John Wakeman facts for kids
John Wakeman (died 1549) was an important English monk. He was the very last leader, called an Abbot, of Tewkesbury Abbey. Later, he became the first ever Bishop of Gloucester. Both of these important jobs were in Gloucestershire, England. Earlier in his life, he was known by a different name: John Wiche.
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John Wakeman's Early Life and Rise
From John Wiche to Abbot
John Wakeman was born as John Wiche. He was the second son of William Wakeman from Drayton, Worcestershire. He studied hard and earned a degree in Divinity in 1511.
In 1534, the monks at Tewkesbury Abbey needed a new abbot. John Wiche was chosen for this important role. He became the new abbot on April 27, 1534. He gained support from powerful people like Sir William Kingston and Thomas Cromwell. This helped him become the abbot.
Changes at the Monastery
In 1539, a big change happened. John Wiche gave up his monastery to the King. This was part of a larger event called the Dissolution of the Monasteries. After this, he started using the name Wakeman. He received a yearly payment for giving up the monastery.
Becoming a Bishop
The First Bishop of Gloucester
In 1541, John Wakeman was chosen for an even bigger job. He became the first Bishop of Gloucester. This new position meant his previous payment from the monastery stopped. He was officially made bishop on September 3, 1541. Important church leaders, including Thomas Cranmer, helped consecrate him.
Later Life and Legacy
Bishop Wakeman attended the funeral of Henry VIII in 1547. He also helped consecrate other bishops. He was known for his knowledge and interest in theology. In 1542, he helped with a new translation of the New Testament.
John Wakeman passed away in December 1549. He was buried at Gloucester Cathedral. While he was Abbot of Tewkesbury, he had a special monument built for himself. This monument, called a cadaver tomb, is still at Tewkesbury Abbey today.
