Council · 313 · 13 February
Edict of Milan
For centuries, Christians could lose property, freedom, or even their lives because of their faith. In 313, emperors Constantine and Licinius ended that legal persecution and returned property that had been seized. Christianity did not become the empire's official religion overnight. But churches could now meet openly, own buildings, and organise publicly. That new freedom made great councils and basilicas possible—and brought the church much closer to imperial power.
At a glance
- Type
- Council
- Date remembered
- 13 February, AD 313
- What kind of event is this?
- A council or settlement that changed the church's public teaching, discipline, or historical direction.
- Key line
- The persecution era ended; the council age began.
Highlights
- Christian property was restored.
- Public worship became safer.
- The church could build openly.
- Imperial patronage reshaped Christian life.
How it happened
What happened
Constantine and Licinius granted religious toleration and restored confiscated Christian property.
The argument
This was not a doctrinal council; it was a political settlement about religious freedom after persecution.
What changed
Christianity moved from vulnerable illegal status to public legality and imperial favor.
Why it matters
The change made the council age possible, with all its opportunities and dangers.
Aftermath
Within twelve years, Constantine would summon Nicaea to settle an internal Christian controversy.
