Ealdwulf
Ealdwulf was a significant medieval figure, serving as Abbot of Peterborough, Bishop of Worcester, and Archbishop of York. Known for his extreme piety, he refounded Peterborough Abbey and later held a synod to consider moving the relics of Saint Oswald of Worcester.
Key Facts
- ›Refounded the monastery at Medeshamstede (later Peterborough Abbey).
- ›Served as abbot of Peterborough from approximately 966 to 992.
- ›Held the positions of Bishop of Worcester and Archbishop of York concurrently from 995 until his death.
- ›Convened a synod around the year 1000 at Worcester.
- ›William of Malmesbury noted his extreme piety and excused his holding of two sees due to sanctity and necessity.
Refounded Peterborough Abbey, Held Synod At Worcester
About Ealdwulf
Ealdwulf (died 1002)
Ealdwulf was a prominent medieval English churchman who served as Abbot of Peterborough, Bishop of Worcester, and Archbishop of York. His life and career are marked by significant ecclesiastical leadership and a reputation for deep piety.
Life and Service
Traditional accounts suggest that Ealdwulf was initially a layman and served as chancellor to King Edgar of England. A pivotal moment in his life, as recounted, involved the accidental death of his son. Rather than seeking absolution in Rome, Ealdwulf chose to refound the monastery at Medeshamstede, which later became known as Peterborough Abbey, following the counsel of Æthelwold, bishop of Winchester. He then joined this new foundation as a monk and subsequently became its abbot, serving from approximately 966 to 992.
From 995 until his death on May 6, 1002, Ealdwulf held the dual roles of Bishop of Worcester and Archbishop of York. During his tenure as archbishop, he convened a synod in Worcester around the year 1000 to discuss the potential relocation of the relics of Saint Oswald of Worcester.
Reputation
Ealdwulf was highly regarded for his extreme piety. The historian William of Malmesbury commented on his sanctity, suggesting that any deviation from canon law, such as holding two episcopal sees simultaneously, could be pardoned due to his profound spiritual devotion and the apparent necessity of the situation rather than personal ambition.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What roles did Ealdwulf hold during his life?
Ealdwulf held several significant ecclesiastical positions. He was the Abbot of Peterborough, the Bishop of Worcester, and the Archbishop of York.
Why did Ealdwulf refound Peterborough Abbey?
According to traditional stories, Ealdwulf refounded the monastery at Medeshamstede, which became Peterborough Abbey, after accidentally smothering his son. He did this on the advice of Æthelwold, bishop of Winchester, rather than seeking absolution in Rome.
When did Ealdwulf serve as Archbishop of York?
Ealdwulf served as the Archbishop of York from 995 until his death on May 6, 1002. He also held the see of Worcester concurrently during this period.
What was Ealdwulf's reputation?
Ealdwulf was known for his extreme piety. William of Malmesbury noted his sanctity and suggested that his holding of two sees was a necessity rather than ambition.
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