Anglican Roots to Catholic Exemplar: Legacy of Fr. Frederick Faber

by | May 14, 2024 | Blogs about Faith, Culture, Insight, Oratory of St. Philip Neri, Saint Philip Neri

Outline of the Life and Contributions of Fr. Frederick Faber

Father Frederick William Faber (1814-1863) was a significant figure in 19th-century Catholicism, renowned for his deep spiritual influence and contributions to Catholic worship. Originally from an Evangelical Anglican background, he converted to Catholicism in 1845 under the mentorship of John Henry Newman. As a Catholic priest, Faber founded the London Oratory and became a leading proponent of Marian devotion and traditional Catholic practices. His hymns and devotional writings, including the beloved “All for Jesus,” left a lasting impact on English-speaking Catholics and contributed to the spiritual vitality of the Victorian era.

I. Early Life and Education

  • Birth and Family Background
    • Born in 1814, son of an Evangelical Anglican clerical family of Huguenot origin
    • Father was secretary to Shute Barrington, Bishop of Durham
  • Education
    • Privately educated, attended Bishop Auckland Grammar School, Shrewsbury, and Harrow School
    • Influenced by headmaster Charles Longley and Evangelical vicar John William Cunningham

II. Academic and Early Religious Career

  • University Education
    • Matriculated in 1832, elected scholar of University College in 1834
    • Influenced by Dr. Pusey’s sermon in 1836, embraced Tractarianism
  • Ordination and Early Ministry
    • Deacon in 1837, ordained priest in 1839
    • Travelled to Belgium and Germany, initially critical of Romanism

III. Ministry in the Church of England

  • Curate and Influences
    • Served as a curate at Ambleside in the Lake District
    • Befriended by Wordsworth, involved in the Young England movement
    • Advocated High Church principles and influenced Lord John Manners
  • Living at Elton
    • Inducted in 1843, preached Catholic doctrine, wrote on St. Wilfrid
    • Influenced by Pope Gregory XVI and St. Philip Neri

IV. Conversion to Catholicism

  • Conversion and Initial Catholic Ministry
    • Converted to Catholicism in November 1845, influenced by St. John Henry Newman
    • Formed a religious community at Cotton Hall, ordained Catholic priest in 1847

V. Founding the Oratory in London

  • Early Challenges and Growth
    • Founded the Oratory in King William Street in 1849
    • Moved to Brompton Road in 1854, faced criticism for Italianate style
  • Promotion of Catholic Devotions
    • Promoted Marian piety, devotions to saints, and the Blessed Sacrament
    • Composed hymns such as “Faith of Our Fathers” and “There is a Wideness in God’s Mercy”

VI. Literary Contributions

  • Devotional Works
    • Authored influential devotional books, including “All for Jesus”
    • Encouraged frequent reception of sacraments and Marian devotion

VII. Legacy and Impact

  • Influence on Catholic Worship
    • Hymns and devotional works widely used and beloved in Catholic worship
  • Enduring Legacy
    • The Brompton Oratory as a testament to his influence
    • Contributions to the Catholic faith and spirituality in Victorian England

Fr Frederick W Faber, Oratory of St. Philip Neri

Summary

Fr. Frederick William Faber, born in 1814, was a prominent Catholic priest known for his profound spiritual influence through hymns, poetry, and devotional works. Initially educated within the Evangelical Anglican tradition, Faber was influenced by Tractarianism and converted to Catholicism in 1845 under the guidance of St. John Henry Newman. After his ordination as a Catholic priest, he founded the London Oratory, which became a center for Catholic worship and devotion. Faber’s contributions include promoting Marian piety, composing hymns that remain popular, and writing influential devotional books such as “All for Jesus.” His legacy is embodied in the Brompton Oratory and his enduring impact on Catholic spirituality.

St. John Henry Cardinal Newman, Oratory of St. Philip Neri

This page was influenced by tribute to Fr Frederick William Faber

Visit the New Liturgical Movement

Books by Fr. Frederick Faber

The following list and links are under construction and will be updated to reflect the current and best places to get a hold of Father Faber’s life-changing books.

  • All for Jesus
  • The Foot of the Cross or The Sorrows of Mary
  • Bethlehem
  • The Precious Blood
  • Growth in Holiness
  • Spiritual Conferences
  • The Creator and the Creature
  • Notes on Doctrinal and Spiritual Subjects
  • Hymns

These resources provide access to the texts and further information about Fr. Faber’s works.