John of Oxford facts for kids
Quick facts for kids John of Oxford |
|
|---|---|
| Bishop of Norwich | |
| Elected | 26 November 1175 |
| Reign ended | 2 June 1200 |
| Predecessor | William de Turbeville |
| Successor | John de Gray |
| Other posts | Dean of Salisbury |
| Orders | |
| Consecration | 14 December 1175 |
| Personal details | |
| Died | 2 June 1200 |
| Nationality | English |
| Denomination | Roman Catholic |
John of Oxford was an important church leader in medieval England. He lived a long time ago, dying on June 2, 1200. He is best known for serving as the Bishop of Norwich, a major religious position in the Roman Catholic faith.
Who Was John of Oxford?
John of Oxford was born in England. His father, Henry of Oxford, was a local official. He served as the sheriff of Oxford. A sheriff was like a chief law enforcement officer in a county.
John's Start in Royal Service
John became a trusted helper for King Henry II. He was a "royal clerk," meaning he worked for the king. His job was to handle important papers and represent the king.
In May 1165, John traveled to a meeting in Würzburg, Germany. This meeting was called a "diet," which was a formal assembly. They discussed a big problem: the Antipope Paschal III. An "antipope" is someone who claims to be the Pope but is not recognized by the main Church.
Some people thought John supported this antipope. However, John strongly denied these claims.
Challenges and Church Politics
John of Oxford was later chosen for an important church role. He became the Dean of Salisbury. This meant he was a senior leader in the Salisbury Cathedral.
But his appointment faced problems. Pope Alexander III, the true Pope, said no. The Pope was concerned about John's past dealings with the antipope. Also, some church leaders were not present for John's election.
Because of these issues, Thomas Becket, a powerful archbishop, took a serious step. He excommunicated John on June 12, 1166. To be "excommunicated" means to be officially cut off from the Church. It was a very serious punishment back then.
Both the king and the church leaders in Salisbury appealed to the Pope. King Henry II even sent John to Rome to explain himself. John gave up his position as Dean of Salisbury to the Pope. But then, the Pope himself reappointed John to the same role before December 1166. This showed that John had regained the Pope's trust.
Becoming Bishop of Norwich
After these challenges, John of Oxford continued his service. He was chosen to lead the diocese of Norwich. This happened on November 26, 1175. A "diocese" is an area managed by a bishop.
John was officially made a bishop on December 14, 1175. He served as the Bishop of Norwich for many years. He passed away on June 2, 1200.
