The position of lay abbot was a desirable reward for a count or magnate.[5] It allowed him to rule a monastery and manage the rich lands it owned. It was always intended that an abbot be a father to the other monks. But lay abbots were administrators who functioned to protect the monastery and it's property.[5] While a lay abbot made money he also had great influence in the church. Because Fulk I was lay abbot of St. Aubin he could influence who became bishop. The bishops of Angers were consecrated at St. Aubin.[5]
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The position of lay abbot was a desirable reward for a count or magnate.[5] It allowed him to rule a monastery and manage the rich lands it owned. It was always intended that an abbot be a father to the other monks. But lay abbots were administrators who functioned to protect the monastery and it's property.[5] While a lay abbot made money he also had great influence in the church. Because Fulk I was lay abbot of St. Aubin he could influence who became bishop. The bishops of Angers were consecrated at St. Aubin.[5]
