Earconwald facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Earconwald |
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| Bishop of London | |
Earconwald teaching monks in a historiated initial from the Chertsey Breviary (c.1300)
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| Province | Canterbury |
| Enthroned | 675 |
| Reign ended | 693 |
| Predecessor | Wine |
| Successor | Waldhere |
| Other posts | Abbot of Chertsey |
| Orders | |
| Consecration | c. 675 |
| Personal details | |
| Born | circa 630 Kingdom of Lindsey |
| Died | 693 Barking Abbey |
| Buried | Old St Paul's Cathedral, London |
| Denomination | Christianity |
| Sainthood | |
| Feast day | 13 May 24 April 30 April 14 November in England |
| Attributes | bishop in a small chariot, which he used for travelling his diocese; with Saint Ethelburga of Barking |
| Patronage | against gout, London |
| Shrines | St. Paul's, London |
Earconwald (also spelled Erkenwald) was an important religious leader in England. He lived a long time ago, from about 630 to 693. Earconwald became the Bishop of London and helped shape the early Christian church in England.
Early Life and Monasteries
Earconwald was born around 630 in a place called Lindsey. People believed he came from a royal family. He decided to use his family's wealth to help others.
He founded two Benedictine monasteries in 666. One was Chertsey Abbey in Surrey for men. The other was Barking Abbey for women. Earconwald became the Abbot (leader) of Chertsey. His sister, Æthelburg, became the Abbess (leader) of Barking.
Becoming Bishop of London
In 675, Earconwald was chosen to be the Bishop of London. He took over from a bishop named Wine. The Archbishop of Canterbury, Theodore of Canterbury, picked him for this important role.
As bishop, Earconwald helped King Ine of Wessex create new laws. He was even mentioned in the law code as someone who helped write it. He also helped convert Sebba, who was the King of the East Saxons, to Christianity in 677.
Historians believe Earconwald played a big part in creating important legal documents called Anglo-Saxon charters. He might have even written a special charter for King Caedwalla. King Ine of Wessex also named Earconwald as an advisor for his laws.
Death and Legacy
Earconwald passed away in 693. He was buried at Old St Paul's Cathedral in London. His grave became a very popular place for people to visit during the Middle Ages. They would go there on pilgrimages.
Sadly, his tomb and many others were destroyed later during a time called the Reformation. Earconwald is remembered as a patron saint of London. His special day, or feast day, is celebrated on April 30th.
See also
In Spanish: Eorcenwald para niños
