Edmund of Abingdon
Edmund of Abingdon was an English Catholic prelate who served as Archbishop of Canterbury. A respected lecturer in mathematics, dialectics, and theology at Paris and Oxford, he was known for his asceticism, popular preaching, and defence of Magna Carta. He was canonized as St. Edmund of Canterbury in 1246.
Key Facts
- ›Born circa 1174 in Abingdon, Berkshire, England.
- ›Served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1234 until his death in 1240.
- ›Respected lecturer at the Universities of Paris and Oxford, promoting the study of Aristotle.
- ›Ordained a priest and earned a doctorate in divinity.
- ›Known for his strong defence of Magna Carta and good CIVIL and Church government.
- ›Canonized in 1246, with his feast day on November 16th.
- Promoted the Study of Aristotle At Universities.
- Preached the Sixth Crusade In 1227.
- Defended Magna Carta and Good Civil and Church Government Against King Henry Iii.
- Worked For Strict Observance In Monastic Life.
- Negotiated Peace With Llywelyn the Great.
About Edmund of Abingdon
Edmund of Abingdon, also known as Edmund Rich or Saint Edmund of Canterbury, was an English Catholic prelate who served as the Archbishop of Canterbury. Born around 1174 in Abingdon, Berkshire, he became a distinguished lecturer in mathematics, dialectics, and theology at the Universities of Paris and Oxford, where he was instrumental in promoting the study of Aristotle. His early life was marked by a strong ascetic inclination, and he pursued his theological studies, eventually becoming a popular preacher.
Life and Historical Context
Edmund's mother, Mabel, was a devout woman who significantly influenced his early life and encouraged an ascetic path. After receiving his early education in England, he completed his higher studies at the University of Paris. He became a teacher around 1200, lecturing on mathematics and dialectics, dividing his time between Oxford and Paris. After a period of resistance, he entered upon a new career in theology between 1205 and 1210, receiving ordination and earning a doctorate in divinity. He also served as vicar of the parish of Calne and treasurer of Salisbury Cathedral.
Archbishop of Canterbury
In 1233, Edmund was appointed Archbishop of Canterbury by Pope Gregory IX. He was consecrated on April 2, 1234. As archbishop, Edmund combined a gentle temperament with a strong public stature, advocating for ecclesiastical independence from Rome and the maintenance of Magna Carta. He was known for his severity towards King Henry III in defence of good civil and Church government and justice. He also worked for strict observance in monastic life and negotiated peace with Llywelyn the Great. His policies, however, led to conflicts with the king and opposition from several monasteries.
Legacy
Edmund died in France in 1240 while on a journey to Rome. Miracles were alleged at his grave shortly after his death, and he was canonized in 1246. His feast day is celebrated on November 16th. His life and devotion inspired the formation of the Society of Saint Edmund in Pontigny, France, in 1843. Today, he is remembered in the names of various institutions, including St Edmund Hall at Oxford and St Edmund's College at Cambridge. His relics are primarily found at Pontigny Abbey, with an arm enshrined in Connecticut and a fibula at St Edmund's College, Ware.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Edmund of Abingdon known for?
Edmund of Abingdon was known as a respected lecturer in mathematics, dialectics, and theology at the Universities of Paris and Oxford. He was also recognized for his asceticism, popular preaching, and his strong stance in defence of Magna Carta and good governance.
When was Edmund of Abingdon Archbishop of Canterbury?
Edmund of Abingdon served as Archbishop of Canterbury from his consecration on April 2, 1234, until his death on November 16, 1240.
Was Edmund of Abingdon canonized?
Yes, Edmund of Abingdon was canonized in December 1246, less than a year after his death. He is venerated as Saint Edmund of Canterbury.
Where did Edmund of Abingdon study and teach?
Edmund of Abingdon completed his higher education at the University of Paris and lectured at both the Universities of Paris and Oxford. He was one of Oxford's first lecturers with a Master of Arts degree.
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