Thomas Reeve (divine) facts for kids
Thomas Reeve (born in 1594, died on February 21, 1672) was an important English religious leader. He was a strong supporter of the King during a time of change in England. As an Anglican divine, he was a minister in the Church of England.
A Look at Thomas Reeve's Life
Thomas Reeve was born in 1594 in a place called Langley with Hardley in Norfolk, England. His father, also named Thomas Reeve, was a farmer. Young Thomas went to school in Moulton, Norfolk, where he was taught by Mr. Matchet.
In 1610, Thomas Reeve started studying at Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge. He worked hard to pay for his studies. Over the years, he earned several university degrees, showing he was a very educated person. He received his first degree in 1613 and his highest degree, a Doctor of Divinity (D.D.), in 1660.
After finishing his studies and becoming a priest, Thomas Reeve became the minister in charge of the church at Waltham Abbey, Essex. He took over this role from another famous person named Thomas Fuller. Reeve continued to serve the church at Waltham Abbey until he passed away there on February 21, 1672.
During his time as minister at Waltham Abbey, the official symbols of King Charles II were put up in the church. These "Royal Arms" were created in 1662 and cost £24, which was a lot of money back then! They are still displayed in the church today. This event likely happened around the time the Act of Uniformity 1662 was passed, which made sure everyone in the Church of England followed the same rules.
Thomas Reeve was well-known and admired for his powerful sermons. He also wrote and published many religious books and prayers.
Thomas Reeve's Writings
Thomas Reeve wrote several important books and collections of prayers. These works helped people understand their faith and showed his support for the King.
- Publike Devotions, or a Collection of Prayers (London, 1651): This book was a collection of prayers for people to use.
- God's Plea for Nineveh, or London's Precedent for Mercy (London, 1657): This was a longer work. A shorter version of it was later published in 1683 called London's Remembrancer: a Call and Pattern for true and speedy Repentance.
- England's Restitution, or the Man, the Man of Men, the States-man (London, 1661): This book was dedicated to King Charles II.
- England's beauty in seeing King Charles the Second restored to majesty (London, 1661): This book also showed his loyalty to King Charles II and celebrated the King's return to power.
