James Talbot (bishop)

James Talbot (1726 – 27 January 1790) was an English Roman Catholic prelate who served as the Vicar Apostolic of the London District from 1781 to 1790.

Talbot was born in Badger, Shropshire, the fourth son of George Talbot of Badger and Mary, daughter of Thomas, Viscount Fitzwilliam. He came from a prominent recusant family with a long history of Catholic faith. He was educated at the English College, Douai, France, and ordained a priest in 1751.

After serving in various pastoral roles, including missions in London and Staffordshire, Talbot was appointed Coadjutor Vicar Apostolic of the London District in 1779, with the title of Bishop of Birtha in partibus infidelium. He succeeded Bishop Richard Challoner as Vicar Apostolic of the London District in 1781 upon Challoner’s death.

During his episcopate, Talbot oversaw the Catholic Church in London and surrounding areas, navigating the challenges of anti-Catholic sentiment and the legal restrictions still in place against Catholics in England. He worked to support Catholic education and ministry, contributing to the gradual improvement of conditions for Catholics in the country. He died in London on 27 January 1790.