Maurice of Inchaffray facts for kids
Maurice was an important church leader in Scotland during the 1300s. He held several important positions, including Prior, Abbot, and eventually Bishop. He is best known for being a strong supporter of Robert I of Scotland, also known as Robert the Bruce. Maurice played a special role at the famous Battle of Bannockburn.
Who Was Maurice?
Maurice started his church career as a Prior at Inchmahome Priory around 1297. A Prior is a leader in a monastery, similar to an abbot but often in a smaller community. Later, he became the Abbot of Inchaffray Abbey between 1304 and 1305. An Abbot is the head of a monastery.
As Abbot of Inchaffray, he also had a special role at Dunblane Cathedral. Eventually, Maurice was chosen to be the Bishop of Dunblane. This was a very important position. He became Bishop before March 1322.
Maurice and Robert the Bruce
Maurice was a loyal friend and helper to Robert I of Scotland. Robert the Bruce was a Scottish king who fought for Scotland's independence from England.
- Helping the King: Maurice likely helped Robert after a tough defeat at the Battle of Methven in 1305. This shows his early support for the future king.
- Diplomatic Missions: In 1313, Maurice traveled to England. He was probably trying to help make peace between the Scottish and English kings.
- Battle of Bannockburn: Maurice is most famous for his role at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. He was the chaplain for the Scottish army. A chaplain is a priest who serves in the military.
The Battle of Bannockburn
Before the battle, Maurice gave an inspiring speech to the Scottish soldiers. He also blessed them, which was very important for their morale.
A famous story says that Maurice brought a special silver box to the battlefield. This box was believed to hold a bone from St Fillan, a Scottish saint. The story claims that the saint's bone miraculously appeared on the battlefield. It was believed to help the Scots win their great victory.
Later Life
Not much is known about Maurice's life after the Battle of Bannockburn. He passed away in the 1340s. We know he died before October 23, 1347, because his successor, William de Cambuslang, became Bishop of Dunblane on that date.
