John Kearney (bishop) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids John Kearney
Portrait by William Cuming, c. 1810
Born	1744 Dublin, Ireland
Died	22 May 1813 (age 71) Kilkenny, County Kilkenny

John Kearney (born 1744, died 1813) was an important Irish scholar and church leader. He held two very important jobs: he was the Provost (the head) of Trinity College, Dublin, a famous university, starting in 1799. Later, he became a Bishop (a high-ranking church official) in the Church of Ireland for the area of Ossory, from 1806 until he passed away in 1813.

John Kearney's Life Story

Early Life and Education

John Kearney was born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1744. His father worked as a barber-surgeon. This was a job that combined cutting hair with performing small medical procedures. John also had an older brother named Michael Kearney.

John was a very bright student. In 1760, when he was just 16, he was chosen as a Scholar at Trinity College Dublin. This meant he was recognized for his excellent academic skills. Four years later, in 1764, he became a Fellow at the college. A Fellow is like a senior academic or teacher who helps run the university.

Leading Trinity College

John Kearney continued to grow in his academic career. From 1781, he held the important position of Chair of Oratory. This meant he was in charge of teaching public speaking and rhetoric at the university.

In July 1799, John Kearney was chosen for an even bigger role. He became the Provost of Trinity College, Dublin. The Provost is the main leader and head of the entire university. It's a very important and respected position.

Becoming a Bishop

After leading Trinity College for several years, John Kearney was chosen for a new role in the church. On January 4, 1806, he was nominated to become the Bishop of Ossory. This meant he would be a senior leader in the Church of Ireland for a specific region.

He was officially appointed Bishop on January 20, 1806, through special documents called letters patent. A few weeks later, on February 2, 1806, he was consecrated (officially made a bishop) in the Trinity College Chapel. This ceremony was led by Charles Agar, who was the Archbishop of Dublin. Other bishops also helped with the ceremony.

After Kearney became Bishop, George Hall took over his old job as Provost of Trinity College. In May 1806, John Kearney was also elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society. This is a very old and respected group of scientists and scholars.

Later Years

John Kearney continued to serve as the Bishop of Ossory until he passed away. He died in Kilkenny on May 22, 1813, at the age of 71.