Henry Ware (Unitarian)

Henry Ware (1764-1845) was a prominent American Unitarian theologian and educator. He served as the Hollis Professor of Divinity at Harvard University from 1805 to 1840, a pivotal period in the rise of Unitarianism in the United States.

Ware was born in Sherborn, Massachusetts. He graduated from Harvard College in 1785 and served as a pastor in Hingham, Massachusetts, for nearly twenty years before accepting the Harvard professorship. His appointment marked a turning point at Harvard, signaling the growing influence of liberal theological thought.

As Hollis Professor, Ware advocated for a rational and ethical approach to Christianity, emphasizing the importance of individual conscience and the moral teachings of Jesus. He played a significant role in the formation of the American Unitarian Association in 1825, solidifying Unitarianism as a distinct denomination.

Ware was a prolific writer and published numerous sermons, essays, and books. Notable works include "Letters to Trinitarians and Calvinists" (1820) and "An Inquiry into the Foundation, Evidences, and History of Christianity" (1842). He also contributed significantly to hymnody, publishing several collections of hymns.

His influence extended beyond academia and religious circles. He was a strong advocate for social reform and actively involved in various philanthropic endeavors. His son, Henry Ware Jr., also became a prominent Unitarian minister and writer.

Henry Ware’s contributions were instrumental in shaping Unitarian theology and establishing its presence within American religious landscape. He is remembered as a leading figure in the Unitarian movement and a champion of liberal religious thought.