Richard Vines (minister) facts for kids

Richard Vines was an important English clergyman who lived a long time ago, from 1600 to 1656. He was a leader among the Presbyterians, a group of Christians, and played a big part in the Westminster Assembly. This was a special meeting that helped shape religious rules in England. Richard Vines also became the head of Pembroke Hall, Cambridge, a college at Cambridge University, from 1644 to 1650.

Richard Vines's Life Story

Richard Vines started his education at Magdalene College, Cambridge. He earned his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), in 1622. A few years later, in 1627, he completed his Master of Arts (M.A.) degree there.

Early Career and New Roles

After finishing his studies, Vines worked as a teacher in a town called Hinckley. Later, he became a rector, which is a type of church leader, in two places: Weddington and Caldecote.

In 1643, Richard Vines was chosen to join the Westminster Assembly. This was a very important group of religious leaders and thinkers. At the same time, he also became the rector of St Clement Danes church in London.

Leading Pembroke College

The next year, in 1644, Vines was appointed as the Master of Pembroke College. This was a challenging time for the college. Many of its previous leaders had been removed, and soldiers had even stayed there. Richard Vines arrived with a new group of fellows, who are like senior teachers, to help rebuild the college.

Later Years and Challenges

In 1645, Vines became the rector of Watton-at-Stone. However, he faced a big challenge in 1649. He refused to take a special promise called the 'engagement' pledge. Because of this, he lost all his important positions.

Soon after losing his roles, he became a minister at St Lawrence Jewry church. Around this time, another famous religious leader named Richard Baxter became friends with Vines. Baxter saw Vines as a moderate, meaning he was open to different ideas. They worked together with Thomas Hill to try and bring different religious groups closer.

Richard Vines's Writings

Richard Vines wrote several books and sermons during his life. These writings shared his religious ideas and teachings. Here are some of his notable works:

• Calebs Integrity (published in 1642 or 1646)
• The Impostures of Secuding Teachers Discovered (published in 1644 or 1656)
• The Posture of David's Spirit (published in 1644 or 1656)
• The Happinesse of Israel (published in 1645)
• The Purifying of Unclean Hearts and Hands (published in 1646)
• The Authours, Nature, and Danger of Heresie (published in 1647 or 1662)
• The Corruption of Minde Described (published in 1655)
• A Treatise of the Institution, Right Administration, and Receiving of the Sacrament of the Lords-Supper (published in 1657, 1660, or 1677)
• Christ, a Christian's Only Gain (published in 1660)
• God's Drawing and Man's Coming to Christ (published in 1662)
• The Saints Nearness to God (published in 1662)