Matthew Newcomen facts for kids

Matthew Newcomen (born around 1610 – died September 1, 1669) was an English church leader. He was known as a Nonconformist, which meant he didn't agree with all the rules of the official Church of England at that time.

Matthew Newcomen's exact birthday isn't known. He studied at St John's College, Cambridge and earned his master's degree in 1633. In 1636, he became a lecturer in Dedham, a town in Essex. He became a leader for a group that wanted to make changes to the church in that area.

He helped Edmund Calamy the Elder write an important book called Smectymnuus in 1641. In 1643, he was even asked to give a sermon to the English Parliament. Matthew Newcomen was very good at speaking and debating. He was offered many important jobs because of his skills.

Important Church Changes

Matthew Newcomen spoke out against some ideas that were called The Agreement of the People in 1647. These ideas suggested big changes to how the country was run. He also took part in a special meeting called the Savoy Synod in 1658. This meeting was about discussing changes to the church.

In 1662, a new law was passed called the Act of Uniformity. This law made it harder for Nonconformists to be church leaders. Because of this law, Matthew Newcomen lost his job in England.

Life in Leiden

After losing his job, Matthew Newcomen was quickly invited to become a pastor in Leiden, a city in the Netherlands. He was greatly respected there, not just by the people in his church but also by the professors at the university.

Sadly, Matthew Newcomen died in 1669 from the plague, a serious illness.