Patrick Russell (bishop) facts for kids

Patrick Russell (born 1629 – died 14 July 1692) was an important Roman Catholic church leader in Ireland. He served as the Archbishop of Dublin from August 1683 until his death. He was put in prison because he supported King James II.

Life and Church Work

Patrick Russell was born in Rush, County Dublin, Ireland. His father was James Russell. Patrick studied at the Irish College at Lisbon and became a priest in 1654. After returning to Ireland, he worked in the parish of St Nicholas of Myra Without in Dublin. In 1675, he became the vicar general for the diocese.

After Archbishop Peter Talbot was arrested in 1678 and died in 1680, Patrick Russell took over the responsibilities for the Archdiocese of Dublin. Pope Innocent XI officially made him the Archbishop on 2 August 1683.

Rebuilding the Church

When James II of England became king, he stopped the Penal Laws. These laws had made it very hard for Catholics to practice their faith. With these laws paused, Archbishop Russell was able to reorganize the Catholic Church in his area.

He held two important meetings for all the bishops in 1685 and 1688. He also held three local church meetings, called synods, in 1686, 1688, and 1689. In July 1685, he signed a request from Irish Catholic leaders to King James II. They asked the king to let the Earl of Tyrconnell protect them as they carried out their duties. King James II gave Archbishop Russell a yearly payment of £200. When the king arrived in Dublin in March 1689, after the Glorious Revolution, Archbishop Russell led several church services with the king present.

Challenges and Imprisonment

After King James II's forces lost the Battle of the Boyne, Archbishop Russell had to leave Ireland. He went to join King James II's court in France. He secretly returned to Ireland in 1692. However, he was caught and put in prison in Dublin Castle. He died there in July 1692 while he was still on trial.

Patrick Russell faced many difficulties during his time as Archbishop. He often had to hide to perform his duties. He worked hard to bring order back to the church. His efforts helped secure financial support for Catholic bishops from King James II. Despite his challenges, he continued to lead the church until his death in prison.