St. Hugh of Lincoln

Hugh was formed first among regular canons and then in the Carthusian life at the Grande Chartreuse. Prayer, silence and obedience shaped the man who would later be called to a much more public ministry. At the request of Henry II he came to England to guide the struggling Carthusian foundation at Witham in Somerset.

He encouraged the small community and worked with his own hands on its buildings. Chosen bishop of Lincoln in 1186, he brought the same personal discipline into his episcopal household. Butler describes his care for the poor and hospitals, his patience in teaching, and his firm observance of prayer even during travel. He returned to Witham for periods of retirement while continuing to carry the obligations of his diocese.

His friendship with the king did not make him silent about wrongdoing. He resisted abuses by royal officers and refused to distribute Church offices simply to satisfy a courtier. Butler also follows his dealings with Richard I and John. Hugh died in London in 1200, and his body was taken to Lincoln. His life connects the hidden discipline of a monk with the courage required of a bishop.