 The abbey was governed by an abbess, who was the "heir of Brigit" ("comarbae Brigte"), and by abbots, bishops and abbot-bishops who were subordinate to the abbess.It was not until the 12th century however, that the bishopric was formally established at the Synod of Rathbreasail (1111 AD).The diocese covered roughly the northern part of County Kildare and the eastern part of County Offaly.