Ironically Started By The Church
Even though the Catholic Church would go on to ban the festivities, the Feast of Fools was actually most likely started by the Church itself. Its original purpose was meant to bring to life the verse in Matthew 20:16 “the last will be first, and the first will be last.” It started with the lowest clergyman switching places with the bishop for a day. The “boy bishop” was marched through town. Things eventually spiraled from there.
Ironically Started By The Church
Boy Bishops Abusing Power
The boy bishop would wear the real bishop’s robes, miter, and ring. He would then recite nonsensical prayers and asked for donations. This eventually devolved into drinking in the church and obscene songs. This led to the out of control Feast of Fools parties. Many times, the boy bishops would wear masks to hide their identities.
Boy Bishops Abusing Power