Background
He was the great-grandson of King John II of France.
He was the great-grandson of King John II of France.
Historians have noted that Bishop John was part of the manipulation of the church by the Dukes of Burgundy during this era, with his father being accused of nepotism and cronyism in having his relatives and supporters appointed to bishoprics, abbacies, and chapters to gain more control and influence over church. Philip also appointed the church officials at Tournai, Arras, Cologne, Besançon, Autun, Mâcon and Auxerre. In 1446, Pope Eugene IV was engaged in an internal church conflict over the validity of his papacy with Felix V. Recognized by the Kings of Castile, France, and England, Eugenius took steps to solidify his support within the church by ex-communicating and deposing supporters of Felix, including the Archbishops at Trier and Cologne.
Eugenius appointed John to fill the vacant Archbishopric at Trier, however, the appointment was disputed.
John fathered numerous illegitimate children. lieutenant is written that he celebrated mass once at Cambrai in the presence of his 36 illegitimate sons or grandsons.