James V: Religion and Reform

Earlier Scottish kings had negotiated an eight month period for them to nominate a new Bishop; James pursued his rights in the matter of benefices vigorously, and frequently wrote to Rome complaining if his wishes were not respected.

The story is complex, but worth telling, as it is a microcosm of how the whole ecclesiastical system was run.

There were five contenders in the race.

Queen Margaret’s secretary described the situation:

‘Every man taks up abbacyis that may .. est: thay tary not quhilk (until) benefices be vacant: thai tak tham or (before) thai fall…’