Moore, Richard Channing

(Aug. 21, 1762-Nov. 12, 1841). A leading evangelical bishop who was known for his prayer meetings and informal services. He was born in New York City. Moore studied medicine. After practicing medicine for a while, he studied for the ordained ministry under Bishop Samuel Provoost of New York. He was ordained deacon on July 15, 1787, and priest on Sept. 19, 1787. For two years, 1787-1789, he was in charge of Christ Church, Rye, New York. From 1789 until 1809 he was rector of St. Andrew's Church, Staten Island. In 1809 Moore became the rector of St. Stephen's Church, New York. From 1814 until his death he was rector of Monumental Church, Richmond, Virginia. On May 18, 1814, he was consecrated the second Bishop of Virginia and served there until his death. Moore began the work that revived the Episcopal Church in Virginia from the disorganization that followed the American Revolution. While he was bishop, the Virginia Theological Seminary was established. Moore died in Lynchburg, Virginia.