The Boy Bishop
The Boy Bishop was a popular figure in medieval Christmas festivities, inspired by the life of St. Nicholas, who was appointed Bishop of Myra while still in his teens. In medieval times, the boy chosen to be Bishop would preside over certain portions of the Christmas festivities.
In time, however, the innocence of this tradition was lost, as it became overshadowed by rowdiness; Boy Bishop services were often seen as an excuse to parody the church and have wild parties. The Boy Bishop had become too closely associated with the figure of the Lord of Misrule for many people’s taste, and as a result was eventually outlawed by the church. The popular tradition did not die out completely, however, until Henry VIII banned it from England in 1542.
Festive Fact
The Boy Bishop's "reign" usually began on December 6, St. Nicholas's Day, and would last until December 28, the Feast of the Holy Innocents. During this time, the Boy Bishop acted as a priest of sorts, blessing people, bringing up the offerings, and leading the choir. He always dressed the part, and in some countries Boy Bishop services were very elaborate.
