This week in Christian history: YMCA founded; Mary Dyer executed; Thomas Becket consecrated
Thomas Becket made archbishop of Canterbury – June 3, 1162
This week marks the anniversary of when Thomas Becket, the Medieval Church leader who was infamously murdered at Canterbury Cathedral in England, was consecrated archbishop.
Becket was serving as chancellor to King Henry II when the high-ranking church position became vacant. Becket was officially appointed to the archbishopric on May 23 of that year.
"Given his lifestyle and reputation [Becket] was an unlikely candidate but the king had other ideas. Henry was keen to appoint his close friend to the role but, crucially, he wanted him to continue as Chancellor," explained the British Museum.
"With Becket in both positions, Henry saw an opportunity to exercise greater authority over the Church as well as the state. … However, at some point during the rest of that year, and against the king's wishes, Becket resigned as Chancellor. His actions drove a wedge between him and the king which would never be repaired."
A little over eight years later, Becket was murdered within the cathedral by four knights who were reportedly acting on the wishes of Henry.
