John Stokesley facts for kids

John Stokesley (born September 8, 1475 – died September 8, 1539) was an important English church leader. He served as the Bishop of London during the time of King Henry VIII.

John Stokesley's Life

Early Life and Education

John Stokesley was born in a place called Collyweston in Northamptonshire, England. He was a very smart student. In 1495, he became a fellow at Magdalen College, Oxford. This meant he was a senior researcher and teacher at the college.

He earned his master's degree in 1500. Later, he became a deacon in 1504 and a priest in 1505. He continued his studies and received a doctorate in theology in 1516. He also held important roles at Magdalen College, including being a principal and vice-president.

Serving King Henry VIII

Around 1509, John Stokesley joined the royal council. He became a chaplain and almoner (someone who gives money to the poor) for King Henry VIII. In 1520, he even went with the King to a famous meeting called the Field of the Cloth of Gold. This was a grand event where King Henry VIII met the King of France.

In 1527, he became the rector (head priest) of North Luffenham.

Royal Ambassador and Bishop

In 1529 and 1530, Stokesley traveled to France and Italy. He was an ambassador for King Henry VIII. His main job was to get opinions from universities in other countries. The King wanted to end his marriage to Catherine of Aragon, and Stokesley helped gather support for this decision.

In 1530, he became the Bishop of London. He also became the Lord Almoner, a high-ranking position. In September 1533, he had the honor of christening the baby who would later become Queen Elizabeth I.

Religious Views and Challenges

Later in his life, Bishop Stokesley had disagreements with Thomas Cranmer, who was the Archbishop of Canterbury. Stokesley strongly believed in keeping the traditional teachings of the church. He did not support changes to church doctrines.

He was against the idea of having the Bible translated into English. He also worked hard to keep all seven traditional sacraments, as well as shrines and pilgrimages. Stokesley was a strong opponent of new religious ideas, like those from Martin Luther. He had very firm views on religious beliefs.

In 1538, Stokesley faced a legal challenge from the King's attorney. He admitted his fault and asked for the King's forgiveness, which he received.

The Six Articles

John Stokesley was one of the main people who helped create the Six Articles of 1539. These were laws that made traditional religious practices official in England. They became law in June 1539.

Death and Burial

John Stokesley passed away on September 8, 1539, which was also his birthday. He was buried at St Paul's Cathedral in London a few days later.

John Stokesley's Works

John Stokesley was known for being a very learned man. He understood a lot about philosophy and theology. He also knew important classical languages like Latin, Greek, and Hebrew.

He wrote in support of King Henry VIII's divorce. He also wrote a paper with Cuthbert Tunstall, the Bishop of Durham. This paper was against Cardinal Pole, who was a relative of King Henry VIII.

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