Thomas Baylie facts for kids
Thomas Baylie (1582–1663) was an English church leader who lived a long time ago. He was part of an important group called the Westminster Assembly. He also believed in a special religious idea called Fifth Monarchism and was later removed from his church job.
Early Life and Education
Thomas Baylie was born in Wiltshire, England, in 1582. When he was about 18 years old, in 1600, he started studying at St. Alban Hall at Oxford University.
Later that same year, he was chosen to be a "demi" at Magdalen College, which was a special type of student scholarship. By 1611, he became a "perpetual fellow" at the college, meaning he was a permanent member of the teaching staff. He also earned his Master of Arts (M.A.) degree around this time.
Church Career and Beliefs
After his studies, Thomas Baylie became the rector (a type of priest) of a church in Manningford Bruce, Wiltshire. In 1621, he earned another degree, Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.). At this time, he was known as a very strong "Puritan." Puritans were a group of Protestants who wanted to make the Church of England simpler and more "pure."
In 1641, he agreed to something called the Solemn League and Covenant. This was an agreement during the English Civil War to reform the church. Because of his beliefs, he was chosen to be a member of the Westminster Assembly. This was a group of important religious leaders who met to discuss and reform the Church of England.
Baylie was given a good church job in Mildenhall, Wiltshire. There, he preached ideas of the "Fifth Monarchists." These were people who believed that Jesus Christ would soon return to Earth to rule for 1,000 years, establishing a "fifth monarchy." He also helped remove other ministers and schoolteachers who were considered "ignorant" or "scandalous" by his group.
Later Years and Death
After the king returned to power in England during the English Restoration, Thomas Baylie lost his church position. This happened because his religious views were no longer supported by the new government.
After being removed from his job, he started holding secret religious meetings, called a "conventicle," in Marlborough, Wiltshire. He continued his work there until he died. Thomas Baylie passed away on March 27, 1663, and was buried in St. Peter's church in Marlborough.
Published Work
Thomas Baylie published a book during his life. This book was dedicated to Sir Thomas Coventry, who was a very important official in the government, in charge of the Great Seal.
