern and southern China, leading to widespread devastation and displacement. Over 1.3 million residents were evacuated as communities faced rising water levels that submerged homes and farmland. This disaster shifted local and national focus toward emergency response and policy implications for disaster management and infrastructure improvements.
Continue ReadingUkrainian-Mediterranean Airlines Flight 4230 Crash
Ukrainian-Mediterranean Airlines Flight 4230, a scheduled passenger flight from Ukraine to Turkey, crashed near the town of Maçka in Turkey, resulting in the deaths of 75 individuals on board. The aircraft, a McDonnell Douglas MD-83, encountered severe weather conditions shortly before landing, leading to a loss of control. Emergency responders were deployed to the crash site, and investigations commenced to determine the exact cause of the accident.
Continue ReadingCollision of Tugboat and Interstate 40 Pier
A tugboat named Robert Y. Love collided with a support pier of Interstate 40 on the Arkansas River near Webbers Falls, Oklahoma. The collision led to the tragic sinking of the towboat and caused significant damage to the bridge structure. Despite rescue efforts, 14 people died, with an additional 11 individuals injured in the incident. The event raised serious concerns about navigational safety on the river.
Continue ReadingFirst National Sorry Day Observed in Australia
National Sorry Day is marked across Australia as a day for reconciliation between Indigenous peoples and non-Indigenous Australians. Events are organized nationwide, drawing participation from over a million people who engage in activities like marches, speeches, and cultural performances. The day honors the Stolen Generations, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were forcibly removed from their families. The occasion serves to promote healing and understanding among communities, fostering dialogue and awareness of the injustices faced by Indigenous Australians. Citizens, leaders, and organizations come together to acknowledge past wrongs and express collective commitment towards reconciliation.
Continue Reading