How influential was the Roman Catholic Church in Medieval times?

The Roman Catholic Church became increasingly involved in secular (nonreligious) society during the Middle Ages (A.D. c. 450-c. 1500). It played a significant role in medieval European life through the activities of the clergy (church officials). Missionaries converted many of the Germanic tribes, and the church was influential in civilizing the so-called barbarians (non-Christians). Churches throughout Europe housed travelers and served as hospitals for the sick, while monasteries and cathedrals became centers of learning.