Archbishops of Canterbury

Nominated by Augustine as his successor, Laurentius faced challenges when King Ethelbert’s pagan son, Eadbald, succeeded him.

Appointed by Pope Gregory the Great, Mellitus became the first Bishop of London and played a significant role in the conversion of the Kingdom of Essex to Christianity.

After the death of Archbishop Mellitus, Justus was appointed as the Archbishop of Canterbury. During Justus’s tenure as archbishop, the Kingdom of Northumbria embraced Christianity, marking a significant expansion of the Christian faith in England. Read more >>

The last of the group of Roman missionaries who had accompanied St. Augustine to England. He faced challenges in maintaining the growth of Christianity in England.

Became Archbishop of Canterbury during a period of stability in England. He worked to organize and strengthen the English Church during his tenure.

The first Archbishop of Canterbury of Greek descent, Theodore reorganized the English Church, creating the diocesan structure and unifying the people of England.

The first archbishop of English birth, Berhtwald worked with King Wihtred of Kent to develop the laws of the land, further establishing the influence of the Church.

Continued the work of his predecessors in leading the Church in England, overseeing its growth and organization.

Known for his efforts in collecting and preserving historical documents of the Church, contributing to the recording of early English history.

Established England as an important base from which Anglo-Saxon missionaries were dispatched abroad, contributing to the spread of Christianity. Read more >>

Continued the work of his predecessors in leading the Church in England, facing challenges posed by political and religious developments.

Faced challenges due to shifting power dynamics between the kingdoms of Kent and Mercia, which affected the influence of Canterbury.

Initially chosen by King Offa of Mercia to elevate Lichfield as the premier archbishopric, Ethelheard later reinstated Canterbury’s traditional superiority through his actions.

Faced frequent disputes with the kings of Mercia and was at one stage exiled by King Cenwulf, which disrupted his rule.

His policies aimed to maintain Canterbury’s superiority within the Church of England, but he faced challenges in doing so.

Strengthened Canterbury’s position by forming close relationships with the Kings of Wessex and abandoning the pro-Mercian policies of his predecessor.

Faced challenges during his tenure as Archbishop of Canterbury, navigating the complex political and religious landscape of the time.

Appointed by Alfred the Great, Plegmund played an influential role in the conversion of the Danelaw to Christianity, contributing to the expansion of the Church.

Continued the work of his predecessors in leading the Church in England, facing challenges posed by external pressures.

Continued the work of his predecessors in leading the Church in England, contributing to its stability and growth.

Organized the reintroduction of a bishopric into the Scandinavian settlements of East Anglia, furthering the spread of Christianity.

Continued the work of his predecessors in leading the Church in England, maintaining its influence and presence.

Continued the work of his predecessors in leading the Church in England, navigating the challenges of the time.

Known for his reform efforts and close relationship with King Edwy, Dunstan became Archbishop of Canterbury in 960. He played a significant role in shaping both the Church and the kingdom.

Continued the work of his predecessors in leading the Church in England, contributing to its stability and growth.

Associated with the policy of paying Danegeld to fend off Scandinavian attacks, Sigeric played a role in protecting the Church and the kingdom.

Continued the work of his predecessors in leading the Church in England, facing the challenges of the time.

Known for his martyrdom after being captured and murdered by the Danes, Alphege became a symbol of resistance and faith.

Continued the work of his predecessors in leading the Church in England, contributing to its resilience.

The first monk of the Canterbury monastery to be elected archbishop, Ethelnoth brought his unique perspective to the role.

Continued the work of his predecessors in leading the Church in England, facing the challenges of the time.

His elevation to archbishop fueled a civil war between Edward the Confessor and Earl Godwine of Wessex, contributing to political instability.

Became archbishop after the expulsion of Robert of Jumieges but was never recognized by the church in Rome. His controversial appointment and actions led to his eventual deposition by Papal Legate.