John Enty facts for kids

John Enty (born around 1675, died 1743) was an English Christian minister. He was a very important leader for a group called the Nonconformists in Exeter. Nonconformists were Protestants who did not follow the rules of the official Church of England. John Enty became a key figure after some changes happened among ministers with different ideas before 1720.

Early Life and Becoming a Minister

John Enty was born in Cornwall around 1675. His father was a traveling tailor. One day, while working with his father, a kind woman named Mrs. Fortescue noticed him. She helped him go to school at Taunton Grammar School and then to a special college called the Taunton Academy.

After finishing his studies, John Enty went to preach in Plymouth. He was chosen to lead one of the two Presbyterian churches there. People thought he was a "bright and serious young man." He officially became a minister on May 11, 1698. Even though some people didn't think he was the most talented speaker, they said he had a beautiful, musical voice and could really connect with people.

By 1708, his church had about 500 members. They even built a new church building for him in Batter Street. John Enty also married well, which helped him gain a good position in society.

A Leader in Exeter

John Enty was part of a group of ministers who met regularly in Exeter. He became the leader of the more traditional group within this assembly. He was known for being very firm about his beliefs and sometimes a bit proud when dealing with people who disagreed with him. However, he was also kind and open with his friends.

He made sure that new ministers followed the traditional beliefs. After another minister named James Peirce was removed from the assembly in 1719 for having different views, John Enty was chosen to take his place at James's Meeting in 1720. He then moved from Plymouth to Exeter.

Leading the Way in Exeter

In Exeter, John Enty became the main leader of the assembly of ministers. He was their official spokesperson during the arguments that happened after James Peirce was removed. For 23 years, he stuck to his beliefs, which earned him a lot of respect and honor.

He mostly focused on giving sermons and didn't do much else for the church members. He also didn't do much exercise or have many hobbies. His health was good until May 1743, when he became very sick during an epidemic. He passed away on November 26, 1743.

Family Life

John Enty was married two times. His first wife was a pleasant woman from Kingsbridge, Devon. She had a good amount of money but they did not have any children.

After she passed away, a friend helped him meet Ann Savery. Ann was the oldest daughter of the Savery family from Shilston, near Modbury, Devonshire. Her family was also a well-known Nonconformist family in the area.

Writings and Sermons

John Enty wrote several books and sermons during his life. Some of his important works include:

• The Ministry secured from Contempt (1707)
• A Defence of the Proceedings of the Assembly at Exeter (1719)
• Truth and Liberty consistent (1720)
• A Preservative against … corruptions of Reveal'd Religion (1730)
• A Defense of … a Preservative (1730)

He also published several individual sermons in 1716, 1717, 1725, and 1727.