What role did church officials play in many commoners’ lives during the Middle Ages?

During the Middle Ages, church officials played a crucial role in the lives of commoners primarily as education providers. Monasteries and cathedral schools became centers of learning, where clergy members educated not only future clergy but also members of the laity. The church was responsible for preserving knowledge during a time when much of Europe experienced upheaval and instability, and literacy rates were low. The teachings of the church, as well as the Latin language, were integral to the education offered, which often included religious studies, philosophy, and even some elements of science and medicine.

This educational role was significant because it allowed the church to influence social and cultural norms, as well as ensure that the common population had at least some access to learning, albeit often through a religious lens. The church's involvement in education also helped maintain its power and authority, as educated individuals were more likely to uphold and spread ecclesiastical doctrines.

Other options, while potentially relevant in certain contexts, do not capture the central role of church officials in commoners' education as distinctly as providing education does. For instance, while church officials may have had some judicial authority, it was not their primary function. Similarly, while they may have provided some financial advice or health-related services, these roles were