Charles Knox (priest) facts for kids

Charles Knox (born January 10, 1770 – died January 30, 1825) was an important church leader known as the Archdeacon of Armagh. He held this position from 1814 until he passed away. An Archdeacon is a senior priest who helps a bishop manage a large area of churches.

Charles Knox was the sixth son of the 1st Viscount Northland. A Viscount is a noble title, a bit like a lord, but usually a step below an Earl. Charles was born in Dublin, the capital city of Ireland. He went to Trinity College there, which is a very old and famous university.

Early Life and Career

Becoming a Member of Parliament

Before he became a church leader, Charles Knox was involved in politics. He was a Member of Parliament for an area called Dungannon. He served in the Irish Parliament from 1798 to 1799. A Member of Parliament is someone chosen by people to represent them and make laws.

Joining the Church

In 1799, Charles Knox became a priest, which is called being ordained. After this, he held several important church jobs in different places. These jobs, sometimes called "livings," meant he was in charge of churches in areas like Dunkerron, Drumachose, and Urney.

He also became a Prebendary in two major cathedrals. A Prebendary is a type of church official who receives income from a specific church property. He was a Prebendary of Derry starting in 1807 and later of St Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin from 1817.

Family Connections

Charles Knox came from a family with many important figures. His son, Robert Knox, also became a very high-ranking church leader, known as a Primate. Charles also had two brothers, William and Edmund, who both became Bishops. A Bishop is a senior clergyman who oversees a group of churches and priests in a specific region.