Arthur Saul facts for kids
Arthur Saul (died 1586) was an English Puritan leader and scholar. He was a church official who had to leave England during the reign of Mary I of England because of his religious beliefs. Later, he became a high-ranking church member, known as a canon, at Gloucester Cathedral.
Who Was Arthur Saul?
Arthur Saul was born in Gloucestershire, England. He started his studies at Magdalen College, Oxford, in 1545. This was a famous university college. He earned his first degree (B.A.) in 1546 and a master's degree (M.A.) in 1549. He was also a fellow, or senior member, of Magdalen College from about 1546 to 1553.
Leaving England
In October 1553, Arthur Saul was removed from Magdalen College. This happened during a visit by Bishop Stephen Gardiner. At this time, Mary I of England was queen. She was a Catholic and did not support Protestants like Saul.
Because of his Protestant beliefs, Saul had to leave England. He became what was known as a "Marian exile." In 1554, he lived in Strasbourg, a city in what is now France, along with other English exiles like Alexander Nowell.
Returning to England
When Elizabeth I became queen, Saul was able to return to England. She was a Protestant queen.
He received several important church positions:
- In 1559, he became a canon at Salisbury and Bristol Cathedrals.
- In 1565, he became a canon at Gloucester Cathedral.
He also served as a rector, which is a priest in charge of a parish church, in several places:
- Porlock, Somerset (1562)
- Ubly, Somerset (1565)
- Deynton, Gloucestershire (1566)
- Berkeley, Gloucestershire (1575)
His Puritan Beliefs
Arthur Saul was known for his strong Puritan views. Puritans were Protestants who wanted to "purify" the Church of England. They believed the church should be simpler and follow the Bible more strictly.
In 1562, he agreed to the church rules of the time as a member of Convocation. Convocation was a meeting of church leaders.
He was also asked to inspect churches in different areas. In 1565, Bishop Thomas Bentham asked him to visit churches in his diocese (church area). Later, in 1576, Edmund Grindal asked him to visit the churches in the diocese of Gloucester.
His Death
Arthur Saul died in 1586. It's important to note that the chess writer named Arthur Saul who lived later was not his son, even though some people thought they were related.
