logored.gif (3481 bytes)

HOME.gif (313 bytes)

Handout #136

The decree Frequens (9 October 1417 A.D.) of the Council of Constance

The frequent celebration of General Councils is one of the best means of cultivating the field of the Lord ...That is why by the present perpetual edict we resolve, decree and ordain that General Councils shall be celebrated henceforth as follows. The first to follow the end of the present Council shall take place five years later, the second after the one which follows the present Council seven years later, and then every ten years, in a place which the pope or, failing him the Council itself shall fix and designate in the month preceding the end of the Council ...

Return to text