John Glen King facts for kids
John Glen King (born in 1732, died in 1787) was an English church leader and a historian. He was especially known for writing about the Russian Orthodox Church, which is a branch of Christianity in Russia.
His Life and Studies
John Glen King was born in Stowmarket, a town in Suffolk, England. His father, George King, was also a church leader. John went to school in Swaffham and then studied at Caius College, Cambridge University. He earned his first degree in 1752.
After becoming a priest, he was given a church job in Norfolk in 1760. Later, he became a chaplain (a priest who serves a specific group) for the English community in St Petersburg, Russia. While living in Russia, he was chosen by Catherine the Great, the empress of Russia, to be her medallist. This meant he helped design or create medals for her.
During his time in Russia, John King also spent a lot of time studying the history and religious practices of the Russian Orthodox Church. He learned about their beliefs, how they worshipped, and their rules.
In 1771, he became a member of the Society of Antiquaries of London. This group studies old things and history. Soon after, he also joined the Royal Society, which is a famous group for scientists. He continued his studies and earned more degrees from Oxford University. In 1783, he was given another church job in Wormley, Hertfordshire.
John Glen King passed away in London on November 3, 1787, and was buried in the churchyard at Wormley.
His Writings
John King's most important book was called The Rites and Ceremonies of the Greek Church in Russia. It was published in London in 1772. This book explained the beliefs, worship, and rules of the Russian Orthodox Church. It even had detailed pictures. This work helped him become known as an important scholar.
He also wrote other interesting pieces, including:
- A Letter to the Bishop of Durham, written in 1778. This letter shared his thoughts on the weather in Russia and other northern countries. It also described the "Flying Mountains" near St. Petersburg, which were actually ice slides used for fun!
- Observations on the Barberini Vase, written in 1786. This was about a famous ancient Roman glass vase.
His Family
John Glen King was married twice. His first wife was Ann Magdalene Combrune, and they had one daughter named Anna Henrietta. Later, in 1776, he married Jane Hyde.
