During the Middle Ages in Europe, the church played a central role in society, serving as a spiritual authority and a source of social structure. The Catholic Church influenced every aspect of life, from governance to education, as it was the primary institution that provided moral guidance and community support. It organized charitable activities, maintained social order through canon law, and monopolized literacy through monastic schools. The church also wielded significant political power, often engaging in conflicts with monarchs, leading to significant events such as the Investiture Controversy and the eventual Protestant Reformation in the 16th century.