Roger Edgeworth facts for kids

Roger Edgeworth (who died in 1560) was an English Roman Catholic theologian. A theologian is someone who studies religion and God.

Roger Edgeworth was born at Holt Castle in Denbighshire, which was then part of the Diocese of Chester. This castle was the home of Sir William Stanley. Roger started studying at the University of Oxford around 1503. He earned his first degree (Bachelor of Arts) in 1507.

He became a fellow at Oriel College in Oxford in 1508. A fellow is like a senior member or teacher at a college. He later earned more degrees: a Master of Arts in 1512, a Bachelor of Divinity in 1519, and a Doctor of Divinity in 1526.

Roger Edgeworth's Church Career

After becoming a priest, Roger Edgeworth was known as a great preacher at the university and in other places.

Important Church Roles

Roger held several important positions in the church:

• In 1542, he became a prebendary (a type of church official) at Bristol Cathedral.
• In 1543, he became the vicar of St. Cuthbert's church in Wells. A vicar is a priest in charge of a parish.
• He was also a canon (another type of church official) at Salisbury and Wells Cathedrals.
• In 1554, he became the chancellor of the Diocese of Wells. A chancellor is a high-ranking official who helps manage the church's legal and administrative matters.

His Views on Religion

Roger Edgeworth lived during a time of big changes in England's religion.

• When King Henry VIII was in power, Roger seemed to be quite moderate. This means he didn't take extreme sides.
• He also remained moderate during the reign of King Edward VI.
• However, when Queen Mary I became queen, Roger became a very strong supporter of the Roman Catholic religion. He was against the ideas of Martin Luther and other reformers who wanted to change the church.

Later Life and Legacy

Roger Edgeworth passed away in early 1560. He was buried in front of the choir door at Wells Cathedral. His will, which is a legal document about his wishes after death, was approved on June 1, 1560. He also gave money or property to Oriel College, which means he was a benefactor.

Roger Edgeworth's Writings

Roger Edgeworth wrote several important works, mostly about religious topics.

His Published Sermons

His most famous work was a book called Sermons, very Fruitfull, Godly, and Learned. This book was published in London in 1557. It contained many of his sermons, which are religious speeches.

• He mentioned in one sermon that he had stopped preaching for about five or six years. This period was during King Edward VI's reign.
• This means that some of his sermons were given during King Henry VIII's time, and the rest were given after Queen Mary I became queen.

People who studied his writings said that Roger Edgeworth had a "fine fancy" and an "easy and flowing style" in his writing. This means he was creative and wrote in a way that was pleasant to read.