John Waddington (minister)

John Waddington (1799-1869) was an English Congregational minister. He was born in London on January 6, 1799, and died on December 11, 1869.

Waddington received his early education at a school in Yarmouth and later at a boarding school in Islington. He studied for the ministry at Homerton College, then a prominent dissenting academy. He was ordained as a Congregational minister in 1822 and served as pastor of the Poultry Chapel in London for nearly 50 years, from 1822 until his retirement in 1868.

Waddington was a prominent figure in Congregational circles and was known for his eloquent preaching and his advocacy for religious liberty and social reform. He was actively involved in various philanthropic and educational organizations. He published several sermons, lectures, and other works, including "Congregational History, 1200-1567" and "Congregational History, 1567-1700." These works represent a significant contribution to the historical understanding of Congregationalism.

He was also involved in the founding of New College, London, a theological college aimed at training Congregational ministers. Waddington was a strong advocate for education and believed in the importance of a well-educated ministry. He was a key figure in ensuring that New College offered a rigorous academic program.