Thomas Herring
Thomas Herring served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1747 to 1757. He was also previously the Archbishop of York, where he distinguished himself during the Jacobite rising of 1745 with a widely praised patriotic sermon and by organizing local resistance. Herring was a proponent of the Protestant Succession and a strong supporter of the Hanoverian monarchy.
Key Facts
- ›Served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1747 to 1757.
- ›Previously served as Archbishop of York from 1743 to 1747.
- ›Delivered a significant patriotic sermon during the Jacobite rising of 1745, which was ordered to be printed by King George II.
- ›Organized resistance efforts against the Jacobites in Yorkshire.
- ›Advocated for the Protestant Succession and loyalty to the House of Hanover.
- ›Is generally credited with authoring 'a New Form of Common Prayer' (1753).
- Composed A Widely Influential Patriotic Sermon During the 1745 Jacobite Rising.
- Organized Volunteers and Raised Funds For Resistance Against the Jacobites.
- Authored 'A New Form of Common Prayer'.
About Thomas Herring
Thomas Herring: Archbishop of Canterbury
Thomas Herring (baptised 10 October 1693 – 23 March 1757) was a prominent figure in the Church of England, serving as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1747 to 1757. His tenure as Archbishop of Canterbury followed a significant period as Archbishop of York from 1743 to 1747.
Early Life and Education
Born the son of John Herring, rector of Walsoken, Thomas Herring received his education at Wisbech Grammar School and subsequently at Jesus College, Cambridge, matriculating in 1710. He pursued his studies further at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, where he became a fellow from 1716 to 1723. He earned his D.D. in 1728.
Career and Key Contributions
Herring's career was advanced by his friendship with Philip Yorke, the Solicitor General, who later became Lord Chancellor. He served as a chaplain to King George II, became Dean of Rochester in 1732, and was appointed Bishop of Bangor in 1737, consecrated in January 1738. His translation to York in April 1743 marked a significant step in his ecclesiastical career.
During the Jacobite rising of 1745, Herring, as Archbishop of York, delivered a powerful sermon that resonated with patriotic sentiment and was praised for its spirit and bravery by figures like Horace Walpole. King George II ordered the speech's publication. Herring actively organized resistance in Yorkshire, raising volunteers and funds, actions that demonstrated him as a "resolute Whig, a brave Briton, and a commanding prelate." He was a staunch supporter of the Protestant Succession and the House of Hanover, viewing it as essential for Britain's defense.
As Archbishop of Canterbury, Herring generally aligned with the policies of Lord Chancellor Yorke and frequently interacted with the Duke of Newcastle. He is credited with authoring "A New Form of Common Prayer," published in 1753, in response to contemporary theological discussions. Herring sought conciliation and welcomed an era of liberty and toleration. He also offered encouragement to the philosopher David Hume.
Death and Legacy
Thomas Herring died on 23 March 1757 and was buried in Croydon Minster. His service as Archbishop of Canterbury and his actions during a critical period of national unrest underscore his importance in 18th-century English religious and political history.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Thomas Herring Archbishop of Canterbury?
Thomas Herring served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1747 until his death in 1757.
What was Thomas Herring's role during the Jacobite rising of 1745?
During the 1745 Jacobite rising, Herring, then Archbishop of York, delivered a powerful patriotic sermon that captured the public imagination. He also organized Yorkshire into resistance by raising volunteers and money.
Where was Thomas Herring educated?
Thomas Herring was educated at Wisbech Grammar School and Jesus College, Cambridge, where he matriculated in 1710. He later migrated to Corpus Christi College, Cambridge, and was a fellow there.
What significant publication is Thomas Herring credited with?
Thomas Herring is generally credited as the author of 'A New Form of Common Prayer,' which was published anonymously in 1753.
Who was Thomas Herring's predecessor as Archbishop of Canterbury?
The article text does not explicitly name Thomas Herring's predecessor as Archbishop of Canterbury but notes that he followed the lead of his immediate predecessor in taking a Hanoverian side through the Bangorian controversy.
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