Spener, Philipp Jakob, 1635-1705

Philipp Jakob Spener, called the "Father of Pietism", was born on January 13, 1635 at Rappoltsweiler, Upper Alsace. He was educated in theology at Strassburg, Tubingen, and Basel. Upon completing his studies he became the private tutor to the Princes Palatinate, Christian and Charles. In 1663 he was employed as a pastor in Strassburg and lecturer in philology and history at the university. In 1666 he was appointed first pastor at Frankfort where he began his famous collegia pietatis (prayer meetings). These meetings eventually brought him into conflict with the orthodox clergy. After leaving Frankfort he became preacher to the electoral court of Saxony at Dresden in 1686, but lost this position after reproving the elector for his vices. Spener was appointed provost of the Church of St. Nicolai in Berlin in 1695. He died in Berlin on February 5, 1705.

From the description of Philipp Jakob Spener receipt, 1688 Jan. 10. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 122371475