John Kennedy of Dingwall, 1819-1884: Evangelicalism in the Scottish Highlands

This book explores the life and ministry of John Kennedy, a minister of the Dingwall Free Church of Scotland, and how he became the effective leader of the Highland Evangelicals through his preaching, writing, and public speaking. It also addresses current historical debate over the divergence in Scottish Evangelicalism and how far Kennedy may have helped to steer it in a conservative direction.

Format: Hardback
Length: 306 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2023
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

In late nineteenth-century Scotland, a significant divide emerged within the realm of popular Evangelicalism, particularly between the Highlands and the Lowlands. This captivating book, written by Alasdair J. Macleod, delves into the life and ministry of John Kennedy, a minister of the Dingwall Free Church of Scotland. Through a chronological and biographical structure, Macleod offers an accessible approach to understanding the complexities of this period.

Drawing on a wealth of primary sources, including Gaelic poetry in translation that has never been published before, sermon notes, and a recently discovered notebook of Kennedy's, the author provides a deep insight into the life and work of this influential figure. Macleod's analysis explores how Kennedy emerged as an effective leader among the Highland Evangelicals through his powerful preaching, prolific writing, and engaging public speaking.

The book also addresses the ongoing historical debate surrounding the divergence in Scottish Evangelicalism. Macleod presents an argument for the significance of Kennedy's leadership in shaping the trajectory of Evangelicalism in the Highlands during this period. He examines how Kennedy's sermons, writings, and public addresses resonated with the Highlanders, particularly in their conservative values and opposition to modernizing influences.

Macleod's work sheds light on the complex interplay between religion, culture, and social change in nineteenth-century Scotland. By examining the life and ministry of John Kennedy, he offers a fresh perspective on the historical development of Evangelicalism in the Highlands and its impact on Scottish society as a whole. This book is a valuable contribution to the study of religious history, Scottish culture, and the broader context of nineteenth-century Britain.

Weight: 518g
Dimension: 240 x 162 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399503891