Beadle facts for kids

A beadle is a special helper who works in a church or a Jewish synagogue. Their main jobs are to show people where to sit and to help keep things calm and orderly during services. They often assist the clergy, who are the religious leaders.

Just like many words that describe a job, the word beadle can also be used as a last name.

What Does a Beadle Do?

A beadle's role is mostly about helping things run smoothly. Think of them as a friendly guide and a quiet guardian. They make sure everyone finds their place and that the service isn't interrupted. In some places, they might also help prepare for ceremonies or assist the clergy with other tasks.

Beadles in Churches

In many Christian churches, especially in the past, beadles were important figures. They would often wear special uniforms and carry a staff or a mace. This mace was a symbol of their authority to keep order. Their duties could include:

• Greeting people as they arrive.
• Showing people to their seats.
• Making sure there was no noise or disturbance during the service.
• Sometimes, they would even help collect offerings.

Beadles in Universities

The role of a beadle isn't just found in religious places. In many old universities, especially in the United Kingdom, there are also beadles. These university beadles have a very ceremonial job. They often lead academic processions, like graduation ceremonies, carrying a special mace. This mace represents the university's authority and traditions. They help make sure these important events are formal and respectful.

A Look Back in Time

The job of a beadle has been around for a very long time. In medieval times, beadles were often local officers who helped keep the peace in towns and villages. They would carry out orders from local leaders and make sure rules were followed. Over time, their role became more focused on churches and formal institutions like universities.

Famous Beadles

Perhaps the most famous beadle in literature is Mr. Bumble from Charles Dickens's famous book, Oliver Twist. Mr. Bumble was a beadle at the workhouse, a place where poor people were sent to live and work. He is known for being a bit bossy and not always very kind. This character gives us a glimpse into how some beadles were seen in Victorian England.

Images for kids

• 

  Humorous drawing of a 19th-century beadle with mace (staff)

• 

  Mr. Bumble, a beadle in Oliver Twist, by 'Kyd' (Joseph Clayton Clarke)

• 

  The Esquire Bedell of the University of Cambridge, carrying one of the university maces

• 

  The Ceremonial Bedellus of Glasgow Caledonian University carrying the university's ceremonial mace