The medieval church was built on concepts of faith and trust, but not as commonly perceived. Ian Forrest presents a radical interpretation of the institutional church and its social implications in England between 1200 and 1500. He argues that bishops' governance relied on cooperation from local figures known as trustworthy men (virifidedigni), who served as jurors, informants, and witnesses. Their role in church courts, inquests, and visitations expanded significantly during this period. The church's reliance on these men was rooted in complex cultures of faith that shaped promises, obligations, personal reputation, and belief in God. However, this trust had a darker aspect; the church's ability to distinguish between the trustworthy and untrustworthy was often based on social status rather than honesty, favoring men—typically wealthier tenants and property holders—over women. This dynamic illustrates how the English church not only depended on existing inequalities but also reinforced them, manipulating trust and faith for political purposes.
