Eraclus was appointed as the 25th bishop of Liège, succeeding a line of influential leaders in a diocese that held significant sway within the Holy Roman Empire. His ascension came during a period of growing political complexity, characterized by the interplay between ecclesiastical authority and the burgeoning power of local lords. The kingdom of Lotharingia, which included Liège, was experiencing shifts in governance, with bishops often serving as critical mediators in disputes between the throne and local nobility. As bishop, Eraclus was entrusted with not only spiritual leadership but also significant political responsibilities, influencing both the church's role in governance and the diocese's autonomy. His leadership was marked by efforts to consolidate ecclesiastical power and foster cooperation with secular authorities, navigating a landscape dotted with rival factions. Eraclus's jurisdiction extended over both religious and political domains, allowing him to impact the community's various dynamics profoundly.

Within this context, the role of the bishop was vital. Bishops were often seen as representatives of divine will, and their positions conferred considerable power. Eraclus's tenure would thus be defined by his ability to uphold the diocese's interests amidst the external pressures exerted by rival local lords and competing allegiances within the realm. His appointment is not only a transition in religious leadership but reflects the broader currents influencing church-state relations during this era. The church was deeply woven into the fabric of societal governance, and bishops held positions that were integral to both spiritual and temporal authorities. As Eraclus took up his post, he was entering a turbulent arena where the stakes were high, and the balance of power was constantly shifting, necessitating both wisdom and fortitude in leadership.