Lewis Allen

DPhil in English Local History

Thesis

Henry Venn (1725-1797) – Gospel Servant, Gospel Strategist

Research abstract

Henry Venn (1725-97) was one of the key leaders of the Evangelical Revival of the mid and later Eighteenth Century. Appointed in 1759 as Rector of Huddersfield, Yorkshire, by the end of his twelve years the town and its surrounds would be lastingly altered by his ministry.   

This doctorate aims to assess Henry Venn’s work and legacy in Huddersfield and beyond. Focusing on the extant body of Venn’s writings and exploring comparable Yorkshire ministries, I plan to evaluate Venn’s Calvinism, and his attitude to and work alongside local Dissenters, whilst tracing his wider labours and ministerial partnerships. A close study of mid-century Huddersfield and the West Riding will help to draw conclusions about the impact of Venn’s ministry.

Supervisor(s)

Dr Mark Smith

Biography

I have an MA in Classics and Theology from Magdalene College, Cambridge, and a ThM in Historical Theology, from Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia, writing my dissertation on the English Puritan John Flavel. I have been in Christian Ministry for twenty years, firstly in London and now in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, where I planted and am now Senior Pastor of Hope Church, Huddersfield.  

Publications

I have one title published on selected sermons of John Flavel, and two awaiting publication in the US and UK, on Puritanism and Preaching. 

Research interests

English Puritan ministries and ongoing points of contact with 18th Century Pastorates. Calvinism across Anglican and Dissenting divides. Yorkshire Evangelicalism.