Diocese of London

The Diocese of London, a suffragan diocese of the Latin Rite, was a historic diocese in England. Established in the early seventh century, it served as one of the key sees in the Anglo-Saxon Church under papal authority. The diocese continued through the medieval period until the English Reformation disrupted the Catholic succession in the sixteenth century. Its territory later contributed to the restoration of the Catholic hierarchy in the nineteenth century under the Archdiocese of Westminster.

Stored in Cargo: Diocese of London

Diocese: Diocese of London
Status:	Historic
Rite:	Latin
Type:	Suffragan diocese
Country:	England
Region:	London
Existence:	604–1559
Chancery Address:	London, England

Establishment

The Diocese of London was established in 604 by Pope Gregory I through the mission of Augustine of Canterbury to serve the growing Christian population in the Kingdom of Essex and surrounding areas.

History

The diocese developed through the Anglo-Saxon and medieval periods with its cathedral at St. Paul's. Following the Reformation, Catholic episcopal succession ended in the see during the sixteenth century.

Geography

The diocese historically covered the city of London and surrounding regions in southeastern England.

Mother Church

Old St Paul's Cathedral in London served as the mother church until its destruction.

Leadership

Past Bishops

Name	Tenure	Notes
Mellitus	604–617	First bishop; later Archbishop of Canterbury.
Cedd	654–664	Missionary bishop from Northumbria.
Wine	666–672	Former Bishop of Winchester.
Erkenwald	675–693	Founded Chertsey Abbey.
Waldhere	693–705	Attended Council of Hertford.
Ingwald	705–745	Long-serving early medieval bishop.
... (subsequent bishops through medieval period)
Edmund Bonner	1539–1559	Last Catholic bishop before suppression of the see.

According to historical Church records.

Titular Status

This cannot be confirmed as a current titular see through primary sources.

Fun facts

Below are some fun facts about the Diocese of London:

Did you know? The Diocese of London traces its roots to 604 when St. Mellitus was sent by Pope Gregory the Great to evangelize the East Saxons.

Surprise! St. Erkenwald, one of its early bishops, is remembered for miracles associated with his tomb at Old St. Paul's Cathedral.

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Associated saints

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Religious orders

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Diocesan photos

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External Links

• Catholic Hierarchy records