Humphrey Fenn facts for kids

Humphrey Fenn (died 1634) was an English puritan religious leader. He was known for his strong beliefs and for trying to change the Church of England during a time when many people disagreed about religion. He faced challenges because he didn't always follow the official rules of the church.

Who Was Humphrey Fenn?

Humphrey Fenn began his studies at Queens' College, Cambridge, in 1568. He earned his first degree in 1573. Later, he moved to Peterhouse and completed his master's degree in 1576.

Starting His Ministry

In 1576, Fenn began his work as a minister in Northampton. Right away, he got into trouble because he didn't agree with some of the official church practices. This was known as "nonconformity." He was even put in jail for his beliefs. The people of Northampton liked him very much and asked Queen Elizabeth to release him. They told the Queen that he was a great preacher and a loyal subject.

Standing Up for His Beliefs

In 1578, Humphrey Fenn became the vicar of Holy Trinity Church in Coventry. He became an important leader among the Puritans, a group of people who wanted to make the Church of England simpler and more "pure." He worked closely with another famous Puritan, Thomas Cartwright.

Fenn even went with the Earl of Leicester to speak to the Queen about the Puritans' concerns. However, when new rules were put in place in 1583, Fenn refused to follow them. Because of this, he was called to a special court in 1584 and was temporarily stopped from doing his job.

For a short time, another minister took his place in Coventry. But in 1585, Fenn was allowed to return to his church, thanks to the Earl of Leicester.

Facing Challenges Again

In 1590, Humphrey Fenn was again stopped from being a minister. This happened because he was very active in groups of Puritan religious leaders in Warwickshire. He was sent to a special prison called the Fleet by a powerful court. He refused to take an oath that would have cleared him, and so he lost his position as vicar.

In 1591, a new minister took over his church. In 1590, Fenn and his friends, including Thomas Cartwright, were brought before another powerful court called the Star-chamber. They were questioned about their "book of discipline," which was a set of rules for how they believed the church should be run. They said they weren't trying to cause trouble. Fenn seemed even more determined than Cartwright. The court sent them back to prison without bail.

The King of Scotland, James VI, asked for their release. After a long time, in April 1592, Fenn and his companions were finally set free.

Later Years and Legacy

After his release, Humphrey Fenn returned to Coventry. He continued his ministry, likely preaching on weekdays. In 1624, he was appointed to a new Sunday preaching position at St. John the Baptist's Church.

Around 1626, "old Mr. Fenn" helped the mayor and other important citizens invite Samuel Clarke (a famous writer of religious stories) to become a preacher in Coventry. This is the last time we hear about Fenn in records. He had spent over 50 years working with the people of Coventry.

Humphrey Fenn passed away in early 1634 and was buried on February 8th in Holy Trinity churchyard in Coventry.

His will, written in 1631, included a strong statement against the official church structure and its ceremonies. This statement was so strong that the church leaders at the time would not allow it to be officially recorded when his will was tendered for proof. However, a copy of this introduction to his will was printed in 1641.