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THE
PRINCIPALL
ACTS
O F
FOURE GENERALL
ASSEMBLIES
OF THE KIRK OF
SCOTLAND,
H0L<DE3^
At Edinburgh 1639. At Aberdene 164.0.
AtS.ANDREWsandEDlNBURGH l6^l.
And at S. An d r ews KJ4.Z.
t&>Jh&dto&*
»g^>^«£»r|s>
EDINBURGH,
Printed by Evan Tyler, Printer to the Kings moft excellent Majeftie. \6 4. 2.
U i •cr
THE
PRINCIPALL
ACTS
Of The
GENERAL L
ASSEMBLY,
HOLDER At Edinburgh in the year
EDINBURGH,
Trinted by Evan Tyler, "Printer to the Kings mojl Excellent <&>fajcftic-,.
Anno Dom. 1^4.2.
Pag.,.
$M y<WH&MW^WSEi
«;i'e
^sjIsi&'.ifJroSS
THE
GENERALL
ASSEMBLY,
At Edinburgh 163?.
SclT.VIII. oAuguft ij. 16^9.
iS^f after George Grahame his
renouncing and abjuring of
~pi[copacie-j.
Epifcc
The which day there was given in to the Afjembly ^direct from M 'after George Grahame, /ww/ww pretended Bifhop of Orknay , an ab- juration of Epifcopacie, fubfcribed with his hand , which was pub- lickly read in audience of the A(fembly • and thereafter they ordained the fame to be regiftratc in the Affembly Books ad perpetuam rei me- moriam, whereof the tenor followcs.
O all and fundry whom it efFeirs , to whofe knowledge thefe prefents fliall come, fpecially to the reverend and ho- nourable Members of the future Aflem- bly to be holden at Edinburgh the twelfth day of Auguft 1639. years : Me Mafter George Grahame , fometime pre- tended Bifliop of Orknay , being forry and grieved at my heart that I fliould ever for any worldly refpecl, have em- braced the order of Epifcopacie, the fame having no warrant from the Word of God , and being fuch an order,as hath had fen- fibly many fcarfull and evill confequences in many parts of Chri- ftendome, and particularly within the Kirk of 'Scotland, as by dole- full and deplorable experience this day is manifeft, to have difclai- A 2 med,
2 The CjenerattAjJembly, \6^z.
med, like as I by the tenor hereof doe altogether difclaime and ab- jure all Epifcopall power and jurifdiction, with the whole corrup- tions thereof , condemned by lawfull Aflemblies within the faid Kirk of Scotland^ in regard the fame is fuch an order as is alfo abju- red within the faid Kirk , by vertue of that Nationall Oath which was made in the years 1580. and 1581. promifing and fwearing by the great Name of the Lord our God , That I mall never whiles I live, directly nor indirectly , exerce any fuch power within the Kirk , neither yet (hall I ever approve or allow the fame , not fo much as in my private or publicke difcourfe : But on the contrary, fhall ftand and adhere to all the Ads and Conftitutions of the late AfTembly holden at Glafgorv the 2 1 .of November, 1 63 8. laft by-pad, and fhall coneurre to the uttermoft of my power, fincerely and faithfully, as occafion (hall offer, in executing the faids Ads" , and in advancing the Work of Reformation within this Land, to the glory of God,the peace of the Countrey, and the comfort and con- tentment of all good Chriftians, as God fhall be my help. In tefti- mony of the which premifles , I have fubfcribed thir prefents with my hand at Breeknes in Stronues , the eleventh day of February the year of God 1639. years. Before thir witneffes , Mafter Walter Stewart ,Minift er at Southronnaldfay , Mafter fames Heynd, Minifter at Ktrktva/I, Mafter Robert Petrjon, M'mifter ztFirth^ and Mafter Pa- trick Grahame^Aim&tr: at Holme, my (on.
SdT.VIII. ij.alug. 161,9.
Mi containing the caujes and remedieofthe by -gone evils oftbisK^irk^
fcHe Kings Majeftie having gratioufly declared, [That it is His Roy all will and pleafure , that all , queftions about Religion , and matters Ecclefia- 1 fticall be determined by Affemblies of the Kirk, > having alfo by publicke Proclamation indicted I this free nationall A flembly for fettling the pre- fent diffraction of this Kirk , and for eftablifhing a perfect peace , againft fuch divifions and diforders as have been fore difpleafing to His Majeftie , and grievous to all His good Subjects. And now His Majefties Commifiioner John Earle of Traquatr , inftructed and authorized with a full Commiflion3being prefent,& fitting in thisAifembly,now fully conveened and order- ly constitute in all the members thereof, according to the order of this Kirk,having at large declaredHis Majefties zeal to the refor- med Religion , and His Royall care and tender affection to this Kirk , where bis Majeftie had both His Birth and Baptifme , His great difpleafure at the manifold diffractions and divifions of this
Kirk
T'he Cjenera]lAlJemblyy \6/\.i. 3
Kirk and Kingdome , and His defiresto have all our wounds per- fectly cured with a fair and fatherly hand : And although in the way approven by this Kirk , tryall hath been taken in former Af- femblies before from the Kirk regifters , to our full fatisfaction, yet the Commiffioners Grace making particular inquiry from the members of the Aflembly ■ now folemnly conveened , concerning the reall and true caufes of fo many and great evils as this time paft had fo fore troubled the peace of this Kirk and Kingdome, It wasreprefentedtoHisMajeltiesCommiflioner by thisAiTem- bly , That befide many other , the main and mod materiall caufes were firft , The preffing of this Kirk by the prelates with a fervice Book , or Book of Common Prayer , without warrand or di- rection from the Kirk , and containing befide the Popifh frame thereof,divers Popifh errors and ceremonies,and the feeds of mani- fold grofle fuperftitions and idolatry , with a Book of Canons, without warrand or direction from the Generall Aflembly , efta- blifhing a tyrannicall power over the Kirk in the perfon of Bi- (hops , and overthrowing the whole difciplineand government of the Kirk by Aflemblies , with a Book of Confecration and Or- dination , without warrand of Authoritie , Civill or Ecclefiafti- call, appointing offices in the houfe of God, which are not war- ranted by the Word of God, and repugnant to the difcipline and Acts of our Kirk, and with the High Commiffion , erected with- out the confent of the Kirk , fubverting the jurifdiction andordi- narie Judicatories of this Kirk, and giving to perfons meerly Ec- clefiafticall , the power of both fwords , and to perfons meerly Civill , the power of the Keycs and Kirk-cenfures. A fecond caufe was the Articles of Perth , vi\. the obfervation of Feftivall dayes, kneeling at the Communion , Confirmation, Adminiftra- tion of the Sacraments in private places , which are brought in by a null Aflembly , and are contrary to the Confellion of Faith, .as it was meant and fubfcribed ^Anno 1580. and divers times fince , and to the order and conftitutions of this Kirk. Thirdly, the changing of the government of the Kirk , from the Aflemblies of the Kirk to the perfons of fome Kirk-men , ufurping prioritie and power over their Brethren , by the way , and under the name of Epifcopall government, againft the Con feifion of Faith , 1580. againft the order fet down in the Book of Policy , and againft the intention and conftitution of this Kirk from the beginning. Fourthly the Civill places and power of Kirk-men , their fitting in Seflion, Councell and Exchequer , their Hiding > Sitting , and voting in Parliament , and their fitting in the Bench as Juftices of peace, which according to the conftitutions of this Kirk are in- compatible with their fpirituall fan&ion , lifting them up above their Brethren in worldly pompe , and do tend to the hinderancc of the Miniftrie. Fiftly the keeping and authorizing corrupt Af- iemblies at Linlithgow , 1606. and 1608. At GUjftw , i6ro. At Aberdenc , 1616. At S. Andrews , 1617. At Perth , 161S.
which
4- The (jcncraUAJJembly^ 1639.
which are null and unlawfull , as being called and conftitute quite contrary to the order and conftitutions of this Kirk received and practife'd ever ftnce the Reformation of Religion , and withall la- bouring to introduce novations into this Kirk , againft the order and Religion eftablifbed, A fixth caufe is the want of lawfull and free Generall AiTemblies , rightly conftitute of Paftors, Doctors, and Elders yearly, or oftner pro re nata , according to the libertie of this Kirk, exprefted in the Book of Policy , and acknowledged in the Act of Parliament, 1 592. After which the whole AfTem- bly in one heart and voyce did declare, that thefe and fuch other, proceeding from the neglect and breach of theNationall Covenant of this Kirk and Kingdome , made in i^Anno , 1580. have been indeed the true and maine caufes of all our evils and dift raclions. And therefore ordaine,according to the conftitutions of the Gene- rall AiTemblies of this Kirk : and upon the grounds refpeciive a- bove-fpecified, That the forefaid fervicc Book , Books of ca- nons, and Ordination, and the High CommifTion,be ftill rejected : That the Articles of' Perth be no more practifed : That Epifco- p?.ll Government , and the Civill places and power of Kirk-men 1 e holden ftill as unlawfull in this Kirk : That the above-named pretended Affemblies , At Linlithgow , 1606. and 1608. At Giajgow , 1 610. At Abcrdene , 1616. At S. Andrews , 161 7. At Perth , 161 8. be hereafter accompted as null , and of none ef- fect. And that for prefervation of Religion , and preventing all fuch evils in time-coming , Generall Ailemblies rightly conftitute, as the proper and competent judge of all matters Ecclefiafticall, hereafter be kept yearly, and oftner ^pro re nata , as occafion and necefTity fhall require -, The neceffity of thele occafionall Af- femblies being firft remonftrate to His Majeftie by humble fuppli- cation : As alfo that Kirk SefTions,Presbyteries and Synodall Af- femblies , be conftitute and obferved , according to the order of this Kirk.
K_s£fter the voycing of the All (anent the caufes of our by -gone evils ) His CMajcfics Commifioner consented 'verbally to the [aid i^siff, and promtfed to give into the Clerk in writ , the Declaration of His consent , and that he flwuld rati fie this Act in the enfuing Parliament.
SefT.
The Cjeneralldljembly, \6\z . 5
SefT. XVIII. z6. <dug. 1639.
Jff approving an old%egifter of the (jenerall Afjembly .
The whole Jffembly ( upon the report made to them anent the old Regifler ef the Aflembly, gotten from Lm after John Rig) all in one voice ap- proved the [aid Regifler, and ordained the fame to make faith in judge- ment, and outwith in all time comings a true and authentick Regifler of the Kirk of Scotland, conformc to the te'stimonk fubferibed 'by the Committee, to be infert in the Books of^AjJembly : whereof the tenor follorveth ;
§&j$k$P^ under- fubferibers , Forfameikle as the late Generall cf^wljji Aflembly holden at Glafgoxv , gave power and commilfi- lpK53?Ja on t0 us> To perufe,examine, and cognofce upon theva- **?&£$? Iiditie , faith , and ftrength of the books and Regifters of the Aflembly, particularly fet down in the CommifTion given to us thereanent : According whereunto we did carefully view , perufe, and confider the faids Regifters,and gave our teftimony thereof un- der our hands,ofthe validitieand fufficiencie of the (amine, to the faid Generall Aflembly. And now having a new CommifTion gi- ven to us from the Generall Aflembly now prefently conveened and fitting at Edinburgh^To perufe,examine,and cognofce upon the validitie, faith and ftrength of another Regifler of the Aflembly, which was not fet down and recommended to us by the faid former CommifTion,whidi Regifter begjnneth at the AfTembly holden at Edinburgh the fixth day of March 1 5 72 .and endeth at the AfTembly likewife holden at Edinburgh 1573. we have carefully viewed, perufed, & confidered the faid Regifter : And being deeply and ma- turely advifed , as in a matter of greateft weight and confequence, doe atteft before God , and upon our confeiences declare to the world, and this prefent Aflembly, Thatthe faid Regifter above cx- preft,is a famous,authentick, and good Regifter, which ought to be fo reputed,and have publick faith in judgement and outwith, as a valid and true Record in all things, And findesthe fame to be of the fame hand- writ, and fubferibed by the fame Clerk of the Generall AfTembly , as clivers of the faid other Regifters ( formerly per- ufed by us ) are. And inteftimonieofour folemne affirmation, we have fubferibed thefe prefents with our hands, at Edinburgh the day otAugufk 1639. *
Aft
6 The CjeneraUAjfembly, 161,9.
Atf: Self. XIX. Jug. 27. i6&.
ftAB approving the depojition of the Minifiers by the Qommittees.
He AiTembly,arter the receiving of the whole reports from the Committees, appointed for revifing of the procefTes and fentences, led, deduced, and pronounced before, and by the feverall Commiflions granted by the Affembly at Glafgow , All in one voice approved the faids whole procefTes as orderly proceeded , and the whole fen- tences pronounced thereintill, as juft and lawfuli decrees, without prejudice of any favour that can be fhowne to any perlon or per- sons, againft whom the faid fentences are pronounced upon their fupplications, or of Juftice to fuch as complaine of their procefie, and offers to reduce the fame upon whatfoever reafon competent, by the Conftitutions of this Kirk and Kingdome,before the Gene- rail Aifembly,and the Commiflioners thereof, they being appoin- ted for that effect.
Aa Seff. XX. 28. Jug. 1639.
Jll anent receiving of depofed Minijlers.
|He which day the Generall Aflembly upon the report of \ the Committees anent theft who are depofed by Sy- \ nods, Doe make this Generall Act, recommending to i the Synods all thefe who are depofed before them for fubfcribing of the Declinator, and reading of the Service-Book, and for no other grofl'e caufe , That upon their true repentance and fubmilTion to the Conftitutions of this Kirk, and upon their purga- tion and clearnefle from any grofle Faults laid to their charge in any new proceffe againft them , they maybe found by the Synods capable of^he Minifterie, when God grants them an ordinary and lawfuli calling by admifiion from the Presbyterie , either in the Church they ferved in before, or in any other Church.
Aa
i IK' ^Tcut'tau it/ijjemifiy, 1025;. 7
Art SeiT. XXI. 29. Jug. l6lp\
JB anent the peeping of the Lords Day.
The generall ^yffjcmhly recommendeth to the [ever all Presbyteries the execution ofthe old C^cts of A[fembly , again f: the breach of the Sab- bath day, by going ofCMylnes, Salt-Panms, S almond- fifhing, or any fuch like labour 5 and to this end revives and renexves the Act of the Afjcmbly holden at Haly-rudehoufe,i 602. Seff. 5. whereof the tenor
He Aflembly confidering that the conventions of the T &k$' PeoP^e/pecia^y on tne Sabbath day are very rare in ma- % ny places,by diftra&ion of labour , not onely in harveft > and feed-time,but alfo every Sabbath, by fifhingboth of white n"fh,and Salmond-fiuhing , and in going of Mylnes. There- fore the AfTembly difchargeth and inhibiteth all fuch labour of fifhing, as well white filh, asSalmond-fifh, and going of Mylnes of all forts upon the Sabbath , under the pain of incurring the cen- fures ofthe Kirk : And ordaines the Commiffioners of this Ailem- bly, to mean the fame to His Majeftie, and to detire that a pecuniall paine may be injoyned upon the contraveeners of this prefent Ad.
Ad: SeflT. XXII. zp. Jug. \6iy. ameridie.
^Articles and Overtures approved by the Jjfemhltt^.
ipp^l^Hatfome Commissioners be appointed tovifit and |fesl^%|| perufe the whole Ads of Generall Aflemblies; and &|8S /~pk^|| to mark fuch Acls as are for the ufe of the Kirk in PH 1 g||| Generall , To extract the fame out ofthe Regifters, SgP^#W to the effect that after they be tryed , they may be «**bwb*Xk printed according to the old A&s of the AfTembly, at Edinburgh March 7. 1 574. Sep ion 9.
The Ajfcmblie appoints the Presbyter ic of Edinburgh to have a care of this article, and to report their diligence to the next AjJ'cm- bly.
That com fe may be taken for reftraining of people fYom pafsing to England 'to marry,which is the occafion of great inconveniences. The AJfembly allorvctb this article, and recommends to the Parlia- ment) that they mould appoint a pecuniall fumrnt to be payed by the contraveeners*
B That
That the Actsforfurnifhingexpencesto Commiflioners , fent by the Presbyteries to the Generall Aflembly j and fent in Com- milTion by Generall AfTemblies, may be explained h And it be de- clared, that all fuch Commiflioners whatfoever , by their ftipends may be furnifhed by the Kirks of the Presbyterie, according to the order fet down in the Aft of the laft Aflembly , fince the errand is common,and the benefit concerneth all : and that order may be ta- £err,how that an expedient voluntarie conrfe,thought fit by the Af- fembly , mall by advife of Parliament, have the force of a law, for compelling thefe to pay who are ftented , both for the laft and this AlTembly,and in time to come.
The A\fembly allorves this article , and referres the fame to the Parliament.
That the Sefsion -Books of every Paroch be prefented once a year to the Presbyteries, that they maybe tryed by them. The Ajjembly allorveth this article.
That the Ad of the 38. AlTemblyat Edinburgh , October 24. 1 578. SelT.8. ordaining Minifters who are depofed, to be charged under the pain of excommunication ,to dimit their places,that they may be uncjueftionably vacand,may now be renewed.
The Affembly allorveth this article^ and remits the fame to the Parliament.
The Aflembly would revive or renew all former Acts of AlTem- blyagainft Papifis, and excommunicate perfons 3 againft haunters with them,and receivers of them.
The Affembly alloiveth.this article.
That an uniforme Catechiime may be appointed to be ufed throughout this whole Kingdome , in the examinations before the Communion.
The Ajfcmbly allorveth this article.
That all Minifters or Intrants prefented to Kirks,be tryed before their admifsion,if they be qualified for the places to which they are prefented , befides the ordinary tryalls of Expectants before their cmrieto the Minifterie.
The Ajfembly allorveth this article.
SelT.
'
The Cjeneratt Affembly ,\6ty . 9
Seii; xxiii. 30.^.1^?.
The Supplication of the (jeneraU Affembly to the IQngs ^TS/lajejlies Commijiioner , concerning the Bookjalled^Tht large Declaration.
|Ee the Members of this prefent Aflembly ,for our » felves, and in name of the feverall Presbyteries, i Burghs,and Univerfities, for which we are Com- 1 mitfioners , refenting the great difhononr done to ! God, our King,this Kirk , and whole Kingdomc, _ J by the Book called,*^ large Declaration fas <z here reprelented the fame to yourGrace,& have collected fome amongft manyoffalfc, groife and abfurd paffages , That from the conside- ration thereof, your Grace perceiving the intolerable evils fore- faids contained therein,may be pleafed to reprefent the fame to our cracious Soveraigne , and in our behalfs humbly to befeech his Majeftie,fo much wronged by the many foul and falfe relations, f uggefted and perfwaded to him as trueths, and by ftealing the pro- tection of His Royall Name and Authoritie to the patrocine of flich a Book : To be pleafed firft to call in the faid Book, and there- by to (hew his diflike thereof: Next to give Commiffion and war- ranto cite all fuch parties as are either knowne or fufpect to have ha i hand in it , and to appoint fuch as His Majeftie knowes to be either authors, informers, or any wayes acceffarie, being Natives of this Kingdome, To be fent hither to abide their tryall and cen- fure before the Judge Ordinary, and in fpeciall Mafter Walter Bal- canquellj\o\y Deane ofDurhame , who is known and hath profef- fed to be the author , at leafl: avower and maintainer or a great part thereof • that by their exemplar punifhment,others may be deterred from fuch dangerous courfes , as in fuch a way to raife (edition be- twixt the King and His Subjects , Gods honour may be vindicate from fo high contempt, His Majefties juftice may appear, not only in cutting away fuch Malefactors , but in difcouraging all fuch under-miners of His throne,His loyalland loving Subjects (hall be infinitely contented to be cleared before the world of fo falfe and finjuft imputations, and will live hereafter in the greater fecuritie, w ben fo dangerous a courfe of fedition is prevented , and fo will have the greater and greater caufe to pray for His Majefties long and profperous Reigne.
His Ma] e [lies Commissioner in Counccll having received the [aid Sup- plication, promifedto impart the fame to His LMajtfty: and to re- fort his diligence therein.
B % The
io The (jeneraU Ajfembly , 1639.
The Supplication of the Affembly to Hps ^vfaje^
Jlies High Commifiioner , and the Lords of
Jecret Councell.
ic the Generall AftembIy,confidering with all humble
and thankfull acknowledgement , the many recent
_J§ favours beftowed upon us by His Majeftie , and that
Sfii t^iere re^etn notnm§ _for crowning of His Majefties
M^f2sra»N incomparable goodnelTe towards us , but that all the members of this Kirk and Kingdome bejoyned in one and the fame Confeflion and Covenant with God , with the Kings Majeftie, and amongft our felves : And conceiving the main lett and impe- diment to this fo good a work , and fo much wiflied by all , to have been the Informations made to His Majeftie , of our Intenti- ons' to fhake off civill and duetifull obedience due to Soveraignty, and to diminifh the Kings greatnefte and authoritie , and being moft: willing and defirous to remove this and all fuch impediments which may hinder and impede fo full and perfect an Union, and for clearing of our loyaltie , WEE in our own names , and in name of all the reft of the Subjects and Congregations whom we reprefent, do now in all humility reprefentto your Grace, His Majefties Commiffioner , and the Lords of His Majefties moft Honourable Privie«.Councell , and declares before God and the world , that we never had , nor have any thought of with-drawing our felves from that humble and duetifull obedience to His Maje- ftie, and to His government, which by thedefcent and under the reigneof 107. Kings , is moft chearfully acknowledged by us and our predeceflbrs : and that we never had , nor have any inten- tion nor defire to attempt any thing that may tend to the difhonour of God, or the diminution of the Kings greatnefte and authoritie: But on the contrary, acknowledging our quietnefte , ftabilitie and happinefle to depend upon the faTety of the Kings Majefties Per- fon, and maintenance of His greatnefte and royall authority who is Gods Vicc-gerentfetoverus : for the maintenance of Religion and miniftration of Jufticc , Wee have folemnly fworn and do fweare , not only our mutuall concurrence and afliftance for the caufe of Religion , and to the uttermoft of our power , with our meanes and lives , to ftand to the defence of our dread Soveraigne, his perfon and authority, in the prefervationand defence of the true Religion, Liberties and Lawes of this Kirk and Kingdome, but alio in every caufe which may concerne His Majefties honour, fhall ac- cording to the Lawes of this Kingdome , and the duties of good Subjects , concurre with our friends and followers in quiet man- ner , or in Armes , as we fhall be required of His Majeftie , His Councell , or any having his authority. And therefore being moft defirous to clear our felves of all imputation of this kinde,and
following
./ dc \jenerau jujemuiy, 1639. 1 1
following the laudable example of our predece(Iburs,i 58p.do mod humbly fupplicate your Grace , His Majefties Commiifioner, anc. the Lords ofHis Majefties moft honourable Privie Councell , to enjoynby Aft of Councell , that this Confeflion and Covenant, which , as a teftimony of our fidelity to GOD, and loyaltie to our King, we have fubfcribed , be fubfcribed by all His Maje- fties Subjects , of what rankeand quality foever.
The <iAct of the Lords of Councell at Edin- burgh, Aug. 30 1639. containing the Anfver of the preceding Supplication.
§^P|^PSIHe which day in prefence of the Lord Commiffio- tgK§11^^t&§« ner , and Lords of Privie Councell , compeired
T^M perfonally John Earle of Rothes , fames Earle of JSpa LMontrofc,fohnLordLom'
\ Lorvdoun, Sir George Stirling of ^J Keir Knight,Sir William Douglas of Cavers Knight, **~%%'<~*°*>w* Sir Henry Woodoi Bonytoun Knight , John Smyth Burgefle of Edinburgh , Mr. Robert Barclay Proveft of Irwing, Mr. Alexander HenderfonMimfter at Edinburgh, and Mr. \^ir~ chbald Johnfloun Clerk to the Generall Aflembly , and in the name of the prefent fitting Generall Aflembly , gave in to the Lord Commiifioner and Lords of Privie Councell, the Petition above written , which being read , heard , and confidered by the faids Lords , they have ordained , and ordain the fame to be infert and regiftrate in the bookes of Privie Councell , and according to the defire thereof, ordaines the laid Confelfion and Covenant to be fubfcribed in time coming by all His Majefties Subjects of this Kingdome, of what ranke and quality foever.
The
Hoe fQngs Majejlies Commifitoners ^Declarations.
|He which day His Majefties Commiffioner,and Lords of j Councell,after the receiving of the Supplication of the |GenerallAiTembly,anentthe fubfcribing of the Cove- > nant , having returned to the AfTembly , His Majefties CommifTioner in name ofthe Councell,declared-, that he had recei- ved the Supplication of the AfTembly , defiring that the Covenant might receive the force of an Act of Councell, to befubfcribed by all His Majefties Subjects,that they had found the defire fo fair arid reafb£ab'le,tha't they conceived themielves bound in duety to grant the fame •, and thereupon have made an Act of Councell to ihcx ef- fect : and that there refted now the Act of AfTembly. And that he himfelfwas fo fully latisfied , that he came now as His Majefties CommifTioner to con fenfltfully unto it:and that he was moft willing that it fhould be enacted here in this Aflembly , to oblige all His Majefties Subjects to fubfcribe the laid Covenant,with the Aflem- blies explanation. And becaufe there was a third thing defired, His fubicription as the Kings CommifTioner,unto the Covenant, which he behooved to do, with a Declaration in writ, and he declared as a Subject , he fhould fubfcribethe Covenant as ftrictfy as any , with the AfTemblies Declaration. , but as His Majefties CommifTioner in his name he behooved to prefix to his fubfcription,the Declaration follo\ving,which no Scots Subject fhould fubfcribe, or have the be- nefit of , no not himl'elf as Earle ofTraquair. The tenor whereof follows :
m q
)r J*%| His Majefties CommifTioner , and the Lords of His g Majefties moft honourable Privie Councell , That &3&&fiM%>®f& the Covenant , with the explanation of this Aflern- bly,might be fubfcribed : And to that effect that all the Subjects of this Kingdomeby Act of Councell be required to doe the fame : And that therein for vindicating themfelves from all fufpitions of difloyaltie, or derogating from the greatneffe and authoritie of our dread Soveraigne, havetherewithaddeda Claufe , whereby this Covenant is declared one in fubftance with that which was fubfcri- bed by His Majefties Father of blelTed memory 1580, 1581, 1590. ■and oftner fince renewed. Therefore I as His'Majefties CommifTi- oner, for the full fatisfaction of the Subjects , and for fettling a per- fect Peace in Church and Kingdome , doe according to my fore- f aids Declaration & Subfcription, fubjoyned to the Act of this Af- -fejnbly ofthe date the 17. of this inftant,allow and confent that the Covenant be fubfcribed throughout all this Kingdome. In wit- nes whereof I have fubfcribed the premifles.
Like
The(jcncYallllJemblyy\6]9. . 15
Li\c as His Majejlies Commifioner , read and gave in the Declaration following of his con- fent to the AH of the zJjfiy.ibly 17' Augufi, anent the caujes of our by -gone evils.
John Earlc of Traquair^ His Majefties Commif- 1 doner in this prefent Aflembly , doe in His Maje- i flies Name declare, that notwithstanding of Hi's ; Majeftiesown inclination , and many other grave ; .;:,'. weightieconfiderations , yetfuch is His~Ma- _ ^jetties incomparable goodneflb , that for fettling the p;e cat diffractions, and giving full facisfaction to the Subject, He doth allow, like as I His Majeftfes Commiffioner doe confent to the forefaid Ad, and have fublcribed the premises.
Lifte as His A^ajejlies Qommifioner , read and gave in the Declaration following :
c$|£§3c||T is ahvayes hereby declared by me His Majeftics
§Cjt ^fW* Commiffioner , That the practice ofthepremifIes,pro- ?As*s hibited within this Kirk and Kingdomc , outwith the llrfll? Kingdome cuScoftapd, fhall never bind nor inferre cen- fure againft the practices outwith the Kingdome : which when the Commiffioner required to be infert in the Rcgifter ofthe Kirk, and the Moderator in name of the Aflembly , refufedtogive warrant for fuch practice, as not agreeable with a good confeience , His Grace urged, that it mould be recorded, at leaft that he made fuch a Declaration, whatfoever was the Afiemblies Judgement in the contrair : And [o it is to be underftood to be infert here onely vocitativ'e.
xtAft ordaining the fubfeription of the Confcfion
of Faith and Covenant, with the Ajfem-
blies 'Declaration.
|HeGenerall Aflembly confidefing the great happinefle l which mav flow from a full and perfect Union of this k Kirk and Kingdome , by joyning of all in one and the fame Covenant with God , with the Kings Majettie, and amongft our felvcs , having by our great Oath declared the uprightnefle and loyalty of our intentions in all our proceedings,
and
14. 1 be LjenerdUAJJembly, 1035?.
and having withall fupplicated His Majcfties high Commifsioner, and the Lords of His Majefties honourable Privie Councell , to in- joyn by Act of Councell , all the Lieges in time coming to fub- fcribe the Confefsion of faith & Covenant, which as a teftimony of our fidelity to God, and loyaltie to our King, we have fubfcribed $ And feeing His Majcfties high Commiffioner , and the Lords of His Majcfties honourable Privie Councell , have granted the de- fire of our Supplication , ordaining by civil! authority, all His Ma- jefties Lieges in time coming , to fubfcribe the forefaid Covenant, that our Union may be the more full and perfect , We by our Act and Conftitution Ecclefiafticall , doe approve the forefaid Cove- nant , in all the Heads and Claufes thereof , and ordaines of new, under all Ecclefiafticall cenfure , that all the Mafters of Univerfi- ties, Colledges, and Schooles, all Schollers at the paffing of then- degrees , all perfons fufpect of Papiftry , or any other errour -, and finally , all the members of this Kirk and Kingdome , fubfcribe the fame , with thefe words prefixed to their fubfcription : The Article of this Covenant , which was at the firfl fubfcription referred to the determination of the Generall ^(Jembly , being determined. And thereby the five Articles of Perth , the government of the Kirk by Bi- fhops , the civilly laces and power of Kirk-mcn , upon the reafons and grounds contained in the Acts of the Generall Afjembly^ declared to be un- law full within this Kirk \we fubfcribe according to the determination fore- faid. And Ordaines the Covenant, with this Declaration,to be infert in the Regifters of the AfTemblies of this Kirk , Generall, Provin- cial! , and Presbyteriall , ad perpetuam rei memoriam • and in all humility fupplicates His Majefties high Commiifioner , and the honourable Eftates of Parliament , by their authority , to ratifie and injoyne the fame, Under all civillpaincs , which will tend to the glory of God, prefervation of Religion , the Kings Majefties honour , and perfect peace of this Kirk and Kingdome.
Aug. 30. 1 6 1 9. <*AB anent appellations.
c*j|c|&c$3He AfTembly appointed that in all time hereafter,no Ap- *** T^S Pe^ac^ons fh°uld be , leaping over either Presbyterie or cfpsiaPl Synod , but to afcend by degrees as from the Kirk Sef- ^"Sf^l? fion to the Presbyterie , or from the Presbyterie to the Synod , and from the Synod to the Generall Aflembly , except it be after the Synod be paft , and immediatly before the Generall Aflembly, or in the time thereof , and rencwes all former Acts made to this effect.
m
The CjcnerallAjfembly, \6]<?. 15
ojfcf ancnt advi/ing with Synods andTresbytenes before determination in ^(ovations.
£|§^<||He Generall Aflembly , confidering that the intended WFC$& Reformation being recovered, may be eftablifhed, Or- §i|J:L^I| daines,that no Novation which may difturb the peace of ^£|rSS? the Church , and make divifion , be fuddenly proponed and enacted: But fo as the motion be firfl communicat to the fe- verail Synods, Presbyteries and Kirks , that the matter may be ap- proved by all at home , and CommifTioners may come well pre- pared, unanimouflyto conclude a folide deliberation uponthefe points m the Generall Aflembly.
<*Ac~l anent zZAd millers Catccbilin? and r •!• r- r ^
r amine hxerajes.
ffe^^IHe Aflembly confidering that the long waited-for fruits ell TV® 0j' C'ie ^ofptbfo meixifully planted and preferved in this iPsijjIll Land , and the Reformation of our felves , and Fami- ^r^?rjr lies, fo lolemnly vowed to God of late in our Covenant, cannot take effect, except the knowledge and worfhipof God be carried from the Pulpit to every family within each Parifh , hath therefore appointed that every Minifter, bcfidcs his paines on the Lords day , (hall have weekly catechifing of fome part of the Pa- roch , and not altogether caft over the examination of the people, till a little before the Communion. Alfo that in every Familie the worfhip of God be erected , where it is not both Morning and Evening,and that the Children and Servants be catechifed at home, by the Makers of the Families , whereof accompt fliall be iiken by the Minifter and Elders , amfting him in the vifitation of every Fa- mily : And left they fail , that vifitation of the feverall Kirks- be fefioufly followed by every Presbyterie,forthis end among others. The execution and fuccefle whereof , being trved by the Syrfods, let it be reprefented to the next Generall Aflembly.
SeiT. XXIIII. 30. <iAug. a meridie '. The JJfemblies Supplication to the I\ings Majejly.
UWoft Gracious Sovcraigm, &^'@£g£e Your Majefties mod humble and loyall Subjects, the |SK/y g Commifltoners frotn all the parts of this Your MljpftJM Ss^^Jg ancient and Native Kingdome , and members of thd »«!}1§*§ Nationall Aflembly, conveenedat Edinburgh^ Your Majefties fpeciall indiftion , and honoured with the prelencc of C Your
\6 The CjenerattA/Jembly, i6]p.
Your Majefties high Commiflioner , have been waiting for a day of rejoycing , and of folemne Thankfgiving to be rendred to God by this whole Kirk and Kingdome , forgiving us a Kin°- Co juft and religious, that it is not only law full for us to be Chriftians under Your Majefties government, which fometime hath been the greateft praife of great Princes , but alfo that it hath pleafed Your gratious Majeftie , to make known that it is Your Royall will and pleafure , that all matters Ecclefiafticall be determined in free Na- tionall Aflemblies , and matters civill , in Parliaments 5 which is a moft noble and ample expreffion of Your Majefties juftice , and we truft fhall be a powerfull meane of our common happineffe un- der Your Majefties moft blefled Raigne. In the mean while we doe moft humbly,upon the knees of our hearts , blefTe your Maje- ft ie for that happineffe already begun in the late Aifembly at Edin- burgh 5 in the proceedings whereof, next under God, we have la- boured to approve our felves unto Your Majefties Vice-gerent , as if Your Majefties eyes had been upon us , which was the defire of ourfoules, and would have been the matter of our full rejoycing, and doeftill continue Your Majefties moft humble fupplicants for Your Majefties civill fanclion and ratification of the conftitutions of the Aflembly in Parliament ^ That Your Majefties Princely power,nnd the Ecclefiafticall Authority joyningin one,the mutual! embracements of religion and juftice, of truth and peace may be feene in this Land , whichmallbetousasarefurredionfrom the dead , and fhall make us,being not only f o farre recovered, but alio revived , to fill Heaven and Earth with our praifes , and to pray that King Charles may be more and more Hefted, and His throne eftablifhed before the Lord for ever.
Ttie ^Afj'embly appoints the next Generall AJfembly , to fit at Aberdene the iafiTueJday of July next , 1640. years. And rvarneth all parties , Univerfities and Burrows , to fend their Commif- fi oners , for keeping the [amine. And thereafter the Aifembly was concluded by giving of thanks by the (JAioderator , and fmging of a Pfalme ^accordvAgto the cuftomc.
YJ
THE
ASSEMBLY
At Arerdene fuly 28. itfJ.o.
J T
SefT. II. $i$ z9. 164.0.
He Aflembly having pad the arfjt clay be for- || ;^\\( they wo ul .-.! make any Ad in attending o: His Majefties Copmiiiior.er.
This d.ty the Moderator openly asked in face
5 of the Aflembly , if there was any Comrniflionev
J come from His Majeftie : And finding there
the Aflembly proceeded according to their Liber-
— ~
Overtures givemn by the Committee appointed by the la/l Aflembly y anent the ordering of the Af- bly^houfe . Which being read in audi , of the Afjembly , they approved the famine.
•
Jjjj|SB55|He Aflembiy finds in expedient for the ordering of the 'M? ¥f!a'Hoiife in alltime coming , that the Commiih 'gjL^^' together rii imixt , and that the places where t! W$$%&§ railed about , or f >rntf other way divided from the feats '■ , and that pi a .1 without the hour.
C 2 Com
i8 The Cjenerall Ajfembly y 164.0.
CommiflTioners feats to perfons of refpecT:, who are not CommifTi- oners , and others according to their qualities,as the Magiltrates. o£ the Town fhall find moft convenient.
II. A If 0 that the Commi(Iioners,having received tickets from the Magi ftrates of the Burgh , at the delivery of their Gommiflions, Whereby they may have ready acceffe to the Affemblie-Houfe and place appointed for them,doe keep the houre ot meeting precisely, and whofoever comes after the time,or fhall be found abfent at the calling of the Rols^to be cenfured as the Aflemblie fees fitting: A»- * I whatsoever Presbyterie,Burgh or Uuiverfitie , fhall not fend Con - miffioners,or Commiffioners fent from them doe not come at all to the Aflembly , be fummond unto the next Aflembly, and cenfured as the Aflembly fhall find reafonable.
III. That foure perfons ofrefped have warrant from the AiTembty toinjoynethattherebeno ftanding, no din, nor diforderly beha\ •.- our-, And if any fhall difobey them , or direct his ipeeeh c> any , except to the Moderator , and that one at once with lei e firft asked and given, to be rebuked publickly "by the Mocer - tor : and if he defift not, be removed out of the Affembly for that Sefion.
IV. That no motion come in unto the Affembly but by the Com- mittee appointed for matters of that nature : and if the Committee refufe to anfwer the fame, let it be proponed to the AfTemblie with the reafons thereof.
V. That the minutes of ilk SefTion be read before their riflng , and if
the matter concerne the whole Kirk, let it be drawne up in forme and read in the beginning of the next enfuing SefTion , that the Affembly may judge whether or not it bee according to their minde.
(iAB anent the demoltjhing
of Idolatrous ^Tvio^
numents.
|$t$ffi^tOrafmuchasthe Affembly is informed, that in divers
%&M¥im Phces of this Kinsdome > and fpeci% in the
#St F !Sl* Noith Parts of the fame •> manY Idolatrous Monu- ^W^tM^ ments, erected and made for Religious worfhip,are 4»SMlt$ yet extant , Such as Crucifixes , Images of Chrifl, ^wsosw^ CM^ ; and Sajnts departed } ordaines the kids
monuments to be taken down,demolifhed and defhoyed , and that with all convenient diligence : and that the care of this Work {hall
be
Tk'-Ljcncralt Ajjvnibfy^ \6:.\.o. in
be incumbent to the Presbyteries and.Provind.tB Aifeinbfccs va'ah- in this Kingdom^ mid their Commifiiojietii id ixpoix thai cii)i- gence herein to the next Generall Aflembly.
— -• '■ [ t~~ tB" J_ .
^Ad agamji If UckKS and f^barmen.
^jpp'^p©pHe AfTembly ordaines all Miniftcrs within the IS^I&SISsSSS Kingdome, carefully to take notice of Charmers, W$ T^ ^^ Witches , and all fuch abufersof the people , and *^p^ ^ ««*« to urge the A£b of Parliament , to be execute illp^^g againit them : And that the Commiilioners fr< m *fe3il-8;^c^\«^ tfe Aflembly to the Parliament, (hall recommend to the faid fupreme judicatory, the care of the execution of the Lawesagainft fuch perfons inthemoft behoovetull way.
Self. V. ^/fug. i. \6+o.
Act for cenfurlng ^eal^ers againjl the Covenant.
Pp55^.^S]He Aflembly ordaines , that fuch as have fubferibed ®T^^\P t"ie Covenant , and fpeakes againft the fame , it he ^8H WMh DeaMinirter, fliall be deprived • and if he continue fitS^®S *°> t>eing deprived, fliiill be excommunicate : And if he be any other man , (hall be dealt with as perju- red, and fatisfie publickly for his perjury.
Se(T. X. 5. Aug. 164.0.
Act againjl Expectants refujing to Jubjcribe the Covenant.
He AiU-mhly ordainr. , that if anv F.\pec"hnt llull re- ' fuletoiublcribethe Covenant, Ik tlullU declaredun- capableota Pedagogic, teaching of a School , reading at a Kirk, preaching within a Pmbywric 3 and llull
not
zo The (jenerall Afjembly , \6t\.o.
not have libertie of refilling within a Burgh , Univerfltie , 01 Colkdge : And if they continue obftinate, to be procefled.
THe Generall Affcmbly appoints the next Affembly to he in S. An- drews the third Tuefday of July 1641 ,K_Andthat the <JModcrator in a convenient way, by thejecret C'cuncell^or otherrvife as may befl ferve, requefi the Kings CMajeflie to fend His Commissioner to the [aid ^y£f- fembly. Andtf any exigent fall out , that the Presbyterie 0/Edinburgh give advent fcment for an Ajfembly pro re nata.
■■ .
FINIS.
-
■
THE
PRINCIPALL
ACTS
Of The
GENER ALL
ASSEMBLY,
CO^C/EEJ^ED
At S. Andrews the zo.offuly 164.1. And from thence tranflated to Edinburgh.
ij£3 qp ap «56 sflc z*za
EDINBURGH,
Trintedby Evan Tyler , Tr inter to the Kjngs mojl Excellent oSkfajcJlie-*.
Anno Dom. \6\z.
Pag.i5
THE GENERALL
ASSEMBLY
H OLDEN AT
S.Andrews and Edinburgh,
aAnno 164.1.
SeiT. I. zo.fuly, 164.1.
Iohn £Wtf o/~VVeymes , His Majefiies Qorn^ mifioneryprefented His Majefiies Letter to the (tAjjembly , whereof the tenor followeth :
Ch
ar le s
R.
Ruftie and welbeloved , Wee greet you well. It is no fmall part of Our Royall care and de- fires , that the true Reformed Religion ,wherein by the grace of God, We refolve to live and dye,bc fettled peaceably in that Our ancient and native King- dome of Scotland, and that the fame be truly taught, and uni- verfally received and profcfTed by Our Subjects there , of all il degrees. For preventing of all divifionand trouble hereafter, We did intend in Our Own Royall Perfon,to have been prefent at this Aficmbly-, but conceiving it to D be
2^- The (jenerallAjfembly, 16^.1.
be unfitting, to detaine the Minifters from their particular charges, till the time of Our coming to the Parliament. We have refolved to make knowne unto you by thefe , 2nd by Our Commiffioner, That in the approaching Parliament , it is Our intention by Our authoritie, to ratifie and confirme the Conftitutions of the late Af- fembly at Edinburgh , that they may be obeyed by all Our Sub- jects living in that Our Kingdome. And that We will take into Our Royallconfideration , by what meanes the Churches belonging to Our prefentation, when any of them (hall happen to vaik , may be beft provided with well qualified Preachers : Like as We are not unwilling to grant prefentations unto fuch as in thefe times of trouble have entred into the Minifterie , providing they have been examined by the Presbyteries , and approved by them: Becaufe Wre want not Our own feares of the decay of Learning in that Church and Kingdome J We intend alfo to confiderof the beft means for helping the Schooles and Colledges of Learning , efpe- cially of Divinity , that there may be fuch a number of Preachers there, as that each Parifli having a Minifter, and the Gofpel being preached in the molt remote parts of the Kingdome , all Our Sub- jects may tafte of Our care in that kinde, and have more and more caufe to bleffe God that We are fet over them. And finally , Co tender is Our care,that it mall not be Our fault if the Churches and Colledges there flourifh not in Learning and Religion : For which Royall teftimonie of Our goodncs, We require nothing upon your part, but that which God hath bleffed you unto , even that you be faithfull in the charge committed unto you, and care for the foules of the people : That you ftudy Peace and Unity amongft your felves,and amongft the people,againft all Schifme and Faction-, and that you not only pray for Us, but that you teach the people,which We truft are not unwilling to pay that honour and obedience which they owe unto Us, as his Vicegerent fet over them, for their good; wherein We expect you will by your good example goe before them. Which hoping you will doe , We bid you farewell. From Our Court at Whitehall,^ \o.day of July 1641 .
SefT. III. 2%.?ulyi6+i.
<*j[St approving the Overtures of the Ajjembly at Aberdene^/or ordering the (^f/Jembly^Houfe.
MS$M|fHe Overtures for ordering the AfTembly-Houfe, given in I^T^ to,and approved by the AfTembly of Jkrdenejhe i9.f*Iy 8^*^:^1640. Aci Seif. 2. were openly read , and again appro- ved by this AfTembly, and ordained to be kept the whole time thereof.
SefT.
The CjcncYdUAjJembly,\6\A.
25
Seff V. 30. fuly.
ojTBanent old ^Minijlers bruifyng their 'Benefices.
&Hc Aflembly having confidered the Supplication j given in by Doctor Robert Howie , Proved of the ! New Colledge oiS.^ndrewes^ whereby he cra- J ved,that ( notwithftanding of his dimiffion of his > charge ) he fhould not be prejudged of his full } provifionand maintenance during his life-time : The Aflembly thinks it fit and neceflary, that his provifion and maintenance. fhould not be diminished , but that he fhould injoy the fame f ully,as of before, during all the dayes of his life-time,and craveth his dimiflion to be o'nely but a ceflation from his charge,becaufe of his age and inabilitie : And declares, that old Minifters and Profeffors of Divinitie , fhall not by their ceflation from their charge,through age.and inabilitie , be put from injoying their old maintenance & dignity. And recommends this and others the like things ,concerning the eftate of that Univerfitie ,of S. An- drews, to the Parliament, and the Vifitation to be appointed from the Aflembly and Parliament. And likewife the Aflembly being informedjthat the faid Doctor Home hath been very painfull in his charge, and that he hath divers papers which would be very profi- table for the Kirk : Therefore they think fit, that the faid Docloc Horvie be defired to colled thefe papers, which doeth concerne,and may be profitable for the ufe of the Kirk, that the famine may be fhowne to the Vifitors of the faid Univerfitie.
Self. VI II. lAuguJtz.id+i. a meridie. w flt againjijudden receiving Minifters depo/cd.
ip®?ip He Aflembly ordaines , that Minifters who are depofed p _Jjg either by Presbyteries, Synods, or Generall Aflemblies, SI&S^ or Committees from Aflemblies for the publick cauic of the Reformation and order of this Kirk , fhall not be fuddenly re- ceived againe to the Miniffcrie , till they firft evidence their repen- tance both before the Presbyteric and Synod , within the bounds where they were depofed, and thereafter the famine reported to the next enfuing Generall Aflembly.
D 2 Scff.
16 TheCjentraUA)fimbly,i6%\. SefT. IX. Augufii,.
The Overtures under -written , concerning the Universities and Col- ledges of this KingdomCy to be represented by the Generall K^ittemblyy to the Kings Majejly and Parliament , being openly readfhe Affembly approved the [aids Overtures ,and ordainedthem to be recommended to the Parliament. cf^^c^Irft, becaufe the good eftate both of the Kirk and Com- IS f^I mon -wealth , dependeth mainly from the flourifhing of !|§ JjsaPI Univerfities and Colledges , as the Seminaries of both, l|NiHf? which cannot be expe&ed , unleffe the poore meanes which they have,be helped,and fufHcient revenues be provided for them,and the fame well imployed : Therefore that out of the rents of Prelacies , Collegian or Chapter-Kirks , orfuchlikeafu!ficient maintenance be provided for a competent number of Profeflbrs, Teachers,and Burfers in all faculties,and efpecially in Divinitie,and for upholding , repairing , and enlarging the Fabrick of the Col- ledges,furnifhingof Libraries,and fuchlike good ufes in every Uni- verfitie and Colledge.
Next, for keeping of good order $ preveening and removing of abufes, and promoving of pietie andlearning , it is very needfull and expedient , that there be a communion and correfpondencie kept betwixt all the Uriivetfities and Colledges. And therefore that it be ordained ,that there be a meeting once every year, at fuch times and places as (hall be agreed upon , of Commiffioners from every Univerfitie and Colledge , to confult and determine upon the common affairs , and whatfoever may concerne them , for the ends above- fpeci fled, and who alfo , or fome of their number may reprefent What lhall be needfull and expedient for the fame effed:, to Parliaments and Generall AiTemblies.
Itcm^ that fpeciall care be had, that the places of the ProfefTors, efpecially of Profeflbrs of Divinity in every Univerfity and Col- ledge, be filled with the ableft mcn,and beft affected to the Refor- mation and order of this Kirk.
SefT. X. (t/fug. 4.. 1641. dAB dgainjl Impiety and Schi fine.
|He Affembly ferioufly considering the prefent cafe \ & condition of this Kirk & Kingdome,what great r things the Lord hath done for us , efpecially fince ) the renewing of our Covenant , notwithftanding ' our former backfliding & defertion-,and if we mall
f eitherbecome rcmiffe in the duties of Piety ,or fhall
not"con(tantly hold and keep our Religion , unto which we have
bound
TlwijcncralltJlfjemkly, i6±i. \j.
bound our felves fo ftrainLy an i fo'emnj y , what di (honour we doc unco the name of God before men , who. have their eyes upon us, and bow great judgements we bring upon our felves , upon theie and the like coniiderations ,. The Aflcmbly doth fin.de it m oft ne- ceflary to. ftirre up themfelves , and to provoke a!l others both Mi- nifters and people of all degrees , not only to the religious exerci- fes of publick worfliipinthe Congregation, and of private worihip in their Families , and of every one by themfelves apart , but alio to the dueties of mutuall edification , by inftrudtion , admonition, exhorting one another to fonvardnclTe in Rehgion,and comfort:^ one another in whattoever diftrefie , and that in all their uu whether in the way of timely conversation , orbvreafoH particular callings , or any other occafion offered by divine provi- dence > no corrupt communication proceed out of cman^outjyj ■ but that which is good to the uic of edifying , chat it may minifter grace unto the hearers : And becaufe the heft meanes have been.ancj may (till be defpifed or abufed , an.l particularly the duety of mutu- all edification, which hath been fo little in ufe , and fo Ihv know how to pradtife the right manner , may be upon the one part fub- ject to the mocking of ungodly and worldly men , who cannot en- dure that in others , "which they are not willing to practife them- felves , and upon the other part , to many errors and abufes , which the godly through their weakaeflfe may fall , or by the craftinefle of others may be drawne into , fuch as arc Error, Herefie,Schifme, Scandall , Self-conceit , and defpifing of others , prefling above the common calling of Chriitians , and ufurping that which is pro- per to the Pattorall Vocation , contempt or mif- regard of the pub- lick meanes , idle and unprofitable queftions which edifie not , un- charitable cenfurings , negleft of dueties in particular callings, bu- inefle in other mens Matters and Callings , and many fuch ones in fldottrine, charity, and manners , which have dolefully rent the bowels of other Kirks, to the great prejudice of the Golpel.
Therefore the Aflembly , moved with the zeale of God againft: all abufes and corruptions, and according to their manifold obliga- tions , moft earneftly defiring and thirfting to promove the Work of Reformation , and to have the comfort and power of true god- lineffe fenfible to every foul , and Religion to be univerlally pra- ctifed in every Familie , and by every perfon at all occafions, I) >ch charge all the Miniftersand Members of this Kirk whom they doe 'repreient ,that according to their feverall places and vocations,they endeavour to fijppreflfe all impiety and mocking of religious exerci- fe$, cfpeciallyoffuchas put foule afperfions and factions , or odi- ous names upon the godly. And upon the other part , that in the feir of God they be aware and fpiritually wife, that under theruinc and pretext of religious exercifes, other wayes lawful! and nealliiy, they fall not into theaforelaid alm'es •, especially, that they efchew all meetings which are apt to breed Error , & andail, Schilmemeg- lecl of dueties and particular callings , and inch other cvills as arc D 3 the
28 1 be LjenerallAJIernbly, 164.1.
the works, not of the fpirit , but of the fie fh , and are contrary to truth and peace j and that the Presbyteries and Synods have a care to take order with fuch as tranfgrefTe the one way or the other.
Sef£ XI 1 1 1. 6. <t^ug. 16^.1. a meridie. AB anent !h(oyatwns.
|Ince it hath pleafed God to vouchfafe us the li- \ bertie of yearly Generall AlTernblies, It is ordai- 1 ned according to the Acts of the Aflemblie at [ Edinburgh , 1639. and at Aberdene , 1640. that [ no Novation in doctrine , worfhip or government ^^j be brought in, or practiced in this Kirk, unlefTe it bTfirit propounded, examined and allowed in the Generall Aflem- bly , and that tranfgrefTors in this kind be cenfuredby Presbyte- ries and Synods.
Act Self. XV. J.Aug. i6\i. Overtures anent ^Burfars , and ExpeBdnts.
The Overtures under-written being openly read in audience of theAffem- bly , were approved ,wd declared by them to be K_Acis of the Affem- bly y in all time coming , to be obferved refpective.,^ the famine bears. c||e||c|?He AfTembly thinks meet for maintaining of Burfars of S 'Tc$& ^lvmitit -> tnat every Presbyterie that confifts of twelve^ iffrfcols Minifters , mall maintaine a Burfar, and where the num- t %£<f?Sf? ber is fewer nor twelve , fhall be joyned with thefe out of another Presbyterie where their number exceeds : where this courfe is not already kept, it is to be begun without longer delay, and every Provinciall is ordained to give an accompt of their num- ber of Burfars , that is conftantly to be entertained by their Pro- vince at the next enfuing Generall AfTembly. • II. No Expectant (hall be permitted to preach in publick before a
Congregation , till firft he be tryed after the fame manner , how- beit not altogether with that accuracie which is injoyned by the act of the Aflembly ofGlafgow , 1638 . which prefcribes the order and manner of tryall, that is to be kept with thefe who are to be admit- ted to the holy Minifterie : and none fo tryed fliall preach in pub- lick , without the bounds of the Univeriitie or Presbyterie where he paft his tryalls , till firft he make it known to the other Presby- teries, where he defires to be heard,by a teftimoniall from the Uni- verfitie or Presbyterie where he lived, that he hath bin of an honeft
cThe(jenerall^Afjembly> \6\\. 19
conversion , and paft his tryalls conforme to the order here pre- fcribed : Which being done in the meeting of the Province or Pres- byterie , where he delires to be heard, he is to be allowed by them to preach within the bounds of that Province or Presbyterie, with- out any further tryall to be taken of him.
Expectants being educat in a Colledge , that was corrupt or un- der a corrupt Minifter , if they themfclves have been known to have been tainted with error , or oppofite to our C wenant,and the blefTed Work of Reformation within this Kirk , the fame order is to be kept in admitting them to the holy Minifterie, or to any place in the Colledges or Schooles of this Kingdome , that was ordai- ned to be kept in admiflion of thefe Minilters who fled out of the Countrey , and fhcw themfelves oppofite to our Covenant and Reformation.
AftSdT. XVTT7?.^?. 1^1. AB againjl unlaivfull Hands.
He Aflembly taking to their confideration the que- ition proponed unto them concerning the Band , the copy whereof- was prelented before them from the Parliament , doth finde and declare that Bands of this and the like nature , may not lawfully be made : By which Declaration the Aflembly doth not intend to bring any cen- fure for what is pall: , and by the wifedome and care of the Com- mittee of the Parliament is taken away , upon any perfon , who being required by the Moderator and the Clerk , {hall under his hand declare before them , That as the Aflembly doth finde that t\e fublcribers are not aftricted by their Oath to the tenor of the faid Band , fo he findeth himfelf not to be aftricted by his Oath to the tenor thereof ^ but the intention of the Aflembly is meerly to prevent the like in time coming.
Self. X V 1 1 1 . 9. Aug. 1 6+1 . a meridie. A Letter from fome z5\fini/lers in England to the Ajfemblie.
Right reverend and dear Brethren , now convecned in this GentralL
Aljtwbbj. •
W^^^lf^'^' moft ncartily ^llute y°u in tnc LorcI ■> j'ei°ycing
|'/f, * : ithyou in his unlpeakable goodnefle , fo mint-
W'^-- A) ' ' uloufly profpering your late endeavours , both ■/ g I ,r the reftoring & fettling of your own Liberties
IE*®-. ' Privileges , in Churl h and common wealth
S«§3^^/«>1^ ( 'which we hear and hope he is now about co ac-
zsmS^B'B^M 'Which we hear and hope 1 complnii) as alio [or the occaftoning & advancing oi the Worke ot
Rcfbr-
20 TbeCfeneraUJjfembly, 164.1.
Reformation among our felves -, for which as we dayly bleile the higheftLord, fole Author of all our good , fo doe we acknow- ledge your felves worthy Inftruments thereof. And for that ( be- fides all other refpe&s ) doe , and ever fliall (by the help of God) hold you dear unto us , as our own bowels , and our felves obliged to render unto you all due correfpondence according to our power, upon all good occafions .
And now ( dear Brethren ) forafmuch as the Church of Chrift is but one body, each part whereof cannot but partake in. the weal and woe of the whole , and of each other part 5 and thefe Churches of England and Scotland , may feem both to be embarqued in the fame bottome , to fink and fwim together , and are fonearcon- joynedbymany ftrongtyes 5 not only as fellow-members under the fame Head Chrift , and fellow-fubjeds under the fame King-, but alto by fuch neighbour- hood and vicinity of place , that if any evill mall much infefl the one, the other cannot be altogether free : . or if for the prefent it fhould , yet in procefTe of time it would cen- fiblyfuffer alfo. And forafmuch as eyills are better remedied in their firft beginning , then after they have once taken deep root-, therefore we whofe names are here under-written , in the behalf of our felves , and of many others , Minifters of the Church of England, are bold to commend to your confideration ( being met together in this venerable AiTembly) a difference of great concern- ment , which you may pleafe ( in brief ) thus to underftand. Al- mighty God having now of his infinite goodnefle raifed up our hopes of removing- the- yoke of Epifcopacie ( under which we have fo long groaned ) Sundry other forms of Church-government are by fundry forts of men projected , to be fet up-in the roome there- of: one of which (amongft others) is of fome Brethren tlrt hold the whole power of Church-government , and all Ads thereunto appertaining C as Election , Ordination , and Depofition of Offi- cers , with AdmiMion , Excommunication , and Abfolution of Members) are by divine Ordinance in for o externa , to be-decreed by the moft voyces , in and of every particular Congregation , which ( fay they ) is the utmoft bound of a particular Church, endued with power of government , and only fome Formalities offolemne execution to be referved to the Officers ( as fervants of the faids Church ) if they have any , or if none , then to be per- fprmed.by fome other members , not in office , whom the faid Church fliall appoint thereunto : And that every of the: faid particu- lar Congregation ( whether they confift of few or many members, and'be, furnifhed with Officers or not ) lawfully may and ought to tran&ct, determine and execute all matters pertaining to the go- vernment ofthemfelves , amongft and within themfelvcs without any authoritative ( though not confultatory ) concurrence or in- terpoSition of any other perfons or Churches whatsoever , con- demning all imperative and decifive power of ClafTes,or compound Presbyteries and Synods , as ameere ufurpation. Now becaufe
wer
The CjenerattAffernMy, itf^i. ^
we conceive that your judgement in this cafe may conduce much, bythebleffingofGod , to the fettling of this queftion amongft •us. Therefore we doe earneftly intreat the fame at your hands-, and that fo much the rather, becaufe we fometimes hear from thofe of the aforefaid judgement , that fome famous and eminent Bre- thren , even amongft your felves,doe fomewhat incline unto an ap- probation of that way of government. Thus humbly craving par- don for our boldnefle , leaving the matter to your grave confide- Tations, and expe&ing Anfvver at your convenient leafure , We ..commit you, and the fuccefle of this your meeting , to the bleffin^ of the Almighty ,in whom we mall ever remain,
London,! 2 .fttly. 1 641 . Tour faitbfull Brethren tofcrve you
in all of fees of love.
The iA Ijemblies Jnfwer to the Englifh Mimfters Letter.
Right reverend and dearly beloved Brethren in our Lord and common Saviour Jefrs Chrifl.
I^333|ke the Minifters and Elders met together in this Natio- |3vV«S nail Aflembly,were not a little refrefhed and comforted |jL v 22 by the good report which we heard of you,and others of ]$®$ftM& our Brethren of the Kirk of England , byfomeofour Wi milters , who by the good providence of our Lord had feen your f aces,and converted with you. But now yet more comforted by yo-r Letters which we received , and which were read in the face '.■ the Affembly , witneffing yourChriftian love,and rejoycing with r.s in God for his great and wonderfull Work in theReforma- tion of this Kirk , and in the beginning of a Hefted Reformation amongft your (elves , and that you are fo fenfibleof your commu- nion and fellowihip with us, and to defire to know ourminde and judgement of that which fome Brethren amongft you hoi d , con- cerning Kirk-government.
Wedoe with our hearts acknowledge and wonder at the great and unfpeakable wifedome , mercic , and power of our God , in reftSring unto us the truth and puritie of Religion , after many back-Hidings and defection of fome in this Kirk , anddefirenot only toconfefle the fame before the world, and all other Chriftian Kirkes , but alfo doe pray for grace to walk worthy of fo wonder- full a love : Wc have been helped by your prayers , in our weak endeavours, and you have mourned with us , ( we know ) in the d.tyesofour mourning •, and therefore is it that you doe now rc- toyce and praife God with us : Neither are we out of hope, but the lame God fhall fpeedily perfect that which he hath begun amongft
you.
ri The (jenerau A/Jemmy, \6i\.i.
you , that your joy may be full : which is the defire of our foule, and for which we doe now pray , and in our feverall Congregati- ons will be inftant at the throne of grace , for this and aU other fpirituall and temporal!, bleffings upon the Kirk andKingdome of England ^ by name,expecting the like performance of mutuall love from you , and others equally minded with you , for your parts,till a common confent maybe obtained,even thatyou will recommend the Kirk of Scotlandby name in your prayers to God. Thus fliall we be as one people , mourning and rejoycing , praying and praifing together • which may be one meane of the prefervationof Unity, and of many other bleffings to us both.
We have learned by long experience , ever fince the time of Re- formation, and fpecially after the two Kingdomes have been ( in the great goodneffeof God to both) united under one Head and Monarch , but mod of all of late, whichisnotunknownetoyou, what danger and contagion in matters of Kirk-government , of di- vine worfhip, and of doctrine, may come from the one Kirk to the other,which befide all other reafons, make us to pray to God, and to defire you and all that love the honour of Chrift,and the peace of thefe Kirks and Kingdomes,heartily to endeavour,that there might be in both Kirks, one Confeffion , one directory for publick wor- fhip, one Catechifme , and one Forme of Kirk-government. And if the Lord who hath done greatthings for us , fliall be pleafed to hearken unto our defires,and to accept of our endeavours , we {hall not onely have a fure foundation for a durable Peace , but fliall be ftrong in God, againft the riling or fpreading of Herefie and Schif me amongft ourfelves,and ofinvafionfrom forraine enemies.
Concerning the different Formes of Kirk- government , proje- cted by fundrie forts of men,to be fet up in place of Epifcopall Hie- rarchie,which we truft is brought near unto its period, we muff confefle , that we are not a little grieved that any godly Minifters and Brethren mould be found,who doe not agree with other Refor- med Kirks in the point of government, as well as in the matter of doctrine and worfhip •, and that we want not our own feares , that
I where the hedge of Difcipline and Government is different , the Doctrine and Worfhip fliall not long continue the fame without change : yet doe not marvell much , that particular Kirks and Congregations which live in fuch places , as that they can con- veniently have no dependence upon fuperiour AfTemblies , mould ftand for a kind of independence andfupremacie in themfelves,they not considering that in a Nation or Kingdome , profeffmg the fame Religion, the government of the Kirk by compound Presbyteries and Synods,is a help and ftrength,and not a hinderance or prejudice to particular Congregations,and Elderfhips,in all the parts of Kirk- government^and that Presbyteries and Synods are not an extrinfe- call -power fet over particular Kirks,like unto Epifcopall dominion, they being no more to be reputed extrinfecall unto the particular Kirks , nor the power of a Parliament, or Convention of Eftates,
where
^TheCjemrallzAjjembly, \6<\\. 25
where the Shires and Cities have their own Delegats , is to be held extrinfecall to any particular Shire or City.
Our unanimous judgement and uniforme praclice,is,that accor- ding to the order of the Reformed Kirks,andthe ordinance of God in his Word,not only the folemne execution of Ecclefiafticall po- wer and authoritie,but the whole acls and exercife thereof,doe pro- perly belong unto the Officers of the Kirk-, yet fo, that in matters of chiefeft importance , the tacite confent of the Congregation be had, before their decrees and fentences receive finall execution, and that the Officers of a particular Congregation , may not exer- cife this power independently, but with Subordination unto greater Presbyteries & Synods,Provinciall & National!: which as they are reprefentative of the particularKirksconjoyned together in one,un- der their government-,fo their determination,whenthey proceedor- derly, whether in caufes common to all,or many of the Kirks, or in caufes brought before them by appellations or references from the inferiour, on the cafe of aberration of the inferiour, isto the feverall Congregations authoritative and obligatory and confultatory only: And this dependencie and fubordination, we conceive not onlv to be warranted by the light of nature , which doth direcl the Kirk in fuch things as are common to other focieties , or to be a prudentiall way for Reformation,and for the prefervation of Truth and Peace, againft Schifme,Herefie,and Tyranny , which is the fweet fruits of this government wherefoever it hath place , and which we have found in ancient and late experience ; but alfo to be grounded upon the word of God , and to be conforme to the paterne of the Primitive and Apoftolicall Kirks : and without which , neither could the Kirks in this Kingdome have been reformed, nor were we able for any time to preferve Truth and Unity amongft us.
In this Forme of Kirk-government, our unanimity and harmony by the mercy of God, is fo full and perfecl:, that all the Members of this Aflembly have declared themfelvesto be of one heart , and of one foule,and to be no leiTe perfwaded, that it is of God, then that Epifcopall government is of men ^ refolving by the grace of God, to hold the lame constantly all the dayes of our life , and heartily wifhingthat God would bleffe all the Chriftian Kirks,efpecially the famous Kirk o£ England , unto which in all other refpecls we are fo nearly joyned with this divine Forme of government. Thus having briefly and plainly given our judgement for your fatisfattion , ana defiring and hoping that ye will bcleevc againft all mif-reports,that we know not fo much as one man , more or leflc eminent amongft us,of a different judgement,we commend you unto the riches of the grace ofChrift,who will perfect that which he hath begun amongft you,to your unfpcakable comfort. Subfcribed by our Moderator and Clerk.
Edinburgh p. Aug . 1 64 1 .
The
24. The CjenerallAjJembly, 16^.1.
The dJJffemblies d/fnfaer to the Kmgs Majejlies Letter.
CMoft gracious S over aigne^ *@^§^pg|Eiide the confcience ofthat duetie which we owe to i§|iy^'(^S£@5 fupreme Authority , we are not onely encouraged, WM. VK WB. ^ut confirmed by r^e Royall favour and Princely r^l^OJ^Pi munificence , exprefied in Your gracious Majefties WW£§^j^frl J etters, which filled our hearts with joy , and our ^^^^^moutheswithpraife , to offer up our prayers with the greater fervencie to God Almightie for Your Majefties happi- ne(Te,our felves for our own parts , and for the whole Kirks of this Your Majefties Kingdome/which we do repre(ent,to ferve Your Majeftie in all humble obedience , our faithlull labours for preserving Trueth and Peace amongft all Your Majefties Sub- je<fts,and our example (according to Your Majefties juft command- ments laide upon us) to be a prefident to others in paying that ho- nour , which by all Lawes divine and humane, is due unto Your fa- cred Majeftie , being confident that Your Majeftie fhall finde at Your coming hither much more fatisfa&ion and content then can be exprelTed by
Tour Majejlies moft humble Subjects and faith- full ferv ants, the ^Minifter s and Elders met together in the venerable aflembly at S. Andrews, July 20. and Edinburgh , Ju- ly 27. 1641.
zjfff anenttke ^Vr^o/^Campheir.
c$ac|j<ocf|He which day a motion was made in the AfTembly , that c^irlfe lt feeme^ expedient for correfpondencie that might be ipejaeli bad from forraigne parts,for the weal of this Kirk, That
«$£ %£^? the Scots Kirk at Campheir were joyned to the Kirk of Scotland, as a Member thereof: Which being ferioufly thought up- on and confidered by the AfTembly, they approved the motion,and ordained M. Robert Baillie Minifter at Kilwinning , to write to M. William Spang Minifter at Campheir, md Kirk SefTion thereof,willing them to lend their Minifter , and a ruling Elder , inftru&ed with a Commiffion to the next Generall AfTembly to be holdenat S. .Andrews , the laft Wednefday of July 1642 . at which time they fhould be inrolled in the Books of the Generall AfTembly,as Com- miffioners of the Generall Aflembly of Scotland , from the Scots Kirk at Campheir.
He Aflembly appoints the next Generall Aflembly to be holden at S. Andrews//*? laft Wednefday of July next 1642.
FINIS.
T
THE
PRINCIPALL
ACTS
Of The
GENERALL
ASSEMBLY,
CONJEE*tET>
At S.Andrewes the twentie feventh day of fuly> <*Anno i6q.z.
EDINBURGH,
Trintcd by Evan Tyler, Trinter to the IQngs mojl Excellent Majeftie~»
Anno Dom. 1642.
Pag.:
& e& 3$ -. F jt 9 « 9 9<
THE
KINGS LETTER
T O T H E
GENERALL ASSEMBLY^
Prefented by His Majesties Commif- fioner , the Eaiie of Dumfermling,
the 27. of July, 1642.
Act SeC. I. CH A%LES %^
N themidftofOur great and weighty affaires of Our other Kingdomes, which God Almighty , who is privie to Our Intentions,and in whom We truft, will in his own time bring to a wifhed and peaceable conclufion, We are not un- mindfull of that dutie which we owe to that Our ancient and native Kingdome, and to the Kirks there,now met together by their Commiflioners in a Nationall Afiemblie. God, whofe Vicegerent We are,hath made Us a King over divers Kingdomes, and We have no other defire,nor defigne, but to govern them by their own Lawes,and the Kirks in them by their own Canons and Conftitutions. Where any thing is found to be aftaffe, We will endeavour a Reformation in a fair and order- ly way 5 and where a Reformation is fetled , We refolve,with that authoritie wherewith God hath vefted Us,to maintain and defend it in peace and libertie , againft all trouble that can come from without, and againft all Herefics, Sects, and Schifmes which may arife from within : Nor doe We defire any thing more in that Kingdome ( and when We fhall hear of it, it fhall be a delight and matter of gladncfle unto Us ) then that the Gofpel be faithfully preached throughout the whole Kingdome, to the outmoft skirts & borders thereof. Knowing that to be the mean of honour to God, ofhappinefle to the people, and of true obedience tolls. And tor
A 2 this
z TheCjeneraUAjJernbly ,16^.1.
this effect ,that holy and able men be put in places ofthe Miniftery, and that Schooles and Colledges may flourifh in Learning and true Pietie. Some things for advancing of thofe ends , We did ofOur own accord promife in Our Letters to the laft AJiem- bly,and We make your felves Judges, who were witnefTes to Our Aclions,while We were there in Perfon, whether We did not per- form them both in the point of prefentations which are in Our handstand in the liberall provifion of all the Univerfities and Col- ledges of the Kingdome , not only above that which any of OurProgenitours had done before Us •, but alfo above your owne hopes and expectation. We doe not make commemoration of this Our Beneficence , either to pleafe OurSelves,or to flop the influence of Our Royall goodnelTe and bountie for afterward, but that by thefe reall demonft rations of Our unfained defires and de- light to do good , you may be the more confident to expect from t!s,whatfoever in Juftice We can grant,or what may be expedient for you to obtaine. We have given expreffe charge to Our Com- miffioner, to fee that all things be done there orderly and peace- ably , as if We wereprefentinOurOwnPerfon^ not doubting but in thankfulnefle for your prefent eftate and condition, you will abftaine from every thing that may make any new difturbance, and that you will be more wife then to be the enemies of your own peace,which would but ft umble others,and ruine your felves. WTe have alfo commanded Our Commiffioner to receive' from you your juft and reafonable defires,for what may further ferve for the good of Religion,that taking them to Our confideration , We may omit nothing which may witnefle Us to be indeed a nur- fing Father of that Kirk , wherein We were born and baptized, and that if ye be not happy ^ you may blame not Us , but your felves. And now what doe We again require of you , but that which ©therwife you owe to Us as your Soveraigne Lord and King , even that ye pray for Our profperitie and the peace of Our Kingdomes , that ye ufe the beft means to keep Our People in obedience to Us and Our Lawes , which doth very much in Our perfonall abfence from that Our Kingdome depend upon your preaching , and your owne exemplary loyalty and faith fulnefle, and that againft all fuch jealoufies, fufpitions and finifter rumors as are too frequent in thefe times,and have been often falfified in time paft , by the reality ofthe contrary events : Ye judge of Us and Our profeffions by Our actions , which We trull: through God in defpight of malice fhall ever go on in aconftantwayforthe good of Religion,and the weal of OurPeople,which isthechiefeft of Our intentions and defires. And thus We bid you farewell. Given at Our Court at Leicefter, the 23. 0/July > 1642.
To Ourtrufly andwel-belovedthe Generall Jficmbly in Our King- dome of Scotland , ewveenedat S. Andrews.
Ad
The (jencra\lA))embly,\6\i. 3
Aft SefT. III. fulyip.
All for hinging in of the Synod 'Boo^s yearly to the (jenerall Ajfemblies.
\ H E Moderator calling to minde that which was forgotten in the preceding Seflions, the examina- | tionof the Provinciall Books, caufed call the Roll ( of the Provinciall AfTemblies, And the Aflem- i bly finding very few Provinces to have fent their j Books to this Affembly , notwithstanding of the ordinance of the former Affembly thereanent, for the more exact obedience of that ordinance hereafter , the AlTem- bly in. one voice ordaines , That the Books of every Provinciall AlTembly fhall be brought and produced to every Generall Af- fembly: And thatthis may be performed,ordaines that every Clerk of the Provincialls , either bring or fend the faid Books yearly to the Generall AffemblieSjby the Commiflioners fent to the Aflem- blies, from thefe Presbyteries where the Clerks refide. Which charge the Affembly alio layes upon the faid Commiflioners, fent from the faids Presbyteries where the Clerks refide , ay and while fome meanes be provided, whereby the Clerks charges may be fu- flained for coming with the faid Books themfelves : And that un- der the pain of deprivation of the Clerk in cafe of his neglecl,and of fuch cenfure of the faids Commiffioners, in cafe of their neglect, as the Aflembly fhall think convenient.
AaSeff. V. Aug.i.i6$z.
AB anent the choofng of K^rJ^Sefsions.
JNent the queflion moveji to the Affembly , con- deeming the election of Kirk Seflions , The Af- ^ fembly ordaines the old Seflion to elect the fnew Seflion both in Burgh and Land. And * that if any place fhall vaik in the Seflion chofen, ^Jbydeathorotherwife , the prefent Seflion fhall have the election of the perfon to fill the vacand roome.
Seff. VI.
The (jeneraU Afjembly, 1 6\z .
Sett. VI. Jug. i. 164.2.
Tltf r^or* o/V^ interpretation of the JB at
Edinburgh^ anent try all of Minijlers.
|He meaning of the forefoid Act , is not that an a- j <5tuall Miniftertobetranfported , fhall be tryed i again by the tryalls appointed for trying of Expe- ctants^! their entry to the Miniftery, according to I the Acts of the Kirk •, but only that he bringing a ^ Teftimoniall of his former tryalls ,and of his abili- ties3 and converfation, from the Presbyterie from whence he comes, and giving fuchfatis faction to theParochiners Presbyterie whereto he comes in preaching , as the Presbyterie finds his gifts fit and anfwerable for the condition and difpofition of the Congregation, whereto he is prefented. Becaufe, according to the Act of the Aflembly 1 596. renewed at Glafgowi fome that are meet for the Miniftery in fome places,are not meet for all alike : and Univerfities, Towns,and Burghs, and places of Noblemens re- fidence,or frequencie of Papifts, and other great and eminent Con- gregations,& in fundry other cafes,require men of greater abilities, nor will be required neceiTarily in the planting of all private fmall Paroches, the leaving of the confederation of thefe cafes, unto the judgement and conflagration of the Presbyterie , was the onely in- tention of the Act.
The Aficmbl] approves the meaning and interpretation foresaid: and appoints the [aid K_A£i, according to this interpretation , to ft and in force , and to have theftrcngth of an Act and Ordinance of<^s4jfembly in all time coming.
Aft Seff. VII. ^ Jug. 164.1. JB anent the order for making Li/ls to His Maje- ftie, and other Tatrones for Trefentations : the order oftry all of ExpeB ants, and for trying the quality of Khrfy.
ijOrfameikle as His Majeftie was gracioufly pleafed ? in His Anfwer to the Petition , tendred by the f CommifTioners of the late AfTembly to His Maje- | ftie , to declare and promife, for the better provi- | ding of vaiking Kirks at His Majefties Prefentati- 3 on with qualified Minifters,to prefent one out ofaliftoffixperfons , fentto His Majeftie from the Presbyteries wherein the vaiking Kirk lyeth, as His Majefties
Deda-
The CjenerallAJfembly, \6^z. 5
Declaration,figned with hisRoyal hand ixWhite-hall^ht ^.ol Jan. laft ,regiftrate in the books of AfTembly,this day at length beares. And fuchlike whereas the Lords of Exchequer upon a Petition pi dented to them by the CommifTioners of the general Aflembly, and the Procurator and Agent for the Kirk reprefenting two Preju- dices- one, that giits obtained from His Majeftie of patronages of Kirks , at His Prefentation were paffing the Exchequer , either without the qualification and provifion of a Lift,wherewith His Majeftie was pleafed to reftriA Himfelf 5 and the other , that fome were ieeking giits of patronage of Bifhop-Kirks , which are decla- red to belong to Presbyteries,to be planted by two Acts or the late Parliament: The faids Lords have ordained that nofignator, containing gifts of patronages from His NLjeftie , (hall palle here- after, but with a fpeciall provifion that the famine fhall be lyable to the tenor of His Majefties faid Declaration. Ordaining alfo the Procurator and Agent of the Kirk to be advcrtifed,and to have place to fee all fignators whatfoever, containing any patronage, to the effect they may reprefent the intereftof the Kirk therein 5 as the faid Act of the date the 27. of June laft , regiftrate alfo in the Bookes of Afiembly, this day at length beares. Therefore, that the faids Kirks which now are,or which were at His Majefties pre-' fentation the faid third day of January laft , may be the better pro- vided with able Minifters , when the famine fhall vaik, The AC- fembly ordains that hereafter every Presbyterie fhall give up year- ly a Roll of the ableft of their Ex pe&antSjto their Synods:, and that the Synods felectout of thefe Rolls fuch perfons whom they in certain knowledge judge moft fit for the Miniftrie , and worthieir. ofthe firft place , With Power to the Synods to adde or alter thefe Rolls given by the Presbyteries , as they think reafonable: And that the Synods fhall fend the Rolls made by them in this manner, to the next General AfTembly,who fkill alfo examine the Rolls of the Synods, & adde oralterthc fame as fhall be thought expedient. Which Roll made by the General AfTembly, fhall be fent to every Presbyterie , and that the Presbyterie , with confent of the moft orbeft part ofthe Congregation , fhall make a Lift of fix perfons willing to accept ofthe prefentation out of that Roll ofthe Aflem- bly , upon every occafion of vacation of any Kirk within their bounds,and fhall fend the famine, together with a blank prefentati- on : The which ( if His Majefty be Patron to the vacant Kirk) fhall be fent by the faid Procurator and Agent,to luch as the CommifTi- oners ofthe Generall Aflcmblv,or in thcirabfence the Presbyterie of Edinburgh , fhall direct and think at that time moft able and wil- ling to obtain the prefentation , tobefigned and filled up by His Majefties choife of one ofthe Lift. And if the vacant Kirk be of a Patronage difponed by His Majefty fince the 3. of January, in that cafe either the Presbyteries themfclves fhall (end a Lift otfix Per- fons in manner forefaid , with a blank prefentation to the Patron, to be filled up by his choife,& fubfcribed,or fend the famine to the
faids
6 The (jener all Aflembly, \6<\.z.
faids Officers of the Kirk, to be conveyed by them to the Patron of the vaiking Kirk, as the Presbyterie fhall think moll: expedient. It is alwayes declared, that this order fliall be without prejudice to the Presbyteries, with confent forefaid ,to put actuall Minifters up- on the faid Lift of (ix perfons , to be fent to the Patron of the faid vaiking Kirks,if they pleafe. And left that the nomination of Ex- pectants by Presbyteries,Synods, or Affemblies, in their Rolls or Lifts forefaid ..be mif-interpreted,asthough the Expectants nomina- ted in thefeRolls and Lifts,wcrethereby holden and acknowledged to be qualified, which is not the intention of the AlTembly,who ra- ther think , that inrefpectofthis Order , there mould be a more exact tryall of Expectants then before : Therefore the AC fembly ordaines, That no Expectants mail be put on the Rolls or Lifts above-mentioned , but fuch as have been upon the publicke exercife, at the leaft by the fpace of half a year, or longer , as the Presbyterie fliall finde necetfary. And fuchlike ordaines, that here- after none be admitted to the publicke exercife , before they be try- ed,according to the tryal appointed for Expectants,at their entrie to the Minifterie in the late AfTembly at Glajgorv, in the 24. Article o£ the Act of the 23 .Seffion thereof: which tryall, the AfTembly ap- points to betaken of every Expectant , before his admiffion to the publicke exercife. And fuchlike ordaines , That the famine tryall fhall be again taken immediatly before their admiffion to the Mini- fterie,together with their tryall, mentioned in the advice of fome Brethren , deputed for penning the corruptions of the Minifterie, approven in the faid Act of the Generall Aflembly at Glafgotv. And becaufe that Kirks of the patronages forefaids , willvaik be- fore the Rolls and lifts be made up by the Presbyteries , Synods, and Generall Aflemblies,in manner forefaid: Therefore in the inte- rim the AfTembly ordaines the Commiffioners ofevery Presbyte- rie here prefent , to give in a Lift of the ableft Expectants within theirbounds,the morne,.xothe Clerk of the AfTembly , that the AfTembly may out of thefeRolls, make a Lift to be fent to every PresbyterierOut of which the Presbyteries ihall make a Lift of fix perfons,with confent forefaid , and fend the famine uponvacancie of any Church within their bounds , together with a prefentation to His Majeftie, or any other patron, in manner forefaid. And be- caufe the Procurator & Agent of the Kirk cannot get fufficient in- formation to the Lords of Exchequer,anent the Right & Intereft of the Kirk, and Presbyteries in Kirks , whereof gifts of patronages maybe prefented to the Exchequer : Therefore the AfTembly or- daines,for their better information hereanent, that every Presbyte- rie, with all diligence , ufe all meanes of exact tryall of the nature andqualitie of all Kirks within their bounds, as what Kirks belong to the Kings Majefties patronage, what to other Laick patronages, what Kirks of old were planted by Presbyteries , and what by Pre- lates, and Bifhops, before the Aflembly at Glafgow i^38.what hath been the way and time of the change of the planting and providing
of
'The (jenerallAjfembly, \6\z. 7
of the Kirks, if any have been changed, or any other thing concer • ning the nature and qualitie of every Kirk within their bounds, and to fend the fame to the Procurator of the Kirk with all diligence.
All anent Lifts for the IQr/^s in the Highlands.
[He Aftembly confidering that mArgylc, and in other ^ places of the Irifh language , there will not be gotten fix ) Expectants able to fpeak that language, And therefore 1 the Aflembly is hopefull,that in thefe fingular cafes, His Majeftie will be pleafed for Kirks vacand in the Highlands , to ac- cept of a Lift of fo many Expectants as can be had , able to fpeak the Irijb language. And the Commiffioners Grace promifeth to recommend it to His Majeftie.
.Overtures againflT apijls , non-communicants, and prof aners of the Sabbath.
He A (Terribly would draw up a Supplication" to be prefented by the Commiffioners of the Presbyterie of Edinburgh to the Councell at their firft meeting for the due execution of the Acts of Parliament, and Councell againft Papifts , wherein it will be fpecially craved , that the Exchequer fhould be the Intromettors with the Rents ofthele who are excommunicate, and that from the Exche- quer , the Presbyterie may receive that portion of the con- fifcat goods , which the Law appoints to be employed adpios
Every Presbyterie would convcene at their firft meeting , all 1 1. knowne Papifts in their bounds , and require them to put out of their company , all friends and fervants , who are Popifn within a moneth : alio within that fame fpace , to give their Children, Sonnes, and Daughters , who are above 7. years old, to be edu- cate at their charges, by fuch of their Proteftant friends , as the Presbyterie fhall approve , and finde futficient caution for bring- ing home within three moneths fuch of their Children , who arc- without the Kingdome , to be educate in Schooles , and Col- ledges , at the Presbyteries fight •, to finde caution likewife of their abftinence from Made, and the company of all Jefuits and
That all of whatfoever rank or degree , who refufe to give fatif- 1 * ] faction , in evcrv one of the forefaid Articles , fhall be procefTed without any delav : butthofe who give fatisfa&ion (hall be dealt with in all meekneffe, after this manner. The Presbyteries (lull appoint fuch of their number as they (hall find fitted to confer B with
8 The (fenerallAjfernbly, 164.2.
with them fo frequently as the brethren are able to attend,until the midft of 'October next , againft which time if they be not willing to go to Church , they ihall give affurance to go and dwell in the next adjacent Univerfitie Town , whether Edinburgh , Glafgow, S. Andrews , ot ^Aberdeene , from the firft of November to the laft of March , where they fhall attend all the dyetsof conference, which the profefTors and Minifters ofthe bounds mail appoint to them : by which if they be not converted , their obftinacie fliall be declared in the Provincial Synods of April ^ from thence their procefTe (hall go on to the very clofure without any farther delay.
IV. That every Presbyterie,as they will be anfwerable to the next
generall AfTembly , be carefull to doe their duty in all the pre- mhTes.
V. That there be given prefently by the members of this prefent
AfTembly unto the Commiffioners ofthe Presbyterie of Edin- burgh, a Lift of all excommunicate Papifts they know , and of all Papifts who have children educate abroad, that they maybe prefented together with our Supplication3to the Councell at their firft fitting.
V !• That the Councell may be fupplicate for an Ad , that in no Re-
giment which goes out ofthe Kingdome, any Papifts bear office, and that the Colonell be required to finde caution for this effecl:, before he receive the Councells Warrant for levying any Souldi- ers: alfo that he finde caution for the maintaining of a Minifter, and keeping of a Seffionin his Regiment.
Item, the AfTembly would enjoyne every Presbyterie to pro- ceed againft non-communicants,whether Papifts or others, accor- ding to the A6t of Parliament made thereanent. And fuchlike, that Acts of Parliament againft prophaners ofthe Sabbath be put to execution.
The Affembly approves the overtures forefaid , and ordaines Presbyteries to put the famine to execution with all diligence : and that the Commiffioners of every Presbyterie give in a Lift of the excommunicate Papifts within their bounds , and of Papifts children out ofthe Countrey, to the Clerk, that the fame may be prefentedtothe Councel by the Commiffioners of this AfTembly.
ABanent tbejqyning ofthe Presbyterie of Sky to the Synod of Arzyh.
[He Generall AfTembly having confidered the i whole proceedings ofthe Commiffioners of the > late Generall AfTembly , holden at Edinburgh^ \ anent the reference made to them concerning the ■ Presbyterie of Sky , together with the whole rea- ! Tons pro cjr contra in the faid matter , after mature deliberation have ratified and approved , and by thefe prefents ra-
tifie
7 heijcneraUAjjembly, io-j-2. 9
tificand approve the fentence of the faids Commiflioners there- intill. And father ordaines the faid Presbyterie of Sky , and all the Mir.ifters and Elders thereof, to keep the meetings of the Provinciall Aflembly of Argjle , where they (hall happen to be appointed in all time coming , fuchlike as any other Presbyterie within the bounds of the faid Province of Jrgyle , ufes to doe. And that the famine Presbyterie be in all time hereafter within the Jurifdi&ion of the faid Provinciall Aflembly , without any fUrther queftion to be made thereanent.
Self. VIII. 3. ojfug. poft meridiem.
The Supplication of this Aflembly to the Kings Majesty.
TO THE Z^I^gs MOST
Excellent Majeftie ? the heartie thanksgiving, and humble 'Petition of the CjeneraUAjJembly of the Kw\of Scotland , met at S. Andrewes, July %J. \6^i.
3Ur hearts were filled with great Joy and . GladnefTe at the hearing of Your Majefties 1 Letter, which was read once and againe in face of the Aflembly \ every line thereof al- ' moft either expreffing fuch affedtion to the re- ) formed Religion , and fuch royall care of us, , as we could require from a Chriftian Prince 5 I or requiring fuch neceflary duties from us, as v e are bound to performeas Miniftersofthe Gofpel , and Chri- ftiatfVSubje<Sts» For which, as folemne thanks were given by the Moderator of the Aflembly , fo doe we all with one voice in all humility, prefent unto Your Majeftie the thankfulnefle of our hearts ,'with our earned prayers to God for Your Majefties pro- fpcritie, and the peace of Your Kingdomes , that Your Majeftie may be indeed a nurfing Father to all the Kirks of Chrift, in Your Majefties Dominions ; and efpecially to the Kirk of Scotland, honoured with Your Birth and Baptifme j promifing our moft fe- rious indcavours by dodtrine and life , to advance the Gofpel of Chrift , and to keepe the people in our charge in Unity and Peace, and in all loyaltie and obedience to Your Majeftie & Your Lttwes. Your Majefties commands to Your Commiflioner, the Ear lc ot Dumfermlin'7 , to receive from us ourjuft and realbnablc dt&ttS
B 2 for
for what may further ferve for the good of Religion here , the favours which we have received already, and Your Maje/ties de- fire and delight to do good, expreffed in Your Letter, are as many encouragements to us , to take the boldneffe in all humility to pre- fent unto Your Majeilie ( befide the particulars recommended to Your Majefties Commiflioner ) one thing, which for the prefent is the chieleft of all Our defires , as ferving raoft for the glory of Chrift, for Your Majefties Honour and Comfort -7 and not only for the good of Religion here , but for the true happinefle and peace of all Your Majefties Dominions-, which is no new moti- on , but the profecution of that fame which, was made by the CommilTioners ofthis Your Majefties Kingdome in the late Trea- ty , and which Your Majeftie,with advice of both Houfes of Par- liament,did approve in thefe words : To their d^ire concerning unity in Religion andllniformitie ofchnrch-govcrnmcnt^s afpcciall means of conferring of Peace betwixt the two Kingdomes , upon the grounds and rcafons contained in the Paper of the \o .of "M.i\:c\\, given in to theTrcaty and Parliament of England: It u anfwered, upon the 15. cf June , that His cJlfaje/Fie, with advice of both Houfes of Parliament , doth ap- prove of 'the affeclion of His Subjects of 'Scotland , in their de fire of ha- ving the conformity of Church-government betwixt the two Nations, and as the Parliament hath already taken into confi 'deration the reformation of Church-government , fothcy will ' proccede therein in due pme as [lull befl conduce to the glory of God \ the peace of the Churchy and of both King- domes , n. of June , 1 64 1 . In Our Anfwer to a Declaration fent by the now Commiifioners of thisKingdome from both Houfes of Parliament , wre have not only preffed this point or unity in Reli- gion and Uniformity of Church-government , as a meaneofa flrme and durable union betwixt the two Kingdomes, and without which former experiences put us out of hope long to enjoy the puritie of the Gofpelwith Peace, but alfohave rendred the reafons of our hopes and confidence > as from other coniiderati- ons , foirom Your Majefties late Letter to this AfTembly , that YourMajcftyinahappy conjunction with the Houfes of Parlia- ment, will be pleafed to fettle this blefted Reformation, with 10 eirneftly defirtd a Peace in all Your Dominions. And. therefore we Your Majefties moft loving Subje&s in name of the whole Kirks of Scotland , reprefented by us, upon the knees of our hearts, doe moft humbly and .earneftly beg , that Your Majeftie in the deep of Your Royall Wifedome, and from Your affedion to the true Religion , and the Peace of Your Kingdomes, may be moved toconfider,thatthe God of Heaven and Earth is calling for this Reformation.at Your hands , and that as You are his Vice-gerent, fo You may .be his prime Inftrument in it. If it (hall pleafe the Lord ( which is our celire and hope ) that this Melted unity in Religionand Uniformity in Government fhall be brought about ; Y'our Majefties Confcience in performing of fb great a duty, {hall be a wel-fpring of comfort to Your Self, Your memory (ball be a
fweet •
7 be Ljenerall A\Jemblyy 1 6\i . i r
fweet favour, and Your name renowned to all following genera- tions. And if thefe unhappy commotions and divisions fhall end in this peace and unity, then it fhall appear in the Providence of God, they were but the noyfe of many waters , and the voice of a great thunder before the voice of harpers harping with their harps, which fhall fill this whole Hand withmelodie and mirth , and the name of it fhall be , The Lord Is There.
The Declaration of the Parliament of England, fentto the Aflembly.
He Lords and Commons in this prefent Parlia- ment.affembled, finding to their great grief, that the diftradionsofthis Kingdome daily increafe , and
on, To tefiifie to all the World how earneftly they defire to avoide a Civill Warre, they have addreiTed themfelves in an humble Sup- plication to His Majefty, for the prevention thereof. A Copy of which their Petition , they have thought fit to fend at this time to the Nationall Aflembly of the Church of Scotland , to the intent that that Church and Kingdome ( whereunto they are united by fo ma- \y and lb near bonds and tyes,as well Spirituall as Civill ) may fee that the like mindeis now in them,that formerly appeared to be in that Nation. And that they are as tender of thceffuiion of Chri- ftian bloud o\\ the one fide, as they are zealous on the other fide of a due Reformation both inChurch & State. In which work,whileft they were labouring , they have been interrupted by the plots and practices of a malignant party of Papifts , and ill-affe&ed perfons, efpechlly ofthe corrupt and dhTolute Clergy , by the incitement and inftigation of Bifhops, and others , whole avarice and ambition being not able to bear the Reformation endeavoured by the Par- liament, they have laboured ( as we can expect little better fruit from fuch trees ) to kindle a flame, and raife a combuftion within the bowels of this Kingdome : Which if by our humble (applica- tion to His Majefty it may be prevented, and that according to our earneft defire therein , all Force and Warlike preparations being Jayde afide, we may returneto a peaceable and Parliamentary pro- ceeding, Wedonotdoubt, butthatbytheblefsing of Almighty God upon our endeavours, we (hall fettle matters both in Church and State, to the encreafe or His Majefties Honour and State , the peace andprofperitie of this Kingdome , and e (penally to tiie glory of God , by the advancement of the true Religion, and fuch a Re- formation ofthe Church , as fhall be mofl agreeable I Word. Out of all which, there will alio moll undoubtedly rdult a
moft
\z i foe Kjenerau /ijjemviy, io^z.
moft firme and ftable Union between the two Kingdomes of Eng- land and Scotland, which according to our Protefhtion,we fhall by all good wayes and meanes , upon all occafions, labour to preferve and maintaine.
Sttbfcribitur Jo. Brown Cleric. Parliament.
The AfTemblies Anfwer to the Declaration of the Parliament of England.
^pip'P^He Generall Aflembly of the Kirk of Scotland, ha- ®iSl%'(I'iS@S ving received a Declaration fent unto them by the iceH T WM CommifTionersofthisKingdome, now at London, iftl|r^ £^li from the Honourable Houfes ot the Parliament of ^IplllSfe England , expreffing their care to prevent the effufi- tf&L^^w*^^ on of Chriftian bloud in that Kingdome , and their affections to Reformaion both in Kirk and State , and having taken the fame to fuch confideration as the importance of fo weighty matters , and the high eftimation they have of fo wife and ho- nourable a meeting as is the Parliament of England , did require ♦, have with univerfall confent refolved upon this fol- lowing Anfwer.
lt That from the recent fenfe of thegoodneffe of God * in their
own late deliverance , and from their earneft defire of all happi- neffe to our native King and that Kingdome , they bleffe the Lord for preferving them in the midft of fo many unhappy divifions and troubles from a bloudy Inteftine War , which is from God the greateft Judgement , and to fuch a nation the compend of all cala- mities. They alio give God thanks for their former and prefent defires of a Reformation^efpecially of Religion,which is the glory and ftrength of a Kingdome , and bringeth with it all temporall bleflmgs of profperity and peace.
II. That the hearts of all the members of this Aflembly , and of
all the wel-affe&ed within this Kingdome , are exceedingly grie- ved and made heavy , that in fo long a time,againft the profefTions both of King and Parliament , and contrary to the joynt defires and prayers of the godly in both Kingdomes, to whom it is more deare and precious then what is deareft to them in the world, the Reformation of Religion hath moved fo {lowly , and filtered fo great interruption. They confider that not only Prelats, formall ProfefTours, profane and worldly men , and all that are popifhly affected , are bad counfellours and workers, and c!o abufe their power, and bend all their ftrength and policies againft the Work of God, but the God ofthis world alfo, with Principalities and Powers , the rulers of the darkneffe of this world , and fpirituall wickedneile in high places , are working with all their force and fraud in the fame oppofitiomnot without hope ot fuccefle , they
having
The (jeneralljjjernbly, i6±i . 13
having prevailed fo far from the beginning, That in the times of the bed Kings of Juda of old , and the moil: part of the Refor- med Kirks of late , a through and perfect Reformation of Religi- on hath been a work full of difficulties , Yet doe they conceive, that as it ought firft of all to be intended , fo mould it be above all other things , with confidence in God , who is greater then the world,& he who is in the world, moft ferioufly endeavoured. And that when the fupreame Providence giveth opportunity of the ac- cepted time and day of falvation , no other work can profper in the hands of his fervants, if it be not apprehended,and with all reve- rence andfaithfulneife improved. This Kirk and Nation,when the Lord gave them the calling,confidered not their own deadneffe,nor daggered at the promife through unbelief , but gave glory to God. And who knoweth ( we fpeak it in humility and love , and from no other mind then from a defire of the bleifing of God upon our King and that Kingdome ) but the Lord hath now fome con- troverfie with EngUndy which will not be removed , till firft and before all, the worfhip of his name , and the government of his houfe be fettled according to his own will f When this defire fhall come, it (hall be to England , after fo long deferred hopes, a tree of life , which fhall not only yeeld temporall bleflings unto them- felves, but alfo fhall fpread the branches fo far, that both this na- tion and other reformed Kirks mall finde the fruits thereof to their great fatis faction.
The Commiffioners of this Kingdome in the late Treaty of j j j# peace , coniidering that Religion is not only the meaneofthe fervice of God , and faving of Souls , but is alfo the bale and foun- dation of Kingdomes and Eftates , and the ftrongeft band to tye Subjects to their Prince in true loyaltie , and to knit the hearts of one to another in true unity and love, They did with preface of all due refpectand reverence/ar from arrogancy or prefuinption,re- prefent in name of this Kingdome,their ferioifs* thoughts & earneft defiresfor unity of Religion , That in all his Majefties Dominions, there might be one ConfefTion of Faith, one directory of worfhip, onepublicke Catechifme , and one Forme of Kirk Government. This they conceived to be acceptable to God Almighty , who de- lighteth to fee his People walking in truth and unity , to be a fpeci- all means for conferving of peace betwixt the Kingdomes,of eafing the Kings Majefty, and thepublicke government of much trouble, which arifeth from differences of Religion, very grievous to Kings and Eftates-, of great content to the King himfelf, to his Nobles, his Court, & all his People,when(occafioned to be abroad)without fcruple to themfelves, or (candall to others , all may reforttothe fame publickc \vorfhip,as if they were at their own dwellings . of fupprefsin^ the names of Herefies,andSecls,Puritans,Conformifts, Separatifts, Anabaptifts, &c. which doe rentafunder the bowels both of Kirk and Kingdome 5 of defpaire of iuccefle to Papills and Recufants, to have their profefsion, which is inconliftent with the
true
i^ The (JrenerallJffembly, \6/\i.
trueProteftant Religior.,and authority of Princes,fet up again, and of drawing the hearts and hands of Minifters , from unpleafant and unprofitable Controverfies,to the prefsing of mortification, and to Treatiies of true ptetie,and pratticali Divinity.! he Aftembly doth now enter upon the labour of the Commifsioners,unto which they are encouraged , notonelybytheirfaithfulnefleinthe late Treaty, but alfo by the zeale and example of the Generall AfTemblies of this Kirk in former times,as may appeare by the Aftembly at Edin- burgh, Decern!?. 2$ . in the year 1 566. which ordained a Letter to be fent to England againft the Surplice ,Tippet,Corner-cap, and fuch other Ceremonies as then troubled that Kirk , that they might be removed. By the Ailembly at Edinburgh, x^Apnl 24. 1583. hum- bly defiring the Kings Majefty,to command his Ambailadour,then going to England j.o> deale with the Queen, That there might be an Union and Band , betwixt them and other Chriftian Princes and Realmes , profefsing the true Religion, for defence and prote- ction of the Word of God,and Profeffours thereof, againft the per- fection of Papifts and confederates , joyned and united together by the bloudy league oiTrent : as alfo that her Majefty would dis- burden their brethren of England of the yoke of Ceremonies, impo- fed upon them , againft the liberty of the Word: And by the AC- fembly at Edinburgh, March 3. 1589. ordaining the Presbyterie of Edinburgh , to ufe all good and pofsible meanes for the relief and comfort of the Kirk of England ,then heavily troubled for the main- taining the true difcipline and government of the Kirk,and that the Brethren in their private and pubiick prayers,recommend the eftate of the afflicted Kirk of EnglandtoGod. While now by the mercy of God,the conjunction of the two Kingdomes is many waves increa- fed, the zeale of the Generall Aflemblv towards their happinefle ought to be no lefte. But befides thefe, the Aftembly is much en- couraged unto this dutie,both from the Kings Majefty and his Par- liament, jpyntly, in their Anfwer to the propofition , made by the late Commifsioners of the Treaty, in thefe words : To their de- fire concerning unity of Religion , and uniformity of Kirk-government^ as a fpeci all meanes for conferring of peace betrvixt the two Kingdomes, upon the grounds andreafons contained in the paper of the 10. of March, and given in to the Treatie and Parliament of hngl and .• It is anfwered upon the 15. of June , That His Majeftie with advice of both Houfes of Parliament, doth approve of the affection of His Subjects ^/Scotland, in their defire of having conformitie of Kirk-government , between the two Nations, and as the Parliament hath alreadie taken into confideration the Reformation of Kirk-government , fo they will proceed therein in due time, as j]) all b eft conduce to the glory of "God ', the peace of the Kirk, and of both Kingdomes. And alfo feverally : for His Majeftie knoweth, that the cuftodie and vindication, the confervatian and purgation of Religion , are a great part of the dutie of Civill authority and power. His Majefties late practice while he was here in perfon , in reforting frequently to the exercifes of pubiick worfhip,His Royall
actions
The Generall Aljembly ,\6\%. 15
a&ions,ineftablimingthewor(hipand government of this Kirk in Parliament , and in giving order for a competent maintenance to the Miniftery and Seminaries of the Kirk , and HisMajefties graci- ous Letter to the aflembly ( feconded by the fpeech of His Maje- fties CommiTsioner ) which containes this religious exprefsion : Where any thing is amifje^ve will endeavour a Reformation in a fair and orderly way , and where Reformation is fettled , we rcfolve with that au- thority wherewith God hath vefled us, to maintain and defend it in peace and liberty, againf all trouble that can come from without , and again fl all Hcrefies,Secis^andSchifmesfvhich may arifefrom within. All thefe doe make us hopefull that His Majeftie will not oppofe,but ad- vance the work of Reformation. In lik manner the Honourable Houfes of Parliament , as they have many times before witnefl'ed their zeale , fo now alfo in their Declaration fent to the Aflembly, which not only fheweth the conftancy of their zeal, but their great grief that the workehath been interrupted by a malignant party of Papifts & evill-affe&ed perfons,efpecially of the corrupt and diflb- lute Clergie, by the incitement and inftigation of Bifhops and o- thers , their hope according to their earneft defire, when they (hall returne to a peaceable and Parliamentary proceeding > by the blef- fing of God , to fettle fuch a Reformation in the Church,as mail be agreeable to Gods word , and that the refult mail be a raoft firme and (liable union between the two Kingdomes of England } and Scotland^ &c . The Aflembly alfo is not a little encouraged by a Letter fent from many reverend Brethren of the Kirk of England, exprefling their prayers and endeavours againft every thing which fhall be found prejudiciallto the eftablifhment of the Kingdome of Chrift, and the Peace of their Soveraigne. Upon thefe encou- ragements , and having fo patent a doore of hope , the Aflembly doth confidently expe<5t,that England will now beftirre them Pelves in the bed: way for a Reformation of Religion , and do moft wil- lingly offer their prayers and uttermoft endeavours for furthering fo great a Work,wherein Chrift isfo much concerned in his glory, the King in his honour, the Kirk and Kingdome of England m their happinefle, and this Kirk and Kingdome in the purity and peace of the Gofpel.
That the Aflembly alfo from fo many reall invitations,are hearte- I V. ned to renew the Propofition made by the aforenamed Com- miflioners ofthis Kingdome,for beginning the Work of Reforma- tion , at the uniformity of Kirk-government. For what hope can there be of Unity in Religion , of one Confeflion of Faith , one Forme of Wormip , and one Catechifme, till there be firft one Forme of Ecclefiafticall Government { Yea , what hope can the Kingdome and Kirk of Scotland hwe of a firme and durable Peace, till Prelacie, which hath been the main caufe of their miferies and roubles, firft and laft , be plucked up, root and branch, as a plant which God hath not planted,& from which, no better fruits can be jxpedted then fuch fowcr grapes , as this day fet on edge the King- lome of England? C The
16 The CjeneraUAf}emblyy \6\z.
\ v. The Prelaticall Hierarchie being put out of the way , the Wor
will be eafie, without forcing of any confcience,to fettle in Englat the government oftheReformed Kirks byAflemblies.For althoug the Reformed Kirks do hold,without doubting, their Kirk Officer and Kirk-government by Aflemblies higher & lower,in their ftror and beautifull f ubordination,to be jure divinofic perpetuall: yet Pn lacie,as it differeth from the Office of a Paftor, is almoft univerfa ly acknowledged by the Prelats themfelves, and their adherent* to be but an humane ordinancc,introduced by humane reafon , ar fettled by humane Law and Cuftome for fuppofed convenience which therefore by humane authority , without wronging ar mans confcience , may be altered and abolifhed upon fo great a n ceffity, as is a hearty con jun&ion with all the Reformed Kirks, firme and well grounded Peace betwixt the two Kingdomes , fo merly divided in themfelves, and betwixt themfelves by this pa titionwall , and a perfect Union of the Kirks in the two Nation: which although by the providence of God in one Hand, and und< oneMonarch,yet ever fince the Reformation,& for the prefent alf are at greater difference in the point of Kirk-government, which i all places hath a powerfull influence upon all the parts of Reli^ioi then any other Reformed Kirks, although in Nations atgreateft d fiance, and under divers Princes.
V I. What may be required ofthe Kirk of Scotland for furthering tl
Work of Uniformitie of Government,or for agreeing upon a con mon Confeffion of Faith, Catechifme, and directory for Wormi] mail according to the order given by this Aflembly , be moft wi lingly performed by Us , who long extreamely for the day wh« King and Parliament fhall joyne for bringing to pafle fo great , i good a Work, That all Wanes and Commotions ceafing , all Si perdition, Idolatry ,Herefies, Sedls, and Schifmes being remove< as the Lord is one , fo his name may be one amongft us •, and me: cy and truth , righteoufneiTe and peace meeting together , and ki fing one another, may dwell in this Hand.
At
The (jenerall(L/rjfernbly, \6\i. 17
AclSeflT VIII. oJTug. 3. 1*4.2.
Overtures for tranjplantation of Minifter s , W provi/ion o/Scbooles, ordained by the late Afl feaibly at Edinburgh, to befent to Synods, and reported to this (isfjfembly.
A& Stti: X I. idinb. Aug. 5. 1542 .
Theje Overtures underwritten, anent the tr an f Porting of'JMim^ers^and
Profefforsjo Kirks and Co/ledges, being read in audience of the Jfjon-
bly, and thereafter revifed by a Committee appointed for that effect,
The A\]embly appoints them to befentto the \wer all Synods, to be con-
fidcredbythem , and they to report their judgements thereof to the
next Generall Affembly.
«?$wc$3c§|0 tranfportation woula! be granted hereafter without ci- I.
g&f -, Jf| tation of parties, having intereft ( va^ the Minifter who
! .' .| is fought and his Parifh ) to hear what they can oppofe,
.■;'i$ and the matter is to come firft to both the Presbyteries
{vi\j that wherein the Minifter dwells, whofe tranfportation is
it,and the other Presbyterie to which he is fought,if the Kirks
lye in feverall Presbyteries ) and if the Presbyteries agree not,then
the matter is to be brought to the Synod , or Generall Aflembly
(which of them dial firft ocenrre after fuch tranfportation is fought)
and if the Synod ( occurring firft ) agree not j or if there be appeale
made from it,then the matter is to come to the Generall AfTembly.
A Minifter may be tranfplanted from a particular Congregation 1 1. ( where he can only doe good to a part) to fuch a place , where he may benefite the whole Kirk of Scotland, becaufe > in reafon the whole is to be preferred to a part, fuch as Edinburgh.
1. Becaufe all the great Juftice Courts fit there , as Councell, Seffion Juftice Generall, Exchequer, &c.and it concerns the whole Kirk,that thefe Fountains of Juftice be kept clean,both in the point of Faith,and Manners.
2 . Becaufe there is great confluence to Edinburgh, from time co time,ofmany of the chief Members of the whole Kingdome, and it concerns the whole Kirk to have thefe well feafoned , who (appa- rently ) are to be the Inftruments of keeping this Kirk and King- dome in good temper.
That this may be the more ealily done, the Aflembly firft re- commends to Edinburgh, that lome young men ol excellent fpi- rits may be ( upon the charges of the faid Town ) trained up, at home or abroad , toward the Miniftery from time to time. Se- condly, we mean \wt, that all the places of the Minifterie oi burgh be filled with Minifters to be tranfported by Authoiitie of this Ad, butonely till they be provided of one Minifter (fCVftj C 2 planted
7" he GenerallAjfembly, 16^2.
planted by the Authority of the AlTembly ) for every Kit k in Edinburgh, and that the reft of the places be filled,either according to the Generall Rules of tranfportation for the whole Kingdome, or by agreement with actuall Minifters , and their Pariflies, with confentofthe Presbyterie or Synod , to the which they be- long. III. in the next roome , we finde , that it is a transporting of Mini-
fters for publick good, thc.t Colledges , (having the profeflionof Divinitie ) be well provided of ProfeiTors.
Wherein the Colledge of Divinitie mS.JrJrCtvs is firft to be ferved , without taking any ProfeiTors or Minifters out of Edin- burgh, Glasgow , or Abcrdenc , and then the reft of the Colledges would be provided for, as their neceflity (hall require : yet (inre- fpecl: of the prefent fcarcity ) it were good for the Univerfities to fend abroad for able and approved men,to be Profeffors of Divini- tie, that our Minifters may be kept in their paftorall charge afmuch as may be.
Towns alfo wherein Colledges are , are very confiderable in the matter of tranfportation. I V . Alfo Congregations,where Noblemen have chief refidence, are
to be regarded, whether planted or implanted , and a care is to be hadjthat none be admitted Minifters where Popifh Noblemen re- fide, but fucfr as are able men ( efpecially for controverfies ) by fight of the Presbyterie : and moreover it is neceflary , that fuch Minifters as dwell where Popifh Noblemen are , and are not able for controverfies, that they be tranfported. V- They who deiire the tranfportation of a Minifter,fhould be obli-
ged to give reafons for their deiire : Neither fhould any Presbyte- rie or Aficmbly \ paffe a fentence for tranlportation of any Mini- fter,till they give reafons for the expediencie of the fame , both to him and his Congregation , and to the Presbyterie whereof he is a member. If they acquiefce to the reafons given , it is fo much the better: if they doe not acquiefce, yet the Presbyterie , or AlTem- bly, ( by giving fuch reafons before the pafTing of their fentence ) {hall make it manifeft , that what they doe is not pro arbitrate, <vcl imperio only,but upon grounds ofreafon. * ' Becaufe there is fuch fcarcity of Minifters having the Irijl) tongue, necefTity requires , that when they be found in the Low-fands,they be tranfported to the High-lands : providing their condition be not made worfe,but rather better by their tranlportation. V 1 1. In the point of voluntary tranfportation,no Minifter mall t ran facl: and agree with any Parifh, to be tranfported thereto,without a full hearingofhim , and his Parifh , before the Presbyterie to which he belongs in bis prefent charge, or fuperiour Kirk judicatories , if needfhallbe.' VIII. The planting of vacant Kirks,is not to be tyed to any(either Mi- nifters,or Expectants) within a Presbyterie : but a free election is to be,according to the order of our Kirk,& Lawes of our Kingdome.
The
1 be \jeneraU<ts'ijjembly> :6/\.z. ip
The chief Burghs of the Kingdomeare to be deSired totraine up young men of excellent fpirits for the Minifterie , according to their power-, as was recommended to Edinburgh : Which courfe will in time ( God willing ) prevent many transplantations.
The Overtures under-written ancnt fhe Scbooles being likewife read in audience of the Jffembly , they recommend the particulars therein mentioned^anent the providing of the maintenance for School-matters to the Parliament : and ordaine the reft to be fent to the Synods , to be considered by them^ and they to report their judgements thereof to the next Gcnerall Jflembly, as j aid is \
| Very Parifli would have a Reader , and aSchoole, 1 where children are to be bred, in reading,writing, , and grounds of Religion , according to the laud- i able Acts, both of Kirk and Parliament , made : be lore.
And where Grammar Schooles may be had, as "in Burghs , and in other considerable places, ( among which all Presbyteriall Seats are to be reputed ) that they be erected, and held hand to.
Anent thefe Schooles,every Minister with his Elders, Shall give accompt to the Presbyteries at the visitation of the Kirk •, the Pref- byteriesare to make report to the Synod,and the Synod to the Ge- nerall A(Iembly,that Schooles are planted,as above-faid, and how they are provided with men and means.
And becaufe this hath been moil neglected in the High-lands, Ilands,and borders. Therefore the Minifters of every Parifli are to inltruct by their Commiffioners, to the next Generall AfTembly, that this courfe is begun betwixt and then : and they are further to certifie from one Generall AfTembly to another , whether this courfe is continued without o niflion,ornot.
And becaufe the means hitherto named, or appointed for Schooles of all forts,hath been both little , and ill payed , There- fore , befide former appointments , ( the execution whereof is humbly defired, and to be petitioned for , at the hands of His Ma- jeftie and the Parliament) The AfTembly would further fupplicate this Parliament , that they ( in their wifedome ) would findc out how means fhall be had for fo good an ufe , efpecially that the children of poore men, ( being very capable of learning, and of good engines) may be trained up , according as the exigence and necemty of every place fhall require. And that the Commilfio- ners , who fhall be named by this AfTembly , to wait upon the Parliament , may be appointed to reprefent this to His Majeftie, and the Parliament, feeing His facred Majeftie , by His gracious Letter hath put us in hope hereof , wherewith we have been much refreihed.
The AfTembly would fupplicate the Parliament, that for youths
of
2 o The (jenerall Ajjembly., 1 6\z .
of the fineft and beft fpirics of the High-lands , and borders, maintenance may be allotted ( as to Burfars) to be bred in Univer- sities.
For the time and manner of vifitation of Schooles, and contri- ving the beft and mod compendious and orderly courfe ofteaching Grammar, we humbly defire the Aflembly to appoint a Commit- tee for that effect , who may report their diligence to the next Ge- nerall Aflembly.
The Overtures and ^Articles above -written being reported to this Af-
fembly^ after reading and\erions consideration thcrcof\ the Ajfembly approves the famine , zsfndordaines them to have theftrength of an Act and ordinance of jflembly in all time-coming.
SefT.X'I. <tAug.*>. 164.2. d/fH anent contrary Oaths.
&He Generall Aflembly finding the inconvenience of contrary Oaths in trying of Adulteries, Forni- 1 cations, and other Faults and Scandalls,doe there- J fore for eviting thereof, difcharge Synods , Pref- ) byteries and Seflions , to take Oath of both par- \ ties in all time hereafter, Recommending to them in the mean time all other order and wayes of tryall ufed in fuch cafes : And that there may be a common order and courfe kept in this Kirk of trying of publick Scandalls, The Aflembly ordains the Presbyteries to advife upon fome common order hereintill, and to report their judgements to the next Aflembly.
Overtures anent Family Exercijcs 7 Catechi/mg, peeping of Synods and Tres byteries , and re- Jlraint of Adulteries , Witch-crafts > and other grofje fins.
The Committee fupplicates the Afjfmbly^
I- i|P$$p8p8|0 urge the feverall Synods and Presbyteries, efpeci- ^!i§i^t|@} ally thefe of the North, that Family Exercife inRe- iS nppj|jj ligion , vifitation of the Churches , Catcchifmg, |«A^p8 keeping of the Presbyteriall and Provinciall mee- g|g|||pg^ tings (fboth by preaching and ruliqg Elders ) be *$SSfc<siSK&*S more carefully obferved.
1 1. That the Clerk at leaft fubferibe every book before it come to
the
*The Cj/enerall ' Jjjembly , \6^z. zi
the AfTembly, and that every A cT: be noted on the Margent, for a directory of expedition.
3. That the AfTembly would ferioufly ftudie by all means and waves how to procure the Magistrates concurrence,to curb and pu- nilli thefe notorious vices which abound in the Land , efpecially in the Northern parts.
jhe ^ffcmbly approves the Overtures forefaids , and ordaines them to be obferved : and for the lafi, the Affembly being confident of the re/L- dineffe of the fudge Ordinair to refrain andpunifh thefe faults, Doe therefore ordain all Presbyteries to give up to the Juflice , the names of the Adulterers ', inccflnow per fons, witches andforcerers,and others, guilty offuchgrojfe and fear full fins within their bounds, that they may •be proceffed and puniflicd according to the Laws of this Kingdome • and that the Presbyteries and Synods be carefull herein, as they will an fiver to the General! Affcmblies. And becaufe that witch-craft , charming^ and fuch like, procecdes many times from ignorance : Therefore the Affembly ordains all UMiniflers , efpecially in thefe parts where thefe fins are -frequent, to be diligently preaching, catechifmg, and confe- rence, i 0 informe their people thereinttlL
1 < 1 !
<zjtcT; againfi Petitions declarations, and fuch life in name ofzyVlmijlers , without their knowledge and consents.
He Genevall AfTembly being informed , that after the Petition prefented to the Lords of His Maje- ures Privie Councell by the Noblemen, Burgef- fes, and Minifters, occafionally met at Edinburgh the 3 1 .day of cMay laft by-paft , had received a ^ verygratious Anfwcr, There was another Petiti- on given in to their Lordfhips upon the day of $unt laft, entituled, The Petition or the Nobilitie, Gentrie, Kurrowes, Minifters5&Commons: which as it was not accompanied with any one Minifter to the Lords of Privie Councell ■ ib all the Minifters of this AfTembly,difclaimesand difavoweth any knowledge there-^ of, or acceflion thereto. And the AfTembly conceiving that the Kings Majefty Hiin!elf,andallthe Courts and Judicatories or this Kingdom* may be deluded and abufed , and the Kirk in Generall, *nd Minifters in particul ir injured and prejudged by the like practi- ces heteafttr- Do therefore nrohibite andditchargc ali and e\ cry *me to preteno orule tiic name of Maimers to any Petition, Decla* : r J ration.
%% rfhe GenerallAjJembly. 164.2.
ration,or fuchlike at anytime hereafter , without their knowledge* confent and afliftance : And if any (hall do the contrary , ordaines Presbyteries and Provinciall Afiemblies to proceed againft them with the higheft cenfiires of the Kirk.
SeiT.XI. j^iAug. i6q.z.
<i/fB anent the (tAjJemblies dejtres to the
Lords of Councell, and confer^
vators of 'Peace.
|He AfTembiy being moft defirous to ufe all, arid to j omit no lawfull meane or occafion to teftifie their i zeale by dealing with God and man , for f urthe- } ranee of their defires of Unity in Religion , and i uniformity of Kirk-government, And confidering i the great necefTity, that the Kirk and State contri- bute jointly their beft endeavours to this happy end : Therefore enjoynes the Moderator , and the Commiflioners from the AfTembiy, to fupplicate with all earneftneffe and refpect, the Lords of His Majefties Honourable Privie Councell , and likewife the Commifsioners appointed by His Majeftie, and the Parliament,for confervation of the Peace, that they may be pleafed to concurre with the Kirk in the like defires to His Majefly ,and the Parliament of England , and in the like directions to the Commif- fionersofthisKingdome,atZoW^forthetimc, that by all. pof- fible means,Civill and Ecclefiaftick , this bleffed Worke mav be advanced, and a happy fettling betwixt His Majeftie and His Par- liament , may be endeavoured , and the common Peace betwixc the Kingdomes continued and ftrengthened .
Seff. XL 5. arfug. i&p.
^The Ajjemblies humble defire to the tQngs Mai jefiie for the Signator of 500. lib. ft er ling, and recommendation thereof to the K^Jigs Com-* miflioner.
||ff|||§He Generall AfTembiy having received the Report of ^tt^I* the proceedings of the Commifsioners of the late AC- fefA^t^embly , and fpecially that His Majefty was gracioufly %6?«$?SS? pleafed, upon their humble Petition , folemnly to pro- wife and declare under His Royall hand , his pious refolutiori and
dedi-
The GenevallAlJembly, 1 6\i . 25
dedication of 500. lib. fterling,out of the readieft of his Rents and revenues, to be employed yearly on publick neceflary and pious ufes of the Kirk, at the light of the Generall Aflembly , as His Majefties gratious Anfwer of the 3. of January , 1642. regiftrat in their books at His Majefties own defire , for their further aflu- rance of His Majefties pious zeale , doth more fully proport. Like- as being informed that His Majeftie was gratioufly pleafed to figne and fend down to the Kirk the Signator of the laid 500. lib. yearly to have part the Exchequer , albeit the famine is not as yet delivered •, And confidering His Majefties pious directions to them by His Majefties Letter to plant and vifit the utmoft skirts and borders of the Kingdome , as moft neeeflary for the glory of God, the good of the Kirk , and His Majefties honour , and fervice, which is only flopped by the want of charges for publick vifitati- ons, And withall to remonftrate to His Majeftie by His Com- miflioner , their juft and neeeflary defires for what may further fervetothe good of Religion , whereunto His Majefties Commif- fioner promifed his beft endeavours and alliftance. Therefore the Aflembly doth moft earneftly recommend to His Majefties Com- mitfionerto reprefent to His Majeftie, with his beft affiftance , the humble and neeeflary defires of the whole Aflembly, That His Majeftie will be gratioufly pleafed to command that Signator, al- ready figned by His Royall hand ( or to figne another of the famine tenor , whereof they deliver the juft double to His Maje- fties CommifTioner for that effect: ) to be fent to this Kingdome,and delivered to the Commiflioners from this Aflembly , who are to fit at Edinburgh, or to the Procurator of the Kirk , whereby His Majeftie lhall more and more oblige this whole Kirk to pray for a blefling from Heaven upon His Royall Perfon and Govern- ment.
SeiT. XI. 5. eyfig. KfyA,
The ^Ajfemblies Letter to the Commi f loners of this Kingdome at London.
Right Honourable , 3§^32@®$1E have received your Lordfhips Letter , with the i^t§l£G$*6§ Declaration of the Parliament of England, and have HP W Icil fentthis Noble bearer to His Majefty with our %§m V mk humble fupplication,& to your Lordfhips with our W™W***> Anfwer,earneftlvdefiring Unity of Religion , and ««>&$SSj6*0« Uniformity of Kirk-government,to beprefented by your Lordfhips,& this Noble bearer,to the hon: Houfes of Parlia- ment.Your Lordfliips will perceive by the indofed Copies,and by D our
24- 1 he (jeneraUAjlembly, 164.1.
our defires to His Majefties honourable Privie Councell and Com- miffioners for theconfervation ofthePeace,to joyn their beft endea- vours with His Majeftie and the Parliament, and their directions to your Lordfhips,by our leaving a Commiffion behinde us , to con- curre with them in all Ecclefiaftick waves , and by our appointing publick Prayers j and a folemne Faft through this Kirk, for the fur- therance of this great Work of Reformation , and continuance of the common Peace, that this Unitie in Religion, and Uniformkie of Kirk-government,is the chiefeft of our defires,prayers and cares: Whereunto as we have been encouraged by the faithfull labours of the Commiffioners of this Kingdome in the late Treaty , and con- tinued and renewed by your Lordfhips-, fo we are afTured,that your Lordfhips will omit no lawfull meane,argument, or occafion of fe- conding the famine there , And advertifing our Commiffioners at £dinburgh,-whcve'm they may further concurre with your Lord- fhips, for the furtherance of the Work, which tends fo much to the glory of God, advancement of Chrifts Kingdome, increafe of the honour and happineiTe of our Soveraigne , and the peace and welfare of thefe Kingdomes, whereby your Lordfhips will oblige this Kirk more and more to pray for a bleffing on your perfons and travels, and to reft
Tours in the Lord S. Andre wes 5. Augufl The Commissioners of the General!
1642. t^ijfembly.
A Letter from fome Minifters of England.
Reverend and w el-beloved in our Lord and Saviour.
^^c^E received with much joy and fatisfadion J the Anfwer ^^J> which your.Generall AfTembly vouchfafed us to our fp^flf Letters of the laft year. Some of us in the name of our Sfrsp^l? Brethren, thought it then fit by Mafter ^Alexander Hen- derson ( a brother fo juftly approved by you , and honoured by us ) to returne our deferved thanks. And we now further think it ecpflall upon this occafion , to make a more publick acknowledgement of fuch a publick favour. You were then pleafed to give us fair grounds,to expe&that brotherly advice and endeavours,which the common caufe of Chrift , and the mutuall intereft of the united Nations, command us now again to ask , if not to challenge. Wc doubt not but your experience , together with your intelligence, abundantly informes you of our condition, what various admini- ftrations of providence we have paffed through, and we ftill lye be? twixt hopes and fears, a fit temper for working -, the God of all
grace
The (jencrall Ajfembly, \6\i. 25
grace enable us to improve it. As our hopes are not fuch as may- make us fear, fo neither doe our Feares prevail, to the carting away our confidence. Your owne late condition, together with this De- claration of ours prefent,may acquaint you with the certain,though ful)till,authorsandfomentorsofthefeourconfufedconrli(5s:which we conceive to be the Hierarchicall Faction , who have no way to peace and fafetie , but through the trouble and danger of others. Our prayers and endeavours,according to ourmeafure, have been, and (hall be for the fupplanting and rooting up whatfoever we find fo prejudiciall to the eftablifhment of the Kingdome of Chrift,and< the peace of our Soveraigne. And that this Declaration of our felves may not leave you unfatisfied , we think it.neceflary further to exprefle,That the defire of the mod godly andconfiderable part amongft us, is, that the Presbyterian Government,which hath juft and evident Foundation both in the Word of God, & religious rea- fon,may be eftablifhed amongft us,and that(according to your inti- mation ) we may agree in one Confeflion of Faith, one direclorie of Worfhip,one publick Catechifme & form of government: Which things, if thev were accomplished , we fhould much rejoycein our happy fubjeciion to Chrift our Head , and ourdefiredafTociation with you our beloved brethren. For the bettereffec~ling whereof, we thought it neceflary , not only to aquaint you with what our defires are in themfelves,but likewife to you, that is, that what way fliall feem moft fit to the wifedome of that grave & religious Aflembly, may be taken forthe furtherance of our indeavours in this kind. We underftand that our Parliament hath been before hand with us in this intimation,and it cannot but be our duty, who are fo muchcon- cerned in the bufinefTe , to adde what power the Lord hath gi- ven us with you to the fame purpofe. This defigne and defire of ours, hath enemies on the Left- hand-, and diflenting brethren on the Right -, but we doubt not , that as our hearts juftifie us that our intentions are right , and fuch as we conceive tend moft diredtly to the glory of God,and the peace of the Churches of the Saints"; fo ( by your brotherly concurrence in the moft fpeedy and effectu- all way you can find out ) the Work will in Gods due time , re- ceivea prayed for,hoped for iflue.We fliall not need by many argu- ments from mutuall Nationall intereft ( though we know you will not overlook them ) to inforce this requeft , the firme bond where- with we are all united in our Lord Jefus Chrift , we are allured will alone engage your faithfull endeavours in this bufinefTe. To him we commit you, with thefe great and important affaires you have in hand. Be plcafedto accept of thefe as the exprcflion of the mindes of our many godly and faithfull Brethren , whofe hearts we doubt not of,neither need you ,though their hands in regard of the fudden- nefTeofthis opportunity could not be fubferibed together with ours, who are
Tour mofl affectionate friends and brethren London 2 2 'fitly in the Work of the Lord.
1642. Dj Anfwer
i6 The Cjenerall Ajfembly } 164.2.
Anfwer to the Minifters Letter.
Right reverend and beloved in the Lord zfefw.
P^|1E1§SY our Anfwer to the Declaration fent unto us from P^^^^&the honourable Houfes of Parliament,ye may perceive ill B ^pthat your Letter which came into our hands fo feafo- ^SSESsH nably , was not only acceptable unto us , but hath al- I§l&l«s&ri3«sfb encouraged us to renew both to the Kings Maje- ftie and the Houfes of Parliament,The defires of the late Commif- fioners of this Kingdome for Unity inReligion,in the four particu- lars remembred by you: We cannot be ignorant but the oppofition from Satan & worldly men in Kirk & Policy.will (till be vehement as it hath been already , But we are confident through our Lord Jefus Chrift, that the prayers and indeavours of the godly in both Kingdomes , will bring the Work toawifhed, and blefled IlTue, This whole nationall Kirk is fo much concerned in'that Reforma- tion and Unity of Religion in both Kingdomes, that without it we cannot hope for any long time to enjoy ourpuritie and peace, which hath coft us fo dear,& is now our chiefeft comfort andgrea- ten: treafure: Which onecaufe (befide the Honour of God,and the happinefTe of the People of God in that Kingdome,more defired of us then Our lives ) is more then fufheient to move us , To contri- bute all that is in our power for bringing it to pafle. And fince we have with fo great liberty made our defires and hopes known both to King and Parliament , it is a duety incumbent both to you and us, who make mention of the Lord , and are Watch-men upon the Walls of femfalem , never more to keep hlence nor to hold our peace day nor night, till the righteoufneffe of Sion go forth as brightnefle , and the falvation thereof as a lamp that burnetii. And if it fhall pleafe the Lord to move the hearts of King & Parlia- ment , to hearken unto the motion, for which end we have re- folved to keep a folemne Fail: and Humiliation in all the Kirks of this Kingdome , the mean by which we have prevailed in times paft , we wifh that the Work may be begun with fpeed, and profe- cuted with diligence by the joynt labours of fome Divines in both Kingdomes, who may prepare the fame for the view. and examina- tion of a more frequent Ecclefiaftick meeting of the heft affe&ed to Reformation there , and of the CommhTioners of the Generall Af- fembly here , that in end it may have the approbation of the Gene- rall Aflembly here,and of ail the Kirks there , in the beft way that maybe, we wifh and hope at laft in a nationall AfTembly •, Our Commiffioners at Edinburgh , (hall in our name receive and return anfwers for promoving fo great a Work , which we with our heart and our foule recommend to the bleffing of God , we continue,
Tour loving brethren and fellow -labourers.
The (jeneraU Affembly, 1 6\i . i j
<tyicl for my Lord Maitlands prefentinv the \i/fj]emblics Supplication to His ■^APajeJlie> and for going to the Qommifiioners at London, with the ^Anfoer to the ^Parliament of Eng^ lands Declaration.
He Generall AfTembly confidering the neceflity of iencing fome perfon of good worth and qualitie for to prefent their humble Supplication to His Majeftie, and to deliver their directions to the Coinmiffioners ofthis Kingdome , now at London^ with their Decla- ration to the Parliament of England , and anfwerto fome wel-affe- &e J Minifrers of that Kirk : And having certaine knowledge of the worth , abilitie , and faithfulnefTe of J>ohn Lord CMaitland^ one of their number , who being witneffe to all their intentions an i proceedings can bed relate their true loyaltie and refpcft to their Soveraign , and brotherly affection to the Kirk and Kingdome of England therein •, Therefore doe unanimoufly require his Lord- fliips paines by repairing to Court , and to London for the premi£ fes , which hereby they commit to his diligence and fidelitie , wil- ling his Lordfhip to make accompt of his proceedings herein to their CommiflTioners appointed to fit at Edinburgh.
Self. X 1 1. 5. osfug. pojl meridiem.
Qommifiion for publick^ajf airs of this Ki)\> and for profecuting the de fires of this aA^ffembly to His (^A/fajeflie and the 'Parliament o/"Eng- land.
[He Generall Aflcmbly confidering the laudable cuftome ^ ofthis Kirk for to appoint fome Commiffioners in the I interim betwixt Aflemblies for prefenting of Overtures i and profecuting the other defires of the Kirk to His Ma- jefric , the Lordsof His Councell , and the cftates of Parliament ; And taking to their confutation the prefent condition of the Kirk o{: England , with the Declaration thereof fent downe from the Parliament , and fome reverend brethren of the Minilrerie there, with their own Anfwerto the Parli imcnt and Minilterie, and their humble Supplication to His Majeftie for Unitie of Religion and Uniformitie of Kirk-government. And withall rcmcnibnngthui
defircs
28 The (jenerailAjfembly, a 6^1 .
defires to the Honourable Lords of His Majefties fecret Councell, and to the Commirfioners appointed by the King and Parliament, for confervation of the common peace , That they would joyne their concurfe in their defires to His Majeftie and Parliament , and directions to the Commiffioners of this Kingdome at London for the time. And likewife confidering their good hopes from Gods gratious favour to this Ihnd , that by his good providence he will in his own way and time fettle this great Work through this whole He, And that it is both our earneft defire & Chriftian duty to ufe all lawfull means and Ecclefiaftick wayes for furtherance or fo great a Work, continuance of the common peace betwixt thefe nations, & keeping abrotherly correfpondence betwixt thefe Kirks. There- fore the AfTembly thinks it neceffary before their diffolving, to ap- pointed by thefe prefents doe nominate & appoint Mafters,L-^#- drerv Ramfay, Alexander Henderfon, Robert Dowglas, William Colvilly William Bennet Miniftcrs at Edinburgh, Mafter William ^Arthur Mi nifter at S.Cuthbert, Mafter James Robertfon , John Logan , Robert Li 'ghtoun, Commiffioners from Dalkeith totbis Aifembly : Mafters, ^Andrew Blackh all, James Fleeming , Robert Ker , CommifTioners from Hadingtoun to this AfTembly : Md.fevs,George Hamilton ^Robert Blair, Arthur <JMortouny David Dalgleijh, Andrew Bennet, Walter Greg, JohnMoncreff, John Smith, George Gillcfpie, John Row, John Duncan, Walter Bruce, Commifsioners for the Presbyteries within the Province o?Fyffe : Mafter David Calderrvood Minifter at Pen- caitland, Mafter John Adamfon Principall of theColledge otEdin- burgh ,Mafter John Strang Principall of the Colledge of Glafgorv, Mafter David Dickfon, Mafter James Bonar , Mafter Robert Baillie, Mafter John Bell , Mafter Robert Ramfay , Mafter George Toung, Wafer Henry Guthrie, Mafter Samuel Ouflcw , Mafter John Robert- [on Minifter at S.JohnJloun, Mafter John Robertson Minifter at Dun- die, Mafter John Home Minifter at Echlls , Mafter ^Andrew Cant, Wafer William Guild , Mafter Samuel Rutberfuird , Mafter James Martin, Mafter ^Alexander Monroe, Mafter Robert Murray . Mafter John Maclellan, ^Andrew Doncanfon, Mafter Silvejler Lambie, Ma- fter Gilbert Rofs, Minifters : Marqueffe of Argyle , Earles of Lau- derdail, Glcncarnt , Kinghorne, Eglintoun, Weemes, Cafsils : Lords, Gordoun, Maitland, Balcarras , Sir Patrick Hepbume of Wauchtoun, Sir David Home oi'Wedderburne, Sir David Cr eight oun of Lugtoun, Sir David Barclay of Cullearnie, John Henderfon of Fordell , Mafter George Wtnramc o f Libbertoun, Sir Robert Drummond, Sir William Carmichaell , John Binnie , Thomas Pater [on , John Sempill , John Kennedy of Air , John Lejlic from Abcrdene , William Glendtnning Proveft of Kirkubright, John CW^r,Ruling Elders, with the con- curfe of the Procurator of the Kirk : And grants to them full Power and Commifsion in this interim , betwixt and the next Af- fembly, for to meet and conveen at Edinburgh upon the feventeene day of this moneth of LAugufl,and upon any other day , or in any other place, as they fhall think convenient : And being met and
convee-
1 be&cneraU Ajlembly, \6\i. 19
conveened , or any flfteene of them , there being alwayes twelve Miniftersprefent: With full power for to confider and performe what they finde neceflary for the Minifterie,by preaching/upplica- ting, preparing of draughts of one Confeflion , one Catechilme, one directory of publick Worfhip (which are alwayes to be revifed by the next Generall AfTembly ) and by all other lawfull and Ec- clefiaftick waves , for furtherance of this great Work, in the Uni- on of this Hand in Religion and Kirk-government , and for conti- nuance of our owne peace at home , and of the common peace be- twixt the Nations , and keeping of good correfpondence betwixt the Kirks of this Hand. Like as if it (hall pleafe God to bletfe the prayers and endeavours of his Saints for this bletfed Union , and that if either the Lords of Councell , or Commiflioners for the Peace (hall require their concurfe at tiome or abroad, by fending Commiflioners with theirs to His Majefty and Parliament for that effect , or that they themfelves (hall flnde it neceflary ; The AfTem- bly grants full power to them, not only to concurre by all lawfull and Ecclefiaftick wayes , with the Councell and Coniervators of the Peace at home, but alfo to fend fome to prefent and profe- cuce their defires and humble advice to His Majefty and the Par- liament,and the Minifterie there , for the furthering and perfecting of fo good and great a Worke. Like as , with power to them to promove their other defires , overtures , and recommendations of this Afiembly, to the Kings Majeftie , Lords of Councell, Seflion, Exchequer, and Commiflioners of Parliament, for plan- tation of Kirks, for common burdens, or confervation of the common peace, and to the Parliament of this Kingdomc, incafe it fall out pro re nata before the next Afiembly. And fuch- like, with as full power to them to proceede , treat and de- termine in 'any other matters to be committed to them by this Afiembly , as if the famine were herein particularly infert, and with as ample power to proceede in the matters particu- larly or generally above-mentioned , as any Commifsioners of Generall Aflemblies have had , and have beene in ufe of be- fore : They being alwayes comptable to , and cenfurable by the next Generall AfTembly, for their proceedings thereanent.
Self.
SefT. Xlll.6.vfuS.i6+i.
A Letter from fome diftre fifed ProfeiTors in Ireland.
To the reverend and right Honourable the rPvfo^ derator and remanent members of the (fenerall Afjembly of Scotland , conveened at S. An- drews,*)* luly i6/\.z. The humble Tetition of the mojlpart of the Scottifh 3\(ation in the 3\(orth of Ireland, in their owne names, and in name of the reft of the Trotejlants there.
Humbly [hetveth, ^W£^W$ Hat where your Petitioners , by the great bleffing of ||ilsp>5SS||| the Lord , enjoyed for a little while a peaceable HgHT^ ^f^ anc* fru^u^ Minifterie of the Gofpel , yet through g<j«l _L |^2|| our own abufe of fo rich a mercy , and through the *!pl?8§ppj|| tyranny of the Prelates , we have been a long time S&am^mi0Sh {poyled of our Minifters (a yoke to many of us hea- vier then death ') who being chafed into Scotland , were not alto- gether un-ufefull in the day of your need •, And we having been fince oppreiled and fcattered,as fheep who have no fhepherd , now at laft the wife and righteous hand of the Lord, by the fword of the Rebells , hath bereft us of our friends,and fpoiled us of our goods, and left us but a few , and that a poore handfull of many , and hath chafed from us the reft that were called our Minifters ; the greateft part whereof we could fcarce efteeme fuch,as being rather Officers toput thePrelats Injunctions in execution ,then feeders of our fouls: So that now being vifited with fword and fickneffe , and under fome apprehenfion of famine , if withall we fhall tafte of the foreft of all plagues, to be altogether deprived of the Minifterie of the Word , we fhall become in fo much a worfe condition then any Pagans,as that once we enjoyed a better : Neither know we what hand to turne us to for help , but to the Land fo far obliged by the Lords late rare mercies , and fo far enriched to furnifh helpeof that kind} a Land whence many of us drew our bloud and breath, and where ( pardon the necefTary boldnefTe ) fome of our own Minifters now are , who were fo violently plucked from us,fo fore againft both their own and our wills -7 yea , the Land that fo ten- derly in their bofomes received our poore out-cafts , and that hath already fent us fo rich a fupplie of able and profperous Souldiers to revenge our wrong.
Therefore
The (jenerallAJjembly, 16+1 . 31
Therefore ,although we know that your zeal and brotherly affe- ction would urge you to take notice without our advertifement,yet give us leave in the bowels of our Lord Jefus Chrift , to entreat, if therebeanyconfokitioninChrift, if any comfort of love, if any fellowfhip of the fpirit , ifany bowels of mercy ,that now in this nick of time , when the fword of the Enemy making way for a more profitable entertaining the Gofpel , having alfo banifhed the Prelates & their follovvers,\vhen our extremity of diftreffe, and the fair hopes of f peedy fettling of peace , hath opened fo fair a doore to the Gofpel , you would take the caufe of your younger fifter, that hath no brefts, to your ferious conlidetation , and pity poore <jMacedonia.ns crying to you , that ye would come over and help us, being the fervants of the God of your Fathers , and claiming inte- reft with you in a common Covenant , that according to the good hand of God upon us,ye may fend us Miniilers for the houfe of our God. We do nott:Jke upon us to prefcribetoyouthe way or the number, but in the view of all, the finder of the Lord points at theie,whom though perfection of the Prelats drew iromus, yet our intereft in them could not be taken away , wherein we trull in regard of feverallof them , called home by death , your boun- tie, will fuper-adde fume able men of your own that may help to lay the foundation of Gods houfe,accordingtothe Pattern. But for thefe fo unjuftly reft from us , not only our neceffity, but equi- ty pleads , that either you would fend them all over , which were a Work to be parallelled to the glories of the Primitive times , or at leaft that you would declare themtranfportable, that when In vita- tors (hall be fent to any ofthem , wherein they may difierne a call from God, there may be no diffj cultie in their loofing from thence, but they may come back to perfect what they began , and may get praife and fame in the Land, where they were put to fhame. Nei- ther are you to queftion your power over us fo to doe , or crave a prefident of your owne practice in that kind, for our extraordinary need calling on you , furnifheth you with a uovver to make this a prefident for the like cafes hereafter: herein if you {hall lay afide the particular concernement offome few places, which you may eafily out of your rich Nurferies , plant again , and make ufeof your pu- blick fpirits , which are not fpent , butincreafes by your fo many noble defignes •, you fhall leave upon us and our poftericie the damn of an obligation that cannot be delete , or that cannot beexpreffed; you fhall lend to all the neighbouring Churches a patterne, & erect for after-ages a monument of (elf denying tender zeale •, you fhall disburden the Land of the many out-cafts, who will follow over their Minifters-and you iliall make it appear ,that the churlilh boun- ty of the Prelats, which at firft calf fome of thefe men over to us, is not comparable with the cheerfull liberalitie of a rightly confti- tute Generall AiTembly , to whom we are pcrfwaded , the Lord will sive feed for the loane which you beftow on the Lord -, yea, the day may come, when a Generall AiTembly in this Land may E rcturne
^z The (jenerallAjjembly, 164.2.
returne to you the firft fruits of thanks , for the plants of your free gift. And although you were fcantoffurnitureofthis kindeyour felves, or might apprehend more need then formerly , yet doubt - leffe, your bowels of companion would make your deep povertie even in a great tryall of affliction , abound to the riches of your liberahtie. But now feeing you abound in all things, and have for- merly given fo ample a proof of your large beftowing on Churches abroad in Germanic and France , knowing that you are not wearied in well-doing, we confidently promife to our felves in your name, that ye will abound in this grace alfo , following the example of our Lord, and the Primitive Churches , who al waves fent out di- fciples in paires. But if herein our hopes (hall faile us , we (hall not know whether to wifhthat we had dyed with our Brethren by the Enemies hand •, for we {hall be as if it were laid unto us , Goe fcrve other gods ; yet looking for another kinde of Anfwer at your hands, for in this you are to us as an Angel of God,we have fent thefe bea- rers, N1 after J-ohn Gordoun^ and Mafter Hugh Campbell our Brethren, who may more particularly informe you of our cafe, and defire that at their returne, they may refrelh the bowels of
Tour mofi in ft am and came ft Supplicants.
Commijiion to feme zPi/ftnijlers to go to Ireland.
^He Aflembly having received a Petition , fubferi- i bed by a confiderable number in the North of I Ireland , intimating their deplorable condition, i through want of the Minifterie of the Gofpel, [ occasioned by the tyrannie oi: the Prelats, and the fword of the Rebels,and defiling fome Minifters, efpccially fuch as had beene chafed from them , by the perfection or the Prelats , and fome others to be added , either to be fent pre- sently over to refide among ft them,or declared tranfportable, that upon invitation from them,they might goe and fettle there * toge- ther with (orae particular Petitions , defiring the returne of fome particular Minifters,who had laboured there before: All which the Aiiembly h?th taken to their ferious confideration , being raoft heartily willing to fympathize with every member of Chrifts Bo- dy, although never fo remote t, much more with that Plantation there, which -for the moft part was a Branch of the Lords Vine, planted in this Land. In which (bllicitude, as they would be loath to uiurpe without their own bounds, or ft retch themfelves be- yond their owne meafnre \ fo they dare not be wanting,
iFbe (jenerall Afjemhly , \6\i. 32
to the enlargement of Chrifts Kingdome , where To loud a cry of fo extreame neeeflitie,cou)d not but ftirre up the.bowels of Chri- stian compafflon. And although they conceive, that the prefenc unfettled condition both-of Church, and State,and Land , will not fuffer them as yet to loofe any to make conftanc abode there ; yet they have refblved to fend over fome, for the prefent exigent till the-next Generall Aflembly ,by courfes, to ftay there four moneths allanerly : And therefore doe hereby authorize and give Commif- ■finn to the per-fons following , to wit, Matter Robert Blair , Mini- ster at S. Andrews , and Mafter Jfatfi Hamilton , Minifter at Dum- ^/mV for the firft foure moneths : Matter Robert Ramfay , Minifter at Glafgow , andTvlafter J-obn UMaclelland , Minifter at Kirkudbrigbt, for the next four moneths: and to Matter Robert Baill:e, profeflor ofdivinicieinthe Univerfit-ieof Glafgow , and Matter j-obn Levi- floun, Minifter at Stranraier f )r the laft four moneths : To repair into the North of Ireland , and there to vifit, comfort , initrudt and encourage the fcattered flocks of Chritt , to employ to their utter- moft with all faith tulneffe and finglenefle of heart , in planting and watering according to the direction of Jefus Chritt , and according to Lhe doctrine and difciplme of this Church in all things, And if need be ( with concurrence of fuch of the Minifters of the Ar- my as are there ) to try and ordain fuch as (hall be found qualified fortheMiniftrie, Giving charge unto the perfons forefaid in the fight of God,that in doctrine, in worfhip,in difcipline, and in their dayJy converfation , they ftudie to approve themfelves as the Mi- nifters of Jefus Chrift,and that they be comptable to the Generall Aflembly of this Kirk, in all things. And in cafe if any of the above- mentioned Minifters be impeded byficknefTe , or otherwife ne- ceflarily detained from this fervice , the Aflembly ordaines the Commiflioners refiding at Edinburgh , for the publick affairs of* the Church , to nominate in their place well qualified men, who hereby are authorized to undertake the forefaid employment , as if they had beene exprcflely nominate in the face of the Aflembly. And this, although poffibly it fhall not fully fatisfie the long expe- ctation of the Brethren in Ireland + yet the AfTembly is confident they will take in good part at this time , that which is judged mod convenient for their prefent condition , even a lent mite out of their own , not very great plenty , to lupply the prefent neceflity; requiring of them no other recompence , but that they in all cheer- fulnefTcmay embrace and make ufe of the mefTage offalvation, and promifing to enlarge their indebted bounty at the next Aflem- bly,as they (hall finde the Worke of the Lord there to require . In the meane while, wilhing that theft who arc fent , may come with the full blefling of the Gofpel and peace , and recommending them, their labours , and thefeto whom they are lent , to the rkli blefsingof the great fhepherd of the flock.
E ft Self.
34- TkeCjenerattAjfernbly, \6/\.z.
Self. XIII. 6. Aug. 164.2, ft£ti againft fandering of zSMiniJlers.
| He Generall AfTembly confidering the malice of \ divers perfons in railing calumnies and fcandalls I againft Minifters , which is not onely injurious to \ their perfons , and difcreditable to the holy cal- • ling of the Minifterie , but doth alio prove often _Ja great prejudice and hinderance to the promoving of the Gofpel : Doe therefore ordaine Presbyteries and Synods to proceed diligently in procefTe againft all perfons , that (hall re- proach or fcandall Minifters , with the cenfures of the Kirk , even to the higheft, according as they fhall fmde the degree or quality of the fcandall deferve.
aAB anent ordering of the <tAjJernbly Houfe .
H^lfHe AfTembly for better order in time coming ordains the |2Tj$gA<5t of the AfTembly at Aberdeem for ordering the I^j$§j>S Houfe of the AfTembly to be kept hereafter punctually. And for that effect, that the famine be reade the firft Seflion of eve- ry AfTembly.
6. Jug. 1 6<\.i.
oJfB for remembring in pub lie sprayers the de- fires oftheAfjemblieto the tQng and Parlia- ment} andindiUionofapubliclfFajl.
|He Generall AfTembly being defirous to promove 1 the great work of Unity in Religion, andUnifor- ] mity in Church-government , in all thir three Dominions,for which the AfTembly hath humbly J fupplicat the Kings Majeftie,and remonftrate their ? defires to the Parliament of England , left they ihould be wanting in any meane that may further fo glorious and fo good a Work : Doe ordaine, that not only the laid Declaration to the Parliament , and fupplication to the Kings Ma/eftie, fhall be accompanied with the earneft Petitions and prayers of the whole Brethren in private and publick , for the Lords blelfing thereunto, according to the laudable cuftome of our predeceiTors , who in the
year
clhe(jeneraudfjemblyy\6/\.z. 35
year of" God 1 589 . ordaines rhat the Brethren in their private and publick prayers , recommend unto God the eftate ofthe afflicted Church oi England: But having juft caufe of fear , that the iniqui- ties ofthe Land , which fo much abound , may marre this fo great a Work , doe alfo ordain a folemne Faft to be kept on the fecond Lords day of September , and the Wednefday following throughout the whole Kingdome for the caufes after fpecified.
Groffe ignorance and all fort of wickednefiTe among the greater part, fecurity, meer formaline and unfruitfulnefle among the beft, and unthankfulnefle in all.
The fword raging throughout all Chriftendome , but mod bar- baroufly in Ireland, and dayly more and more threatned in England through the lamentable divifion betwixt the King and the Parlia- ment there , tending to the fubverfion of Religion and Peace in all the three Kingdomes.
That God may gratioufly blefTe the Application of the AfTem- bly to the Kings Majefty , and their motion to the Parliament of England^ for Unity in Religion, and Uniformity of Kirk-govern- ment , and all other means which may ferve for the promoving of 10 great a Workc, and advancement of the Kingdome of Chrift every where.
That God may powerfully overturne all wicked plots and de- fignes of Antichnft and his followers , and all divifive motions againft the courfe of Reformation , and the fo much longed for Union ofthe King and Parliament.
That God may blefTe the harveft.
Inference from the Tresbyterie of Kirkcaldie.
H»|§Nent the Ads of the Atfemblies , for obfervation of the P A»jj Lords Dav, profaned by going of Salt-pans , That this iS&S&Fe Affcmbly would declare the limits ofthe Sabbath , during which the Pannes fhould ftand.
T
He Jffembly referres the Anfver of this ^ueflion3to the K^iCls of former Ajjemblies.
'Reference from the Synod ofFyffe.
fP^I|f Hat the Provinciall of dingus keep their meeting on SiX ^ Cne fame day with the Synod of Eyjfe, which breakes the §&!$£$ corref pondence between them , appointed by the Generall Affembly ot'Glafgorv.
ANSWER
%6 1 he LjeneraUAJJembly, \6\z.
ANSWER.
THe t^Affembly or dairies the Provinciall L^flembly of Angus to keep their firfi meeting upon the third Tuefday of April, conformc to the K^itt ofthcfaidAjJembly of Glafgow .
Overtures to be advijed byTresbyteries againjl the next Ajfembly .
«^^|Ow Appeals (hall be brought in to the Generall Affem- HtHiH bites, and by what fort of citation. gjjS^ Whatfhallbetheprefcriptionof fcandalls 3 within }l^?$M what fpace of time (hall they be challenged, whether af- ter three years , the Minifter having been allowed and approved in life and doctrine by Synods, Presbyteries, and Vifitations.
What order mail be taken /or keeping General AfTemb lies/when "Presbyteries fend not the full number of CommifTioners : Or when the CommifTioners abide not untill the conclufion and dif- folving of the Aflembly.
Order to be advifed for Teftimonialls.
THe Aflembly appoints the next Generall Aflembly to hold at Edin- burgh thefrfl Wednefday of Auguft3 1643.
FIJ^IS.
MM INDEX OF THE PPvINCIPALL
Adls ofthe Generall AfiTemblies holden at
Edinburgh 1635). At Aderdene 164.0.
At S.A n d r e w s and E d i n v u r g h 1641 .
and at S.Andrsws 1642. which
are not printed.
Index of the principal! ^AUs of the Afjembly at Edinburgh 1639. not printed,
Hie Kings Majeflies Commission to John Earlc of \ Traquair.
► Election of Mafter David Diekftn Moderator. ) The Kings dfajeflies Commifsioners ,and the Affem- r bites Declarations anent the Affembly 0/Glafgow. \ Renunciation of CM after Alexander Lindfay />r<:- tendedBifhop 0/Dunkell, ofEpifcopacie. Commifsion for visitation of the Univerfitie of S. Andrews. Commifsion for vifitation ofthe Univerfitie e/Glafgow. Ad reviving former Ails again ft going of Salt-pannes on the Sabbath
day. Ail for drawing up of a Catcchifme.
Articles and Overtures to be prefentedto the enfuing Parliament. The report ofthe Committee appointed for examination ofthe Book called,
The Kings Manifefto, or Declaration. The Covenant or Confefswn of Faith.
Act anent the adjoining of fome Kirh in the lie of Boot to the Vre>by '•/'Denune. ning fome Kirh in the lies 0/Coill and Ty rie,/0 the Trovm ctaU 0, Kilmoire. Commifsion for vifitation ofthe Col/edge of Aberdenc. Commifsion to the Vresbytcric 0/ Edinburgh.
Index
Index.
Index oftheprincipall Ms of the ^Affembly at Aberdene \6\o. not printed.
% Lection of CM after Andrew Ramfay CModerator.
\ Act agatnfl profaning of the Sabbath.
, Act anent Charmers.
\ Act renewing of a former Act made again ft Priors and
* Abbots.
s Commission for attending the Parliament, fommifsion anent the Province ofRoftk. Commission anent the Presbyterie 0/Kirkwall. Act anent the Presbyterie- feat 0/Selkirk.
Re fort of the Vifitorsofthe Univerfttie of Glafgow , and a new Corn- mi fs ion of vi fit at ion of that Univerfity. Act anent the carriage of CMiniflers. Act anent the ordering of Family Exercife. Act for Ruling Elders keeping of Presbyteries. Act anent Magiflrates being CM embers of Kirk Sefsion. approbation of the procedings of the Commifsioners appointed to at- tend the preceding Parliament. i^Act anent aboliftnng of idolatrous monuments. Act anent abolifhing of idolatrous monuments in and about Aberdene. The report of the Victors of the Univerfity /^Aberdene. C'ommifsionfor vi filing the Univerfity of Aberdene.
Index of the principallABsofthe Jjjembly holden at S. Andrews, and Edinburgh \6/\.\.
'tis CMajeflies Commifsion to John Earle tf/Weemes. -"A Letter from the Parliament to the General! Affembly. *i Act anent the continuation of Mafler Andrew Ram- fay Cfrtodcrator. 1 His CM aje flics Letter to the t^Ajfembly. \ Act anent the tranflation of the Affembly from S. An- drews to Edinburgh. Election of CM after Alexander Henderfon CModcrator. Declaration of the Ajjembly anent the tranflation thereof to Edinburgh. Act for drawing up one Catcchifmc,one Confefsion of faith, directory of
publickjvorfhip and forme of Kirk-government. Act anent C^f after Andrew Ramfay' s delivery to the Clerk the Books,
Warneflus book ^and others, which he received at Aberdene. Overtures anent tranfportation of CMiniHersyand plantation ofSchoolcs,
recommended to beadvifedby Synods. Preference to the Parliament anent the Kirks a/Dunkeld* Act anent CM aster David Calderwood.
Com-
Index.
\commifsion anent erecting of a Presbytery in Biggar.
commission for visitation 0/Orknay And Zetland.
]Act anent bringing of the Synod Books to the ^(femblies .
Reference from the Parliament anent a Band and a paper called a Mani-
1 fefto.
\Act anent the deleting of the Earle of Traquairs Declaration out of the
Books of fecret CouncelL Report of Overtures made anent the plantation of Kirks in High-lands. Commifsion for vifitation of thellniverfity ofS. Andrews. Commifsion for vifitation of the Univerpty of Glafgow. Commission to attend the Parliament. Reference to that Commifsion anent the Prcsbytcrie of Sky.
Index of the principal! Acts of the ^/[jjembly holden at S. Andrews, zj.fulyi6^.z. not printed.
g5$te|l||fr (JWajefties Commifsion granted to Charles Earle of ||p*^y|| Dumfermling.
||g| H|||| Election of CM after Robert Douglas Moderator. $^IIF^^ ^Acceptation of the Commission from the Sc )trifh Kirk wh^&&(%&* at Czmphm , granted to Mafler William Spang. K^icl renewing the Commifsions for vifitation of the Univerfitics of
S. Andrews and Glafgow. Kytt~l anent delivery of the Irifli contribution to the receivers appointed
by the fecret Com cell. Act Anent idolatrous monuments in Rut hw all.
Kyict anent the Books of the Presbyteries in our Kyirmy that voent to Eng- land. Kyici anent the planting of the Kirk of Kilwinning. Commifsion anent the erecting of a Presbyter ie in Biggar. K^ict repealing the Act of the Synod of Galloway concerning trya'.l cr
actuallMiniflers. The Kings Declaration anent the gift of 500. lib. Kyict for fending of Expectants to. "Ireland , and for a Comtnifsion to be
drawn up tojome Mimfter-s to go there. Recommendation to the Marques 0/Argyle anent Patrick Egertie Pr/V/f,
and all other Priefis,orfayers ofMajje in the North lies, or within the
bounds of his Jufliciarie. Act anent the reponing ofMafer Gilbert Power. Act for putting the Overtures anent maintaining of Bur firs •
Presbyter ie in practice. Report of the Commijsion for revifing of fome Synod Books , a,: J the
K-siffemblies approbation. Kyi ct for giving franfumpls of the Covenant an I Pan I. \uict for fending ofGemrall Acts of A\Jer»blies to Synods.
index.
Act ancnt James Murray.
Report oftheCommittee of reports of the proceedings of the Commlf stoned
of the lafi i_sf(fcmbly appointed to attend the Parliament^ with certain
Overtures of the A(femblies approbation thereof^ with the double of the
Signator of *oo.lib.fent to His Majeflie. Commifsion for vifitationof Orknay and Zetland. Reference to the Commifsion of this Affembly, anent the choyfe of any Mi-
niflcr togoe to Ireland, in place of any of the fix appointed by this Af-
fembly to that effect, in cafe they or any of them be impeded byficknejfe
or death. Recommendation of the lies, Anandail, Efcdaill, Liddifdaill, <&c. for
want of Kirks andSchooles of the Presbyteries of Lochmaben , and'
Newbie^ for want of a Civ ill Magi 'fir ate , to the Commifsion for plan- \
tation ofKirks, andfecret Councefl, refpe&ive. Reference to the Commifsion of this Affembly for planting of the Kirks of
Edinburgh . Act anent Mafler Colyils invitation to S. Andrews. Commifion anent the planting of the Landward Kirk ofS. Andrews. References and Overtures , and the Ajfemblies anfwer thereto. Reference to the Commifsion of this <^A(fembly anent Mafler James
Fairlie. -. -
Reference to the Commifsion of this Affembly anent tht ' pl*nting<fl$6
Kirk fl/Dundie. overtures anent the Kirk o/Campheir. ffS^jl
Recommendation to the Magijlrates o/Glafgow anen,t munctayes market. Act ancnt giving into the Clerk the Lifl of Expectants. Act giving power and Ubertie to Sir Archibald Johnftoun Procurator
for the Kirk , and fork to the General! Affembly , to adjoyne any *#
himfelfy or to depute any in thefe Offices whom f)ejhattth~in1e]it\
:
FINIS.
Faults efcaped.
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