
Nevertheless he seems to have had access to an interrogation of the group’s spokesman, Girardus, which (or parts of which) he included in his account, – perhaps with considerable embellishments. The chronicler, Landolfo Seniore, may be a poor witness for two reasons: he was writing a long time after the event, and his aim was clearly to glorify Ariberto. The whole affair at Monforte may have had as much to do with the capture of a strategically useful strong-point as with concerns over doctrine. Archbishop Ariberto was particularly ambitious, later even training and commanding his own army, and he was very keen to assert his authority in all parts of his huge province (of 18 dioceses). The senior clergy were all drawn from the noble families of the city and were very successful at increasing the power and the wealth of the Church and of themselves at the same time. The incident must have occurred between 10, as Ariberto was Archbishop from 1018-1045 and the Bishop of Asti who led the expeditions against the castle was in office from 1018-1034.Īt this time Milano, respected as an early centre of Christianity, was a city of wealth and independence, commanding both north-south and east-west trade routes through Lombardy. In this version, Ariberto took the heretics as prisoners to Milano, where many of them were burned, not by the Archbishop, but by the leading citizens. Raoul Glaber seems to have known nothing about their religious practices, because he said they worshipped idols like pagans, and performed disgusting sacrifices with Jews! He ended with stories of demons and devils.Īccording to an Italian chronicler called Landolfo Seniore, who was working in Milano, the Archbishop of Milano, Ariberto, heard about the heresy on a visit to the Bishop of Torino, and had a long interview with one of the Monforte heretics named Girardus. They tried to convert the heretics, but had to burn the most recalcitrant at the stake, because the heretics would rather be martyred than give up their way of worshipping God. According to the chronicler, Raoul Glaber, it occurred at Monforte in the diocese of Asti, and was discovered by the ruler of Torino and his brother, the bishop of Asti. After the ceremony and reception with family and friends, parents can send baptism thank-you notes.This piece looks briefly at a second case of possibly illuminist heresy in the 11th century. You'll find special cards for grandchildren and godchildren on their baptism day. Whether you are shopping for baptism gifts for boys or for girls, don't forget to add a heartfelt, personal message written on a baptism or christening card. Cross iconography and calming words of faith printed on religious-themed gift bags make the perfect presentation. If you're looking for a gift to give the baby or small child, a religious kids book or stuffed animal make sweet keepsakes. Other sentimental keepsakes of the sacred day include memory boxes, baby blankets, religious figurines, Christmas ornaments, and rosaries with rosary keepers.

With photo albums and picture frames, you'll make sure you have a treasured place where you can display the baptism pictures. Etiquette also calls for the parents to give the godparents a small token of appreciation for becoming mentors for their new arrival.Ĭommemorate this special occasion with keepsake baptism gifts the family will cherish for years to come. The godparent/godchild relationship one can be important in supporting the parents as they develop their child's faith and religious beliefs. For religions where infants are baptized, extended family or close friends are often asked to stand up with the family as godparents or sponsors. Depending on the faith, baptism or christening is practiced by pouring or sprinkling water on an infant's forehead or by immersion. Celebrate this joyful event, which symbolizes new life, washing away of sin, and admission into the church family, with family and friends.

Baptism is an important faith milestone for many Christian religions.
