Reginald Fitz Jocelin

Reginald Fitz Jocelin (died 26 December 1191) was a significant figure in the English church during the late 12th century, holding the position of Bishop of Bath and being elected Archbishop of Canterbury shortly before his death. He hailed from an Anglo-Norman noble family and was the son of Josceline de Bohon, the Bishop of Salisbury. Reginald received his education in Italy, which influenced his early life and career, leading to him being known by epithets such as Reginald Italus.

His early career involved service within the household of Thomas Becket and later as a clerk and messenger for King Henry II of England. Reginald was also favored by King Louis VII of France, who appointed him abbot of the Abbey of Corbeil. His involvement in mediating between Becket and Henry II led to sharp criticism from Becket, who branded him "that offspring of fornication, that enemy to the peace of the Church, that traitor." Despite this, Reginald's episcopal election as Bishop of Bath in 1173 was confirmed by Pope Alexander III after facing challenges from Henry the Young King.

As Bishop of Bath, Reginald was actively involved in his diocese, attending church councils and royal courts. He participated in the Third Lateran Council in 1179 and dedicated considerable time to diocesan administration during the 1180s. His notable achievements include building the hospital of St. John in Bath and extensive construction at Wells Cathedral, including the commencement of the Bishop's Palace. Reginald was elected Archbishop of Canterbury in late 1191, a move by the monks of Canterbury to install a candidate favorable to them, but his tenure was cut short by his death later that year. He died at Dogmersfield, Hampshire, and was buried at Bath, having been admitted as a confrater of Christ Church Priory, Canterbury, and buried in the habit of a Benedictine monk.