The Council of Constantinople IV (869-870) condemned Fazio for his heresy, confirming the use of images in worship. More emphasis has been placed on the fact that the Bishop of Rome is the common Father, that is to say the Holy Father. The Lateran Council I (1123) in Rome claimed the right of the Church to elect, appoint and consecrate bishops, in the face of the demotion of (lay) kings. The simony and unfaithful marriages practiced by some administrators were also condemned as heresy.

The Second Lateran Council (1139), in Rome, condemned those who oppose the pope and his followers. Guidelines for policies to be followed by Church administrators were also issued at this time. Arnauld de Brescia (spreading heresy in Avignon, France) was convicted.