Arthur Ellis
Is the Vicar of Brompton a Tractarian? A Question for the Parishioners
"Is the Vicar of Brompton a Tractarian? A Question for the Parishioners" by Ellis is a religious pamphlet written in the mid-19th century. The book addresses concerns within the Church of England regarding the influence of Tractarianism, a theological movement associated with high churchmanship and perceived as leaning towards Roman Catholicism. The author aims to challenge the Vicar, Dr. Irons, on his claims of detachment from Tractarian beliefs and practices. In this document, Ellis presents arguments and correspondence that suggest Dr. Irons is complicit with Tractarian principles despite his denials. Through a series of letters, he contrasts the Vicar's public statements with behaviors that align with the Tractarian movement, such as inviting well-known Tractarian clergy to preach in his church. Ellis expresses concern that such affiliations and teachings might lead the parishioners towards Roman Catholicism, asserting that the principles of Tractarianism fundamentally contradict the tenets of Protestant faith. The pamphlet serves as a call to vigilance among parishioners against what Ellis views as the covert infiltration of Roman Catholic doctrine into their church.