Wenilo (archbishop of Rouen) facts for kids

Wenilo (died 18 September 869) was an important church leader called the archbishop of Rouen. He became archbishop in 858. King Charles the Bald chose him for this important role. An archbishop is a very high-ranking bishop who oversees many churches and priests in a large area.

Early Life and Church Role

Wenilo might have worked as a church official in the king's palace before he became the Archbishop of Rouen in 858. This means he was close to the king and likely helped with royal duties.

In 848, Wenilo helped Ragenarius, who was the bishop of Amiens. They worked together at a church meeting, known as a synod, in a place called Quierzy-sur-Oise. These meetings were important for making decisions about church rules and practices.

Important Meetings and Decisions

Wenilo attended several important meetings, called councils, during his time as archbishop.

Councils and Legal Cases

In 859, he went to a council in Savonnières. There, he was one of the judges in a case involving another church leader named Wenilo, who was the archbishop of Sens. This shows he was trusted to help make big decisions.

He also attended councils in Aachen in 859 and 861. These meetings discussed the marriage of King Lothair II and Teutberga. Wenilo's presence at these events shows his role in important political and religious matters of the time.

Facing Viking Attacks

In 860, the city of Rouen faced attacks from the Vikings. Because of these attacks, Wenilo had to leave Rouen for safety. He found refuge in Andely, a place where he owned property.

Defending the Realm

Wenilo was also present at the council of Pîtres in 864. At this council, King Charles the Bald issued important rules for defending the country against the Vikings. This shows how serious the Viking threat was and how church leaders like Wenilo were involved in protecting the kingdom.

Archbishop Hincmar of Reims, another powerful church leader, even wrote a letter to Wenilo. This letter was about building a strong, fortified bridge over the Seine River at Pîtres. This bridge would help protect the area from invaders.

Royal Gifts and Donations

Wenilo attended another church council in Soissons on 18 August 866. He was known for his influence.

Supporting Monasteries

Along with other bishops like Gombert of Évreux and Pardulus of Laon, Wenilo helped the abbey of La Croix-Saint-Leufroy receive many gifts from the king before 858. An abbey is a type of monastery where monks or nuns live and work.

Between 858 and 862, Wenilo also helped get donations for a place called Thiverny. These donations allowed Thiverny to serve as a safe place for monks. This shows his dedication to supporting religious communities.