THE SCRIPTORIUM PROJECT
Penitential by Theodore of Tarsus
Apr. 7th 2025

PENITENTIAL BY THEODORE OF TARSUS

The Penitential by Theodore of Tarsus is a notable ecclesiastical work attributed to Theodore, the Archbishop of Canterbury, who served from 668 to 690. Theodore was a significant figure in the history of the early English Church and played a key role in the Christianization of England.

The Penitential is a set of guidelines or rules for penance in the Christian context, specifically focusing on the repentance process for sins. Penitentials, in general, were manuals used by clergy to guide the faithful through the practice of penance, determining appropriate penances for specific sins. These works were important in the early medieval period because they helped define the relationship between sin, repentance, and absolution in the Christian faith.

Theodore's Penitential stands out because it reflects his deep knowledge of both Eastern and Western Christian traditions. He was born in Greek Tarsus (modern-day Turkey) and had connections to both the Eastern Church and the Roman Church. His approach to penance was influenced by the Roman practices, but it also incorporated elements of the practices of the Byzantine and Eastern Churches, blending them into a system that could be applied in Anglo-Saxon England prior to the Norman conquest.

The document itself consists of a detailed list of sins and the corresponding penances. These penances could include prayers, fasting, and other forms of self-discipline designed to aid the penitent in seeking forgiveness and spiritual renewal. The work had a significant influence on the development of penance practices in the Church in England. While the the style and format of Penitential was not universally adopted, it became an important resource for clergy in England during Theodore's time, helping to shape the understanding of penance in the Anglo-Catholic world.
Penitential by Theodore of Tarsus
Apr. 6th 2025

THE THIRD SYNOD OF METZ: 863 AD

The Third Synod of Metz, convened in 863, was a pivotal event in the Carolingian Empire, primarily addressing the contentious divorce case of King Lothar II of Lotharingia.Lothar sought to annul his marriage to Queen Theutberga, accusing her of incest and seeking to marry his concubine, Waldrada.The synod, heavily influenced by Lothar's supporters, ultimately sided with the king, annulling his marriage to Theutberga. However, this decision was later overruled by Pope Nicholas I, who deemed the synod's proceedings unjust and excommunicated the participating bishops. 

The synod was predominantly attended by bishops from Lotharingia (Lorraine), with notable absences from critics like Hincmar of Rheims.Theutberga was also absent, likely due to inadequate invitation. Papal legates present were allegedly bribed, compromising the synod's impartiality. ​The synod annulled Lothar's royal marriage to Theutberga, permitting him to marry Waldrada, as he had requested. This decision was heavily influenced by Lothar's dominance over the proceedings. 

Ultimately, Pope Nicholas I condemned the synod's decision as unjust, labeling it heretical. He criticized the synod's composition and the lack of a fair trial for Theutberga. ​Archbishops Gunther of Cologne and Theutgard of Trier were excommunicated and deposed for their roles in the biased proceedings.Pope Nicholas I threatened other participating bishops with excommunication unless they publicly accepted his judgment. 

The Third Synod of Metz serves as a historical example of the complexities involved in medieval church-state relations, especially concerning marital disputes and papal authority.