Robert William Dale (1829–95) was an English Congregational church leader known for advocating social reform, education, and religious independence. His sermons and writings shaped nonconformist Christianity and liberal politics in 19th-century Britain.
Born in London, he studied at Spring Hill College, Birmingham, preparing for the Congregational ministry. In 1853, he joined Carr’s Lane Chapel as co-pastor, later becoming its sole pastor (1859.) A strong advocate for disestablishing the Church of England, he championed religious freedom and congregational governance.
Notable works include The Atonement (1875) on Christian doctrine, Manual of Congregational Principles (1884) outlining Congregationalist beliefs, and The Living Christ and the Four Gospels (1890) examining Christ and scripture. Other publications include Nine Lectures on Preaching (1877,) The Jewish Temple and the Christian Church (1871,) and The Epistle to the Ephesians: Its Doctrine and Ethics (1892.)
Dale supported public education, social welfare, and political reform, working alongside Joseph Chamberlain and other Birmingham reformers.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Robert William Dale
We ask God to forgive us for our evil thoughts and evil temper, but rarely, if ever, ask Him to forgive us for our sadness.
—Robert William Dale
Topics: Joy, Excitement
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