James Arderne facts for kids
James Arderne (1636–1691) was an important church leader in England. He held the title of Doctor of Divinity (D.D.), which is a high degree in religious studies. From 1682 until his death in 1691, he served as the dean of Chester, a senior position in Chester Cathedral.
Early Life and Education
James Arderne came from a very old and respected family in Cheshire, England. His family lived at Harden Hall, near Stockport. James was born there and baptized on October 12, 1636.
He began his studies at Christ's College, Cambridge, and later moved to St. John's College, Cambridge. He earned his first university degree (B.A.) in 1656, and then a master's degree (M.A.). He also continued his studies at Brasenose College, Oxford, where he earned another M.A. in 1658.
Career and Church Service
After his studies, James Arderne lived in London. In 1659, he was part of a group that met often with James Harrington, a famous writer. In 1668, he became a Fellow of the Royal Society, a group that promotes science.
When the king returned to power during the English Restoration, Arderne's career began to advance. In 1666, he became a curate (a type of assistant priest) at St. Botolph, Aldersgate, in London, a position he held until 1682. He also served in Thornton-le-Moors.
He returned to Brasenose College, Oxford, and in 1673, he earned his Doctor of Divinity (D.D.) degree. He also served as a chaplain to King Charles II. Because of his service to the king, he was given the important role of rector (head priest) of Davenham in 1681. The next year, in 1682, he became the dean of Chester. It is believed he was promised to become the bishop of Chester, but political changes prevented this from happening.
Later Years and Legacy
James Arderne was very loyal to the Stuart kings. Some say that the difficulties he faced because of his loyalty might have shortened his life. He passed away in 1691. The exact date is given differently in various records, but it was either August 18, September 16, or September 18.
He was buried in the main part of Chester Cathedral. On his tomb, a special message was carved, as he requested in his will. It mentioned that he gave most of his wealth to the cathedral. He wanted this gift to be known so that other church leaders might consider giving back to the church instead of only to their families.
His main goal with this gift was to start a public library for the cathedral. While the initial amount wasn't huge, it grew over time. A portrait of James Arderne can still be seen at the deanery (the dean's official home).
Writings
James Arderne wrote several books and sermons during his lifetime:
- Directions concerning the Matter and Style of Sermons, written to W. S., a young deacon, by J. A., D.D., London, 1671
- True Christian's Character and Crown, a sermon, London, 1671.
- A Sermon preached at the Visitation of John [Wilkins], Lord Bishop of Chester,' London, 1677.
- Conjectura circa Έπινομῂν D. Clementis Romani, cui subjiciuntur Castigationes in Epiphanium et Petavium de Eucharistica, de Cœlibatu Clericorum et de Orationibus pro vitâ functis. Autore Jacobo de Ardenna, 1683.
- Dean of Chester's Speech to his Majesty, August the 27th 1687, London, 1687.
