Richard Gardiner (English divine) facts for kids

Richard Gardiner (born in 1591, died in 1670) was an English church leader and scholar. He lived during a very interesting time in England's history.

His Life Story

Richard Gardiner was born in 1591 near Hereford, England. He went to the grammar school in that town. In 1607, he started studying at Christ Church, Oxford, which is a famous college. He worked hard and earned several degrees: a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in 1611, a Master of Arts (M.A.) in 1614, and a Doctor of Divinity (D.D.) in 1630.

Around this time, he became a priest in the Church of England. Even though he didn't hold a very high position at first, he became known as a very good and interesting speaker.

Working at Oxford University

Before 1620, Richard Gardiner became the deputy-orator for Oxford University. This meant he was in charge of giving important speeches. He gave a very impressive speech when King James I donated his own books to the university library.

King James I was so impressed by one of Gardiner's speeches that he promised him a special position at Christ Church college. So, in 1629, Gardiner became a canon there.

Serving the King

In 1630, Gardiner was chosen to be one of the chaplains for King Charles I. This meant he was a religious advisor to the King. He continued his role as deputy-orator at Oxford. He even gave a speech to King Charles I after the King returned from the Battle of Edgehill, an important battle during the English Civil War.

During the English Civil War, things were very difficult for people who supported the King. In 1647, Gardiner was questioned by people from Parliament who were checking up on Oxford University. Because he supported the King, he lost his position at Christ Church.

Later Years and Charity

Richard Gardiner lived quietly in Oxford during the time when England was not ruled by a king. He helped poor people who had supported the King. When the King returned to power in 1660 (this was called the Restoration), Gardiner got his old job back at Christ Church.

After this, he used all his money to help others and to improve his college. For example, between 1662 and 1665, he gave £510 to help rebuild parts of Christ Church. In 1663, he gave land to help support two students at the college. He also built a fountain in the college's main courtyard.

Richard Gardiner passed away in Oxford in 1670, when he was 79 years old. He was buried in the Christ Church Cathedral. A monument was put up to remember him, with a special message written by another famous scholar named South.

His Writings

Richard Gardiner was also known for his writings and speeches. Here are some of his important works:

• "Sermon at St. Paul's Ch. on his Majesty's day of Inauguration" (1642): This was a sermon he gave on the day the King took the throne.
• "Specimen Oratorium" (1653): This book was a collection of his official speeches. It was very popular and was printed many times.
• "Sixteen Sermons preached in the University of Oxford and at Court" (1659): This book contained 16 sermons he had given at Oxford University and for the King's court. He also published other separate sermons.