Which was the Catholic Church’s most powerful tool in maintaining its authority in medieval Europe?

Options:
It’s missionary work
It’s monasteries and convents
Its control over the sacraments
It’s hospitals and schools

The Catholic Church's most powerful tool in maintaining its authority in medieval Europe was its control over the sacraments. The Church held the power to administer sacraments, which were considered essential for salvation. This control allowed the Church to exert influence over the religious and spiritual lives of individuals. Additionally, the sacraments were seen as a means of strengthening the Church's authority and the belief that the Church was the sole mediator between God and humanity.