Richard Alleine

1611-1681. Nonconformist* divine. Born at Ditcheat in Somerset where his father was rector, he was educated at St. Alban's Hall and New Inn Hall, Oxford. After ordination he first assisted his father, then in 1641 became rector of Batcombe, Somerset. He signed the Presbyterian manifesto “Testimony of the Ministers of Somerset,” as well as the Solemn League and Covenant.* During the Protectorate of Cromwell he served as a ministerial assistant to the commissioners for ejecting scandalous ministers. In 1662 he refused to conform and was ejected. Because of the Five Mile Act* he moved to nearby Frome Selwood, where he preached in private homes. His writings are all in the tradition of Puritan practical divinity. The Vindiciae Pietatis appeared in four parts between 1663 and 1668, and his Instructions about Heart-Work in 1681.