Honorius of Canterbury
Honorius of Canterbury was a member of the Gregorian mission who became the Archbishop of Canterbury. He is remembered for consecrating the first native English bishop of Rochester and supporting missionary efforts, particularly Felix among the East Anglians. Honorius was the last of the original Gregorian missionaries to die.
- Feast Day
- September 30
- Century
- 7th century
- Country Or Region
- England
Key Facts
- ›Honorius was a Roman by birth and a member of the Gregorian mission to Christianize the Anglo-Saxons.
- ›He was consecrated as archbishop in 627 by Paulinus of York at Lincoln.
- ›Honorius consecrated Ithamar of Rochester, the first Anglo-Saxon bishop.
- ›He supported Felix, a Burgundian, in his missionary work among the East Anglians.
- ›Honorius died on September 30, 653, and was buried at the Church of St Augustine in Canterbury.
- ›He was the last of the Gregorian missionaries to die.
About Honorius of Canterbury
Honorius of Canterbury (died 30 September 653) was a significant figure in the early Christianization of Anglo-Saxon England, serving as the Archbishop of Canterbury. He was a member of the Gregorian mission, which was sent from Rome in 597 AD to convert the Anglo-Saxons from their pagan beliefs. Honorius holds the distinction of being the last of these original Gregorian missionaries to die.
Early Life and Mission
A Roman by birth, Honorius may have been selected by Pope Gregory the Great for the initial mission, though it is more probable he joined the second contingent of missionaries dispatched in 601. The origin of his name, whether given at birth or adopted upon his archiepiscopate, remains unknown.
Archbishopric and Ministry
In 627, Honorius was consecrated as archbishop at Lincoln by Paulinus of York. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in expanding the Church's reach. He consecrated Ithamar of Rochester, the first native English bishop, and his successor was also English. Honorius also lent his support to Felix, a Burgundian missionary, facilitating his work among the East Anglians by sending him to Dunwich after Felix expressed his desire to evangelize the region. The exact date of Felix's consecration is unclear, but this episode likely occurred around 631.
Later Life and Legacy
Honorius died on September 30, 653, and was interred at the Church of St Augustine in Canterbury. He is venerated as a saint, with his feast day celebrated on September 30. His relics were later moved to a new tomb in 1091, and around the same period, a hagiography of his life was composed by Goscelin. In the 1120s, his relics continued to be venerated at St Augustine's Abbey. Honorius is remembered for his contributions to the establishment and growth of the Church in England and for being the final surviving member of the pioneering Gregorian mission.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Honorius of Canterbury?
Honorius of Canterbury was a key figure in the Gregorian mission to Christianize the Anglo-Saxons. He served as the Archbishop of Canterbury and played a significant role in establishing Christianity in England.
What was Honorius's role in the Gregorian mission?
Honorius was part of the Gregorian mission, which began in 597 AD. He was instrumental in continuing and consolidating the missionary efforts throughout Anglo-Saxon England.
What were Honorius's major contributions as Archbishop?
As Archbishop, Honorius consecrated the first native English bishop of Rochester, Ithamar. He also supported the missionary efforts of Felix among the East Anglians, helping to spread Christianity in that region.
When did Honorius die and what is his significance in the Gregorian mission timeline?
Honorius died on September 30, 653. He holds the distinction of being the last member of the original Gregorian missionaries to pass away.
Where was Honorius buried and how is he remembered?
Honorius was buried at the Church of St Augustine in Canterbury. He is revered as a saint, with his feast day observed on September 30.
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