Wilfrid, who had adopted Roman practices during his time in Rome, passionately argued in favor of the Roman method, stating that the teachings of the Pope should be followed as the legitimate authority in matters of Christian doctrine. His arguments were persuasive, and the Synod ultimately sided with Wilfrid and the Roman practices. The decision of the Synod marked a turning point for the Church in England, establishing Roman practices as the standard in the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms.
The Synod of Whitby also solidified Wilfrid’s position as one of the most powerful and influential churchmen in Northumbria. His victory at Whitby earned him the favor of King Oswiu of Northumbria, who had also supported the Roman side in the debate. As a result, Wilfrid was appointed Bishop of Northumbria, a title that allowed him to exert considerable influence over the religious and political landscape of the region.
Missionary Work and Founding of Monasteries
Wilfrid’s role as a missionary and bishop took him across the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, spreading Christianity and building churches. He is credited with the founding of several monasteries and churches, many of which became centers of learning and spiritual devotion. Wilfrid was particularly active in the south of England and the regions that would later form the kingdom of Mercia.
One of his most notable achievements was the foundation of the monastery at Ripon, which would become one of the most important religious centers in northern England. Wilfrid also played a key role in the establishment of the monastic community at Hexham, where he was instrumental in building a grand church dedicated to Saint Andrew. The importance of these foundations cannot be overstated, as they served as crucial centers for Christian education, art, and culture in a time when such institutions were rare and vital to the preservation of knowledge.
In addition to his missionary work, Wilfrid was known for his tireless efforts to promote the role of bishops within the church. He advocated for the establishment of a more structured and hierarchical church, in contrast to the more decentralized, monastic-based Christianity that was common in early Anglo-Saxon England. This emphasis on a strong episcopacy was a significant shift in the organization of the church, and it laid the groundwork for the future development of the English church. shutdown123