Archdeacon of Aberdeen facts for kids

The Archdeacon of Aberdeen was an important helper to the main church leader, the Bishop of Aberdeen, in a place called the Diocese of Aberdeen. Think of them as a special assistant who helped the Bishop manage the church's work. They were the only archdeacon in this area. For a long time, since 1256, the Archdeacon also looked after the parish church in Rayne.

Who Were the Archdeacons?

Archdeacons were important church officials. They helped the Bishop with many tasks, like making sure churches were running well and that priests were doing their jobs. They were like managers for a part of the church's area.

Over many centuries, from the 1100s to the 1600s, many different people held the title of Archdeacon of Aberdeen. They played a key role in the history of the church in Scotland.

Notable Archdeacons

While many people served as Archdeacon, some are especially remembered:

• John Barbour (served around 1357-1395): He was a famous Scottish poet. He wrote a long poem called The Brus, which tells the story of Robert the Bruce, a Scottish king.
• Henry de Lichton (served 1395-1396): He later became a Bishop himself, showing how important the Archdeacon role could be.
• Gavin Dunbar (served 1487): He also went on to become a very important church leader, the Archbishop of Glasgow.

These individuals, and many others, helped shape the religious life of Aberdeen and Scotland for hundreds of years.

See also

• Bishop of Aberdeen