Richard Fowns facts for kids
Richard Fowns (born around 1560, died 1625) was an English clergyman. He was known for his writings and his work as a religious leader during a time of big changes in England.
Who Was Richard Fowns?
Richard Fowns was born in Worcestershire, England, and his father was also a minister. He became an important religious scholar and writer.
Early Life and Education
When Richard was about 17 years old, in 1577, he was chosen to study at Christ Church, Oxford, which is a famous college at Oxford University. He worked hard and earned his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), in 1581. A few years later, in 1585, he earned his Master of Arts (M.A.) degree. He continued his studies and received two more advanced degrees in theology, a Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.) and a Doctor of Divinity (D.D.), in 1605.
His Career
Richard Fowns became a chaplain, which is like a personal priest or religious advisor, to Prince Henry. Prince Henry was the eldest son of King James I and was expected to become king himself. This was an important role, showing that Fowns was highly respected.
In 1602, Fowns became the rector of Severn Stoke, a church in Worcestershire. A rector is the main priest in charge of a church and its parish. He served there until he died. Richard Fowns was buried in the church at Severn Stoke on November 25, 1625. Sadly, a monument built for him in the church was badly damaged during the English Civil War, which happened after his death.
What He Wrote
Richard Fowns wrote several books that shared his religious ideas. Here are two of his most important works:
- A Sermon for the Clergy (published 1606): This book was originally titled in Latin, Concio ad Clerum. It was a sermon he gave to other clergy members at Oxford University in 1606. He dedicated this book to Prince Henry.
- Trisagion (published 1619): This was a very long book, over 700 pages, with a long title that explained its purpose. The main idea of the book was about the three important roles of Jesus Christ: as a priest, a prophet, and a king. Fowns also wrote about how Christians should understand these roles and how he believed the Roman Catholic Church had misunderstood them. He dedicated this book to Prince Charles, who later became King Charles I.
