Andrew Gray (17th-century divine) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Andrew Gray |
|
|---|---|
| Church | Outer High Church, Glasgow |
| Predecessor | Patrick Gillespie |
| Successor | Robert MacWard |
| Orders | |
| Ordination | 3 November 1653 |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1633 |
| Died | 8 February 1656 interred at Blackadder's or St Fergus's aisle, Glasgow Cathedral |
| Spouse | Rachel, daughter of George Baillie of Jerviswood and Margaret Johnston |
| Children | William, Rachel, Robert |
| Alma mater | St. Andrews and Edinburgh |
Andrew Gray (1633–1656) was a Scottish minister. He was born in August 1633. Andrew was the son of Sir William Gray, a well-known merchant. He studied at university and became a minister in 1653. Sadly, his time as a minister was very short. He passed away in 1656 when he was only 22 years old.
Andrew Gray's Early Life
Andrew Gray was born in Edinburgh, Scotland. This was in August 1633. He was one of many children in his family. His father, Sir William Gray, was a successful merchant. He was also a royalist, meaning he supported the king.
Andrew's Education and Calling
When Andrew was a child, he loved to play. But one day, he met a very religious beggar. This meeting made Andrew think deeply about life. He decided he wanted to become a minister.
He went to two famous universities. These were the University of St Andrews and the University of Edinburgh. He finished his studies at St Andrews in 1651. Andrew was part of a group of young preachers. They were greatly influenced by a respected leader named Leighton.
His Time as a Minister
Andrew Gray became a licensed preacher in 1653. He was then made a minister in Glasgow. This happened on November 3, 1653. He was very young, only 20 years old. Some people were surprised by how young he was.
One person, Robert Baillie, described Andrew's preaching style. He said it was "high flown" and "rhetorical." At first, Andrew spoke very quietly. People found it hard to hear him. But after a special church service, he learned to speak louder.
Even though his ministry lasted only three years, it was very successful. People were deeply moved by his sermons. His published works became very popular. They are still read today. Andrew had wished to see God before his next birthday. Six months later, on February 8, 1656, he passed away. He died after a short illness. He was buried in Glasgow Cathedral.
Andrew's Family
Andrew Gray married Rachel Baillie in March 1654. They had a son named William. He was born in Glasgow in March 1655. They also had a daughter named Rachel. Andrew's wife, Rachel, later married another minister.
Andrew Gray's Writings
Many of Andrew Gray's sermons were written down. His wife often took notes in shorthand. These sermons were published after he died. They became very popular.
Some of his most famous works include:
- The Mystery of Faith opened up
- Great and Precious Promises
- Directions and Instigations to the Duty of Prayer
- The Spiritual Warfare
- Eleven Communion Sermons
All these works were later collected. They were published together as The Whole Works of the Reverend and Pious Mr. Andrew Gray. His writings are still studied today.
