The Liturgical Calendar: The Church Remembers

Today the church remembers John Henry Hobart, Bishop of New York, 1830.

Bishop Hobart, always a powerhouse of energy, was one of the most capable and effective leaders of any sort in America in the early nineteenth century. A native of Philadelphia, he was educated and taught at Princeton University prior to entering the Christian priesthood. Hobart was elected Assistant Bishop of New York in 1811 and became diocesan bishop five years later. Hobart was also the rector of Trinity Church in Manhattan. He transformed the Diocese of New York into a dynamic and effective center of American church life.

Hobart was a tireless traveler, lecturer, and author, as well as being a staunch advocate of Episcopal polity and The Book of Common Prayer. He organized one of the most impressive missionary efforts the American Church has ever seen. Episcopal churches were planted throughout New York state and among the Oneida people, thanks largely to his work and inspiration. Always an educator, Hobart was largely responsible for the success of the college which bears his name today in Geneva, New York, and he helped found the General Theological Seminary in New York City.

But above all, John Henry Hobart was a well-loved and loving bishop, highly personable and always accessible. He set an example for the new American episcopate which is still worthy of emulation today.

Gracious God, we thank you for your servant John, faithful steward. Amen.

Read the Wikipedia article here.

Revive your Church, Lord God of hosts, whenever it falls into complacency and sloth, by raising up devoted leaders, like your servant John Henry Hobart whom we remember today; and grant that their faith and vigor of mind may awaken your people to your message and their mission; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

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