Blessed Boniface Of Canterbury

Biography

Blessed Boniface of Canterbury, also known as Boniface of Belley, was born around 1207 near Sainte-Hélène-du-Luc in the Savoy region of modern France. He came from the noble Ducal House of Savoy and was the eleventh child of Count Thomas of Savoy. Blessed Boniface was the brother of Queen Beatrix of Savoy and the uncle of Queen Eleanor of England.

Having embraced a life of religious devotion, Boniface became a Carthusian monk at the Grande Chartreuse monastery. His piety and commitment to a simple lifestyle led to his appointment as the Prior of the monastery in Natua, France. In 1233, he was consecrated as the Bishop of Belley in France, where he actively served the people with great dedication.

In 1243, Boniface was selected by Pope Innocent IV as the Archbishop of Canterbury, England. His reputation as a devout and diligent churchman was widely recognized. Boniface attended the Council of Lyon in 1245 and actively participated in the discussions and decision-making processes of the Church.

Upon assuming leadership in the archdiocese of Canterbury, Blessed Boniface embarked on a series of reforms. He sought to streamline the bureaucratic structure, eliminating unnecessary offices and working towards restoring the financial stability of the nearly bankrupt diocese. Boniface aimed to diminish royal interference in the Church's internal affairs and challenged the monarchy's control over ecclesiastical appointments.

Although he faced resistance from some monasteries within his diocese, Blessed Boniface vigorously pursued his reform efforts. Some communities refused to acknowledge his authority or receive his visits, leading to confrontations that occasionally turned violent. In order to enforce compliance, he was compelled to excommunicate certain clerics. Nonetheless, there were many who warmly embraced his reform initiatives, recognizing his personal piety, his acts of charity, and his austere way of life.

In 1258, Boniface was chosen as the leader of a group of counselors representing the interests of the English barons against the king. This appointment demonstrated his commitment to justice and his willingness to protect the rights of the people. In May 1261, he called for a council at Lambeth Castle, where decrees were issued to assert the Church's right to oppose secular intervention. Unfortunately, these decrees were not ratified by Pope Urban IV, as the pope sought the support of King Henry.

Faced with political challenges, Blessed Boniface voluntarily went into exile in France from 1262 to 1266. However, he continued to administer his archdiocese from across the Channel, opposing the king's unilateral appointments to ecclesiastical offices and the taxation of Church property. It is important to note that Boniface supported the king on certain matters, particularly when the barons instigated civil war.

During his exile, Boniface briefly served as the regent of England and accompanied the king on diplomatic missions to France. His dedication to resolving family conflicts and ending feuds between factions consumed his efforts. Tragically, Blessed Boniface passed away on 18 July 1270 while actively engaged in settling family matters at the Sainte-Hélène des Milliere castle in Hautecombe, Savoy, France. Notably, his body was discovered incorrupt in the mid-16th century, a testament to his sanctity.

In later years, some English historians criticized Boniface's involvement in worldly politics and his alleged interference in family affairs. However, those who had the privilege of knowing him in France treasured his contributions and esteemed his character and holiness.

Blessed Boniface of Canterbury's feast day is celebrated on 14 July, although some calendars also commemorate him on 13 March or 4 July. Pope Gregory XVI beatified him on 7 September 1838, confirming his cultus and recognizing his holiness. Throughout history, Blessed Boniface inspired many with his unwavering commitment to reform, justice, and piety, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of those who venerate him.