John Sherwood (bishop) facts for kids

John Sherwood (also known as Shirwood) was an important English church leader and diplomat. He lived in the 1400s and served as a bishop and an ambassador. He was known for his learning and his work in Rome.

John Sherwood's Early Life and Education

John Sherwood was born in York, England. His father, also named John Shirwod, was a clerk. John went to University College, Oxford, a famous university. He earned his Master of Arts degree there in 1450.

John was very interested in learning. He even learned ancient Greek from a teacher named Emmanuel of Constantinople in 1455. This was quite unusual for his time. Later, King Richard III of England praised John for his Greek skills in a letter to the Pope.

A Career in Diplomacy

John Sherwood became a "papal lawyer." This meant he worked for the Pope, helping with legal matters. He then became a diplomat, which is someone who represents their country in other nations. He was the first permanent English ambassador to Rome. He lived there starting in 1479.

As an ambassador, John helped keep good relationships between England and the Pope. He also collected many classical books for his library. He had the support of important people, like George Neville, who was the Archbishop of York.

Church Roles and Later Years

In 1465, John Sherwood became the Archdeacon of Richmond. An archdeacon is a senior church official who helps a bishop. Later, he was chosen to be the Bishop of Durham. This is a very important role in the church. He was nominated for this position on March 29, 1484, when Richard III was king. He likely became a bishop on May 26, 1484.

John Sherwood continued his diplomatic work. He visited Rome two more times as an ambassador. He traveled there in 1487 with other scholars. He made another trip in 1492-1493. John Sherwood died in Rome on January 14, 1494.