The Church of the High Middle Ages was a crucial part of ordinary people’s lives from birth to death.
The sacraments, such as baptism, marriage, and the Eucharist (Communion), were seen as means for receiving God’s grace and were necessary for salvation.
Since only the clergy could administer these rites, people depended on them to achieve this goal.
Ordinary people also venerated saints—men and women who, because of their holiness, had achieved a special position in Heaven.
Since saints could ask for favors before the throne of God for people who prayed to them, they were very popular with all Christians.