1655–1685 · London, England

Elizabeth Bathurst

Young Theologian, Defender of Women's Ministry

“The spirit of truth doth not lead into contention, but into peace and unity.” — Elizabeth Bathurst

Life & Ministry

1655

Born into a family that would become Quaker. Received an unusually good education for a woman of her era.

1679

At just twenty-four, published her masterwork defending Quaker theology and women's spiritual authority.

1683

Wrote a passionate appeal for religious tolerance during a period of renewed persecution.

1685

Died young, leaving behind a body of theological writing remarkable for its depth and precision.

Fell's 'Women's Speaking Justified' opened the door that Bathurst walked through with systematic theology.

Proposed

A systematic defense of Quaker principles and women's ministry, remarkable for its theological sophistication.

Proposed

A powerful plea for religious liberty written during the persecutions of the early 1680s.