That Time There Were Three Popes: A History of the Great Western Schism episode artwork

EPISODE · Oct 25, 2025 · 30 MIN

That Time There Were Three Popes: A History of the Great Western Schism

from Gospel Simplicity Podcast · host Austin Suggs

The Great Western Schism is one of the most fascinating and dramatic stories in the history of the church. And yet, many people have never heard of it. This is a story of saints against saints, councils against popes, and rival popes vying for power. For skeptics, it's proof the emperor has no clothes. For committed Catholics, it's a reminder that the church has been through far worse in its past than in its present. For everyone, it's a story worth knowing. Videos like these are some of the most difficult for me to make. If you'd like to see more, consider supporting the channel using the links below: Give monthly: https://patreon.com/gospelsimplicity    Make a one-time donation: https://paypal.me/gospelsimplicityBook a meeting: https://calendly.com/gospelsimplicity/meet-with-austinRead my writings: https://austinsuggs.substack.com00:00 Setting the Stage00:53 Avignon Papacy02:23 Returning to Rome04:12 The Fateful Conclave08:00 The Schism Begins13:00 France Loses Patience13:42 The Council of Pisa14:32 Three Popes15:47 Council of Constance21:30 Benedict's Power Fades24:03 The Clementine Line Sputters Out24:53 What Now?Support the show

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Oct 25, 2025

Embed this episode

The Great Western Schism is one of the most fascinating and dramatic stories in the history of the church. And yet, many people have never heard of it. This is a story of saints against saints, councils against popes, and rival popes vying for power. For skeptics, it's proof the emperor has no clothes. For committed Catholics, it's a reminder that the church has been through far worse in its past than in its present. For everyone, it's a story worth knowing. Videos like these are some ...

Distinct summary based on available episode metadata or transcript content.

NOW PLAYING

That Time There Were Three Popes: A History of the Great Western Schism

0:00 30:02

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

No similar episodes found.

No similar podcasts found.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of Gospel Simplicity Podcast?

This episode is 30 minutes long.

When was this Gospel Simplicity Podcast episode published?

This episode was published on October 25, 2025.

Can I download this Gospel Simplicity Podcast episode?

Yes. Use the download control on the episode player to save the publisher-provided media file.
URL copied to clipboard!