Constantine's convocation, in 754, of a synod of bishops for the purpose of continuing and intensifying the policy of iconoclasm begun by his father, Leo III, further weakens the ties between Constantinople and Rome.
Constantine's position on Iconoclasm is clear: ...He cannot be depicted. For what is depicted in one person, and he who circumscribes that person has plainly circumscribed the divine nature which is incapable of being circumscribed. (Nikephoros, Antiherreticus I, P. 100, 301C; trans. Bryer & Herrin)
Constantine convenes a synod in February 754 at Hieria, which is attended entirely by Iconoclast bishops.
The council approves of Constantine's religious policy and secures the election of a new Iconoclast patriarch, but refuses to follow in all of Constantine's views.
The council confirms the status of Mary as Theotokos, or Mother of God, reinforces the use of the terms "saint" and "holy" as meet, and condemns the desecration, burning, or looting of churches in the quest to quench Iconophiles.
