Mrs Attaway facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Mrs Attaway
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| Occupation | Lace maker  |
Mrs Attaway was an important early Baptist preacher in London around the 1640s. She was known for her strong religious beliefs and for speaking in public. At the time, it was unusual for women to preach. Because of this, a writer named Thomas Edwards often criticized her. He also disagreed with her ideas about marriage.
Who Was Mrs Attaway?
Mrs Attaway was a lacewoman, meaning she made lace for a living. Not much is known about her early life. She became part of the church led by another Baptist preacher, Thomas Lambe. She was married to a soldier, but he did not share her strong religious feelings.
Public Speaking and Criticism
Mrs Attaway became known for her public speaking. A Presbyterian minister named Thomas Edwards wrote about her. He believed her teachings were wrong or "heretical."
Edwards heard that Mrs Attaway was a "she-preacher," meaning a woman who preached. She led a meeting on December 9, 1645, in Bell Alley in London. A witness who attended the meeting left early because of the "confusion" and "disorder."
The witness said Mrs Attaway spoke about God's spirit being poured out on women. She also led a prayer that lasted for half an hour. At first, she spoke mainly to other women. But soon, she welcomed anyone who wanted to listen.
Growing Audience
The next week, on December 16, it was said that about a thousand people came to hear her speak in Bell Alley. Mrs Attaway was criticized because she let the crowd ask questions and discuss ideas during her meetings.
One question she was asked was how she could preach, especially to people who had not been baptized. She said she was not a "preacher" in the traditional sense. Instead, she quoted parts of the Bible that encouraged Christians to teach and encourage each other.
Views on Marriage
Thomas Edwards also wrote about Mrs Attaway's personal life. He said she was criticized for her views on marriage and for separating from her husband. This was a very controversial topic in her time.
Mrs Attaway is remembered today for being a woman who preached when it was not common. She is also remembered for the discussions and criticisms surrounding her ideas about marriage.
