Othobon, Synod of

Othobon, Synod of was held in London, A.D. 1268, under cardinal Othobon, and claims attention, not only as representing the united churches of England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland, but as displaying a commendable zeal for discipline, and embodying its decrees in constitutions. many of which are still law. It directs that the laity be carefully instructed in the baptismal formula, in order that in cases of emergency they might be qualified to administer the rite; and it enjoins, for the first time, the indicative form of absolution after confession, still retained in the office for the visitation of the sick. Several of its canons are directed against simoniacal contracts for benefices, non- residence and pluralities, commutations of penance. appropriations of tithes to monastic houses, and commendams, which, originating in early times when inlterruptions were perpetually occurring to regular ministerial appointments, were afterwards grievously perverted.