Thomas Westfield facts for kids

Thomas Westfield (born 1573, died 25 June 1644) was an important English church leader. He became the Bishop of Bristol and was also part of a big meeting called the Westminster Assembly.

Early Life and Education

Thomas Westfield was born in 1573 in a place called St. Mary's, Ely. He went to a free school there.

Later, he studied at Jesus College, Cambridge. He was chosen as a scholar and then became a fellow, which is like a senior researcher or teacher, from 1599 to 1603. He earned several degrees, showing he was a very good student.

Church Career

Westfield started his church career as a curate at St. Mary-le-Bow in London. A curate is a church assistant.

In 1600, he became the rector of South Somercotes in Lincolnshire. A rector is the main priest of a parish. Later, he moved to a church in London called St. Bartholomew, Smithfield. He also served as a chaplain to important noblemen.

He continued to rise in the church. In 1615, he became the rector of Hornsey. In 1631, he was made archdeacon of St. Albans. An archdeacon helps the bishop manage a part of the church's area. He also became the head of Sion College, a place for London clergy.

English Civil War and Bishopric

When the First English Civil War began, Thomas Westfield stayed in London. However, people started to suspect he supported the King. He was treated badly and removed from his church job at St. Bartholomew.

He then joined the King's side. In 1642, he was made the Bishop of Bristol. A bishop is a high-ranking church leader. Even though he was a bishop, he didn't get much money from his new role at first.

However, in 1643, the Parliament decided to give him back his bishop's pay. This was because they respected him. He was even allowed to travel to Bristol. This good treatment might have been because he agreed to attend the Westminster Assembly.

Westminster Assembly

The Westminster Assembly was a very important meeting of church leaders. It started in July 1643. Thomas Westfield was present at the first meeting. Although he didn't play a huge role, his presence showed his importance.

He passed away on 25 June 1644. He was buried in Bristol Cathedral. A monument was built there by his wife, Elizabeth.

Westfield was known as a very emotional speaker. People sometimes called him "Mournful Jeremy" or the "weeping prophet" because of his powerful sermons.

Writings

Thomas Westfield wrote and published collections of his sermons. Sermons are speeches given in church.

• Englands Face in Isrels Glasse: This book contained eight of his sermons. It talked about the sins, mercies, and judgments of nations.
• The White Robe, or the Surplice vindicated: This collection included four sermons. It discussed the surplice, which is a white robe worn by clergy.