Born in England late in the 13th century, both of his parents died before any of the children were old enough to inherit their property. 

As a result, it was held by the community until his oldest brother was of age, but by then a huge tax bill was waiting, so, to help pay the bill, Richard was forced to work the land for free. 

His desire for his own life was one of faith and learning. Suggestions of marriage were rejected. Instead, he went to Oxford and, before long, was teaching there. 

Developing a great interest in Canon Law, Richard moved on to Paris and then Italy to further his studies. 

Meanwhile, back in England, his former teacher, Edmund of Abbington, was made Archbishop of Canterbury. Knowing that Richard shared his desire for Church reform and the defense of Papal rights, even if it meant defying the King, he appointed Richard as Chancellor. 

When Edmund of Abbington was forced into exile in France because of his position, Richard went with him and stayed until Edmund died. 

For the next two years, Richard studied to become a priest and then was called to return to England where he was elected Bishop of Chichester. 

But King Henry III refused to accept this appointment and confiscated Church properties, returning them only after the threat of excommunication. 

Richard spent the next eight years as Bishop of Chichester, continuing his fight against corruption. 

He died at a house for poor priests while preaching a Crusade. 

St. Richard of Chichester, please pray for us.