John Fordham facts for kids
Quick facts for kids John Fordham |
|
|---|---|
| Bishop of Ely | |
| Appointed | 3 April 1388 |
| Reign ended | 19 November 1425 |
| Predecessor | Thomas Arundel |
| Successor | Philip Morgan |
| Orders | |
| Consecration | 5 January 1382 |
| Personal details | |
| Died | 19 November 1425 |
| Denomination | Catholic |
| Previous post | Bishop of Durham |
John Fordham (died 1425) was an important religious and government leader in England. He served as a Bishop and also as the Bishop of Ely. Bishops were high-ranking church officials. They had a lot of influence in both religious and political matters during this time.
Contents
John Fordham's Early Career
John Fordham began his career in important roles. From 1376 to 1377, he was the keeper of the privy seal for Prince Richard. This meant he was in charge of the king's personal seal. This seal was used to approve important documents.
Becoming a Dean
Before becoming a bishop, Fordham was the Dean of Wells. A Dean is a senior leader in a cathedral. In June 1377, he was named Lord Privy Seal. This was a very important government job. He held this position until December 1381. The Lord Privy Seal was responsible for the king's private seal. This seal was used to authorize official letters and documents.
Fordham's Time as Bishop
John Fordham became a bishop in two different places.
Bishop of Durham
He was chosen to be the Bishop of Durham on September 9, 1381. He officially became a bishop on January 5, 1382. This was a big responsibility.
Bishop of Ely
Later, on April 3, 1388, he moved to become the Bishop of Ely. This move was called a "translation." It meant he was given a new, important church role in a different area.
Other Important Roles
Besides his church duties, John Fordham also held a major government job. In 1386, he briefly served as the Lord High Treasurer. This role meant he was in charge of the country's money. He managed the royal treasury and finances.
Supporting Education
John Fordham also helped with education. In 1407, he appointed Maurice Plank. Plank became the master of the Grammar Scholars in Wisbech. The Bishops of Ely often visited Wisbech Grammar School. This school is very old and claims to have started in 1379. Fordham's involvement shows his support for learning.
The End of His Life
John Fordham passed away on November 19, 1425. He had a long and influential career. He served both the church and the government in many important ways.
