Matthew Mead (minister) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Matthew Mead
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| Born | c. 1630 |
| Died | 16 October 1699 |
| Nationality | English |
| Occupation | Minister |
Matthew Mead (born around 1630, died October 16, 1699) was an important English minister. He was part of a religious group called the Independents. They believed that each church should be self-governing.
Contents
Matthew Mead's Early Life
Matthew Mead was born around 1630 in Leighton Buzzard, England. He was the second son of Richard Mead. In 1648, he became a student at King's College, Cambridge. He was then made a Fellow of the college in 1649. He left the college in 1651.
Starting His Ministry
After leaving Cambridge, Matthew Mead looked for a position as a minister. He hoped to become the rector of Great Brickhill. However, another person was chosen for the role. Mead tried to get the position through legal means. After some disagreements, he eventually became a lecturer at St. Dunstan's, Stepney in London.
In 1658, Oliver Cromwell, who was then the leader of England, appointed Mead to a new church. This church was called the 'new chapel' of St Paul's Church, Shadwell. However, when the king returned to power in 1660, Mead lost this position. He was also removed from his lectureship at St Sepulchre's, Holborn in 1662. This happened because of a new law called the Uniformity Act of 1662.
Leading the Stepney Congregation
In 1663, Matthew Mead was living in Stepney. Because of new laws against non-Anglican ministers, he had to go to Holland for a time. He returned to London and became an assistant minister at Stepney in 1669. After the main pastor, William Greenhill, died, Mead became the new pastor in 1671.
In 1674, a new church building was built for his congregation in Stepney. The roof of this building was supported by four special pillars. These pillars were a gift from the government of Holland. The church also had a secret attic. This hidden space was for the congregation to hide if there was trouble. Mead's church became one of the largest in London.
He started a special sermon for young people on May Day in 1674. He also always held a service on Good Friday. In 1682, his church building was damaged by officials. In 1683, Mead was arrested because he was suspected of being involved in a plot against the king. However, the king ordered his release.
Later Years and Legacy
In 1683, Mead became one of the main speakers at a popular lecture series in London. He was known for helping poor ministers. In 1686, he visited Holland again and preached there. He returned to England in 1687 when King James allowed more religious freedom.
After the Glorious Revolution in 1688, which brought more religious freedom, his church building was expanded. Matthew Mead supported the idea of different Protestant groups working together. He preached a famous sermon called 'Two Sticks made One' in 1691.
He preached his last sermon on May Day in 1699. Matthew Mead died on October 16, 1699, at the age of 70. He was buried in Stepney churchyard. Many people respected him as a kind and intelligent scholar.
Matthew Mead's Writings
Matthew Mead wrote several books and sermons. Some of his most well-known works include:
- The Almost Christian Discovered: This book was published in 1662. It was based on sermons he gave in London. It has been reprinted many times and translated into other languages.
- Solomon's Prescription for the Removal of the Pestilence: This was published in 1666, during the time of the Great Plague in London.
- The Good of Early Obedience: This book from 1683 contained his May Day sermons for young people.
- The Vision of the Wheels: Published in 1689, this book contained sermons based on the biblical book of Ezekiel.
After he died, some of his other works were published. These included 'The Young Man's Remembrancer' and 'Original Sermons on the Jews'. He also helped with an 'English Greek Lexicon' in 1661.
His Family Life
Matthew Mead married Elizabeth Walton on January 3, 1654. They had thirteen children together. One of his sons, Richard Mead, became a very famous doctor. Another son, Samuel, also studied and became a lawyer.
