George Meldrum facts for kids
George Meldrum (1634–1709) was an important Scottish minister. He worked for the Church of Scotland, which is the national church of Scotland. He was chosen twice to be the Moderator of the General Assembly. This was the highest leadership job in the Scottish Church. He was also a key figure among the Scottish Covenanters. These were people who supported the Church of Scotland's independence.
Contents
George Meldrum's Life and Career
Early Life and Education
George Meldrum was born in Aberdeen, Scotland, in 1634. He was the fourth son of Andrew Meldrum, who was a dyer and a town official. George studied at Marischal College in Aberdeen. He earned his Master of Arts (MA) degree in 1651.
In 1653, when he was only 19, he became a Regent at the college. A Regent was like a professor or teacher. In 1659, he became a minister in the Church of Scotland. He worked at the main church in Aberdeen.
Challenges and New Roles
During a difficult time for the church, George Meldrum lost his job in 1662. But he got it back in 1663. That same year, he became the Rector of Marischal College. A Rector was the head of the college.
However, he lost this job in 1681. This happened because he refused to sign the Test of Allegiance. This was a special oath of loyalty to the king and the church.
Moving to New Churches
In 1688, George Meldrum started working as a minister in Kilwinning. Then, in 1691, he moved to Tron Kirk in Edinburgh. This was a very important church in Scotland. He was the "second charge" minister there. This meant he was the assistant to the main minister.
Leading the Church of Scotland
In 1698, George Meldrum was chosen for a very important role. He became the Moderator of the General Assembly. This was the top leadership position in the Church of Scotland. It was quite special because he was only the "second charge" minister at the Tron Kirk. The main minister, Rev William Crichton, had already been Moderator twice.
In 1701, George Meldrum became a Professor of Divinity at Edinburgh University. This meant he taught about religious studies.
In 1703, he was chosen to be Moderator for a second time. During his time as leader, something unusual happened. The Commissioner, Viscount Seafield, suddenly ended the meeting. This led to important discussions about how much power political leaders should have in church meetings.
George Meldrum passed away in Edinburgh on February 18, 1709.
Influence on Others
George Meldrum was a great inspiration to many people. One person was Elisabeth West, who worked as a servant in Edinburgh. She saw him as a "Lord's Messenger." He encouraged her to improve herself. Elisabeth West later went on to run the Trades Maiden Hospital. This was also known as the Mary Erskine School. It was a school for the daughters of merchants in Edinburgh, and she ran it from 1708.
