Ralph Brownrigg facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Right Reverend Ralph Brownrigg |
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|---|---|
| Bishop of Exeter | |
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| Diocese | Diocese of Exeter |
| In Office | 1642–1646 |
| Predecessor | Joseph Hall |
| Successor | John Gauden |
| Personal details | |
| Born | c. 1592 |
| Died | 7 December 1659 |
| Nationality | British |
| Denomination | Anglican |
| Alma mater | Pembroke Hall, Cambridge |
Ralph Brownrigg (1592–1659) was an important English church leader. He served as the Bishop of Exeter from 1642 to 1646. During this time, England was going through a big change called the English Civil War.
Because of the war, Ralph Brownrigg spent most of his time away from his church area. He might never have even visited Exeter as bishop. He was a Royalist, meaning he supported the King. However, he was also a Calvinist in his religious beliefs. This was an unusual mix for the time.
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Who Was Ralph Brownrigg?
Ralph Brownrigg was born around 1592. He became a well-known figure in the Church of England. He was known for his strong beliefs and his skills as a speaker.
Early Life and Education
Ralph Brownrigg started his studies in Ipswich. Later, he went to Pembroke Hall, Cambridge, which is part of Cambridge University. He worked hard and earned his Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in 1614. In 1626, he received a Doctor of Divinity (D.D.) degree. This was a very high academic honor.
In 1621, he became the Rector of St Margaret of Antioch in Barley, Hertfordshire. This meant he was the main priest for that church.
Brownrigg's Role During the Civil War
During the 1630s, Ralph Brownrigg was against a religious movement called Laudianism. This movement wanted to make the Church of England more formal. Brownrigg disagreed with these changes. He spoke out against them at Cambridge University and in Parliament meetings.
He was chosen to be part of the Westminster Assembly. This was a group of religious leaders who met to discuss the future of the church. However, it seems he did not take an active part in their meetings.
Losing His Positions
The English Civil War led to big changes in England. In 1646, the Parliament took control. They removed Ralph Brownrigg from his positions. He was no longer the Master of St Catharine's College, Cambridge. He also lost his role as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cambridge.
On October 9, 1646, Parliament also removed him as Bishop of Exeter. This happened because Parliament decided to get rid of bishops for a while. This period was known as the Commonwealth and the Protectorate.
After losing his church roles, Ralph Brownrigg found a safe place to stay. He took refuge with Thomas Rich. Sir Thomas Rich was a wealthy landowner in Sonning.
Ralph Brownrigg's Sermons
Even after losing his official positions, Ralph Brownrigg continued to preach. He gave sermons, for example, at the famous Temple Church in London. After he passed away in 1659, a collection of his sermons was published. These sermons shared his religious teachings and ideas.
