The Book of Religions / Comprising the Views, Creeds, Sentiments, or Opinions, of All the Principal Religious Sects in the World, Particularly of All Christian Denominations in Europe and America, to Which are Added Church and Missionary Statistics, Together With Biographical Sketches

Samuel Seabury.

First bishop of the Protestant Episcopal church in the United States, was born in 1728, and graduated at Yale College in 1751. After finishing his classical education, he went to Scotland with the view of studying medicine; but soon, having turned his attention to theology, he altered his purpose and took orders in London, 1753. Returning to America, he officiated, first at Brunswick, New Jersey, then at Jamaica, Long Island, next at West Chester, New York, and lastly at New London, Connecticut, where he remained, as rector of the parish in that city, during the remainder of his life. As much as he was esteemed by his parishioners, his influence was extended among his brethren throughout the state. Consequently, when the Episcopal church was organized in that diocese, he was elected bishop. He went immediately to England, in order to obtain consecration; but, meeting with some unexpected obstacles, he repaired to Scotland. Here he was able to accomplish the object of his mission. He was consecrated at Aberdeen, November 14, 1784. As soon as he was able to reach home, he resumed his duties as parish minister at New London, in connection with his episcopal functions for the diocese. Bishop Seabury had a vigorous and well-cultivated mind, and acquired a reputation [pg 399] corresponding with his high station. Three volumes of his sermons have been published.

The following is the inscription on Bishop Seabury's monument at New London, Connecticut:—

“Here lyeth the body of Samuel Seabury, D. D., Bishop of Connecticut and Rhode Island, who departed from this transitory scene February 25th, Anno Domini 1796, in the 68th year of his age, and the 12th of his episcopal consecration.

“Ingenious without pride, learned without pedantry, good without severity, he was duly qualified to discharge the duties of the Christian and the Bishop. In the pulpit he enforced religion; in his conduct he exemplified it. The poor he assisted with his charity; the ignorant he blessed with his instruction. The friend of men, he ever designed their good; the enemy of vice, he ever opposed it. Christian, dost thou aspire to happiness? Seabury has shown the way that leads to it.”

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