Benjamin Williams Mathias facts for kids

Benjamin Williams Mathias (born 1772, died 1841) was an important priest in the Church of Ireland. He is best known for starting the Dublin Bible Society in 1806. This society later became the Hibernian Bible Society.

Who Was Benjamin Williams Mathias?

Benjamin Williams Mathias was a key figure in the Church of Ireland during the early 1800s. He dedicated his life to spreading Christian teachings. He also helped create important religious societies in Ireland.

Early Life and Education

Benjamin Williams Mathias was born in Dublin, Ireland, on November 12, 1772. His family had a Presbyterian background. His father, Benjamin Mathias, worked in the wool industry. The family originally came from Wales.

Benjamin went to Trinity College Dublin from 1791 to 1796. There, he met Dr. John Walker, who greatly influenced him. In 1797, Benjamin became a curate (a type of assistant priest) in Drumgooland, County Down.

A Leader in the Church

Mathias became a very important leader in the evangelical movement within the Church of Ireland. This movement focused on sharing the Christian message widely. From 1805, he served as the Chaplain for the Bethesda Chapel, Dublin. He took over this role from Dr. Walker.

What Was the Bethesda Chapel?

The Bethesda Chapel was a special place of worship in Dublin. It also had schools, an asylum (a place of care), and a penitentiary (a place for rehabilitation). Mathias made sure the chapel stayed connected to the main Church of Ireland. In 1825, it officially received its license from the Church of Ireland. This happened even though many people there were very enthusiastic about their faith.

Spreading the Word

Benjamin Mathias traveled all over Ireland for the Dublin Bible Society. He helped share Bibles with many people. He was also a founder of the Hibernian Church Missionary Society in 1814. This group worked to spread Christian teachings in other countries.

His Friendship with a Famous Mathematician

Mathias became good friends with the family of a famous mathematician, Sir William Rowan Hamilton. In 1805, Mathias christened (baptized) William Rowan Hamilton at Bethesda Chapel.

Later Life

In 1835, Benjamin Mathias retired from his role at Bethesda Chapel because of poor health. He passed away in 1841.