Wilfrid II
York·8th century·England·Monk
Wilfrid II, also known as Wilfrid the Younger, was the last bishop of York before the see was elevated to an archbishopric. He was a monk at Whitby and was consecrated as a coadjutor bishop in 718. Wilfrid resigned his bishopric in 732 and is considered a saint with a feast day on April 29th, though his cult was not particularly strong.
Key Facts
- ›Last bishop of York before the see became an archbishopric.
- ›Monk at Whitby, studied under Hilda.
- ›Consecrated as coadjutor bishop in 718.
- ›Resigned the bishopric in 732.
- ›Died on April 29th in either 745 or 746.
- ›Considered a saint with a feast day on April 29th.
- Described As A Very Holy Man, Interested In Education.
About Wilfrid II
Wilfrid II, also known by the variant spelling Wilfrith and as Wilfrid the Younger, served as the bishop of York. His tenure as bishop concluded shortly before the see was elevated to the status of an archbishopric, making him the final bishop in that line before the change. Wilfrid II's life was rooted in monasticism; he was a monk at the monastery of Whitby, where he received his education during the time Hilda served as abbess.
Life and Ministry
In the year 718, Wilfrid II was consecrated as a coadjutor bishop, serving alongside John of Beverley. He is described in historical accounts as a man of deep piety and a keen interest in education. Wilfrid II ultimately chose to resign his episcopal office in 732. His death is recorded as occurring on April 29th, with the year being either 745 or 746. He was buried in Ripon, though there is a historical note suggesting his remains may have been mistakenly translated to Canterbury later, in the belief they belonged to an earlier Wilfrid.
Legacy
The younger Wilfrid is recognized as a saint, with his feast day observed on April 29th. Despite this recognition, his cult was never particularly prominent, and mentions of him in martyrologies are occasional. His life and service mark a significant transitionary period for the see of York.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Wilfrid II die?
Wilfrid II died on April 29th, in either 745 or 746.
What was Wilfrid II's role in the Church?
Wilfrid II was the last bishop of York before the see was converted into an archbishopric. He was also a monk at Whitby.
Was Wilfrid II a saint?
Yes, Wilfrid II is considered a saint, with his feast day celebrated on April 29th. However, his veneration was not particularly widespread.
When did Wilfrid II serve as bishop of York?
Wilfrid II was consecrated as a coadjutor bishop in 718 and resigned the bishopric in 732.
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