The medieval papacy, at the height of its power and influence, continues to encourage crusades to liberate the Holy Land from the Moslems. Belief in immaculate conception of Mary spreads. Alexander III established rules for the canonization of saints, the same year Thomas Becket is murdered in England. Becket is canonized in 1173. The church persecutes these devout believers sometimes seen as predecessors of Protestant reform.
Monasticism continues to be main source of reforming church.
Bernard establishes monastery at Clairvaux. Despite this outpouring of religious creativity, her visions were called into question, and she was put on trial by the Church in 1148. Hildegard 's experiences provide valuable insight into life in the medieval church and the influence of a woman dedicated to God. Clicking the video link will take you away from Christian History Institute.