The Pope (Bryan) Popes in the Middle Ages became a person figures of power and influence. During this time many people from all places went to see the pope. The overly commanding religious fanaticism of the popes and the promise of redemption of “sin” made the popes and the crusades popular. In effect of this, the Catholic Church soon became the collective, uniting religious institution. difference between church and state eventually weakened the Pope’s power. Also, the end of the feudal system and the Protestant Reformation led to weakening the Pope’s power.