Abel of Reims
Abel served as the Bishop of Reims from approximately 744 to 747. While his origins are debated, he is sometimes venerated as a saint, particularly by the Bollandists. His tenure as bishop was marked by the complexities of church governance during his era.
- Feast Day
- August 5
- Century
- 8th century
- Country Or Region
- France
Key Facts
- ›Abel served as the Bishop of Reims and was active between 744 and 747.
- ›His place of birth is uncertain, with some sources suggesting Ireland and others England.
- ›Boniface presided over the Council of Soissons in March 744, where Abel was elected archbishop.
- ›Pope Zacharias confirmed Abel's episcopal authority by sending him the pallium in June 744.
- ›Abel was named as one of Boniface's 'fellow bishops' in a letter around 746.
- ›It is unknown when Abel relinquished his position or died; some accounts suggest he was driven out by Milo in 748, with Tilpin succeeding him later.
About Abel of Reims
Abel served as the Bishop of Reims in Francia (modern-day France) during the mid-8th century, specifically from 744 to 747. While his exact origins are a subject of historical debate, with some sources suggesting Ireland and others England, his episcopal tenure is documented through conciliar records and correspondence.
Life and Historical Context
In March 744, Abel was elected archbishop, though the specific see was not detailed in the initial conciliar acts of the Council of Soissons, over which Boniface presided. Pope Zacharias confirmed Abel's episcopal authority by sending him the pallium in June of the same year. Around 746, Abel was identified as one of Boniface's 'fellow bishops' who sent a letter of exhortation to Æthelbald, king of Mercia, as part of broader missionary endeavors.
The historical context of Abel's episcopate was marked by significant lay control over episcopal sees, a situation that Boniface lamented in later correspondence. It appears that Milo, bishop of Trier, exerted influence over multiple sees, with Abel serving as a suffragan bishop. The exact circumstances of Abel's departure from his office and his death remain unclear.
Veneration as a Saint
Abel has been venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church, particularly by the Bollandists. His name was inserted into various martyrologies during the early modern period, despite the absence of evidence that he was a martyr. These include the martyrologies of Gabriel Bucelin, André du Saussay, and John Mabillon. The Bollandists compiled a life of Abel, attributed to John Pinius, with a commemoration on August 5th.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Abel serve as Bishop of Reims?
Abel served as the Bishop of Reims between approximately 744 and 747. His tenure was confirmed by Pope Zacharias in June 744.
Where was Abel born?
The origins of Abel are debated. Folcuin wrote that he was a monk from Lobbes Abbey and born in Ireland, while Boniface insisted he was born and raised in England.
Is Abel considered a saint?
Abel has sometimes been venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church, particularly by the Bollandists. His name was included in several martyrologies in later centuries.
What is known about Abel's death or retirement?
It is unknown when Abel gave up his position or died. Some accounts suggest he was driven out of the see in 748, with later successions occurring in the 760s. It is also suggested he may have retired to Lobbes Abbey.
Related Saints
Bregowine
Bregowine was an Archbishop of Canterbury who served from 761 until his death in 764. Little is known of his origins or specific activities due to the loss of many contemporary records. He is remembered as a saint, with a life written in the 12th century.
Wulfram of Sens
Wulfram of Sens was an influential Archbishop of Sens known for his missionary work in Friesland, where he is credited with converting the son of King Radbod and saving children from sacrifice. He later retired to Fontenelle Abbey, where he died and was venerated for his miracles.
Berhtwald
Berhtwald was the ninth Archbishop of Canterbury, serving from 693 until his death in 731. He is notable for being the first in a continuous line of native-born archbishops. His tenure was marked by efforts to resolve the long-standing dispute involving Wilfrid of York and by his involvement in church governance and the conversion of pagan kingdoms.