III. In the next roome, we finde, that it is a transporting of Ministers for publike good, that Colledges, (having the profession of Divinitie) be wel provided of professors.

Wherin the Colledge of Divinitie in S. Andrews is first to be served without taking any Professors or Ministers out of Edinburg, Glasgow, or Aberdene, and then the rest of the Colledges, would be provided for, as their necessity shal require: yet (in respect of the present scarcity) it were good for the Universities to send abroad for able and approved men, to be Professors of Divinitie, that our Ministers may be kept in their pastoriall charge as much as may be.

Towns also wherein Colledges are, are very considerable in the matter of transportation.

IV. Also Congregations, where Noblemen have chief residence are to be regarded, whether planted or unplanted, and a care is to be had, that none be admitted Ministers where Popish Noblemen reside, but such as are able men (especially for controversies) by sight of the Presbyterie: and moreover it is necessary, that such Minesters as dwell where Popish Noblemen are, and are not able for controversies, that they be transported.

V. They who desire the transportation of a Minister should be obliged to give reasons for their desire: Neither should any Presbyterie or Assembly, passe a sentence for transportation of any Minister, till they give reasons for the expediencie of the same, both to him and his Congregation, &c. to the Presbyterie whereof he is a member. If they acquiesce to the reasons given, it is so much the better: if they doe not acquiesce, yet the Presbyterie, or Assembly, (by giving such reasons before the passing of their sentence) shal make it manifest, that what they doe is not pro arbritratu, vel imperio onely, but upon grounds of reason.

VI. Because there is such scarcity of Ministers having the Iris tongue, necessity requires, that when they be found in the Low-lands, they be transported to the High-lands: providing their condition be not made worse, but rather better by their transportation.

VII. In the point of voluntary transportation, no Minister shal transact and agree with any Parish, to be transsported thereto, without a full hearing of him, and his Parish, before the Presbyterie to which he belongs in his present charge, or superiour Kirk judicatories, if need shall be.

VIII. The planting of vacant Kirks, is not to be tyed to any (either Ministers, or Expectants) within a Presbyterie: but a free election is to be; according to the order of our Kirk, and Lawes of our Kingdome.

IX. The chief Burghs of the Kingdome are to be desired to traine up young men of excellent spirits for the ministery, according to their power, as was recommended to Edinburgh: Which course will in time (God willing) prevent many transplantations.

——————————————————-

The Overtures under-written anent the Schooles being likewise read in audience of the Assembly, they recommend the particulars therein mentioned, anent the providing of the maintenance for School-masters to the Parliament: And ordaine the rest to be sent to the Synods, to be considered by them, and they to report their judgements thereof to the next General Assembly, as said is.

I. Every Parish would have a Reader and a Schoole, where Children are to be bred, in reading, writing, and grounds of Religion, according to the laudable Acts, both of Kirk and Parliament, made before.

And where Grammar Schooles may be had, as in Burghs, and other considerable places, (among which all Presbyterial Seats are to be reputed) that they be erected, and held hand to.

II. Anent these Schooles, every Minister with his Elders shall give accompt to the Presbyteries at the visitation of the Kirk: The Presbyteries are to make report to the Synode, and the Synode to the General Assembly, that Schools are planted, as above said, and how they are provided with men and means.

III. And because this hath been most neglected in the High-lands, Ilands, and borders. Therefore the Ministers of every Parish are to instruct by their Commissioners, to the next General Assembly, that this course is begun betwixt and then: and they are further to certifie from one General Assembly to another, whether this course is continued without omission, or not.

IV. And because the means hitherto named or appointed for Schooles of all sorts, hath been both little, and ill payed, Therefore, beside former appointments, (the execution whereof is humbly desired, and to be petitioned for at the hands of His Majestie and the Parliament) the Assembly would further supplicate this Parliament that they (in their wisdome) would finde out how meanes shall be had for so good an use, especially that the Children of poore men, being very capable of learning, and of good engines, may be trained up, according as the exigence and necessity of every place shall require. And that the Commissioners, who shall be named by this Assembly, to wait upon the Parliament may be appointed to represent this to his Majestie, and the Parliament, seeing His sacred Majestie, by his gracious Letter hath put us in hope hereof, wherewith we have been much refreshed.

V. The Assembly would supplicate the Parliament, that for youths of the finest and best spirits of the High-lands, and borders, maintenance may be allotted (as to Bursars) to be bred in Universities.

VI. For the time and manner of visitation of Schooles, and contriving the best and most compendious and orderly course of teaching Grammar, we humbly desire the Assembly to appoint a Committee for that effect, who may report their diligence to the next General Assembly.

The Overtures and Articles above-written being reported to this Assembly, after reading and serious consideration thereof, the Assembly approves the same, and ordaines them to have the strength of an Act and ordinance of Assembly, in all time-coming.



Sess. 11. August 5. 1642.



Act anent contrary Oaths.

The Generall Assembly finding the inconvenience of contrary Oaths in trying of Adulteries, Fornications, and other faults and scandals, do therefore for eviting there of, discharge Synods, Presbyteries and Sessions, to take Oath of both parties in all time hereafter, Recommending to them in the mean time all other order and wayes of tryall used in such cases: And that there may be a common order and course kept in this Kirk of trying of publike scandals, The Assembly ordains the Presbyteries to advise upon some common order hereintill, and to report their judgements to the next Assembly.



Overtures anent Family Exercises, Catechising, keeping of Synods and Presbyteries, and restraint of Adulteries, Witch-crafts, and other grosse sins.

The Committee supplicates the Assembly,

I. To urge the severall Synods and Presbyteries, especially these of the North, that Family Exercise in Religion, visitation of the Churches, Catechising, keeping of the Presbyteriall and Provinciall meetings (both by Preaching and Ruling Elders) be more carefully observed.

II. That the Clerk at least subscribe every Book before it come to the Assembly, and that every Act be noted on the Margent, for a directory of expedition.

III. That the Assembly would seriously studie by all meanes and wayes how to procure the Magistrates concurrence to curb and punish these notorious vices which abound in the Land, especially in the Northern parts.

_The Assembly approves the Overtures foresaids, and ordains them to be observed: and for the last, the Assembly being confident of _ the readinesse of the Judge Ordinar to restrain and punish these faults, Do therefore ordain all Presbyteries to give up to the Justice, the names of the Adulterers, incestuous persons, Witches and sorcerers and others guilty of such grosse and fearfull sins within their bounds that they may be Processed and punished according to the Laws of this Kingdom; and that the Presbyteries and Synods be carefull herein, as they will answer to the Generall Assemblies, And because that Witch craft, Charming, and such like proceeds many times from ignorance, Therefore the Assembly ordains all Ministers, especially in these parts where these sins are frequent, to be diligently Preaching, Cathichising, and conferring, to inform their people thereintill._



Sess. 11. Aug. 5. 1642.



Act against Petitions, Declarations, & suchlike in name of Ministers, without their knowledge and consents.

The Generall Assembly being informed, that after the Petition presented to the Lords of His Majesties Privie Councell by the Noblemen Burgesses, and Ministers, occasionally met at Edinburg the 31. day of May last by-past, had received a very gracious Answer, There was another Petition given in to their Lordships upon the 2 day of June last, entituled, The Petition of the Nobilitie, Gentrie, Burrows, Ministers, and Commons: which as it was not accompanied with any one Minister to the Lords of Privie Councell, so all the Ministers of this Assembly, disclaimes and disavoweth any knowledge thereof, or accession thereto, And the Assembly conceiving that the Kings Majestie Himself, and all the Courts and Judicatories of this Kingdome may be deluded and abused, and the Kirk in Generall, and Ministers in particular injured and prejudged by the like practises hereafter, Do therefore prohibite and discharge all and every one to pretend or use the name of Ministers to any Petition, Declaration, or suchlike at any time hereafter, without their knowledge consent and assistance: And if any shal doe the contrary, ordaines Presbyteries and Provinciall Assemblies to proceed against them with the highest censures of the Kirk.



Sess 11. Aug. 5. 1642.



Act anent the Assemblies desires to the Lords of Counsell, and Conservators of Peace.

The Assembly being most desirous to use all, and to omit no lawful meane or occasion to testifie their zeale by dealing with God and man, for furtherance of their desires of Unity in Religion and uniformity of Kirk-government, And considering the great necessity, that the Kirk and State contribute joyntly their best endeavours to this happy end: Therefore enjoynes the Moderator, and the commissioners from the Assembly, to supplicate with all earnestnesse and respect, the Lords of his Majesties Honourable Privie Councel, and likewise the Commissioners appointed by His Majestie, and the Parliament, for conservation of the Peace, that they may be pleased to concur with the Kirk in the like desires to His Majesty and the Parliament of England, and in the like directions to the Commissioners of this Kingdome, at London for the time, that by all possible means, Civill, and Ecclesiastick, this blessed Worke may be advanced, and a happy settling betwixt His Majestie and His Parliament, may be endeavoured, and the common Peace betwixt the Kingdomes continued and strengthened.



Sess. 11. Aug 5. 1642.



The Assemblies humble desire to the Kings Majestie for the Signator of 500 l. Sterling and recommendation thereof to the Kings Commissioner.

The Generall Assembly having received the Report of the proceedings of the Commissioners of the late Assembly, and specially that His Majesty was graciously pleased, upon their humble Petition, solemnly to promise and declare under his Royall hand, his pious resolution and dedication of 500. l. sterling, out of the readiest of his Rents and revenues, to be imployed yearly on publike necessary and pious uses of the Kirk, at the sight of the Generall Assembly, as his Majestie gracious answer of the 3. of January, 1642. registrate in their books at His Majesties own desire, for their further assurance of his Majesties pious zeale, doth more fully proport. Likeas being informed that His Majestie was gratiously pleased to signe and send down to the Kirk the Signator of the said 500. l. yearly to have past the Exchequer, albeit the samine is not as yet delivered; And considering His Majesties pious directions to them by his Majesties Letter to plant and visit the utmost skirts and borders of the Kingdome, as most necessary for the glory of God, the good of the Kirk, and His Majesties honour, and service, which is only stopped by the want of charges for publike visitations, And withall to remonstrate to His Majestie by His Commissioner, their just and necessary desires for what may further serve to the good of Religion, whereunto His Majesties Commissioner promised his best endeavours and assistance. Therefore the Assembly doth most earnestly recommend to His Majesties Commissioner to represent to His Majestie, with his best assistance, the humble and necessary desires of the whole Assembly, that His Majestie will be graciously pleased to command that Signator, already signed by His Royall hand (or to signe another of the samine tenor, whereof they deliver the just double to his Maj Commissioner for that effect) to be sent to this Kingdom, and delivered to the Commissioners from this Assembly, who are to sit at Edinburgh, or to the Procurator of the Kirk, whereby his Majestie shall more and more oblige this whole Kirk to pray for a blessing from Heaven upon His Royal Person and Government.



Sess. 11. Aug. 5. 1642.



The Assemblies Letter to the Commissioners of this Kingdom at London.

Right Honourable,

We have received your Lordships Letter, with the Declaration of the Parliament of England, and have sent this Noble bearer to His Majesty with our humble Supplication, and to your Lordships with our Answer earnestly desiring Unity of Religion, and Uniformity of Kirk-government, to be presented by your Lordships, and this Noble bearer to the Honourable Houses of Parliament. Your Lordships will perceive by the inclosed Copies, and by our desires to His Majesties honourable Privie Councel and Commissioners for the conservation of the Peace, to joyn their best endeavours with his Majestie and the Parliament, and their directions to your Lordships, by our leaving a Commission behinde us, to concur with them in all Ecclesiastick wayes, and by our appointing publike Prayers, and a solemn Fast through this Kirk, for the furtherance of this great work of Reformation, and continuance of the common Peace, that this Unity in Religion and uniformity of Kirk-government is the chiefest of our desires, prayers and cares: Where unto as we have been encouraged by the faithful labors of the Commissioners of this Kingdom in the late Treaty, and continued and renewed by your Lordships; so we are assured, that your Lordships will omit no lawful mean, argument, or occasion of seconding the same there, And advertising our Commissioners at Edinburgh, wherein they may further concur with your Lordships, for the furtherance of the Work, which tends so much to the glory of God, advancement of Christs Kingdom, increase of the honour and happinesse of our Soveraign, and the peace and welfare of these Kingdoms, whereby your Lordships will oblige this Kirk more and more to pray for a blessing on your persons and travels, and to rest.

Yours in the Lord The Commissioners of the General Assembly.

S. Andrews 5. Aug. 1642.



A Letter from some Ministers of England.

Reverend and wel-beloved in our Lord and Saviour.

We received with much joy and satisfaction the Answer which your General Assembly vouchsafed us to our Letters of the last yeer. Some of us in the name of our Brethren, thought it then fit by Mr. Alexander Henderson (a Brother so justly approved by you, and honoured by us) to return our deserved thanks. And we now further think it equall upon this occasion, to make a more publike acknowledgement of such a publike favour. You were then pleased to give us fair grounds, to expect that brotherly advice and endeavours, which the common cause of Christ, and the mutual interest of the united Nations, command us now again to ask, if not to chalenge. We doubt not but your experience, together with your intelligence, abundantly informes you of our condition, what various administrations of providence we have passed through and we still lye betwixt hopes and feares, a fit temper for working; the God of all grace enable us to improve it. As our hopes are not such as may make us fear, so neither doe our Feares prevail, to the casting away our confidence. Your own late condition, together with this Declaration of ours present, may acquaint you with the certain, though subtil, authors & fomentors of these our confused conflicts: which we conceive to be the Hierarchical faction, who have no way to peace & safety, but through the trouble & danger of others. Our prayers and endeavours, according to our measure, have been and shall be for the supplanting and rooting up whatsoever we finde so prejudicial to the establishment of the Kingdome of Christ, and the peace of our Soveraigne. And that this Declaration of ourselves may not leave you unsatisfied, we think it necessary further to expresse, That the desire of the most godly and considerable part amongst us, is, That the Presbyterian Government, which hath just and evident Foundation both in the Word of God, and religious reason, may be established amongst us, and that (according to your intimation) we may agree in one confession of Faith, one directorie of Worship, one publike Catechisme and form of Governement: Which things, if they were accomplished, we should much rejoyce in our happy subjection to Christ our Head, and our desired association with you our beloved brethren. For the better effecting whereof, we thought it necessary, not only to acquaint you with what our desires are in themselves, but likewise to you, that is, That what way shall seem most fit to the wisedom of that grave and religious Assembly, may be taken for the furtherance of our indeavours in this kind. We understand that our Parliament hath been before hand with us in this intimation, and it cannot but be our duty, who are so much concerned in the businenesse, to adde what power the Lord hath given us with you to the same purpose. This designe and desire of ours hath enemies on the Left-hand; and dissenting brethren on the Right; but we doubt not, that as our hearts justifie us that our intentions are right, and such as we conceive tend most to the glory of God, and the peace of the Churches of the Saints; so (by your brotherly concurrence in the most speedy and effectuall way you can find out) the Work will in Gods due time receive a prayed for, hoped for issue. We shall not need by many arguments from mutuall Nationall interest (though we know you will not overlook them) to inforce this request, the firme bond wherewith we are all united in our Lord Jesus Christ, we are assured will alone engage your faithfull endeavours in this businesse. To him we commit you, with these great and important affairs you have in hand. Be pleased to accept of these as the expression of the mindes of our many godly and faithfull Brethren, whose hearts we doubt not of, neither need you, though their hands in regard of the suddennesse of this opportunity could not be subscribed together with ours, who are.

Your most affectionate Friends and Brethren in the work of the Lord.

London, 22. July, 1642.



Answer to the Ministers Letter.

Right Reverend and beloved in the Lord Jesus.

By our Answer to the Declaration sent unto us from the honourable Houses of Parliament, ye may perceive that your Letter which came into our hands so seasonably, was not only acceptable unto us, but hath also encouraged us to renew both to the Kings Majestie and the Houses of Parliament, The desires of the late Commissioners of this Kingdome for Unity in Religion, in the four particulars remembred by you, we cannot be ignorant but the opposition from Satan and worldly men in Kirk and Policy, will still be vehement as it hath been already, But we are confident through our Lord Jesus Christ, that the prayers and indeavours of the godly in both Kingdoms, will bring the work to a wished, and blessed Issue. This whole national Kirk is so much concerned in that Reformation and Unity of Religion in both Kingdomes, that without it we cannot hope for any long time to enjoy our puritie and peace, which hath cost us so dear, and is now our chiefest comfort and greatest treasure: Which one cause (beside the Honour of God, and the happinesse of the People of God in that Kingdome, more desired of us then Our lives) is more then sufficient to move us, To contribute all that is in our power for bringing it to passe. And since we have with so great liberty made our desires and hopes known both to King and Parliament, it is a duety incombent both to you and us, who make mention of the Lord, and are Watch-men upon the Walls of Jerusalem, never more to keep silence nor to hold our peace day nor night, till the Righteousnesse of Sion go forth as brightnesse, and the salvation thereof as a lamp that burneth. And if it shall please the Lord to move the hearts of King and Parliament, to hearken unto the motion, for which end we have resolved to keep a solemne Fast and Humiliation in all the Kirks of this Kingdome, the mean by which we have prevailed in times past, we wish that the Work may be begun with speed, and prosecuted with diligence by the joint labours of some Divines in both Kingdoms, who may prepare the same for the view and examination of a more frequent Ecclesiastick meeting of the best affected to Reformation there, and of the Commissioners of the General Assembly here, that in end it may have the approbation of the Generall Assembly here, and of all the Kirks there, in the best way that may be, we wish & hope at last in a nationall Assembly; Our Commissioners at Edinburgh, shall in our name receive and returne answers for promoving so great a Work, which we with our heart and our soule recommend to the blessing of God, we continue,

Your loving brethren and fellow-labourers.



Act for the Lord Maitlands presenting the Assemblies Supplication to His Majestie, and for going to the Commissioners at London, with the Answer to the Parliament of Englands Declaration.

The General Assembly considering the necessity of sending some person of good worth & quality for to present their humble Supplication to His Majestie, and to deliver their directions to the Commissioners of this Kingdom, now at London, with their Declaration to the Parliament of England, and Answer to some wel-affected Ministers of that Kirk: And having certain knowledge of the worth, ability, and faithfulnesse of John Lord Maitland, one of their number, who being witnesse to all their intentions and proceedings, can best relate their true loyaltie and respect to their Soveraign, and brotherly affection to the Kirk and Kingdom of England therein; Therefore do unanimously require his Lordships pains, by repairing to Court and to London for the premisses, which hereby they commit to this diligence and fidelity, willing his Lordship to make account of his proceedings herein to their Commissioners appointed to sit at Edinburgh.



Sess. 11. August 5. post meridiem.



Commission for publike affairs of this Kirk, and for prosecuting the desires of this Assembly to His Majestie, and the Parliament of England.

The General Assembly considering the laudable custome of this Kirk for to appoint some Commissioners in the interim betwixt Assemblies, for presenting of Overtures and prosecuting the other desires of the Kirk to His Majestie, the Lords of His Councell, and the Estates of Parliament; And taking to their consideration the present condition of the Kirk of England, with the Declaration thereof sent down from the Parliament, and some Reverend Brethren of the Ministery there, with their own Answer to the Parliament and Ministery, and their humble Supplication to His Majestie for Unity of Religion and Uniformity of Kirk-government. And withall remembring their desires to the Honourable Lords of His Majesties secret Councell, and to the Commissioners appointed by the King and Parliament, for conservation of the common Peace, That they would joyn their concourse in their desires to His Majestie and Parliament, and directions to the Commissioners of this Kingdom at London for the time. And likewise considering their good hopes from Gods gracious favour to this Island, that by his good providence he will in his own way and time settle this great Work through this whole Ile; And that it is both our earnest desire and Christian duty to use all lawfull means and Ecclesiastick wayes for furtherance of so great a Work, continuance of the common peace betwixt these nations, and keeping a brotherly correspondence betwixt these Kirks. Therfore the Assembly thinks it necessary before their dissolving, to appoint, and by these Presents do nominate and appoint, Masters Andrew Ramsay, Alex Henderson, Robert Dowglas, William Colvill, William Bennet Ministers at Edinburgh. Mr. William Arthur Minister at St. Cuthbert, Mr. James Robertson, John Logan, Robert Lighton, Commissioners from Dalkeith Assembly: Masters, Andrew Blackhall, James Fleeming, Robert Ker, Commissioners from Hadingtoun to the Assembly. Masters, George Hamilton, Robert Clair, Arthur Mortoun, David Dalgleish, Andrew Bennet, Walter Greg, John Moncreff, John Smith, George Gillespie, John Row, John Duncan, Walter Bruce, Commissioners for the Presbyteries within the Province of Fyffe: Mr. David Calderwood Minister at Pencait and Mr. John Adamson Principall of the Colledge of Edinburgh, Mr. John Strang Principall of the Colledge of Glasgow. Mr. David Dikson, Mr. James Bonar, Mr. Robert Bailie, Mr. John Bell, Mr Robert Ramsay, Mr. George Young, Mr Henry Guthrie, Mr. Samuel Oustein, Mr. John Robertson Minister at St. Johnstoun, Mr. John Robertson Minister at Dundie, Mr. John Hume Minister at Heckills, Mr. Andrew Cant, Mr William Guild, Mr. Samuel Rutherfurd, Mr. James Martin, Mr. Alexander Monroe, Mr. Robert Murray, Mr. John Maclellan, Mr. Andrew Doncanson, Mr. Silvester Lambie, Mr. Gilbert Ross, Ministers: Marquesse of Argile, Earles of Lauderdaile, Glencarne, Kingborne, Eglintoun, Weemes, Cassils: Lords Gordoun, Maitland, Balcarras, Sir Patrick Hepburne of Wauchtoun, Sir David Hum of Wedderburne, Sir David Creightoun of Lugtoun, Sir David Barclay of Cullearnie, John Henderson of Fordell, Mr. George Winrame of Libertoun, Sir Robert Drummond, Sir William Carmichaell, John Binnie, Thomas Paterson, John Sempill, John Kennedy of Air, John Leslie from Aberdene, William Glendinning Provest of Kirkubrigh, John Colzear, Ruling Elders with the concurse of the Procurator of the Kirk: and grants to them full Power and Commission in this interim, betwixt and the next Assembly, for to meet and conveen at Edinburgh upon the 17. day of this moneth of August, and upon any other day, or in any other place, as they shall think convenient: And being met and conveened, or any fifteen of them, there being alwayes twelve Ministers present: With full power for to consider and performe what they finde necessary for the Ministerie, by preaching, supplicating, prepairing of draughts of one Confession, one Cathechisme, one directory of publike Worship (which are alwayes to be revised by the next Generall Assembly) and by all other lawfull & Ecclesiastick wayes, for furtherance of this great Work in the Union of this Iland in Religion and Kirk-government, and for continuance of our own peace at home, and of the common peace betwixt the Nations, and keeping of good correspondence betwixt the Kirks of this Iland. Like as if it shall please God to blesse the prayers and endeavours of his Saints for this blessed Union, and that if either the Lords of Councell, or Commissioners for the Peace shall require their concurse at home or abroad, by sending Commissioners with theirs to His Majesty and Parliament for that effect, or that they themselves shall finde it necessary; The Assembly grants full power to them, not only to concurre by all lawfull and Ecclesiastick wayes, with the Councell and Conservators of the Peace at home, but also to send some to present and prosecute their desires and humble advice to His Majesty and the Parliament, and the Ministerie there, for the furthering and perfecting of so good and great a Worke. Like as, with power to them to promove their other desires, overtures and recommendations of this Assembly, to the Kings Majestie, Lords of Councell, Session, Exchequer, and Commissioners of Parliament, for plantation of Kirks, for common burdens, or conservation of the common peace, and to the Parliament of this Kingdom, in case it fall out pro re nata before the next Assembly. And such like, with as full power to them to proceed, treat and determine in any other matters to be committed to them by this Assembly, as if the samine were herein particularly insert, and with as ample power to proceede in the matters particularly or generally above-mentioned, as any Commissioners of Generall Assemblies have had, and have been in use of before: They being alwayes comptable to, and censurable by the next Generall Assembly, for their proceedings thereanent.



Sess. 13. Aug. 6. 1642.



A Petition from some distressed Professors in Ireland.

To the reverend and right Honourable the Moderator and remanent members of the Generall Assembly of Scotland, conveened at S. Andrews, July 1642.

The humble Petition of the most part of the Scottish Nation in the North of Ireland, in their own names, and in name of the rest of the Protestants there.

Humbly sheweth,

That where your Petitioners, by the great blessing of the Lord, enjoyed for a little while a peaceable and fruitfull Ministerie of the Gospel, yet through our own abuse of so rich a mercy, and through the tyrannie of the Prelates, we have been a long time spoiled of our Ministers (a yoke to many of us heavier then death) who being chased into Scotland, were not altogether un-usefull in the day of your need; And we having been since oppressed and scattered, as sheep who have no shepherd, now at last the wise and righteous hand of the Lord, by the sword of the Rebels, hath bereft us of our friends, and spoiled us of our goods, &c. left us but a few, and that a poor handfull of many, and hath chased from us the rest that were called our Ministers; the greatest part whereof we could scarce esteem such as being rather Officers to put the Prelats Injunctions in execution, then feeders of our souls: So that now being visited with sword and sicknesse, and under some apprehension of famine, if withall we shall taste of the sorest of all plagues, to be altogether deprived of the Ministery of the Word, we shall become in so much a worse condition then any Pagans, as that once we enjoyed a better: Neither know we what hand to turn us to for help, but to the Land so far obliged by the Lords late rare mercies, and so far enriched to furnish help of that kinde; a Land whence many of us drew our blood and breath and where (pardon the necessary boldnesse) some of our own Ministers now are, who were so violently plucked from us, so sore against both their own and our wills; yea, the Land that so tenderly in their bosoms received our poor out-casts, and that hath already sent us so rich a supply of able and prosperous Souldiers to revenge our wrong.

Therefore, although we know that your zeale and brotherly affection would urge you to take notice without our advertisement, yet give us leave in the bowels of our Lord Jesus Christ, to intreat, if there be any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the spirit, if any bowels of mercy, that now in this nick of time, when the sword of the Enemie making way for a more profitable entertaining the Gospel, having also banished the Prelates, and their followers, when our extremity of distreste, and the fair hopes of speedy settling of peace, hath opened so fair a doore to the Gospel, you would take the cause of your younger sister, that hath no brests, to your serious consideration, and pity poore Macedonians crying to you that ye would come over and help us, being the servants of the God of your Fathers, and claiming interest with you in a common Covenant, that according to the good hand of God upon us, ye may send us Ministers for the house of our God. We do not take upon us to prescribe to you the way or the number, but in the view of all, the finger of the Lord points at these, whom though persecution of the Prelats drew from us, yet our interest in them could not be taken away, wherein we trust in regard of severall of them, called home by death, your bounty will super-adde some able men of your own that may help to lay the foundation of Gods house, according to the Pattern. But for these so unjustly reft from us, not only our necessity, but equity pleads, that either you would send them all over, which were a Work to be parallelled to the glories of the Primitive times, or at least that ye would declare them transportable, that when Invitators shall be sent to any of them, wherein they may discerne a call from God, there may be no difficultie in their loosing from thence, but they may come back to perfect what they began, and may get praise and fame in the Land, where they were put to shame. Neither are you to question your power over us so to doe, or crave a president of your own practise in that kind, for our extraordinary need calling on you, furnisheth you with a power to make this a president for the like cases hereafter: herein if you shall lay aside the particular concernment of some few places, which you may easily out of your rich Nurseries plant again, and make use of your publike spirits, which are not spent, but increases by your so many noble designes; you shall leave upon us and our posteritie the stamp of an obligation that cannot be delete, or that cannot be expressed; you should send to all the neighbouring Churches a pattern, and erect for after-ages a monument of self-denying tender zeale; you shall disburden the Land of the many outcasts, who will follow over their Ministers; and you shall make it appear, that the churlish bounty of the Prelats, which at first cast some of these men over to us, is not comparable with the cheerful liberalitie of a rightly constitute General Assembly, to whom we are perswaded, the Lord will give seed for the loane which you bestow on the Lord; yea, the day may come, when a General Assembly in this Land may returne to you the first fruits of thanks, for the plants of your free gift. And although you were scant of furniture of this kinde your selves, or might apprehend more need then formerly, yet doubtlesse, your bowels of compassion would make your deep povertie even in a great tryal of affliction, abound to the riches of your liberalitie. But now seeing you abound in all things, and have formerly given so ample a proof of your large bestowing on Churches abroad in Germanie and France, knowing that you are not wearied in well-doing, we confidently promise to our selves in your name, that we will abound in this grace also, following the example of our Lord and the Primitive Churches, who alwayes sent out Disciples in paires. But if herein our hopes shall faile us, we shall not know whether to wish that we had died with our Brethren by the Enemies hand; for we shall be as if it were said unto us, Goe serve other Gods; Yet looking for another kinde of Answer at your hands, for in this you are to us as an Angel of God, we have sent these bearers, M. John Gordoun, and M. Hugh Campbell our brethren, who may more particularly in-forme you of our case, and desire that at their returne, they may refresh the bowels of

Your most instant and earnest Supplicants.



Commission to some Ministers to go to Ireland.

The Assembly having received a Petition, subscribed by a considerable number in the North of Ireland, intimating their deplorable condition, through want of the Ministerie of the Gospel, occasioned by the tyrannie of the Prelats, and the sword of the Rebels, and desiring some Ministers, especially such as had been chased from them, by the persecution of the Prelats, and some others to be added, either to be sent presently over to reside amongst them, or declared transportable, that upon invitation from them they might goe and settle there; together with some particular Petitions, desiring the returne of some particular Ministers, who had laboured there before: All which the Assembly hath taken to their serious consideration, being most heartily willing to sympathize with every member of Christs Body, although never so remote; much more with that Plantation there, which for the most part was a Branch of the Lords Vine, planted in this Land. In which sollicitude, as they would be loath to usurpe without their own bounds or stretch themselves beyond their oun measure; so they dare not be wanting, to the enlargement of Christs Kingdome, where so loud a cry of so extreame neccesitie, could not but stirre up the bowels of Christian compassion. And although they conceive that the present unsettled condition both of Church, and State, and Land, will not suffer them as yet to loose any to make constant abode there; yet they have resolved to send over some for the present exigent till the next Gen. Assembly, by courses to stay there four moneths allanerly: And therefore doe hereby authorize and give Commission to the persons following, to wit, M. Robert Blair, Minister at S. Andrews, and M. James Hamilton, Minister at Dumfreis for the first four moneths: M. Robert Ramsay, Minister at Glasgow, and M. John Mac'elland, Minister at Kirkudbright, for the next four moneths: And to M. Robert Baillie, Professor of Divinitie in the Universitie of Glasgow, and M. John Levistoun, Minister of Stranaire, for the last four moneths: To repair into the North of Ireland, and there to visit, comfort, instruct and encourage the scattered flocks of Christ, to employ to their uttermost with all faithfulnesse and singlenesse of heart, in planting and watering, according to the direction of Jesus Christ, and according to the doctrine and discipline of this Church in all things, And if need be (with concurrence of such of the Ministers of the Army as are there) to try and ordain such as shall be found qualified for the Ministerie, Giving charge unto the persons foresaid in the sight of God, that in Doctrine, in Worship, in Discipline, and in their dayly conversation, they studie to approve themselves as the Ministers of Jesus Christ, and that they be comptable to the General Assembly of this Kirk, in all things. And in case if any of the above-mentioned Ministers be impeded by sickness or otherwise necessarily detained from this service, the Assembly ordaines the Commissioners residing at Edinburgh, for the publike affairs of the Church, to nominate in their place well qualified men, who hereby are authorized to undertake the foresaid imployment, as if they had been expressely nominate in the face of the Assembly. And this, although possibly it shall not fully satisfie the large expectation of the Brethren in Ireland, yet the Assembly is confident they will take in good part at this time, that which is judged most convenient for their present condition, even a lent mite out of their own, not very great plenty, to supply the present necessity; requiring of them no other recompence, but that they in all cheerefulnesse may embrace and make use of salvation, and promising to enlarge their indebted bounty at the next Assembly, as they shall finde the Worke of the Lord there to require. In the meane while, wishing that these who are sent, may come with the full blessing of the Gospel and peace, and recommending them, their labours, and these to whom they are sent, to the rich blessing of the great Shepherd of the flock.



Sess. 13. August 6. 1642.



Act against slandering of Ministers.

The General Assembly considering the malice of divers Persons in raising calumnies and scandals against Ministers, which is not onely injurious to their persons, and discreditable to the holy calling of the Ministerie, but doth also prove often a great prejudice and hinderance to the promoving of the Gospel: Doe therefore ordain Presbyteries and Synods to proceed diligently in processe against all persons, that shall reproach or scandal Ministers, with the censures of the Kirk, even to the highest, according as they shall finde the degree or quality of the scandal deserve.



Act anent ordering of the Assembly House.

The Assembly for better order in time coming ordains the Act of the Assembly at Aberdene for ordering the House of the Assembly to be kept hereafter punctually. And for that effect, that the samine be reade the first Session of every Assembly.



Act for remembring in publike Prayers the desires of the Assembly to the King and Parliament, and indiction of a publike Fast.

The General Assembly being desirous to promove the great work of Unity in Religion, and Uniformity in Church government, in all thir three Dominions, for which the Assembly hath humbly supplicate the Kings Majestie, and remonstrate their desires to the Parliament of England, lest they should be wanting in any meane that may further so glorious and so good a work: Doe ordain, that not only the said Declaration to the Parliament, and supplication to the Kings Majestie, shall be accompanied with the earnest Petition, and prayers of the whole brethren in private and publike, for the Lords blessing hereunto, according to the laudable custome of our predecessors, who in the year of God 1589. ordaines that the Brethren in their private and publike prayers, recommend unto God the estate of the afflicted Church of England: But having just cause of fear, that the iniquities of the Land, which so much abount may marre this so great a Work, doe also ordain a solemne Fast to be kept on the second Lords Day of September and the Wednesday following throughout the whole Kingdome for the causes after specified.

I. Grosse ignorance and all sort of wickedness among the greater part, security, meer formality and unfruitfulnesse among the best, and unthankfulnesse in all.

II. The sword raging throughout all Christendome, but most barbarously in Ireland, and dayly more and more threatned in England, through the lamentable division betwixt the King and the Parliament there, tending to the subversion of Religion and Peace in all the three Kingdomes.

III. That God may graciously blesse the Supplication of the Assembly to the Kings Majesty, and their motion to the Parliament of England, for Unitie in Religion, and Uniformity of Kirk-government, and all other meanes which may serve for the promoving of so great a Worke, and advancement of the Kingdome of Christ every where.

IV. That God may powerfully overturne all wicked plots and designes of Antichrist and his followers, and all divisive motions against the course of Reformation, and the so much longed for Union of the King and Parliament.

V. That God may blesse the harvest.



Reference from the Presbyterie of Kirkcaldie.

Anent the Acts of Assemblies, for observation of the Lords Day, profaned by going of salt-pannes, That this Assembly would declare the limits of the Sabbath, during which the pannes should stand.

The Assembly referres the Answer of this Question, to the Acts of former Assemblies.



Reference frrom the Synode of Fyffe.

That the Provinciall of Angus keep their meeting on the same day with the Synod of Fyffe, which breakes the correspondence between them, appointed by the General Assembly of Glasgow.

ANSWER.

The Assembly ordaines the Provinciall Assembly of Angus to keep their first meeting upon the third Tuesday of April, comforme to the Act of the said Assembly of Glasgow.



Overtures to be advised by Presbyteries against the next Assembly.

How Appeals shall be brought into the Generall Assemblies, and by what sort of citation.

What shall be the prescription of scandalls, within what space of time shall they be challenged, whether after three years, the Minister having been allowed and approved in life and doctrine by Synods, Presbyteries, and Visitations.

What order shall be taken for keeping general Assemblies, when Presbyteries send not the full number of Commissioners: Or when the Commissioners abide not until the conclusion and dissolving of the Assembly.

Order to be advised for Testimonials.

The Assembly appoints the next Generall Assembly to hold at Edinburgh, the first Wednesday of August, 1643.



THE GENERALL ASSEMBLY AT EDINBURGH



Sess. 1. August 2. 1643.



The Kings Letter to the General Assembly.

Presented by his Majesties Commissioner Sir Thomas Hope of Craighall Knight, His Majesties Advocate.

CHARLES R.

Trustie and welbeloved, We greet you well. The time now approaching for the holding of the Generall Assembly of Our Kirk of Scotland, and We having appointed Sir Thomas Hope Our Advocate to be Our Commissioner there; We thought good to present him there with these Our Letters, and to take this occasion to minde you of the duty which you owe to Us your Soveraigne, and to the peace of that Our Native Kingdome. How far We have lately extended Our grace and favour towards satisfaction of your humble desires, there is not any amongst you but may well remember: And therefore in this conjuncture of Our affairs, it is but reasonable that We expect from you such moderation in the dutifull proceedings of this Assembly, as may concurre with our Princely inclinations and desires, to preserve that Kirk and that our Kingdome in peace; having wel observed that alterations in points of Religion, are often the inlets to civill dissentions, and the hazard, if not overthrow of both Kirk and Kingdomes. Therefore of Our great affection and speciall tendernesse to your peace (who of all Our Dominions are yet happie therein to the envy of others) We conjure and require you in the fear of God, and obedience of Us his Vicegerent, that your endeavours and consultations tend onely to preserve peace and quietnesse among you. And so We bid you farewell. Given at Our Court at Oxford the 22. day of July, 1643.

To our right trusty and welbeloved Counsellour, Sir Thomas Hope Knight, our Advocate general, and Our Commissioner at the generall assembly of the Kirk in Our Kingdome of Scotland, and to the rest of the said Assembly now conveened.



Sess. 2. August 3. 1643.



Overtures anent Bills, References, and Appeales.

I. That all Bills whatsoever of particular concernments whereunto all parties having interest are not cited, should be rejected.

II. That all Bills be first presented to the inferiour Judicatories of the Kirk, who may competently consider of them, and from them be orderly and gradatim brought to the Assembly, according to the order prescribed for Appellations in the Assembly of Edinburgh, 1639. in the 24. Sess. August 30.

III. That the said Act of Assembly 1639. anent Appelations, be also extended to References.

IV. In Appellations and References of particular concernment, if all parties having interest, have been present in the inferiour Judicatorie when the Appeal and Reference was made, then there is no necessitie of citation. But in case of their absence, citation of parties is so necessar, that if it be wanting, Appellations and References should not be received.

V. That conform to former Acts of Assemblies; Appellations post sententiam be made within ten dayes after the sentence, and otherwise not to be respected.

The Assembly ordaines their Overtures to be given to the severall Committees for their direction.



Sess. 3. August 4. 1643.



Act for election of Professours to be Commissioners to Assemblies by Presbyteries.

The Assembly thinks, if Professours of Divinitie in Universities be Ministers, that they may be chosen Commissioners to the Generall Assembly, either by the Presbyterie as Ministers or by the Universitie as Professours of Divinitie.



Sess. 4. Aug. 5. 1643.



The Petition of the distressed Professours in Ireland for Ministers.

To the reverend and honourable Moderatour and remanent Members of the General Assembly of Scotland, conveened at Edinburgh, Aug. 1643.

The humble Petition of the distressed Christians in the North of Ireland.

Humbly sheweth,

That whereas you were pleased the last Year to take notice of our Petition, and conceived so favourable an act in our behalf, from our hearts we blesse the Lord God of our Fathers, who put such a thing as this in your heart to begin in any sort to beautifie the House of the Lord amongst us: Doubtlesse you have brought upon your selves the blessing of them who consider the poor; the Lord will certainly deliver you in the time of trouble. We trust no distance of place, no length of time, no pressure of affiction, yea, nor smiling of prosperity, shall delete out of our thankfull memories the humble acknowledgement of your so motherly care: in drawing out your breasts, yea, your souls to satisfie the hungrie: although we have been beaten with the sword, bitten with famine, our own wickednes correcting us, our back-slidings reproving us, yet we have not so farre forgotten the Lords ancient love, but that our hearts were brought to a little reviving in the midst of our bondage, by the Ministery of these, who at your direction made a short visit amongst us. We know you did not conceive it expedient at that time, to loose any for full settling here, till the waters of the bloudy inundation were somewhat abated, and prohability might be of some comfortable abode, which we through the Lords revenging hand, pursuing our enemies, and the vigilancie of your victorious Army, is in a great measure attained unto. Whatsoever might have detained some of these whom ye directed to us, whose stay made our expectation prove abortive, we shall ascribe it to our own abuse of such treasure, and want of spirituall hunger, occasioned justly through the want of food; And yet that same dis-appointment, together with your faithfull promise of inlarging your indebted bountie, which is put upon record in all our hearts, hath made us conceive the seed of a lively expectation, that you will now no more put your bountie, and the means of our life, into the hazard of such frustrations, but will once for all, bestow an ample and enduring blessing. And of this we are so much the more confident, because our former suit was not denyed but delayed: only we fear, if a new delay be procured, till all things be fully settled, that the observing of winde and clouds, shall hinder both sowing and reaping. And in the mean time, the Prelates and their Faction may step in and invest themselves of their old tyrannie over our consciences, who if they once shall see us possessed of our own Inheritance, those Canaanites dare not offer to thrust us out. By all appearance, if the Jesuites had any hope to finde welcome amongst us, they had provided us fully ere now with their poysoned plants, Our hearts abhorre the checking or suspecting of your proceedings, yet it is lawfull to learn sometime from our enemie: But in this you have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago, and thereby have ingaged your selves to perfect your own beginnings, and bring us out of our orphan condition. We are fallen in your lap, this ruine must be under your hand; you cannot pretend want of bread or cloathing, you must be healers: We have chosen you curators to your little young sister that wants breasts; there is none in earth to take her out of your hand, for we will not, nor cannot hide it from your Honours and Wisedome, that we want bread, and must not only, as before, have a bit for our present need, but also seed to sow the Land.

It is therefore our humble and earnest desire, that you would yet again look on our former Petition, and your own obligatorie Act, and at least declare your consent, that a competent number of our own Ministers may be loosed to settle here, and break bread to the children that lye fainting at the head of all streets, which although it may be accounted but a restoring of what we lost, and you have found, yet we shall esteem it as the most precious gift that earth can affoord. When they are so loosed, if they finde not all things concurring to clear Gods calling, it will be in their hand to forbear and you have testified your bountie. But oh for the Lords sake, do not kill our dying souls, by denying these our necessar desires. There are about twelve or fourteen waste congregations on this nearest coast: let us have at least a competent number that may erect Christs throne of discipline, and may help to bring in others, and then shall we sing, that the people who were left of the sword, have found grace in the wildernesse. We have sent these our brethren, Sir Robert Adair of Kinhilt Knight, and William Mackenna of Bel fast merchant, to attend an answer from you, who have attained that happinesse to be lenders and not borrowers, and to present the heartie longing affections of

Your most obliged and more expecting brethren and servants.

Subscribed by very many hands.



Sess. 6. August 8, 1643.



Acts for subscribing the Covenant.

The General Assembly considering the good and pious advice of the Commissioner of the last Assembly, upon the 22 of September, 1642 post meridiem, recommending to Presbytries, to have Copies of the Covenant to be subscribed by every Minister at his admission, doth therefore ratifie and approve the samine. And further ordaines, that the covenant be reprinted, with this Ordinance prefixed thereto, and that every Synod, Presbyterie, and Paroch, have one of them bound in quarto, with some blank paper, whereupon every person may be obliged to subscribe: And that the Covenants of the Synod and Presbyterie be keeped by their Moderatours respective of Universities by their Principals, of Paroches by their Ministers, with all carefulnesse. And that particular account of obedience to this Act, be required hereafter in all visitations of Paroches, Universities, and Presbyteries, and all trialls of Presbyteries and Synod books.

The General Assembly considering that the Act of the Assembly at Edinburgh 1639. August 30. injoyning all persons to subscribe the Covenant, under all Ecclesiastical censure, hath not been obeyed: Therefore ordaines all Ministers to make intimation of the said Act in their Kirks, and thereafter to proceed with the censures of the Kirk against such as shall refuse to subscribe the Covenant. And that exact account be taken of every Ministers diligence hereintil by their Presbyteries and Synods, as they will answer to the General Assembly.



Sess. 7. August 9. 1643.



Act for searching Books tending to Separation.

The Generall Assembly considering the recommendation of the Commissioners of the late Assembly at S. Andrews, upon the 12 of May last, to every Minister within their several bounds; especially to Ministers upon the coasts, or where there is Harbourie and Ports, to try and search for all books tending to Separation: And finding the same most necessar, do therefore ordain that recommendation to have the strength of an ordinary Act of Assembly: And that every Minister be careful to try and search if any such books be brought to this Countrey from beyond seas, and if any shall be found, to present the samine to Presbyteries, that some course may be taken to hinder the dispersing thereof: And earnestly recommend to the Civil Magistrates, to concurre with their authoritie in all things, for effectual execution hereof.



Approbation of the proceedings of the Commissioners of the last Assembly.

The Generall Assembly having heard the report of the Committee appointed to consider the proceedings of the Commissioners of the late Assembly at S. Andrews; after mature deliberation, and serious consideration thereof, findes the whole Acts, Conclusions and Proceedings of the saids Commissioners, contained in a Book and Register subscribed by Master Andrew Ker their Clerk, and by Master David Lindsay Moderatour, and Master James Hamilton Clerk to the said Committe, to declare much wisedome, diligence, vigilancie, and every way commendable zeal and fidelitie in doing and discharging every thing according to their Commission.



Sess. 8. August 10. 1643.



Propositions given by the Commissioners of the Parliament of England to a Committee, to be presented by them to the Assembly.

We the Commissioners appointed by both Houses of the Parliament of England, desire your Lordships, and the rest of this reverend Committee, to represent to the reverend the Generall Assembly of the Church of Scotland, that we are commanded.

To acknowledge with all thankfulnesse to God, their zeal for purging and reforming Religion, and care not only to prevent the grouth, but utterly to extirpate the Reliques of Popery: And also the great blessing of Almighty God upon their so constant and faithful endeavours, thus far establishing them in truth and peace, together with their labour of love, to procure the like happinesse to our Church and Nation.

To give them an account of their earnest desire and endeavour to see the same Work promoted and perfected among our selves; which though it hath been opposed and retarded by the industrious malice of the Popish, Prelaticall, and malignant partie, yet through Gods goodnesse it hath so far prevailed, as to produce the removeall of the High Commission, the making void the coercive power of the Prelates and their Courts, The ejection of the Bishops from the House of Peers, the turning out of many scandalous Ministers, Besides that they have passed and presented to his Majestie diverse Bills, viz. For the suppressing of Innovations, For the more strict observation of the Lords Day, against Pluralities and non-residencie, For the punishment of the scandalous Clergie, For the abolition of Episcopacie, and the calling an Assembly: The true Copies of which, we herewithall deliver. Which Bills, through the underminning of the Papists, Prelates, and their party (the constant enemies of Reformation) have not yet obtained his Majesties Royall assent. And yet considering the urgent necessity of purging and settling the Church (as hath been often pressed and presented to the Parliament of England, by pious and frequent exhortations and Declarations from that reverent Assembly) they have been constrained by an Ordinance of both Houses, to call an Assembly of Divines, and others, now fitting, to consider and prepare what may conduce thereunto, which by the assistance of some godly and learned Divines sent from this Nation (as is earnestly desired) we hope may through the blessing of God, bring it to perfection.

And yet notwithstanding to let them know that by reason of the prevailing of the Papists, Prelaticall Faction, and other malignant enemies to this so much desired Reformation, (all of them being now in arms against the Parliament) these hopefull beginnings are likely, not onely to be rendred ineffectuall, but all the former evils, superstitions, and corruptions (which for the present, through the blessing of God, are in a good measure removed) to be re-introduced by strong hand which if once they should take root again in the Church and Kingdome of England, will quickely spread their venome & infection into the neighbour Church and Kingdome of Scotland the quarrell of the enemies of this Work being not so much against the persons of men, as the power of Godlinesse, and purity of Gods worship, wheresoever it is professed. Both Houses do therefore desire that reverent Assembly to lay seriously to heart the state and condition of their sister Church and Kingdome, and not only by their prayers to assist in these straits, but also by such seasonable and effectuall means as to them shall seem meet, to further and expedite the present aid and assistance demanded by both Houses.

And lastly, to make known unto them, that we are designed and sent by both Houses of Parliament to the Generall Assembly of the Church of Scotland, to propound to them and consult with them concerning such things as may conduce to our own Reformation, and our so much desired conjunction with this Church, which they have more fully expressed in a Declaration of their own, which here withall we present.

August 10. 1643, William Bond, Secr. Commiss.



A Declaration of the Lords and Commons in the Parliament of England, to the Generall Assembly of the Church of Scotland.

The Lords and Commons in Parliament acknowledging with humble thankfulnesse to Almighty God, the disposer of hearts, the Christian zeal and love which the Generall Assembly of the Churches of Scotland, have manifested in their pious endeavours for the preservation of the true reformed Protestant Religion, from the subtle practices and attempts of the Popish and Prelaticall party, to the necessary Reformation of Church discipline and Government in this Kingdome, and the more near union of both Churches, do earnestly desire that reverend Assembly to take notice, that the two Houses of Parliament fully concurring with them in these pious Intentions; for the better accomplishment thereof, have called an Assembly of diverse godly and learned Divines, and others of this Kingdome, unto the City of Westminster, who are now sitting and consulting about these matters, And likewise have nominated and appointed John Earle of Ruthland, Sir William Armine Baronet, Sir Henry Vane the younger, Knight, Thomas Hatcher, and Henry Darley Esquires. Committees and Commissioners of both Houses, to the Kingdome and States of Scotland, who beside their Instructions in matters concerning the Peace and Common weal of both Kingdomes, have received Directions to resort to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, and propound and consult with them, or any Commissioners deputed by them, in all occasions which may further the so much desired Reformation in Ecclesiastical matters in this Church and Kingdome, and a nearer conjunction betwixt both Churches. In performance whereof, Master Stephen Marshal, and Master Philip Nye, Ministers of Gods Word, and men of approved faithfulnesse and abilities in their Function, both Members of this Assembly of Divines here congregated, and sitting, are appointed to assist and advise the same Committee in such things as shall concerne this Church. And the two Houses do hereby recommend the Commitees and divines afore-mentioned, to the reverend Assembly of the Church of Scotland, to be by them received with favour, and credited in those things, which they, or any three, or more of them shall propound to them.

It is likewise desired, that that reverend Assembly will according to their former promise and resolution, send to the Assembly here, such number of godly and learned Divines, as in their wisedome they think most expedient for the furtherance of this work, which so much concernes the honour of God, the prosperity and peace of the two Churches of England and Scotland; and which must needs have a great influence in procuring more safe and prosperous condition to other reformed Churches abroad. And that their endeavours may be more effectual, the two Houses do make this request to them, with their authority, advice and exhortation, so far as belongs to them, to stir up that Nation to send some competent Forces in aid of this Parliament and Kingdome, against the many Armies of the Popish and Prelatical party, and their adherents, now in arms for the ruine and destruction of the reformed Religion, and all the Professours thereof. In all which they shall do that which will be pleasing to God, whose cause it is, and likewise safe and advantageous to their own Church and Kingdome, who cannot securely enjoy the great blessings of Religion, Peace, and Libertie in that Kingdome, if this Church and Kingdome, by the prevailing violence of that partie, shall bee brought to ruine and destruction.

Jo. Browne, Cleric. Parliamentorum. Henr. Elsynge, Cler. Parliamentorum.



A Letter from some Brethren of the Ministerie in the Kirk of England, to the Assembly.

Reverend and beloved;

The experience which we have had of your forwardnesse in receiving, and faithfulnesse in weighing our former addresses, hath given us abundant encouragement to take hold upon this present opportunitie of breathing out something of our sorrowes, which your love and our necessity, command us to represent to your consideration and compassion. Much we know we may commit to the wisedome and fidelity of our Brethren these messengers, to impart unto you concerning our miserable condition, and unto them shall leave the most. Your own Nationall, but specially Christian interest, will not permit you to hide your eyes from the bleeding condition of your poor distressed Brethren in England, should neither Letters, nor Messengers be sent unto you; But Messengers coming, we should at once neglect our selves, should we not thus a little ease our burdened hearts, by pouring them out into your bosomes, and seem ungrateful to you, of whose readinesse to suffer with us, and do for us, we have had so great & ample testimonies.

Surely if ever a poor Nation were upon the edge of a most desperate precipice, if ever a poor Church were ready to be swallowed up by Satan and his Instruments, we are that Nation, we are that Church. And in both respects by so much the more miserable, by how much, we expected not a Preservation onely, but an augmentation also, of happinesse in the one, and glory in the other. We looked for Peace, but no good came, and for a time of healing, and behold trouble! Our GOD who in his former Judgements was a moth & rottenesse (and yet had of late begun to send us health and cure) is now turned into a Lion to us: and threatens to rend the very cawle of our hearts: From above he hath sent a fire into our bones, and it prevails against us; From our own bowels he hath called forth, and strengthened an adversarie against us, a generation of brutish hellish men, the rod of his anger, and the staff of his indignation, under whose cruelties we bleed, and if present mercy step not in, we die. Righteous art thou, O LORD, and just are all thy Judgements! But O the more then barbarous carriages of our enemies, where ever GOD gives any of his hidden ones up into their hands, we need not expresse it unto you, who knows the inveterate and deadly malice of the Antichristian faction against the Members of our Lord Jesus. And it is well we need not expresse it unto you, for in truth we cannot. Your own thoughts may tell you better then any words of ours, what the mercie of Papists is, toward the Ministers and Servants of our Lord Jesus Christ. But the Lord knows we are not troubled so much with their rage against us, or our own miseries and dangers; but that which breaks our hearts is, the danger we behold the Protestant Religion, and all the Reformed Churches in at this time, through that too great and formidable strength the Popish Faction is now arrived at. If our GOD will lay our bodies as the ground, and as the street under their foot, and poure out our bloud as dust before their fury, the wil of the Lord be done, might our bloud be a sacrifice to ransome the rest of the Saints or Church of Christ from Antichristian fury, we would offer it up upon this service gladly. But we know their rage is insatiable, and will not be quenched with our blouds, immortall, and will not die with us, armed against us, nor as men, but as Christians, but as Protestants, but as men desiring to reform our selves, and to draw our selves and others yet nearer unto God. And if God gave us up to be devoured by this rage, it will take the more strength and courage (at least) to attempt the like against all the Protestant and Reformed Churches. In a deeper sense of this extream danger, threating us and you, and all the Churches then we can expresse, we have made this addresse unto you; in the bowels of our Lord Jesus Christ, humbly imploring your most fervent Prayers to the GOD that hears Prayers; who (should we judge by providences) seems to be angry with our Prayers (though we trust he doth but seem so, and though he kill us, yet will we trust in him) Oh, give us the brotherly aide of your re-inforced tears and payers, that the blessings of truth and peace which our prayers alone have not obtained, yours combined, may. And give us reverend and much honoured in our Lord your advices, what remains for us further to doe, for the making of our own and the Kingdomes peace with GOD. We have lien in the dust before him; we have poured our hearts in humiliation to him, we have in sincerity, endeavoured to reform our selves, and no lesse sincerely desired, studied, laboured the publick Reformation, Neverthelesse the Lord hath not yet turned himself from the fiercenesse of his anger. And be pleased to advise us further, what may be the happiest course for the uniting of the Protestant partie more firmly? That we may all serve GOD with one consent, and stand up against Antichrist as one man, that our GOD who now hides himself from his people may return unto us, delight in us scatter and subdue his and our enemies, and cause his face to shine upon us. The Lord prosper you and preserve us for that the great work of these latter ages may be finished to his honour, and our own and the Churches happinesse through Christ Jesus.

Subscribed by very many hands.



Sess. 9. August 11. 1643.



Act against Burials and hinging of Honours, &c. in Kirks.

The Generall Assembly considering the great abuse of burying within Kirks, wherein GODS publick worship is exercised, notwithstanding diverse Acts of this Kirk, prohibiting the same. And that through toleration thereof, other abuses in hinging of Pensils and Brods, affixing of Honours and Arms, and such like scandalous Monuments in the Kirk, hath crept in. Therefore for remedy hereof, do hereby ratifie and approve the former Acts and Constitutions made against burials in Kirks. And inhibites and discharges all persons of whatsoever qualitie, to bury any deceased person within the body of the Kirk, where the people meet for hearing of the Word, and administration of the Sacraments. And inhibites them to hing Pensils or Brods, to affixe Honours or Arms, or to make any such like Monuments, to the honour or remembrance of any deceased person upon walls, or otherplaces within the Kirk, where the publick worship of God is exercised, as said is.



Sess. 10. August 12. 1643.



Act anent reposition of Ministers, deposed by Superiour Judicatories.

The Generall Assembly considering that sentences of Superiour Judicatories of the Kirk should stand effectuall, while they be taken away by themselves, and that they should not be made void and ineffectuall by Inferiour Judicatories: Therefore discharges all Provinciall Assemblies to repone any Minister deposed by the Generall Assembly. And all Presbyteries to repone any Ministers deposed either by General or Provincial Assemblies; And declares and ordains, that all such sentences of reposition by these Inferiour Judicatories respective, shall be null in themselves; And that the sentences of deposition by the Superiour Judicatories respective shall stand valid and effectual notwithstanding thereof.



Sess. 11. Aug. 14. 1643.



Act against Masters who have Servants that prophane the Lords day.

The Generall Assembly declares, that the Acts made against Salmond fishing upon the Sabbath, or against any other labour upon the Lords day, to be not only against servants who actually work: But also that the samine should be extended against masters, whose hired servants they are.



Sess. 12. Aug. 15. 1643.



Act for preparing the Directorie for the worship of God.

The Assembly considering how convenient it is, that all the Ministers of the particular Kirks within this Kingdome, in their administration, keep unity and uniformity in the substance and right ordering of all the parts of the publick worship of God, and that all the particular Kirks by the same unity and uniformity, testifie their unanimous consent against all schisme and division, unto which these times, through the working of Satan and his instruments, against the propagation of the Gospel of peace are so inclinable: Doth ordain, that a Directorie for divine worship, with all convenient diligence be framed and made ready in all the parts thereof, against the next Generall Assembly, to be held in the year 1644. And for this end that such as shall be nominate by this Assembly, shall immediatly after the rising of the Assembly, set themselves apart (so far as may be) from their particular callings, and with all diligence and speed, go about this so publick, so pious and so profitable a work. And when they have brought their endeavours and labours about this Directorie to an end, that it be put into the hands of the Commissioners of the Generall Assembly, to be revised, and thereafter by them sent in severall Copies to all the particular Synods to be held in April and May, that the famine being reported with their observations, notes, and animadversions to the Generall Assembly, it may in end, after their full triall and approbation, by order and authority from them be received, and practiced by all the Ministers and particular Kirks. And for preserving of peace and brotherly unity, in the mean while, till the Directorie by universall consent of the whole Kirk be framed, finished, and concluded, The Assembly forbiddeth under the pain of the censures of the Kirk, all disputation by word or writing, in private or publick, about different practices in such things, as have not been formerly determined by this Kirk, And all condemning one of another in such lawfull things as have been universally received, and by perpetuall custome practised by the most faithfull Ministers of the Gospell, and opposers of corruptions in this Kirk, since the first beginning of Reformation to these times. And doth exhort and command that all endeavour to keep the unity of the spirit, in the bond of peace, that all beginnings of Separation, all scandall and division, be by all means avoided; And that against envying, and strife, and faction, and glorying in men, every one go before another in the duties of love, and so fulfill the Law of Christ; That continuing in one spirit and one minde, & fighting together through the faith of the Gospel, we may mutually aide, strengthen and comfort one another in all Pastorall and Christian emploiments, better resist the common adversaries, edifie one another in the knowledge and fear of God, and the more acceptably, and with the greater blessing serve the Lord who hath done so great things for us.



Propositions from the English Commissioners presented this day to the Assembly.

We the Commissioners appointed by both Houses of the Parliament of England, being commanded by them (as we have already declared) to desire the reverend Assembly of Scotland, seriously to lay to heart the present Estate of their Sister Church and Kingdome of England, and not onely to assist with their Prayers in their straits, but also by such reasonable and effectuall means as to themselves shall seem meet to further and expedite the assistance now desired by both Houses from the Kingdome of Scotland, and a more strict union with them, Have thought fit in Pursuance of the commands received from both Houses of Parliament, to communicate to this Assembly the paper which to this purpose we have lately delivered to the Honourable Convention of Estates, in this Kingdome, that so this reverend Assembly might be the better enabled, to contribute their best assistance toward the furthering and expediting of the same. Wherein we assure our selves of their ready and willing affections, considering the great service they may do to God, and the great honour may redound to themselves in becoming the Instruments of a glorious Reformation, not onely through this Iland, but from thence possibly to be spread to other Churches now oppressed under the Antichristian bondage, and tyrannie of the Popish and prelatical Faction. We will not say there lies any obligation upon this Church and Kingdome, to comply with the desires of the two Houses of Parliament; though we might call to minde that God by the hand of the Church and Kingdome of England, did once reach forth assistance and aid unto this Nation, and hath since used them as a help to that blessed Reformation it now enjoyes. And who knoweth whether the wise providence of God hath not suffered this Church and Kingdome to be tempted thereby, to make them the more feasible of the present miseries of their brethren, and likewise given them a good issue, with the tentation, that they might be made a means of our deliverance? We shall not need to offer any grounds of prudence to invite them hereunto, who have already prevented us in the acknowledgement of what might be said of that kinde in the advice presented by the Commissioners of the General Assembly. July 6. 1643. unto the Convention of Estates, expressing as one remedie of the present dangers of this Church and Kingdome, their earnest desire of renewing the league and association with England, for the defence of Religion against the common enemie, and of further extending the same against Prelacie, and Popish Ceremonies, for Uniformity in externall worship and Church-government. And we hope that the same God who hath put these desires into the hearts of both Kingdomes, will make use of this present opportunity to knit them both to himself, and each other in a most strict and durable Union, and thereby the more firmly to establish truth and peace in both Nations. Howsoever this which we have done in discharge of our duty, will afford the comfort of a good conscience in our greatest distresses, and give us ground to expect deliverance some way or other from the manifold wisedome and power of God, who though men and means fail, will not cast off his people, nor forsake his inheritance. We have onely this to adde further, that we are commanded by both Houses to let this reverend Assembly know that it is their earnest desire, that what other Propositions may be thought fit to be added and concluded by this Assembly, whereby the assistance and Union betwixt the two Nations, may be made more beneficiall and effectuall for the securing of Religion and Libertie, should be offered to us, and taken to our speedy consideration,

August 15. 1643.

William Bond. Secr. Com.



The Paper before-mentioned, delivered August 12. to the Convention, and this day to the Assembly

We the Commissioners appointed by both Houses of the Parliament of England, are by our instructions commanded to put their brethren of Scotland in minde, that the Popish and prelaticall Faction that began with them, about the year 1638. and 1639. and then intended to make way to the ruine of the Kingdome of England by theirs, have not abated any part of their malice toward the Nation and Church of Scotland, nor are at all departed from their designe of corrupting and altering Religion through the whole Iland, though they have inverted the manner of their proceeding, conceiving now that they have an easier way to destroy them, if they may first prevail over the Parliament and Kingdome of England. In which respect it is the desire of both Houses, that the two Nations may be strictly united, for their mutuall defence against the Papists and prelaticall Faction, and their adherents in both Kingdomes, and not to lay down arms till those their implacable enemies shall be dis-armed, and subjected to the authority and justice of Parliament in both Kingdomes respectively. And as an effectual mean hereunto, they desire their brethren of Scotland to raise a considerable force of Horse and Foot, for their aide and assistance, to be forthwith sent against the Papists, prelatical Faction, and malignants now in arms in the Kingdome of England.

And for the better encouragement of the Kingdome of Scotland to this necessary and so much desired Union, we are by both Houses of Parliament authorized to assure their brethren, that if they shall be annoyed or endangered by any Force or Army, either from England or any other place, the Lords and Commons of England will assist them with a proportionable strength of Horse and Foot, to what their Brethren shall now affoord them to be sent into Scotland for the defence of that Kingdome. And they will maintain a guard of Ships at their own charge upon the coast of Scotland for the securing of that Kingdome, from the invasion of Irish Rebels or other enemies, during such time as the Scotish Army shall be employed in the defence of the Kingdome of England, And to the end that nothing might be wanting in the Parliament and Kingdome of England to facilitate this work (wherein the true reformed Religion, not onely in these two Kingdomes, but throughout all Europe is so highly concerned) We are farther authorized to consider with their brethren the Estates and Kingdome of Scotland, of what other Articles or propositions are fit to be added and concluded, whereby this assistance and Union betwixt the two Nations, may be made more beneficial and effectual for the security of Religion and Libertie in both Kingdomes.

All which being taken into the serious and Christian consideration of the right honourable the Lords and others of the Convention of the Estates of Scotland, we hope there will not need many arguments to perswade and excite them to give their consent, and that with all convenient speed, to these desires of both houses of the Parliament of England; seeing now they have so fully declared, as by what they have done already, so by what they are yet desirous to do, that the true state of this cause and quarrel is Religion, in the Reformation whereof they are, and have been so forward and zealous, as that there is not any thing expressed unto them by their brethren of Scotland, in their former or latter Declarations, which they have not seriously taken to heart, and seriously endeavoured to effect, (notwithstanding the subtle malicious and industrious oppositions) that so the two Kingdomes might be brought into a near conjunction in one form of Church-government, one directorie of worship, one Catechisme, &c. and the foundation laid of the utter extirpation of Popery and prelacie out of both Kingdomes. The most ready and effectual means whereunto, is now conceived to be, that both Nations enter into a strict Union and league, according to the desires of the two Houses of Parliament.

And to induce the perswasion of this (if there were cause) we might observe, that, in the many Declarations made by the General Assembly or States of Scotland, to their Brethren of England, there have been sundry expressions, manifesting the great necessitie that both Kingdomes for the securitie of their Religion and Liberties, should joyn in this strict Union against the Papists, Prelats, and their adherents: As also in the endeavour of a near conjunction between the Churches of both Nations. The apprehension and foresight of which, hath caused the Popish and Prelatical Faction in forreigne parts as well as in his Majesties Dominions, strictly and powerfully to combine themselves to the hinderance of this so necessary Work, and the universal suppression of the true protestant Religion in Europe: A course not much different from that which they took in the year 1585. when the wisedome and zeal of this Nation to counter-myne so wicked a conspiracie, and from the due sense of the mutual interest of these two Kingdomes in Religion and Libertie, found a necessity of entring into a league of this nature, as well considering, that thereby no lesse safetie might be expected to both Nations, then danger by forbearing the same. And though we doubt not but in so necessary and so good a Work, many difficulties may arise to interrupt and retard the same; yet we are as confident, that the heartie and brotherly affection of this Nation to the Parliament and Kingdome of England, will easily break through them; and the rather because in the like cases of difficultie and danger, not only at the time of the league above-mentioned, but before, and likewise since, when any opportunity hath offered it self particularly, during the sitting of this present Parliament, the Kingdome of England hath been very forward and ready to lay to heart the dangers of the Kingdome of Scotland as their own, and to decline no means within the reach of their power for the redresse or prevention of the same.

August 12. 1643.

William Bond Secr. Com.



Sess. 13. Aug. 16. 1643.



Recommendation to the Presbyteries and Universities anent Students that have the Irish language.

The Assembly considering the lamentable condition of the people in the Highlands, where there are many that gets not the benefite of the Word in respect there are very few Preachers that can speak the Irish language, Do for remeid thereof think good, that young Students who have the Irish tongue, be trained up at Colledges in Letters, especially in the studies of Divinitie, And to this effect recommend to Presbyteries and Universities to preferre any hopefull Students that have the language aforesaid, to Bursaries, that they by their studies in processe of time attaining to knowledge, and being enabled for the Ministerie, may be sent forth for preaching the Gospel in these Highland parts, as occasions shall require.



Sess. 14. August 17. 1643.



The Letter from the Assembly of Divines in the Kingdome of England.

To the right reverend the Generall Assembly of the Church of Scotland.

Right reverend and dearly beloved in our Lord Jesus Christ,

We the Assembly of Divines and others, called and now sitting by authority of both Houses of Parliament, to be consulted by them in matters of Religion; have received from the honourable Houses of Commons, a speciall order (dated the 3. of this instant August) recommending it to us to write a Letter to the Generall Assembly of the Church of Scotland, taking notice of the pious and good expeditions to this Church and State, certified in the late Answer of the Commissioners of the Generall Assembly of the Kirk of Scotland, from their meeting at Edinburgh the 17. of July 1643. And further to desire them to possesse the people of that Kingdome with our condition, and to encourage them to our assistance in this cause of Religion. And having with that order received and read the said Answer directed to the honourable Houses of the Parliament of England, we cannot sufficiently expresse the great content and comfort, unto which it hath raised us in the midst of the sad and calamitous condition under which we lie.

It is no small refreshing to our mourning spirits to finde, that yet our God hath not left us wholly comfortlesse, nor cast us so far out of his sight, as having made us sick with smiting that should be verified of us, Lover and friend hast thou put far from us, and that no man should turn aside to ask how we do: but that we finde so many of the Churches of Christ, and above them all, our dearest Brethren of Scotland, so far to take to heart our extremities, as to sit in the dust with us, and so to look upon our adversities, as being themselves also in the body.

And as we cannot render thanks sufficient unto our God for remembring such mercie in the midst of so much wrath; so we embrace with all chearfulnesse this opportunitie of thankfull acknowledgement of the great debt which your love doth continually lay upon, not us alone, but upon this whole Kingdome, in the free and full expressions of your care, piety and zeal, and of like affections of that whole Nation, to assist and concurre with the Parliament here, by all good and lawfull means, for sending of Religion in godly unity and uniformitie throughout all his Majesties Dominions, against all the designes, power and malice of bloudie Papists, and the Prelaticall Faction, with all their malignant adherents, the common enemies of Reformation, truth and peace.

We are likewise much ingadged to the great vigilancie and travels of the honourable Convention of the Estates of Scotland, in contributing their brotherly advice, and for their readinesse to give assistance for recovering and settling the peace of this Kingdome, against the devices, power and practices of the enemies of Religion, and the publick Good, whereof some hints are given in that Answer and of which we doubt not but the honourable Houses or Parliament will be so sensible as to give such a return as becomes them: for they, better knowing then we do, the depth of the evils under which this Nation now groaneth, and the further dangers imminent, will be more able to value and improve the great affection and wisedome of their Brethren, in points of so high and generall concernement, for the safetie and glory of the Kings Majestie, and of all his Kingdomes, and are more fit to take notice of advices of that kinde, in reference to the civil State, which therefore we wholly leave with them.

But as for the many prudent, pious, and reosonable admonitions which concerne our Assembly, the good Lord reward (for we cannot) seven fold into your bosomes all the good, which you have laboured to procure unto the House of our GOD, and blessed be his Name who hath put such a thing as this into the hearts of our Parliament, to cleanse the House of the Lord of all the uncleannesse that is in it, by impure Doctrine, Worship, or Discipline.

Nor can we in the depth of all our sufferings and sorrows, withhold our hearts from rejoycing in the wonderful goodnes of God toward this Kingdome, in that he hath let us see the gracious fruit of your effectuall prayers and teares, as well as of our own endeavours this way: In bringing together this Assembly, although in a very troublous time, whereby we may have better opportunity more fully to poure out our soules jointly and together to our GOD, for healing of this now miserable Church and Nation: To consider throughly, for what more especially the Land mourneth, and how we may be most usefull to our great GOD and Master JESUS CHRIST; In contributing somewhat to the vindicating of his precious truth, many wayes corrupted through the craft of men that have lyen in wait to deceive: In the seeking out of a right way of worshipping our GOD according to his own heart: In promoting the power of Godlinesse: in the hearts and lives of all his people, and in laying forth such a Discipline as may be most agreeable to Gods holy Word, and most apt to procure and preserve the peace of this Church at home, and nearer agreement with the Church of Scotland (highly honoured by us) and other the best reformed Churches abroad, That so to the utmost of our power, we may exalt him that is the only Lord over the Church, his own House, in all his Offices, and present this Church as a chast virgin unto Christ.

It is a timely and savourie prayer which you have put up at the throne of Grace, touching the due managing of the proceedings in this Assembly, and that with straigth intentions we may all seek the truth in every thing, which by the blessing of God upon our labours, must needs produce all those blessings which your worthie Commissioners mention. And now, for your comfort as well as our own encouragement, we desire you to take notice of the gracious answer of the God that heareth prayer, unto your fervent cryes. For beside our own particular addresses and secret vows to our God to be faithful (with disdain of all baits of avarice and ambition) it hath pleased the Divine Providence so to direct both the honourable Houses of Parliament, to take care of preventing all obliquitie in our proceedings, and to stop the mouthes of all that watch for their and our haltings, and are apt maliciously to traduce both, (as if we were so restrained by them, in our votes and resolutions, as to be bound up to the sense of others, and to carry on private designes in a servile way) that the Houses have tendered to us, and we have most readily taken a solemne and serious Protestation in the presence of Almighty God, to maintain nothing in this Assembly touching Doctrine, but what we are perswaded in our consciences to be the truth; nor in matters of Discipline, but what we conceive to conduce most to the glory of God, and the good and peace of his Church; which doth not only secure the Members against fettering of their judgements or votes, but engage them to the use of all freedome, becoming the integrity of conscience, the weight of the Cause, the gravitie and honour of such an Assembly. It is likewise a great consolation, that our GOD hath put it into your hearts to designe some godly and learned Brethren to put in their sickles with us into this Harvest, which is so great, and requires so many Labourers; for which, as we heartily return thanks, so we earnestly pray the Lord to open a way to their timely coming hitherto and do assure them of all testimonies of respect, love, and the right hand of fellowship, who shall under-take a journey so tedious, and now so perillous, to joyne with us in the Work, when it shall please the honourable Houses of Parliament to invite them thereunto.