Feast of St. Hugh of Lincoln

Also known as Hugh of Avalon; Hugh of Burgundy

Memorial  17 November

Son of William, Lord of Avalon. His mother Anna died when he was 8, and he was raised and educated at a convent at Villard-Benoit. Monk at 15. Deacon at 19. Prior of a monastery at Saint-Maxim. Carthusian. Priest. In 1175 he became abbot of the first English Carthusian monastery, which was built by King Henry II as part of his penance for the murder of Thomas Becket.

His reputation for holiness spread through England, and attracted many to the monastery. He admonished Henry for keeping dioceses vacant in order to keep their income for the throne. Resisted the appointment, but was made bishop of Lincoln in 21 September 1181. Restored clerical discipline in his see. Rebuilt the Lincoln cathedral, destroyed by earthquake in 1185.

Denounced the mass persecution of Jews in England in 1190-91, repeatedly facing down armed mobs, making them release their victims. Diplomat to France for King John in 1199, a trip that ruined his health. While attending a national council in London a few months later, he was stricken with an unnamed ailment, and died two months later.

Born - 1140 Avalon Castle, Burgundy, France

Died  - 16 November 1200 in London, England; buried in the Lincoln Cathedral

Canonized - 1220; first canonized Carthusian