Richard Longworth (academic) facts for kids

Richard Longworth (died 1579) was an important English church leader and scholar. He served as the head, or Master, of St John's College, Cambridge University and was also the Dean of Chester Cathedral.

Richard Longworth's Early Life and Education

Richard Longworth was born in Lancashire, England. He began his studies at St John's College, Cambridge in 1549. He was a very dedicated student and earned several university degrees:

• He received his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in 1553.
• He earned his Master of Arts (M.A.) in 1556.
• He became a Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.) in 1563.
• Finally, he earned his Doctor of Divinity (D.D.) in 1567.

His Roles at Cambridge University

Longworth held several important positions at Cambridge University:

• He was a Fellow (a senior academic member) at Queens' College, Cambridge from 1553 to 1557.
• He then became a Fellow at St John's College starting in 1559.
• In 1561, he was chosen as a university preacher.
• From 1567 to 1568, he served as the Vice-Chancellor, which is a very high leadership role at the university.

Challenges as Master of St John's College

In 1564, Richard Longworth was elected Master of St John's College. However, his time as Master was not easy.

Religious Views and Conflict

Longworth held strong religious beliefs that were part of a movement called Puritanism. Puritans wanted to "purify" the Church of England and make it simpler, often disagreeing with some traditional practices. Under Longworth's leadership, St John's College became a major center for Puritan ideas within the university.

One big disagreement was about wearing the surplice, a white robe worn by clergy in church. Longworth and others at the college refused to wear it during chapel services. This led to him being called to London to explain his actions.

Removal from Office

There was also a lot of disagreement and feuding among the scholars at St John's College. The Bishop of Ely, Richard Cox, who was the official "Visitor" (someone who oversees the college), had to step in. Because of the conflicts and Longworth's Puritan views, he was removed from his position as Master in 1569.

Later Life and Other Roles

After leaving St John's College, Richard Longworth was appointed Dean of Chester in 1573. This meant he was a senior leader at Chester Cathedral. However, he often did not live in Chester, meaning he was an "absentee" dean.

He was also a rector (a type of priest) for the church in Cockfield, Suffolk starting in 1567. He also did not live there, and after his time, another person with similar Puritan views, John Knewstub, took over the role. Richard Longworth passed away in 1579.