Abel of Reims was an 8th-century Benedictine monk and bishop who served as the archbishop of Reims in Francia. Born in either Ireland or England, he became a close associate of the missionary Boniface. During his tenure, he functioned as a suffragan bishop under the influence of lay controllers. He is remembered for his ecclesiastical service and his connection to the missionary efforts of the era, eventually potentially retiring to the Lobbes Abbey where he may have served as abbot.
Ecclesiastical career
Following his election at the Council of Soissons in 744, Abel received the pallium from Pope Zacharias to confirm his episcopal authority. He worked alongside Boniface, participating in missionary correspondence with the Mercian king Æthelbald. Historical accounts suggest his position was later challenged by Milo, a layman who exerted control over several sees, which may have led to Abel being replaced or retiring to Lobbes.
Veneration
Abel is recognized as a saint in the Catholic Church, with his name appearing in various martyrologies. Although he was not a martyr, he has been included in the records of the Bollandists. His feast day is observed on 5 August, the date associated with his death in Lobbes.