The Problems of Decline
Ever since the 8th century the popes had power over the Papal states in Italy as well as the church. The church began to have a problem with the bishops being used as fief-holders for noblemen so that the nobles could have power over the church. This also meant that the bishops and abbots were less than desirably spiritual. The monasteries were also out of order because of the Vikings, Magyars, and Muslims that invaded them. This meant that the monasteries did not follow the old strict rules, and strayed from the old path of secluded spiritual gain. Some of the monasteries and churches were under the power of lords. This stirred up the idea for reforms.