Society of St. John the Evangelist

Popularly known as the “Cowley Fathers,” this is the oldest men’s religious community in the Church of England. In 1850 R.M. Benson was appointed vicar of Cowley, and in 1866 took the vows with three others. The society has worked in India, and now works in the USA, Canada, and Africa. The members are in demand as conductors of missions and retreats and as spiritual directors to other communities. In recent years they have played an increasing part in ecumenical affairs.