Edward White Benson
Edward White Benson served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1883 until his death in 1896. Prior to this, he was the first Bishop of Truro and initiated the construction of Truro Cathedral. Benson is also remembered for founding Wellington College and devising the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols.
Key Facts
- ›Served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1883 to 1896.
- ›First Bishop of Truro (1877-1883), beginning construction of Truro Cathedral.
- ›First Master of Wellington College (1859-1872), instrumental in establishing it as a leading public school.
- ›Devised the Festival of nine Lessons and Carols, first used in Truro Cathedral in 1880.
- ›His son, Robert Hugh Benson, converted to Catholicism and became a notable novelist.
- First Bishop of Truro
- First Master of Wellington College
- Devised the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols
- Began Construction of Truro Cathedral
- Founded Truro High School For Girls
- Founded the Church of England Purity Society
About Edward White Benson
Edward White Benson: Archbishop of Canterbury
Edward White Benson (14 July 1829 – 11 October 1896) was a prominent figure in the Church of England, most notably serving as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1883 until his death. His career prior to this high office included laying the groundwork for significant institutions and commencing important architectural projects.
Life and Ministry
Born in Birmingham, Benson received his education at King Edward's School and Trinity College, Cambridge, where he graduated in Classics. He began his professional life as a schoolmaster, first at Rugby School and then as the founding Master of Wellington College from 1859 to 1872. During his time at Wellington, he was instrumental in shaping it into a leading public school.
Benson's ecclesiastical career advanced significantly when he was appointed the first Bishop of Truro in 1877. In this role, he initiated the construction of Truro Cathedral, a project that would continue beyond his tenure. He also established Truro High School for Girls in 1880. His appointment as Archbishop of Canterbury in 1883 marked the pinnacle of his church leadership.
Major Contributions and Legacy
As Archbishop, Benson played a role in significant ecclesiastical matters, including the "Lincoln Judgement" which addressed ritual offences. He also worked towards unifying the Convocations of the Church. Beyond his administrative duties, Benson is widely celebrated for creating the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, first performed in Truro Cathedral in 1880. This service has become a globally recognized Christmas tradition.
His family life was also notable, with several of his six children achieving recognition in their own fields. His sons included the novelist Edward Frederic Benson, Arthur Christopher Benson, who wrote lyrics for "Land of Hope and Glory," and Robert Hugh Benson, a priest and author. His daughter Margaret Benson was an artist, author, and Egyptologist.
Edward White Benson was buried at Canterbury Cathedral, leaving behind a legacy that includes both institutional development and enduring liturgical practices.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Edward White Benson serve as Archbishop of Canterbury?
Edward White Benson served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1883 until his death on October 11, 1896.
What was Edward White Benson's role before becoming Archbishop of Canterbury?
Before his appointment as Archbishop of Canterbury, Edward White Benson was the first Bishop of Truro, serving from 1877 to 1883. He also began the construction of Truro Cathedral during his tenure there.
What is Edward White Benson best known for?
Edward White Benson is best remembered for devising the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, an order first used in Truro Cathedral on Christmas Eve, 1880. This service is now broadcast globally every Christmas.
Did Edward White Benson have any notable family members?
Yes, Edward White Benson had several notable children. His son Edward Frederic Benson was a novelist, Arthur Christopher Benson was an author and master of Magdalene College, Cambridge, Robert Hugh Benson was a priest and popular novelist, and Margaret Benson was an artist, author, and Egyptologist.
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