Henry Montgomery (1788 - 1865): Cleric, Non-Subscribing Presbyterian
Henry Montgomery was born in Killead, County Antrim, and was educated at Crumlin Academy and the University of Glasgow. In 1800 he was ordained in Dunmurry, County Antrim, and in 1817 became English master of Belfast Academical Institution. Glasgow University conferred upon him a Doctorate of Laws. He was elected Moderator of the General Synod of Ulster. A staunch opponent of Henry Cooke, he led the Arian section of the Synod, and on being defeated, formed the Remonstrant Synod of Ulster in 1829, which later led to the establishment of the Non-Subscribing Presbyterian Church of Ireland ("Remonstrant" signifying remonstrating against compulsory subscription to the Westminster Confession of Faith) He published pamphlets and edited The Bible Christian, was in favour of Catholic Emancipation, but strongly opposed Repeal. A powerful orator with an imposing physical presence, six feet four inches tall, he was known as "The Lion of Dunmurry".
Born: |
16 January 1788 |
Died: |
18 December 1865 |
Kate Newmann |
Acknowledgements:
Additional research: Richard Froggatt |
Bibliography:
Rev AL Agnew & Rev J McCLeery: The Story of the Non-Subscribing Presbyterian Church, pamphlet, Sunday School Committee of the Non-Subscribing Presbyterian Church of Ireland, 1964. |
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