Robert Abbot (theologian) facts for kids

Robert Abbot (around 1588–1662) was an English theologian. A theologian is someone who studies religion and God. He supported the ideas of the Puritans. Puritans were a group of Protestants who wanted to make the Church of England simpler and more "pure." Robert Abbot lived in a town called Cranbrook in Kent. He wrote books against the Catholic Church and had many friends among the important families in Kent.

Robert Abbot's Life Story

Robert Abbot went to two famous universities. He studied first at Cambridge University. Later, he continued his education at Oxford University.

Early Church Work

It's a bit tricky to know all the details of Robert Abbot's early church jobs. We can only guess from small clues he left in his writings. For example, in one of his books, Bee Thankfull London and her Sisters, he wrote that he started his church work as an assistant. He helped a respected priest named "Master Haiward" in a place called Wool Church in Dorset.

Time in Cranbrook

In 1616, Robert Abbot got an important job. He became the vicar of Cranbrook in Kent. A vicar is a type of priest in charge of a church. He was appointed by George Abbot. Robert Abbot's work in Cranbrook was seen as successful. However, he was known for not being very accepting of people called nonconformists. These were Protestants who did not agree with all the rules of the Church of England.

Later Years

In 1643, Robert Abbot left Cranbrook. He moved to Southwick in Hampshire and became the vicar there. Later, he became a pastor in London. He was still working there in 1657. After 1657, we don't have much information about what he did.

Robert Abbot's Books

Robert Abbot wrote many books. His books were known for being short and covering different topics. Here are some of his works:

• Triall of our Church-Forsakers (published in 1639)
• Milk for Babes, or a Mother's Catechism for her Children (published in 1646)
• A Christian Family builded by God, or Directions for Governors of Families (published in 1653)

Was George Abbot His Father?

Sometimes, people mistakenly think Robert Abbot was the son of George Abbot. George Abbot was a very important church leader, the Archbishop of Canterbury. This mistake might come from something Robert Abbot wrote in his book, A Hand of Fellowship to Helpe Keepe out Sinne and Antichrist. In this book, he thanked the Archbishop for "worldly maintenance" (help with money), "best earthly countenance" (support and approval), and "fatherly incouragements" (encouragement like a father). Even though he used these words, it doesn't mean George Abbot was his actual father.