Thomas Stewart (bishop of St Andrews) facts for kids
Thomas Stewart was a son of King Robert II of Scotland. He was born outside of marriage. Thomas became an important church leader in Scotland during the late 1300s and early 1400s.
Contents
Early Life and Church Roles
Starting His Church Career
In 1380, Thomas Stewart began his journey in the church. Avignon Pope Clement VII gave him a special job. This job was called the Archdeaconry of the Bishopric of St. Andrews. An Archdeacon was a senior church official. They helped the Bishop manage the church's affairs in a large area.
More Church Positions
Thomas also received a "canonry" and "prebend" in the Bishopric of Glasgow. A canonry meant he was a member of a group of priests. They served a cathedral. A prebend was a payment or income given to a canon. It came from the church's lands. This allowed him to support himself.
Gaining More Power
In 1389, King Robert II helped Thomas get another important role. The King asked the Pope to allow Thomas to also hold the "deanery" of the Bishopric of Dunkeld. A deanery is another high-ranking church position. It involves leading a group of canons. In 1393, the Pope gave Thomas a canonry in the Bishopric of Brechin too.
Studying Law
During these years, Thomas Stewart also studied hard. He earned a Bachelor's degree in Canon Law from the famous University of Paris. Canon Law is the set of rules and laws used by the Christian Church. This education helped him in his church duties.
The Election for Bishop
A New Opportunity
On July 1, 1401, a big chance came for Thomas. The Bishop of St. Andrews, Walter Trail, passed away. Thomas was chosen to become the new Bishop. This was a very important position in the Scottish church.
Facing Challenges
However, becoming Bishop was not easy for Thomas. The Pope at the time, Avignon Pope Benedict XIII, was having serious problems. The King of France was even attacking him. Because of these political issues, Thomas had trouble getting the Pope's official approval.
Political Struggles
Thomas's election became caught up in the politics of the time. His nephew, David Stewart, Duke of Rothesay, strongly supported him. The Duke of Rothesay even campaigned for Thomas in the St. Andrews area in 1401. But this put Thomas against his own half-brother, Robert Stewart, 1st Duke of Albany.
Giving Up the Role
The Duke of Albany wanted control of Dumbarton Castle. He offered the castle's keeper, Walter de Danyelston, the chance to become Bishop of St. Andrews instead. In the summer of 1402, Thomas met with the Duke of Albany at Abernethy. After this meeting, Thomas decided to give up his claim to be Bishop. This allowed a new election to take place.
