Charles Longley

Charles Thomas Longley: Archbishop of Canterbury

Charles Thomas Longley (1794–1868) was a distinguished bishop within the Church of England, ultimately serving as the Archbishop of Canterbury for the final six years of his life. His ecclesiastical career was marked by a series of significant appointments, beginning with his role as Headmaster of Harrow School. He then moved into diocesan leadership, becoming the inaugural Bishop of Ripon, followed by a term as Bishop of Durham, and subsequently as Archbishop of York.

His most prominent position was as Archbishop of Canterbury, a role he assumed on October 20, 1862, and held until his death in 1868. During his primacy, Longley presided over a pivotal moment in Anglican history: the first Pan-Anglican conference, held in 1867. This gathering convened bishops from British, colonial, and foreign churches, signifying a growing sense of global Anglican communion. Despite being presented with the complex case of John William Colenso's deposition, Longley's approach was cautious regarding legal matters, though he deemed Colenso's views heretical.

Born in Rochester, Kent, Longley received his education at Westminster School and Christ Church, Oxford. His early academic and clerical career included roles as a Greek reader, tutor, censor, and proctor at Oxford, alongside his ordination in 1818. He held various parish positions before his consecration as a bishop. Beyond his official duties, Longley was a published author, with his works including numerous sermons and addresses. He also maintained a connection to the Canterbury Association, serving as a member from 1848. He died at Addington Park, near Croydon.