Edward Dering (priest)

Edward Dering (1540? – 1576) was an English Puritan clergyman and academic. He is primarily known for his controversial preaching and his disputes with leading figures within the Church of England, particularly John Whitgift.

Dering was likely born in Kent, and educated at Christ's College, Cambridge, where he matriculated in 1557, became a scholar in 1559, and a Fellow in 1560. He gained a reputation as a Hebrew scholar and was appointed reader of that language at Cambridge.

Dering's views became increasingly Puritan, and his sermons, delivered at Cambridge and later in London, were marked by a strong critique of perceived abuses within the Church of England. He was particularly critical of the wealth and worldliness of some clergymen, and he advocated for a more reformed and "godly" church.

His outspokenness led to conflict with ecclesiastical authorities. In 1570, he was summoned before the Privy Council and suspended from preaching. Although he was briefly reinstated, his attacks on the Church hierarchy continued, leading to further suspensions and periods of imprisonment.

A significant part of Dering's conflict stemmed from his public debate with John Whitgift, then Master of Trinity College, Cambridge, and later Archbishop of Canterbury. Whitgift defended the existing order of the Church, while Dering argued for further reform. The disagreement was often acrimonious and attracted considerable attention.

Despite facing opposition, Dering remained a popular preacher, particularly among those who shared his Puritan sympathies. He attracted a large following, and his sermons were widely circulated. He died relatively young, in 1576, likely from tuberculosis.

Dering's legacy is that of a significant figure in the early Puritan movement. While his confrontational style created enemies, he also inspired many who sought a more thorough reformation of the Church of England. His writings and sermons continued to be influential amongst Puritans for decades after his death.