Henry Frederick Cope

Born in London in 1870, Henry Frederick Cope became an influential Protestant educator and writer during a period of major change in religious instruction. Biographical material from Biola University describes him as a major figure in the rise of the Religious Education Movement and notes that he was educated in London, worked when he was young, and later pursued further learning through evening study.

Cope is best remembered for his long service as general secretary of the Religious Education Association, a role he held from 1907 until his death in 1923. He also edited Religious Education, the association's journal, and helped give the organization an international profile through his energy as an organizer, editor, and advocate.

He wrote numerous books and articles on faith formation, Sunday school work, and the religious training of families and laypeople. His work reflects a strong interest in making religious education thoughtful, organized, and relevant to everyday life.