John Hooper (bishop)

John Hooper (c. 1495 – 9 February 1555) was an English Protestant clergyman, reformer, and Marian martyr. He served as Bishop of Gloucester and Worcester during the reign of Edward VI.

Hooper was born in Somerset, England, and studied at Merton College, Oxford, where he earned his bachelor's degree in 1519. He became a Cistercian monk at Cleeve Abbey, though he later abandoned monastic life. He became chaplain to Sir Thomas Arundel and then served in the household of the Duke of Somerset, gaining early exposure to reformed doctrines.

During the reign of Henry VIII, Hooper was forced to flee England due to his Protestant beliefs, seeking refuge in Switzerland and Germany. He was particularly influenced by the theologians Heinrich Bullinger in Zurich and Martin Bucer in Strasbourg. His time in exile shaped his theological views, which were more radically Protestant than those of many other reformers in England.

Upon Edward VI's accession in 1547, Hooper returned to England and became a prominent preacher, advocating for reform and challenging traditional church practices. He was appointed chaplain to the Duke of Somerset and became a popular figure in London, known for his fiery sermons.

In 1550, Hooper was nominated as Bishop of Gloucester. However, his strong convictions against the required vestments caused considerable controversy. He refused to wear them, viewing them as remnants of popery and superstitious. The issue escalated, leading to imprisonment in the Fleet Prison and ultimately, Hooper's reluctant acceptance of consecration while only wearing a rochet. He was consecrated Bishop of Gloucester in March 1551. He demonstrated great diligence in his pastoral duties, focusing on preaching, catechizing, and reforming the diocese. In 1552 he was also appointed Bishop of Worcester.

With the accession of the Catholic Queen Mary I in 1553, Hooper was deprived of his bishoprics and imprisoned. He was brought before Bishop Stephen Gardiner, interrogated, and condemned as a heretic. Hooper was burned at the stake in Gloucester on 9 February 1555. His steadfast faith and courage in the face of persecution made him a significant figure in the English Reformation and a symbol of Protestant resistance.