Michael MacKenlagh facts for kids
Michael MacKenlagh (also known as Mìcheal MacFhionnlaigh in Scottish Gaelic) was an important church leader in Scotland during the 1300s. He served as the Bishop of Galloway (also called Whithorn) from 1355 to 1358. A bishop is a high-ranking leader in the Christian church, overseeing a specific area called a diocese.
Who Was Michael MacKenlagh?
Before becoming a bishop, Michael MacKenlagh held another important position. He was the Prior of Whithorn. A prior was the head of a monastery, which is a community where monks live and dedicate their lives to religious service. As Prior, he was a key religious leader in the local area.
Becoming a Bishop
Michael MacKenlagh was chosen to be a bishop sometime between March 1354 and June 1355. After he was elected, he needed official approval. He received a special document called a "safe conduct" from Edward III of England. This document allowed him to travel safely to meet John, the Archbishop of York. The Archbishop of York was a very powerful church leader who confirmed Michael MacKenlagh's election.
His election likely happened in 1355. In July of that same year, he was officially made a bishop. This special ceremony is called "consecration." It was performed by William Edendon, who was the Bishop of Winchester.
His Time as Bishop
Michael MacKenlagh served as Bishop of Galloway from 1355 to 1358. We know he was still bishop in January 1358. At that time, he again received a safe conduct letter from King Edward. This allowed him to visit the Archbishop of York once more.
His time as bishop ended sometime before December 1359. By that date, a new bishop, a priest named Thomas MacDowell, had taken his place.
