How did the power of the Catholic Church expand in the Middle Ages?

In the Middle Ages, the Catholic Church gained influence by taking on duties usually handled by governments, such as providing services and helping govern communities. It also developed a structured hierarchy, with the pope at the top, followed by bishops and other clergy. This makes B, “The church assumed governmental duties and created a church hierarchy,” the best answer; the pope did not simply have the same powers as a Roman emperor.

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