[1] The Dowdall family came to Ireland from Dovedale in Derbyshire in the thirteenth century and settled in County Louth.
Dowdall would not accept the new liturgy, and in 1552 he withdrew to a monastery in Brabant, and was replaced by Hugh Goodacre.
He was energetic in attempting to undo the effects of the Reformation, holding two provincial synods at Drogheda to restore the constitution of the pre-Reformation Church.
He was particularly zealous in depriving married clergy of their livings, and as a result was accused of taking the opportunity to persecute his personal enemies, such as George Browne, Archbishop of Dublin.
[1] He was noted from an early age for gravity of character and learning, but also for his "high stomach" (pride).