It's St Hugh's Day

Hugh of Lincoln was a monk, diplomat, builder, reformer, animal-lover, and one of the most respected bishops in English history.  He was born in Burgundy and became a Carthusian monk.  He was sent to establish the first Carthusian house in England.  Once he got here, he caught the attention of King Henry II, who appointed him Bishop of Lincoln in 1186. Lincoln was the largest diocese in England—sprawling, politically tense, and filled with neglected parishes. Hugh took it on with a mixture of gentleness and iron conviction. 

 I think Henry bit off more than he could chew!  Hugh confronted Henry II about royal interference in Church affairs, he refused to give in to Richard the Lionheart’s heavy taxation schemes and he challenged royal officials who mistreated the poor or the vulnerable. The amazing thing is that, although the kings grumbled, they respected him because he was one of the few leaders who couldn't be bribed, bullied, or bought.

 He was a defender of the vulnerable, and during outbreaks of anti-Jewish persecution in England, he intervened to protect Jewish communities in Lincoln and beyond.  In an age not known for tolerance, he stood as a voice of peace.

 Hugh was responsible for rebuilding much of Lincoln Cathedral.  He visited the site during the building and got to know the craftsmen.  He tried to ensure fair treatment and safe working conditions—a rarity in his time.  

St Hugh's Church, Scunthorpe, where I was baptised.  

Hugh’s symbol is a swan.  Legend has it that when he arrived at the bishop’s palace at Stow, a wild swan appeared and became his constant companion. It followed him, guarded him, and hissed at anyone who came too close.  The swan is now an emblem of the saint’s gentleness and the harmony he brought wherever he went.

 St. Hugh is remembered as a rare blend of courage, compassion, and peace—a steady moral voice in a turbulent age.