THE principal ACTS OF four general ASSEMBLIES, OF THE KIRK OF SCOTLAND: Holden At EDINBURGH 1639. At Aberdeen 1640. At S. ANDREWS and EDINBURGH 1641. At S. ANDREWS 1642. EDINBURGH: Printed by Evan tiler, Printer to the Kings most Excellent majesty. Anno 1642. THE general ASSEMBLY, At EDINBURGH 1639. Sess. VIII. August 17. 1639. Master George Grahame his renouncing and abjuring of episcopacy. The which day there was given in to the Assembly, direct from M. George Grahame, sometimes pretended Bishop of Orknay, an abjuration of Episcepacie, subscribed with his hand, which was publicly red in andience of the Assembly; and thereafter they ordained the same to be regestrat in the Assembly Books ad perpetuam rei memoriam, whereof the tenor follows. TO all and sundry whom it effeirs, to whose knowledge these presents shall come, specially to the reverend and honourable Members of the future Assembly to be holden at Edinburgh the twelfth day of August 1639. years: Me Master George Graham, sometime pretended Bishop of Orknay, being sorry and grieved at my heart that I should ever for any worldly respect have embraced the order of episcopacy, the same having no warrant from the Word of God, and being such an order, as hath had sensibly many fearful and evil consequences in many parts of christendom, and particularly within the Kirk of Scotland, as by doleful and deplorable experience this day is manifest, to have disclaimed, like as I by the tenor hereof do altogether disclaim and abjure all episcopal power and jurisdiction, with the whole corruptions thereof, condemned by lawful Assemblies within the said Kirk of Scotland, in regard the same is such an order as is also abjured within the said Kirk, by virtue of that national Oath which was made in the years 1580. and 1581. promising and swearing by the great Name of the Lord our God, That I shall never whiles I live, directly or indirectly, exerce any such power within the Kirk, neither yet shall I ever approve or allow the same, not so much as in my private or public discourse: But on the contrary, shall stand and adhere to all the Acts and Constitutions of the late Assembly holden at Glasgow the 21. of Novem. 1638. last bypassed, and shall concur to the uttermost of my power, sincerely and faithfully, as occasion shall offer, in executing the said Acts, and in advancing the Work of Reformation within this Land, to the glory of God, the peace of the Country, and the comfort and contentment of all good Christians, as God shall be my help. In testimony of the which premises, I have subscribed their presents with my hand at Breeknes in Stronnes, the eleventh day of February, the year of God 1639. years, before their witnesses Master Walter Stuart, Minister at Southronnaldsay, Master James Heynd, Minister at Kirkwall, Master Robert Peirson, Minister at Firth, and Master Patrick Grahame, Minister at holm, my son. Sess. VIII. 17. Aug. 1639. Act containing the Causes and remedy of the by-gone evils of this Kirk. THe Kings majesty having graciously declared, That it is His royal will and pleasure, that all questions about Religion, and matters ecclesiastical be determined by Assemblies of the Kirk, having also by public Proclamation indicted this free national Assembly, for settling the present distraction of this Kirk, and for establishing a perfect peace, against such divisions and disorders as have been sore displeasing to His majesty, and grievous to all his good Subjects. And now His Majesties Commissioner John earl of Traquair, entrusted and authorised with a full Commission, being present,& sitting in this Assembly, now fully convened and orderly constitute in all the members thereof, according to the order of this Kirk, having at large declared His Majesties zeal to the reformed Religion, and His royal care and tender affection to this Kirk, where his majesty had both His Birth and baptism, His great displeasure at the manifold distractions and divisions of this Kirk and kingdom, and His desires to have all our wounds perfectly cured with a fair and fatherly hand: And although in the way approven by this Kirk, trial hath been taken in former Assemblies before from the Kirk registers, to our full satisfaction, yet the Commissioners Grace making particular enquiry from the members of the Assembly, now solemnly convened, concerning the real and true causes of so many and great evils as this time past had so sore troubled the peace of this Kirk and kingdom, It was represented to His Majesties Commissioner by this Assembly, That beside many other, the main and most material causes were, First, The pressing of this Kirk, by the Prelates with a Service Book, or Book of Common Prayer, without warrant or direction from the Kirk, and containing beside the Popish frame thereof, divers Popish errors and ceremonies, and the seeds of manifold gross Superstitions and Idolatry, with a Book of Canons, without warrant or direction from the general Assembly, establishing a tyrannicall power over the Kirk in the person of Bishops, and overthrowing the whole discipline and government of the Kirk by Assemblies, with a Book of Consecration and Ordination, without warrant of authority, Civill or ecclesiastical, appointing offices in the house of God, which are not warranted by the word of God, and repugnant to the discipline and Acts of our Kirk, and with the high Commission, erected without the consent of the Kirk, subverting the jurisdiction and ordinary Judicatories of this Kirk, and giving to persons merely ecclesiastical, the power of both swords, and to persons merely Civill, the power of the Keys and Kirk-sensures. A second cause was the Articles of Perth, viz. the observation of festival dayes, kneeling at the Communion, Confirmation, Administration of the Sacraments in private places, which are brought in by a null Assembly and are contrary to the Confession of Faith, as it was meant and subscribed Anno 1580. and divers times since, and to the order and constitutions of this Kirk. Thirdly, the changing of the government of the Kirk, from the Assemblies of the Kirk to the persons of some Kirkmen, usurping priority and power over their Brethren, by the way, and under the name of episcopal government, against the Confession of Faith, 1580. against the order set down in the Book of Policy, and against the intention& constitution of this Kirk from the beginning. Fourthly the Civill places and power of herdmen, their sitting in Session, council and Exchequer, their Riding, Sitting, and voting in Parliament, and their fitting in the Bench as Justices of peace, which according to the constitutions of this Kirk are incompatible with their spiritual sanction, lifting them up above their Brethren in worldly pomp, and do tend to the hindrance of the ministry. Fiftly the keeping& authorizing corrupt Assemblies at Linlithgow, 1606. and 1608. At Glasgow, 1610. At Aberdeen, 1616. At S. Andrews, 1617. At Perth, 1618. which are null and unlawful, as being called and constitute quiter contrary to the order and constitutions of this Kirk received and practised ever since the Reformation of Religion, and withal labouring to introduce novations into this Kirk, against the order and Religion established. A sixth cause is the want of lawful and free general Assemblies, rightly constitute of Pastors, Doctors, and Elders yearly, or oftener prore nata, according to the liberty of this Kirk, expressed in the Book of Policy, and acknowledged in the Act of Parliament, 1592. After which the whole Assembly in one heart and voice did declare, that these and such other, proceeding from the neglect and breach of the national Covenant of this Kirk and kingdom, made in Anno 1580. have been indeed the true and main causes of all our evils and distractions. And therefore ordain, according to the constituiions of the general Assemblies of this Kirk: and upon the grounds respective above-specified, That the foresaid Service Book, Books of Cannons, and Ordination, and the high Commission, be still rejected; that the Articles of Perth, be no more practised: That episcopal Government, and the Civill places and power of herdmen be holden still as unlawful in this Kirk: That the above name pretended Assemblies, At Linlithgow 1606. and 1608. At Glasgow 1610. At Aberdeen 1616. At S. Andrews 1617. At Perth 1618. be hereafter accounted as null, and of none effect. And that for preservation of Religion, and preventing all such evils in time-coming, general Assemblies rightly constitute, as the proper and competent judge of all matters ecclesiastical, hereafter be kept yearly and oftener, prore nata, as occasion and necessity shall require; The necessity of these occasional Assemblies being first remonstrate to His majesty by humble snpplication: As also that Kirk Sessions, Presbyteries and synodal Assemblies, be constitute and observed, according to the order of this Kirk. After the voicing of the Act( anent the causes of our by gone evils) His Majesties Commissioner consented verbally to the said Act, and promised to give into the Clerk in writ, the Declaration of His consent, and that he should ratify this Act in the ensuing Parliament. Sess. XVIII. 26. Aug. 1639. Act approving an old Register of the general Assembly. The whole Assembly( upon the report made to them anent the old Register of the Assembly, gotten from Master John Rig) All in one voice approved the said Register, And ordained the same to make faith in judgement, and outwith in all time coming, as a true and authentic Register of the Kirk of Scotland, conform to the testimony subscribed by the Committee, to be insert in the Books of Assembly: whereof the tenor followeth; WE under-subscribers, Forsameikle as the late general Assembly holden at Glasgow, gave power and Commission to us, To peruse, examine, and cognosce upon the validity, faith, and strength of the books and Registers of the Assembly, particularly set down in the Commission given to us thereanent: According whereunto we did carefully view, peruse, and consider the saids Registers, and gave our testimony thereof under our hands, of the validity and sufficiency of the samine, to the said general Assembly. And now having a new Commission given to us from the general Assembly now presently convened and sitting at Edinburgh, To peruse, examine, and cognosce upon the validity, faith and strength of another Register of the Assembly, which was not set down and recommended to us by the said former Commission, which Register beginneth at the Assembly holden at Edinburgh the sixth day of March 1572. and endeth at the Assembly likewise holden at Edinburgh 1573. we have carefully viewed, perused, and considered the said Register: And being deeply and maturely advised, as in a matter of greatest weight and consequence, do attest before God, and upon our consciences declare to the world, and this present Assembly, That the said Register above expressed, is a famous, authentic, and good Register, which ought to be so reputed, and have public faith in judgement and outwith, as a valid and true Record in all things, And finds the same to be of the same hand-writ, and subscribed by the same Clerk of the general Assembly, as divers of the said other Registers( formeely perused by us) are. And in testimony of our solemn affirmation we have subscribed these prefents with our hands, at Edinburgh the 〈◇〉 day of August 1639. Act Sess. XIX. Aug. 27. 1639. Act approving the deposition of the Ministers by the Committees. THe Assembly, after the receiving of the whole reports from the Committees, appointed for revising of the processes and sentences, lead, deduced, and pronounced before, and by the several Commissions granted by the Assembly at Glasgow, All in one voice approved the saids whole processes as orderly proceeded, and the whole sentences pronounced thereintill, as just and lawful decrees, without prejudice of any favour that can be shown to any person or persons, against whom the said sentences are pronounced upon their supplications, or of Justice to such as complain of their process, and offers to reduce the same upon whatsoever reason competent, by the Constitutions of this Kirk and kingdom, before the general Assembly, and the Commissioners thereof, they being appointed for that effect. Act Sess. XX. 28. Aug. 1639. Act anent receiving of deposed Ministers. THe which day the general Assembly upon the report of the Committees anent these who are deposed by Synods, do make this general Act, recommending to the Synods all these who are deposed before them for subscribing of the Declinator, and reading of the Service-Book and for no other gross cause, That upon their true repentance and submission to the Constitutions of this Kirk, and upon their purgation and clearness from any gross Faults laid to their charge in any new process against them, they may be found by the Synods capable of the ministry, when God grants them an ordinary and lawful calling by admission from the presbytery, either in the Church they served in before, or in any other Church. Act Sess. XXI. 29. Aug. 1639. Act anent the keeping of the Lords Day. The general Assembly recommendeth to the several Presbyteries the execution of the old Acts of Assembly, against the breach of the Sabbath day, by going of milns, Salt. tyrants, Salmond fishing, or any such like labour; and to this end revives and renews the Act of the Assembly holden at Haly-rudehouse, 1602. Sess. 5. whereof the tenor follows: THe Assembly considering that the conventions of the People, specially on the Sabbath day are very rare in many places, by distraction of labour not only in harvest and seed-time, but also every Sabbath, by fishing both of white fish, and Salmond-fishing, and in going of milns. Therefore the Assembly dischargeth and inhibiteth all such labour of fishing as well white fish as Salmond-fish, and going of milns of all sorts upon the Sabbath, under the pain of incurring the censures of the Kirk: And ordains the Commissioners of this Assembly, to mean the same to His majesty, and to desire that a pecunial pain may be enjoined upon the contraveners of this present Act. Act Sess. XXII. 29. Aug. 1639. à meridie. Articles and Overtures approved by the Assembly. THat some Commissioners be appointed to visit and peruse the whole Acts of general Assemblies, and to mark such Acts as are for the use of the Kirk in general, To extract the same out of the Registers, to the effect that after they be tried, they may be printed according to the old Acts of the Assembly at Edinburgh March 7. 1574. Session 9. The Assembly appoints the presbytery of Edinburgh to have a care of this article, and to report their diligence to the next Assembly. That course may be taken for restraining of people from passing to England to mary, which is the occasion of great inconveniencies. The Assembly alloweth this article, and recommends to the Parliament, that they would appoint a pecunial snmme to be payed by the contraveners. That the Acts for furnishing expenses to Commissioners, sent by the Presbyteries to the general Assembly, and sent in Commission by general Assemblies, may be explained; And it be declared that all such Commissioners whatsoever, by their stipends may be furnished by the Kirks of the presbytery, according to the order set down in the Act of the last Assembly, since the errand is common, and the benefit concerneth all: and that order may be taken, how that an expedient voluntary course, thought fit by the Assembly, shall by advice of Parliament, have the force of a law, for compelling these to pay who are stented, both for the last and this Assembly, and in time to come. The Assembly allows this article, and refers the same to the Parliament. That the Session-Books of every parish be presented once a year to the Presbyteries, that they may be tried by them. The Assembly alloweth this article. That the Act of the 38. Assembly at Edinburgh, October 24. 1578. Sess. 8. ordaining Ministers who are deposed, to be charged under the pain of excommunication, to dimit their places, that they may be unquestionably vacand, may now be renewed. The Assembly alloweth this article, and remits the same to the Parliament. The Assembly would revive or renew all former Acts of Assembly against Papists, and excommunicate persons, against haunters with them and receivers of them. The Assembly alloweth this article. That an uniform catechism may be appointed to be used throughout this whole kingdom in the examinations before the Communion. The Assembly alloweth this article. That all Ministers or Intrants presented to Kirks, be tried before their admission, if they be qualified for the places to which they are presented, besides the ordinary trials of Expectants before their entry to the ministery. The Assembly alloweth this article. Sess. XXIII. 30. Aug. 1639. The Supplication of the general Assembly to the Kings Majesties Commissioner, concerning the Book, called, The large Declaration. WEe the Members of this present Assembly, for ourselves, and in name of the several Presbyteries, Burghs, and Universities, for which we are Commissioners, resenting the great dishonour done to God, our King, this Kirk, and whole kingdom, by the Book called, A large Declaration, have here represented the same to your Grace, and have collected some amongst many of false gross& absurd passages, That from the consideration therof, your Grace perceiving the intolerable evils foresaids contained therein, may be pleased to represent the same to our gracious sovereign, and in our behalves humbly to beseech his majesty, so much wronged by the many foul and false relations, suggested and persuaded to him as goldsmiths, and by stealing the protection of His royal Name and authority to the patrociny of such a Book: To be pleased first to call in the said Book, and thereby to show his dislike thereof: Next to give Commission and warrant, To city all such parties as are either known or suspect to have hand in it, and to appoint such as His majesty knows to be either authors, informers, or any ways accessary, being Natives of this kingdom, To be sent hither to abide their trial and censure before the Judge Ordinary, and in special Master Walter Balcanquell, now dean of Durham, who is known and hath professed to be the author, at least a vower and maintainer of a great part thereof; that by their exemplar punishment, others may be deterred from such dangerous courses, as in such a way to raise sedition betwixt the King and His Subjects, Gods honour may be vindicate from so high contempt, His Majesties justice may appear, not only in cutting away such Malefactors, but in discouraging all such under-miners of His throne, His loyal and loving Subjects shall be infinitely contented to be cleared before the world of so false and unjust imputations, and will live hereafter in the greater security, when so dangerous a course of sedition is prevented, and so will have the greater and greater cause to pray for His Majesties long and prosperous reign. His Majesties Commissioner in council having received the said supplication, promised to impart the same to His Majesty, and to report his diligence therein. The Supplication of the Assembly to His Majesties High Commissioner, and the Lords of secret council. WEe the general Assembly, considering with all humble and thankful acknowledgement, the many recent favours bestowed upon us by His majesty, and that there resteth nothing for crowning of His Majesties incomparable goodness towards us, but that all the members of this Kirk and Kingdom be joined in one and the same Confession and Covenant with God, with the Kings majesty, and amongst ourselves: And conceiving the main let and impediment to this so good a work, and so much wished by all, to have been the Informations made to His majesty, of our Intentions to shake off civill and dutiful obedience due to sovereignty, and to diminish the Kings greatness and authority, and being most willing and desirous to remove this and all such impediments which may hinder and impede so full and perfect an Union, and for clearing of our loyalty, WEE in our own names, and in name of all the rest of the Subjects and Congregations whom we represent, do now in all humility represent to your Grace, His Majesties Commissioner, and the Lords of His Majesties most Honourable privy council, and declares before God and the world, that we never had nor have any thought of with-drawing ourselves from that humble and dutiful obedience to His majesty, and to his government, which by the descent and under the reign of 107. Kings is most cheerfully acknowledged by us and our predecessors: and that we never had, nor have any intention nor desire to attempt any thing that may tend to the dishonour of God, or the diminution of the Kings greatness and authority: But on the contrary, acknowledging our quietness, stability and happiness to depend upon the safety of the Kings Majesties Person, and maintenance of His greatness and royal authority who is Gods Vice-gerent set over us, for the maintenance of Religion and ministration of Justice, Wee have solemnly sworn and do swear, not only our mutual concurrence and assistance for the cause of Religion, and to the uttermost of our power, with our means and lives, to stand to the defence of our dread sovereign, his person and authority, in preservation and defence of the true Religion, Liberties and laws of this Kirk and kingdom, but also in every cause which may concern His Majesties honour, shall according to the laws of this kingdom, and the dueties of good Subjects, concur with our friends and followers in quiet manner, or in arms, as we shall be required of His majesty, His council, or any having his authority. And therefore being most desirous to clear ourselves of all imputation of this kind, and following the laudable example of our predecessors, 1589. do most humbly supplicate your Grace, His Majesties Commissioner, and the Lords of His Majesties most honourable privy council, to enjoin by Act of council, that this Confession and Covenant, which, as a testimony of our fidelity to God, and loyalty to our King, we have subscribed, be subscribed by all His Majesties Subjects, of what rank and quality soever. The Act of the Lords of council at Edinburgh, Aug. 30. 1639. containing the Answer of the preceding Supplication. THe which day in presence of the Lord Commissioner and the Lords of privy council, compeired personally John earl of Rothes, James earl of Montrose, John Lord Lowdoun, Sir George Stirling of Keir Knight, Sir William Douglas of Cavers Knight, Sir Henry Wood of Bonytoun Knight, John smith burgess of Edinburgh, Mr. Robert Barclay Provest of Irwing, Mr. Alexander Henderson Minister at Edinburgh, and Mr. Archbald Johnstoun Clerk to the general Assembly, and in the name of the present sitting general Assembly, gave in to the Lord Commissioner and Lords of privy council, the Petition above written; which being red, heard, and considered by the saids Lords, they have ordained, and ordain the same to be insert and registrate in the books of privy council, and according to the desire thereof, ordains the said Confession and Covenant to be subscribed in time coming by all His Majesties Subjects of this kingdom, of what rank and quality soever. The Kings Majesties Commissioners Declarations. THe which day His Majesties Commissioner, and Lords of council, after the receiving of the Supplication of the general Assembly, anent the subscribing of the Covenant, having returned to the Assembly, His Majesties Commissioner in name of the council, declared; that he had received the Supplication of the Assembly, desiring that the Covenant might receive the force of an Act of council, to be subscribed by all His Majesties Subjects, that they had found the desire so fair and reasonable, that they conceived themselves bound in duty to grant the same; and thereupon have made an Act of council to that effect: and that there restend now the Act of Assembly. And that he himself was so fully satisfied, that he came now as His Majesties Commissioner to consent fully unto it: and that he was most willing that it should be enacted here in this Assembly, to oblige all His Majesties Subjects to subscribe the said Covenant, with the Assemblies explanation. And because there was a third thing desired, His subscription as the Kings Commissioner, unto the Covenant, which he behoved to do, with a Declaration in writ, and he declared as a Subject, he should subscribe the Covenant as strictly as any, with the Assemblies Declaration; but as His Majesties Commissioner in his name behoved to prefix to his subscription, the Declaration following, which no Scots Subjects should subscribe, or have the benefit of, no not himself as earl of Traquair. The tenor whereof follows: SEeing this Assembly, according to the laudable form and custom heretofore kept in the like cases, have in an humble and dutiful way, supplicate to us His Majesties Commissioner, and the Lords of His Majesties most honourable privy council, That the Covenant, with the explanation of this Assembly, might be subscribed: And to that effect that all the Subjects of this kingdom by Act of council be required to do the same: And that therein for vindicating themselves from all suspicions of disloyalty, or derogating from the greatness and authority of our dread sovereign, have therewith added a Clause, whereby this Covenant is declared one in substance with that which was subscribed by His Majesties Father of blessed memory 1580, 1581, 1590. and oftener since renewed. Therefore I as His Majesties Commissioner, for the full satisfaction of the Subjects, and for settling a perfect Peace in Church and kingdom, do according to my foresaids Declaration and Subscription, subjoined to the Act of this Assembly of the date the 17. of this instant, allow and consent that the Covenant be subscribed throughout all this kingdom. In witness whereof I have subscribed the premises. Like as His Majesties Commissioner, red and gave in the Declaration following, of his consent to the Act of the Assembly 17. August, anent the causes of our by-gone evils. I John earl of Traquair, His Majesties Commissioner in this present Assembly, do in His Majesties Name declare, that notwithstanding of His Majesties own inclination, and many other grave and weighty considerations, yet such is His Majesties incomparable goodness, that for settling the present distractions, and giving full satisfaction to the Subject, He doth allow, like as I His Majesties Commissioner do consent to the foresaid Act,& have subscribed the premises. Like as His Majesties Commissioner, red and gave in the Declaration following: IT is always hereby declared by me His Majesties Commissioner, That the practise of the premises, prohibited within this Kirk and kingdom, outwith the kingdom of Scotland, shall never bind nor infer censure against the practices outwith the kingdom: which when the Commissioner required to be insert in the Register of the Kirk, and the Moderator in name of the Assembly, refused to give warrant for such practise, as not agreeable with a good conscience, His Grace urged, that it should be recorded, at least that he made such a Declaration, whatsoever was the Assemblies Judgement in the contrair: And so it is to be understood to be insert here onely recitative. Act ordaining the subscription of the Confession of Faith and Covenant, with the Assemblies Declaration. THe general Assembly considering the great happiness which may flow from a full and perfect Union of this Kirk and kingdom, by joining of all in one and the same Covenant with God, with the Kings majesty, and amongst ourselves, having by our great Oath declared the uprightness and loyalty of our intentions in all our proceedings, and having withall supplicated His Majesties high Commissioner,& the Lords of His Majesties honourable privy council, to enjoin by Act of council, all the Lieges in time coming to subscribe the Confession of faith and Covenant, which as a testimogy of our fidelity to God and loyalty to our King, we have subscribed; And seeing His Majesties high Commissioner, and the Lords of His Majesties honourable privy council, have granted the desire of our Supplication, ordaining by Civill authority, all His Majesties Lieges in time coming, to subscribe the foresaid Covenant, that our Union may bee the more full and perfect, We by our Act and Constitution ecclesiastical, do approve the foresaid Covenant, in all the Heads and Clauses thereof, and ordains of new, under all ecclesiastical censure, that all the Masters of Universities, colleges, and schools, all Schollers at the passing of their degrees, all persons suspect of Papistry, or any other error; and finally, all the members of this Kirk and kingdom, subscribe the same with these words prefixed to their subscription: The Article of this Covenant, which was at the first subscription referred to the determination of the general Assembly, being determined. And thereby the five Articles of Perth, the government of the Kirk by Bishops, the civill places and power of Kirk men, upon the reasons and grounds contained in the Acts of the general Assembly declared to be unlawful within this Kirk, we subscribe according to the determination foresaid. And ordains the Covenant, with this Declaration, to be insert in the Registers of the Assemblies of this Kirk, general, provincial, and presbyterial, ad perpetuam rei memoriam; and in all humility supplicates His Majesties high Commissioner, and the honourable Estates of Parliament, by their authority, to ratify and enjoin the same under all civill pains, which will tend to the glory of God, preserv●●●●● of Religion, the Kings Majesties honour, and perfect peace of this Kirk and kingdom. Aug. 30. 1639. Act anent Appellations. THe Assembly appointed that in all time hereafter, no Appellations should be, leaping over either presbytery or Synod, but to ascend by degrees as from the Kirk Session to the taffeta, or from the presbytery to the Synod, and from the Synod to the general Assembly, except it be after the Synod be past, and immediately before the general Assembly, or in the time thereof, and renews all former Acts made to this effect. Act anent advising with Synods and Presbyteries before determination in Novations. THe general Assembly desiring that the intended Reformation being recovered, may be established, Ordains, that no Novation which may disturb the peace of the Church, and make division, be suddenly proponed and enacted: But so as the motion be first communicate to the several Synods, Presbyteries and Kirks, that the matter may be approved by all at home, and Commissioners may come well prepared, unanimously to conclude a solid deliberation upon these points in the general Assembly. Act anent Ministers catechizing, and Family Exercises. THe Assembly considering that the long waited-for fruits of the Gospel, so mercifully planted and preserved in this Land, and the Reformation of ourselves, and Families, so solemnly vowed to God of late in our Covenant, cannot take effect, except the knowledge& worship of God be carried from the Pulpit to every family within each Parish, hath therefore appointed that every Minister, besides his pains on the Lords day, shall have weekly catechizing of some part of the Paroch, and not altogether cast over the examination of the people, till a little before the Communion. Also that in every family the worship of God be erected, where it is not both Morning and Evening, and that the Children and Servants be catechized at home, by the Masters of the Families, whereof account shall be taken by the Minister, and Elders assisting him in the visitation of every Family: And lest they fail, that visitation of the several Kirks be seriously followed by every presbytery, for this end among others. The execution and success whereof, being tried by the Synods, let it be represented to the next general Assembly. Sess. XXIIII. 30. Aug. à meridie. The Assemblies Supplication to the Kings majesty. Most Gracious sovereign, WEe Your Majesties most humble and loyal Subjects, the Commissioners from all the parts of this your Majesties ancient and Native kingdom, and members of the national Assembly, convened at Edinburgh by Your Majesties special indiction, and honoured with the presence of Your Majesties high Commissioner, have been waiting for a day of rejoicing, and of solemn Thanksgiving to be rendered to God by this whole Kirk and kingdom, for giving us a King so just and religious, that it is not only lawful for us to be Christians under Your Majesties government, which sometime hath been the greatest praise of great Princes, but also that it hath pleased Your gracious majesty, to make known that it is Your royal will and pleasure, that all matters ecclesiastical be determined in free national Assemblies, and matters civill in Parliaments; which is a most noble and ample expression of Your Majesties justice, and we trust shall be a powerful mean of our common happiness under your Majesties most blessed Reign. In the mean while we do most humbly, upon the knees of our hearts, bless your Majesty for that happiness already begun in the late Assembly at Edinburgh; in the proceedings whereof, next under God, we have laboured to approve ourselves unto Your Majesties Vice-gerent, as if Your Majesties eyes had been upon us, which was the desire of our souls, and would have been the matter of our full rejoicing, and do still continue Your Majesties most humble supplicants for Your Majesties civill sanction and ratification of the constitutions of the Assembly in Parliament; That your Majesties Princely power, and the ecclesiastical Authority joining in one, the mutual embracements of religion and justice, of truth and peace may be seen in this Land, which shall be to us as a resurrection from the dead, and shall make us, being not only so far recovered, but also revived, to fill Heaven and Earth with our praises, and to pray that King CHARLES may be more and more blessed, and His throne established before the Lord for ever. THe Assembly appoints the next general Assembly, to sit at Aberdeen the last Tuesday of July next, 1640. years. And warneth all Presbyteries, Universities and Burrows, to sand their Commissioners, for keeping the samine. And thereafter the Assembly was concluded by giving of thanks by the Moderator, and singing of a psalm, according to the custom. FINIS. THE general ASSEMBLY, convened At Aberdeen July 28. 1640. Sess. II. 29. July 1640. THe Assembly having past the first day before they would make any Act in attending of His Majesties Commissioner. This day the Moderator openly asked in face of the Assembly, if there was any Commissioner come from His majesty: And finding there was none, the Assembly proceeded according to their Liberties. Overtures given in by the Committee appointed by the last Assembly, anent the ordering of the Assemblyhouse: Which being red in audience of the Assembly they approved the same. THe Assembly finds it expedient for the ordering of the House in all time coming, that the Commissioners sit together unmixed, and that the places where they sit be railed about, or some other way divided from the seats of others, and that places be provided without the bounds of the Commissioners seats to persons of respect, who are not Commissioners, and others according to their qualities, as the Magistrates of the Town shall find most convenient. Also that the Commissioners, having received tickets from the Magistrates of the Burgh, at the delivery of their Commissions, whereby they may have ready access to the Assemblie-House and place appointed for them, do keep the hour of meeting precisely,& whosoever comes after the time, or shall be found absent at the calling of the rolls, to be censured as the assembly sees fitting: And whatsoever presbytery, Burgh or university, shall not sand Commissioners, or Commissioners sent from them do not come at all to the Assembly, be summoned unto the next Assembly, and censured as the Assembly shall find reasonable. That four persons of respect have warrant from the Assembly to enjoin that there be no standing, no din, nor disorderly behaviour; And if any shall disobey them, or direct his speech to any, except to the Moderator, and that one at once with leave first asked and given, to be rebuked publicly by the Moderator: and if he desist not be removed out of the Assembly for that Session. That no motion come in unto the Assembly but by the Committee appointed for matters of that nature: and if the Committee refuse to answer the same, let it be proponed to the Assembly with the reasons thereof. That the minutes of ilk Session be red before their rising, and if the matter concern the whole Kirk, let it be drawn up in form and red in the beginning of the next ensuing Session, that the Assembly may judge whether or not it bee according to their mind. Act anent the demolishing of Idolatrous Monuments. FOrasmuch as the Assembly is informed, that in divers places of this kingdom, and specially in the North parts of the same, many Idolatrous Monuments, erected and made for Religious worship, are yet extant, Such as Crucifixes, Images of Christ, Mary, and Saints departed, ordains the saids monuments to be taken down, demolished, and destroyed, and that with all convenient diligence: and that the care of this work shall be incumbent to the Presbyteries and provincial Assemblies within this kingdom, and their Commissioners to report their diligence herein to the next general Assembly. Act against Witches and Charmers. THe Assembly ordains all Ministers within the kingdom, carefully to take notice of Charmers, Witches, and all such abusers of the people, and to urge the Acts of Parliament, to be execute against them: And that the Commissioners from the Assembly to the Parliament, shall recommend to the said supreme judicatory, the care of the execution of the laws against such persons in the most behoveful way. Sess. V. Aug. 1. 1640. Act for censuring speakers against the Covenant. THe Assembly ordains, that such as have subscribed the Covenant and speaks against the same, if he be a Minister, shall be deprived; and if he continue so, being deprived, shall be excommunicate: And if he be any other man, shall be dealt with as perjured, and satisfy publicly for his perjury. Sess. X. 5. Aug. 1640. Act against Expectants refusing to subscribe the Covenant. THe Assembly ordains, that if any Expectant shall refuse to subscribe the Covenant, he shall be declared uncapable of a pedagogy, teaching of a School, reading at a Kirk, Preaching within a presbytery, and shall not have liberty of residing within a Burgh, university, or college: And if they continue obstinate, to be processed. THe general Assembly appoints the next Assembly, to be in S. Andrews the third Tuesday of July 1641. And that the Moderator in a convenient way, by the secret council, or otherwise as may best serve, request the Kings majesty to sand his Commissioner to the said Assembly. And if any exigent fall out, that the presbytery of Edinburgh give advertisement for an Assembly pro re nata. FINIS. THE general ASSEMBLY, HOLDEN AT S. ANDREWS and EDINBURGH 1641. Sess. I. 20. July 1641. John earl of Weymes, His Majesties Commissioner, presented His Majesties Letter to the Assembly, whereof the tenor followeth. CHARLES R. trusty and well-beloved, Wee greet you well. It is no small part of Our royal care and desires, that the true Reformed Religion, wherein by the grace of God, We resolve to live and die, be settled peaceably in that Our ancient and native kingdom of Scotland, and that the same be truly taught, and universally received and professed by Our Subjects there, of all degrees. For preventing of all division and trouble hereafter, We did intend in Our Own royal Person, to have been present at this Assembly; but conceiving it to be unfitting, to detain the Ministers from their particular charges, till the time of Our coming to the Parliament, We have resolved to make known unto you by these, and by Our Commissioner, That in the approaching Parliament, it is Our intention by Our authority, to ratify and confirm the Constitutions of the late Assembly at Edinburgh, that they may be obeied by all Our Subjects living in that Our kingdom. And that We will take into Our royal consideration, by what means the Churches belonging to Our presentation, when any of them shall happen to vaik, may be best provided with well qualified Preachers: Like as We are not unwilling to grant presentations unto such as in these times of trouble have entred into the ministery, providing they have been examined by the Presbyteries, and approved by them: Because We want not Our own fears of the decay of Learning in that Church and kingdom, We intend also to consider of the best means for helping the schools and colleges of Learning especially of Divinity, that there may be such a number of Preachers there, as that each Parish having a Minister, and the Gospel being preached in the most remote parts of the kingdom, all Our Subjects may taste of Our care in that kind, and have more and more cause to bless God that we are set over them. And finally, so tender is Our care, that it shall not be Our fault if the Churches and colleges there flourish not in Learning and Religion: For which royal testimony of Our goodness, We require nothing upon your part, but that which God hath bound you unto, even that you be faithful in the charge committed unto you, and care for the souls of the people: That you study Peace and Unity amongst yourselves, and amongst the people, against all schism and Faction; and that you not only pray for Us, but that you teach the People, which We trust are not unwilling to pay that honour and obedience which they owe unto Us, as his Vicegerent set over them, for their good; wherein We expect you will by your good example go before them. Which hoping you will do, We bid you farewell. From Our Court at Whitehall, the 10. day of July 1641. Sess. III. 28. July 1641. Act approving the Overtures of the Assembly at Aberdeen, for ordering the Assembly-House. THe Overtures for ordering the Assembly-House, given in to, and approved by the Assembly of Aberdeen the 29. July 1640. Act Sess. 2. were openly red, and again approved by this Assembly, and ordained to be kept the whole time thereof. Sess. V. 30. July 1641. Act anent old Ministers bruiking their benefice. THe Assembly having considered the Supplication given in by Doctor Robert Howie, Provest of the New college of S. Andrews, whereby he craved, that( notwithstanding of his dismission of his charge) he should not be prejudged of his full provision and maintenance during his life time: The Assembly thinks it fit and necessary, that his provision and maintenance should not be diminished, but that he should enjoy the same fully, as of before, during all the dayes of his life-time, and craveth his dismission to be only but a cessation from his charge, because of his age and inability: And declares, that old Ministers and professors of divinity, shall not by their cessation from their charge, through age and inability, be put from enjoying their old maintenance and dignity. And recommends this and others the like things, concerning the estate of that university of S. Andrews, to the Parliament, and the Visitation to be appointed from the Assembly and Parliament. And likewise the Assembly being informed, that the said Doctor Howie hath been very painful in his charge, and that he hath divers papers which would be very profitable for the Kirk: Therefore they think fit, that the said doctor Howie be desired to collect these papers, which doth concern, and may be profitable for the use of the Kirk, that the samine may be shown to the Visitors of the said university. Sess. VIII. 2. Aug. 1641. à meridie. Act against sudden receiving Ministers deposed. THe Assembly ordains, that Ministers who are deposed either by Presbyteries, Synods, or general Assemblies, or Committees from Assemblies for the public cause of the Reformation and order of this Kirk, shall not be suddenly received again to the ministery, till they first evidence their repentance both before the presbytery and Synod, within the bounds where they were deposed, and thereafter the samine reported to the next ensuing general Assembly. Sess. IX. Aug. 3. 1641. The Overtures underwritten, concerning the universities and colleges of this kingdom, to be represented by the general Assembly, to the Kings Majesty and Parliament, being openly red, the Assembly approved the saids Overtures, and ordained them to be recommended to the Parliament. FIrst, because the good estate both of the Kirk and Commonwealth, dependeth mainly upon the flourishing of Universities and colleges, as the Seminaries of both, which cannot be expected, unless the poor means which they have, be helped, and sufficient revenues be provided for them and the same well employed: Therefore that out of the rents of Prelacies, Collegiat or Chapter-Kirks, or such like, a sufficient maintenance be provided for a competent number of Professors, Teachers, and Bursers in all faculties, and especially in divinity, and for upholding, repairing, and enlarging the fabric of the colleges, furnishing Libraries, and suchlike good uses in every university and college. Next for keeping of good order, preveening and removing of abuses, and promoving of piety and learning, it is very needful and expedient, that there be a communion and correspondency kept betwixt all the Universities and colleges. And therefore that it be ordained, that there be a meeting once every year at such times and places as shall be agreed upon, of Commissioners from every University and college to consult and determine upon the common affairs, and whatsoever may concern them, for the ends above-specified, and who also, or some of their number may represent what shall be needful and expedient for the same effect, to Parliaments and general Assemblies. Item, that special care be had that the places of the Professors, especially of Professors of Divinity in every University and college, Be filled with the ablest men, and best affencted to the Reformation and order of this Kirk. Sess. X. Aug. 4. 1641. Act against Impiety and schism. THe Assembly seriously considering the present case and condition of this Kirk& Kingdom, what great things the Lord hath done for us, especially since the renewing of our Covenant, notwithstanding our former backsliding and desertion; and if we shall either become remiss in the dueties of Piety, or shall not constantly hold& keep our Religion, unto which we have bound ourselves so straitly& solemnly, what dishonour we do unto the name of God before men, who have their eyes upon us, and how great judgements we bring upon ourselves, upon these and the like considerations, The Assembly doth find it most necessary to stir up themselves, and to provoke all others both Ministers and people of all degrees, not only to the religious exercises of public worship in the Congregation, and of private worship in their Families, and of every one by themselves apart, but also to the dueties of mutual edification, by instruction, admonition, exhorting one another to forwardness in Religion, and comforting one another in whatsoever distress; and that in all their meetings, whither in the way of civill conversation, or by reason of their particular callings, or any other occasion offered by divine providence, no corrupt communication proceed out of their mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers: And because the best means have been, and may still be despised or abused, and particularly the duty of mutual edification, which hath been so little in use, and so few know how to practise in the right manner, may be upon the one part subject to the mocking of ungodly and worldly men, who cannot endure that in others, which they are not willing to practise themselves, and upon the other part, to many errors and abuses, to which the godly through their weakness may fall, or by the craftiness of others may be drawn into, such as are Error, heresy, schism, scandal, Self-conceit, and despising of others, pressing above the common calling of Christians,& usurping that which is proper to the Pastoral Vocation, contempt or misregard of the public means, idle and unprofitable questions which edify not, uncharitable censurings, neglect of duties in particular callings, business in other mens Matters and Callings, and many such others in doctrine, charity, and manners, which have dolefully rent the bowels of other Kirks, to the great prejudice of the Gospel. Therefore the Assembly, moved with the zeal of God against all abuses and corruptions, and according to their manifold obligations, most earnestly desiring and thirsting to promove the work of Reformation, and to have the comfort& power of true godliness, sensible to every soul, and Religion to be universally practised in every Family, and by every person at all occasions, Doth charge all the Ministers and Members of this Kirk whom they do represent, that according to their several places and vocations, they endeavour to suppress all impiety and mocking of religious exercises, especially of such as put foul aspersions, and factious or odious names upon the godly. And upon the other part, that in the fear of God they be ware and spiritually wise, that under the name and pretext of religious exercises, otherways lawful and necessary, they fall not into the aforesaid abuses; especially, that they eschew all meetings which are apt to breed Error, scandal, schism, neglect of dueties and particular callings, and such other evils as are the works, not of the spirit, but of the flesh, and are contrary to truth and peace; and that the Presbyteries and Synods have a care to take order with such as transgress the one way or the other. Sess. XIIII. 6. Aug. 1641. à meridie. Act anent Novations. SInce it hath pleased God to vouchsafe us the liberty of yearly general Assemblies, It is ordained according to the Acts of the Assembly at Edinburgh 1639. and at Aberdeen, 1640. that no Novation in doctrine, worship, or government, be brought in, or practised in this Kirk, unless it be first propounded, examined, and allowed in the general Assembly, and that transgressors in this kind be censured by Presbyteries and Synods. Act Sess. XV. 7. Aug. 1641. Overtures anent Bursars, and Expectants. The Overtures underwritten being openly red in audience of the Assembly, were approved, and declared by them to be Acts of the Assembly, in all time coming, to be observed respective, as the samine bears. THe Assembly thinks meet for maintaining of Bursars of divinity, that every presbytery that consists of twelve Ministers, shall maintain a Bursar, and where the number is fewer nor twelve, shall be joined with these out of another presbytery where their number exceeds: where this course is not already kept, it is to be begun without longer delay, and every provincial is ordained to give an account of their number of Bursars, that is constantly to be entertained by their Province, at the next ensuing general Assembly. No Expectant shall be permitted to preach in public before a Congregation, till first he be tried after the same manner, how beit not altogether with that accuracie which is enjoined by the Act of the Assembly of Glasgow 1638. which prescribes the order and manner of trial, that is to be kept with these who are to be admitted to the holy ministry: and none so tried shall preach in public, without the bounds of the University or presbytery where he past his trials, till he first make it known to the other Presbyteries, where he desires to be heard, by a testimonial from the university or presbytery where he lived, that he hath been of an honest conversation, and past his trials comform to the order here prescribed: Which being done in the meeting of the Province or presbytery, where he desires to be heard; he is to be allowed by them to preach within the bounds of that Province or presbytery, without any further trial to be taken of him. Expectants being educate in a college that was corrupt, or under a corrupt Minister, if they themselves have been known to have been tainted with error, or opposite to our Covenant, and the blessed Work of Reformation within this Kirk, the same order is to be kept in admitting them to the holy ministry, or to any place in the colleges or schools of this kingdom, that was ordained to be kept in admission of these Ministers who fled out of the country, and show themselves opposite to our Covenant and Reformation. Act Sess. XVII. Aug. 9. 1641. Act against unlawful Bands. THe Assembly taking to their consideration the question proponed unto them concerning the Band, the copy whereof was presented before them from the Parliament, doth find and declare that Bands of this and the like nature, may not lawfully be made: By which Declaration the Assembly doth not intend to bring any censure for what is past, and by the wisdom and care of the Committee of the Parliament is taken away, upon any person, who being required by the Moderator and the Clerk, shall under his hand declare before them, That as the Assembly doth find that the subscribers are not astricted by their Oath to the tenor of the said Band, so he findeth himself not to be astricted by his Oath to the tenor thereof; but the intention of the Assembly is merely to prevent the like in time coming. Sess. XVIII. 9. Aug. 1641. à meridie. A Letter from some Ministers in England to the assembly. Right Reverend and dear Brethren, now convened in this general Assembly. WEe most hearty salute you in the Lord, rejoicing with you in his unspeakable goodness, so miraculously prospering your late endeavours, both for the restoring and settling of your own Liberties and privileges, in Church and common wealth( which we hear and hope he is now about to accomplish) as also for the occasioning and advancing of the work of Reformation among ourselves; for which as we daily bless the highest Lord, sole Author of all our good, so do we aclowledge yourselves worthy Instruments thereof. And for that( besides all other respects) do, and ever shall( by the help of God) hold you dear unto us, as our own bowels, and ourselves obliged to render unto you all due correspondence according to our power, upon all good occasions. And now( dear Brethren) forasmuch as the Church of Christ is but one body, each part whereof cannot but partake in the weal and woe of the whole, and of each other part; and these Churches of England and Scotland, may seem both to be embarked in the same bottom, to sink and swim together, and are so near conjoined by many strong ties, not only as fellow-members under the same Head Christ, and felow-subjects under the same King; but also by such neighbour-hood and vicinity of place, that if any evil shall much infest the one, the other cannot bee altogether free: or if for the present it should, yet in process of time it would sensibly suffer also. And forasmuch as evils are better remedied in their first beginning, then after they have once taken deep root; therefore we whose names are here underwritten, in the behalf of ourselves, and of many others, Ministers of the Church of England, are bold to commend to your consideration( being met together in this venerable Assembly) a difference of great concernment, which you may please( in brief) thus to understand. Almighty God having now of his infinite goodness raised up our hopes of removing the yoke of episcopacy( under which we have so long groaned) sundry other forms of Church-government are by sundry sorts of men projected, to be set up in the room thereof: one of which( amongst others) is of some Brethren that hold the whole power of Church-government, and all Acts thereunto appertaining( as Election, Ordination, and Deposition of Officers, with Admission, Excommunication, and Absolution of Members) are by divine Ordinance in foro externo, to be decreed by the most voices, in, and of every particular Congregation, which( say they) is the utmost bound of a particular Church, endowed with power of government, and only some Formalities of solemn execution to be reserved to the Officers( as servants of the saids Church) if they have any, or if none, then to be performed by some other members, not in office, whom the said Church shall appoint thereunto: And that every of the said particular Congregations( whether they consist of few or many members, and be furnished with Officers or not) lawfully may and ought to transact, determine and execute all matters pertaining to the government of themselves, amongst and within themselves without any authoritative( though not consulatory) concurrence or interposition of any other persons or Churches whatsoever, condemning all imperative and decisive power of Classes, or compound Presbyteries and Synods, as a mere usurpation. Now because we conceive that your judgement in this case may conduce much by the blessing of God, to the settling of this question amongst us; Therefore we do earnestly entreat the same at your hands, and that so much the rather, because we sometimes hear from those of the aforesaid judgement, that some famous and eminent Brethren, even amongst yourselves, do somewhat incline unto an approbation of that way of government. Thus humbly craving pardon for our boldness, leaving the matter to your grave considerations, and expecting answer at your convenient leisure, We commit you, and the success of this your meeting, to the blessing of the Almighty, in whom we shall ever remain, London, 12. July. 1641. Your faithful Brethren to serve you in all offices of love. The Assemblies Answer to the English Ministers Letter. Right reverend and dearly beloved Brethren in our Lord and common Saviour Jesus Christ. WEe the Ministers and Elders met together in this national Assembly, were not a little refreshed and comforted by the good report which we heard of you, and others of our Brethren of the Kirk of England, by some of our Ministers, who by the good providence of our Lord had seen your faces, and conversed with you. But now yet more comforted by your Letters which we received, and which were red in the face of the Assembly, witnessing your Christian love, and rejoicing with us in God for his great and wonderful Work in the Reformation of this Kirk, and in the beginning of a blessed Reformation amongst yourselves, and that you are so sensible of your communion and fellowship with us, and to desire to know our mind and judgement of that which some Brethren amongst you hold, concerning Kirk-government. We do with our hearts aclowledge and wonder at the great and unspeakable wisdom, mercy, and power of our God, in restoring unto us the truth and purity of Religion, after many Back slidings and defection of some in this Kirk, and desire not only to confess the same before the world, and all other Christian Kirkes, but also do pray for grace to walk worthy of so wonderful a love: We have been helped by your prayers, in our weak endeavours, and you have mourned with us,( we know) in the dayes of our mourning; and therefore is it that you do now rejoice and praise God with us: Neither are we out of hope, but the same God shall speedily perfect that which he hath begun amongst you, that your joy may be full: which is the desire of our soul, and for which we do now pray, and in our several Congregations will be instant at the throne of grace, for this and all other spiritual and temporal blessings upon the Kirk and kingdom of England, by name, expecting the like performance of mutual love from you, and others equally minded with you, for your parts, till a common consent may be obtained, even that you will recommend the Kirk of Scotland by name in your prayers to God. Thus shall we be as one people, mourning and rejoicing, praying and praising together; which may be one mean of the preservation of Unity, and of many other blessings to us both. We have learned by long experience, ever since the time of Reformation, and specially after the two kingdoms have been( in the great goodness of God to both) united under one Head and Monarch, but most of all of late, which is not unknown to you, what danger and contagion in matters of Kirk-government, of divine worship, and of doctrine, may come from the one Kirk to the other, which beside all other reasons, make us to pray to God, and to desire you, and all that love the honour of Christ, and the peace of these Kirks and kingdoms, hearty to endeavour, that there might be in both Kirks, one Confession, one Directory for public worship, one catechism, and one form of Kirk-government. And if the Lord who hath done great things for us, shall be pleased to harken unto our desires, and to accept of our endeavours, we shall not only have a sure foundation for a durable Peace, but shall be strong in God, against the rising or spreading of heresy and schism amongst ourselves, and of invasion from foreign enemies. Concerning the different forms of Kirk-government, projected by sundry sorts of men, to be set up in place of episcopal hierarchy, which we trust is brought near unto its period, we must confess, that we are not a little grieved that any godly Ministers and Brethren should be found, who do not agree with other Reformed Kirks in the point of government as well as in the matter of Doctrine and worship; and that we want not our own fears, that where the hedge of Discipline and Governmens is different, the Doctrine and Worship shall not long continue the same without change: yet do not marvel much, that particular Kirks and Congregations which live in such places, as that they can conveniently have no dependency upon superior Assemblies, should stand for a kind of independency and supremacy in themselves, they not considering that in a Nation or kingdom, professing the same Religion, the government of the Kirk by compound Presbyteries and Synods is a help and strength, and not a hindrance or prejudice to particular Congregations and Elderships, in all the parts of Kirk government; and that Presbyteries and Synods are not an extrinsical power set over particular Kirks, like unto episcopal dominion, they being no more to be reputed extrinsical unto the particular Kirks, nor the power of a Parliament, or Convention of Estates, where the Shires and Cities have their own Delegates, is to be held extrinsical to any particular Shire or City. Our unanimous judgement and uniform practise, is, that according to the order of the Reformed Kirks, and the ordinance of God in his Word, not onely the solemn execution of ecclesiastical power and authority, but the whole acts and exercise thereof, do properly belong unto the Officers of the Kirk; yet so that in matters of chiefest importance, the tacite consent of the Congregation be had, before their decrees and sentences receive final execution, and that the Officers of a particular Congregation, may not exercise this power independently, but with subordination unto greater Presbyteries and Synods, provincial and national: which as they are representative of the particular Kirks conjoined together in one under their government; so their determination, when they proceed orderly, whether in causes common to all, or many of the Kirks, or in causes brought before them by appellations or references from the inferior, in the case of aberation of the inferior, is to the several Congregations authoritative and obligatory and not consultatory only: And this dependency and subordination, we conceive not only to be warranted by the light of nature, which doth direct the Kirk in such things as are common to other societies, or to be a prudential way for Reformation, and for the preservation of Truth and Peace, against schism, heresy, and Tyranny, which is the sweet fruits of this government wheresoever it hath place, and which we have found in ancient and late experience; but also to be grounded upon the word of God, and to be conform to the pattern of the Primitive and apostolical Kirks: and without which, neither could the Kirks in this kingdom have been reformed, nor were we able for any time to preserve Truth and Unity amongst us. In this form of Kirk-government, our unanimity and harmony by the mercy of God, is so full and perfect, that all the Members of this Assembly have declared themselves to be of one heart, and of one soul, and to be no less persuaded, that it is of God, then that episcopal government is of men; resolving by the grace of God, to hold the same constantly all the dayes of our life, and hearty wishing that God would bless all the Christian Kirks, especially the famous Kirk of England, unto which in all other respects we are so nearly joined with this divine form of government. Thus having briefly and plainly given our judgement for your satiffaction, and desiring and hoping that ye will believe against all mis-reports, that we know not so much as one man, more or less eminent amongst us, of a different judgement, we commend you unto the riches of the grace of Christ, who will perfect that which he hath begun amongst you, to your unspeakable comfort. Subscribed by our Moderator and Clerk. Edinburgh 9. Aug. 1641. The Assemblies Answer to the Kings Majesties Letter. Most gracious sovereign, BEside the conscience of that duty which we owe to supreme Authority, we are not only encouraged, but confirmed by the royal favour and Princely munificence, expressed in Your gracious Majesties Letters, which filled our hearts with joy, and our mouths with praise, to offer up our prayers with the greater fervency to God almighty for Your Majesties happiness, ourselves for our own parts, and for the whole Kirks of this your Majesties kingdom, which we do represent, to serve Your majesty in all humble obedience, our faithful labours for preserving truth and Peace amongst all Your Majesties Subjects, and our example( according to Your Majesties just commandments laid upon us) to be a presedent to others in paying that honour,) which by all laws divine and human, is due unto Your sacred majesty, being confident that your majesty shall find at your coming hither much more satisfaction and content then can be expressed by Your Majesties most humble Subjects and faithful servants, the Ministers and Elders met together in the venerable Assembly at S. Andrews, July 20. and Edinburgh, July 27. 1641. Act anent the Kirk of Campheir. THe which day a motion was made in the Assembly, that it seemed expedient for correspondency that might be had from foreign parts, for the weal of this Kirk, That the Scots Kirk at Campheir were joined to the Kirk of Scotland, as a Member thereof: Which being seriously thought upon and considered by the Assembly, they approved the motion, and ordained M. Robert bailie Minister at Cilwinning, to writ to M. William Spang Minister at Campheir, and Kirk Session thereof, willing them to sand their Minister, and a ruling Elder, instructed with a Commission to the next general Assembly to be holden at S. Andrews, the last Wednesday of July 1642. at which time they should be enrolled in the Books of the general Assembly, as Commissioners of the general Assembly of Scotland, from the Scots Kirk at Campheir. THe Assembly appoints the next general Assembly to be holden at S. Andrews, the last Wednesday of July next 1642. FINIS. THE general ASSEMBLY, convened At S. ANDREWS July 27. 1642. Act Sess. I. 27. July 1642. The Kings Letter to the general Assembly, presented by His Majesties Commissioner, the earl of Dumfermling, July 27. 1642. CHARLES R. IN the midst of Our great and weighty affairs of Our other kingdoms, which God Almighty, who is privy to Our Intentions, and in whom We trust, will in his own time bring to a wished and peaceable conclusion, We are not unmindful of that duty which we owe to that Our ancient and native kingdom, and to the Kirks there, now met together by their Commissioners in a national Assembly. God whose Vicegerent We are, hath made Us a King over divers kingdoms, and We have no other desire, nor design, but to govern them by their own laws, and the Kirks in them by their own Canons and Constitutions. Where any thing is found to be amiss, We will endeavour a Reformation in a fair and orderly way; and where a Reformation is settled, We resolve, with that authority wherewith God hath vested Us, to maintain and defend it in peace and liberty, against all trouble that can come from without, and against all Heresies, Sects and schisms which may arise from within, Nor do We desire any thing more in that Kingdom( and when We shall hear of it, it shall be a delight and matter of gladness unto Us) then that the Gospel be faithfully preached throughout the whole Kingdom, to the outmost skirts and borders thereof. Knowing that to be the mean of honour to God, of happiness to the people, and of true obedience to Us. And for this effect, that holy and able men be put in places of the ministry, and that schools and colleges may flourish in Learning and true piety. Some things for advancing of those ends, We did of Our own accord promise in Our Letters to the last Assembly, and We make yourselves Judges, who were witnesses to Our Actions, while We were there in Person, whether we did not perform them both in the point of presentations which are in our hands, and in the liberal provision of all the Universities and colleges of the kingdom, not only above that which any of Our Progenitors had done before Us; but also above your own hopes and expectation. We do not make commemoration of this Our Beneficence, either to please ourselves, or to stop the influence of Our royal goodness and bounty for afterward, but that by these real demonstrations of Our unfeigned desires and delight to do good, you may be the more confident to expect from Us, whatsoever in Justice We can grant, or what may be expedient for you to obtain. We have given express charge to Our Commissioner, to fee that all things be done there orderly and peaceably, as if We were present in Our Own Person; not doubting but in thankfulness for your present estate and condition, you will abstain from every thing that may make any new disturbance, and that you will be more wile then to be the enemies of your own peace, which would but stumble others, and ruin yourselves. We have also commanded Our Commissioner to receive from you your just and reasonable desires, for what may further serve for the good of Religion, that taking them to Our consideration, We may omit nothing which may witness Us to be indeed a nursing Father of that Kirk, wherein We were born and baptized, and that if ye be not happy, you may blame not Us, but yourselves. And now what do We again require of you, but that which otherwise you owe to Us as your sovereign Lord and King, even that ye pray for Our prosperity and the peace of Our kingdoms, that ye use the best means to keep Our People in obedience to Us and Our laws, which doth very much in Our personal absence from that Our kingdom depend upon your preaching, and your own exemplary loyalty and faithfulness, and that against all such jealousies, suspicions and sinister rumors as are too frequent in these times, and have been often falsified in time past, by the reality of the contrary events: Ye judge Us and Our professions by Our actions, which We trust through God in despite of malice shall ever go on in a constant way for the good of Religion, and the weal of Our People, which is the Chiefest of Our intentions and desires. And thus We bid you farewell. Given at Our Court at Leicester, the 23. of July, 1642. To Our trusty and well beloved the general Assembly in Our Kingdom of Scotland convcened at S. Andrews. Act Sess. III. July 29. 1642. Act for bringing in of the synod Books yearly to the general Assemblies. THE Moderator calling to mind that which was forgotten in the preceding Sessions, the examination of the provincial Books, caused call the Roll of the provincial Assemblies, And the Assembly finding very few Provinces to have sent their Books to this Assembly, notwithstanding of the ordinance of the former Assembly thereanent, for the more exact obedience of that ordinance hereafter, the Assembly in one voice ordains, That the Books of every provincial Assembly shall be brought and produced to every general Assembly: And that this may be performed, ordains that every Clerk of the Provincialls, either bring or sand the said Books yearly to the general Assemblies, by the Commissioners sent to the Assemblies, from these Presbyteries where the Clerks reside. Which charge the Assembly also lays upon the said Commissioners, sent from the saids Presbyteries where the Clerks reside, ay and while some means be provided, whereby the Clerks charges may be sustained for coming with the saids Books themselves: And that under the pain of deprivation of the Clerk in case of his neglect, and of such censure of the saids commissioners, in case of their neglect as the Assembly shall think convenient. Act Sess. V. Aug. 1. 1642. Act anent the choosing of Kirk Sessions. ANent the question moved to the Assembly, concerning the election of Kirk Sessions, The Assembly ordains the old Session to elect the new Session both in Burgh and Land. And that if any place shall vaik in the Session chosen, by death or otherwise, the present Session shall have the election of the person to fill the vacand room. Sess. VI. 2. Aug. 1642. The report of the interpretation of the Act at Edinburgh, anent trial of Ministers. THe meaning of the foresaid Act, is not that an actual Minister to be transported, shal be tried again by the trials appointed for trying of Expectants, at their entry to the ministry, according to the Acts of the Kirk; but only that he bringing a testimonial of his former trials, and of his abilities, and conversation, from the presbytery from whence he comes, and giving such satisfaction to the Parochiners presbytery whereto he comes in preaching, as the presbytery finds his gifts fit and answerable for the condition and disposition of the Congregation, whereto he is presented. Because, according to the Act of the Assembly 1596. renewed at Glasgow, some that are meet for the ministry in some places, are not meet for all alike: and Universities, Towns and Burghs, and places of Noblemens residence, or frequency of Papists, and other great and eminent Congregations, and in sundry other cases, require men of greater abilities, nor will be required necessary in the planting of all private small parochs, the leaving of the consideration of these cases unto the judgement and consideration of the presbytery, was the only intention of the Act. The Assembly approves the meaning and interpretation foresaid: and appoints the said Act, according to this interpretation, to stand in force, and to have the strength of an Act and Ordinance of Assembly in all time coming. Act Sess. VII. 3. Aug. 1642. Act anent the order for making Lists to His majesty, and other Patrons for Presentations; the order of trial of Expectants, and for trying the quality of Kirks. FOrsameikle as His majesty was graciously pleased in His Answer to the Petition, tendered by the Commissioners of the late Assembly to His majesty, to declare and promise, for the better providing of vaiking Kirks at His Majesties Presentation with qualified Ministers, to present one out of a list of six persons, sent to His majesty from the Presbyteries wherein the vaiking Kirk lieth, as His Majesties Declaration, signed with his Royal hand at White-hall, the 3. of January last, registrate in the books of Assembly, this day at length bears. And suchlike whereas the Lords of Exchequer upon a Petition presented to them by the Commissioners of the general Assembly, and the Procurator and Agent for the Kirk representing two Prejudices; one, that gifts obtained from His majesty of patronages of Kirks, at His Presentation were passing the Exchequer, without the qualification and provision of a List, wherewith His majesty was pleased to restrict Himself; and the other, that some were seeking gifts of patronage of Bishop-Kirks, which are declared to belong to Presbyteries, to be planted by two Acts of the late Parliament: The saids Lords have ordained that no signator, containing gifts of patronages from His majesty, shall pass hereafter, but with a special provision that the same shall be liable to the tenor of His Majesties said Declaration. Ordaining also the Procurator and Agent of the Kirk to be advertised, and to have place to see all signators whatsoever, containing any patronage, to the effect they may represent the interest of the Kirk therein; as the said Act of the date the 27. of June last, registrate also in the Books of Assembly, this day at length bears. Therefore, that the saids Kirks which now are, or which were at His Majesties presentation the said third day of January last, may be the better provided with able Ministers, when the samine shall vaik, The Assembly ordains that hereafter every presbytery shall give up yearly a Roll of the ablest of their Expectants, to their Synods; and that the Synods select out of these Rolls such persons whom they in certain knowledge judge most fit for the ministry, and worthiest of the first place, With Power to the Synods to add or alter these Rolls given by the Presbyteries, as they think reasonable: And that the Synods shall sand the Rolls made by them in this manner, to the next general Assembly, who shall also examine the Rolls of the Synods, and add or alter the same as shall be thought expedient. Which Roll made by the general Assembly, shall be sent to every presbytery, and that the presbytery, with consent of the most or best part of the Congregation, shall make a List of six persons willing to accept of the presentation out of that Roll of the Assembly, upon every occasion of vacation of any Kirk within their bounds, and shall sand the famine, together with a blank presentation: The which( if His Majesty be Patron to the vacant Kirk) shall be sent by the said Procurator and Agent, to such as the Commissioners of the general Assembly, or in their absence the Presbyteie of Edinburgh, shall direct and think at that time most able and willing to obtain the presentation, to be signed and filled up by His Majesties choice of one of the List. And if the vacant Kirk be of a Patronage disponed by His Majesty since the 3. of January, in that case either the Presbyteries themselves shall sand a List of six persons in maner aforesaid, with a blank presentation to the Patron, to be filled up by his choice, and subscribed, or sand the samine to the saids Officers of the Kirk, to be conveyed by them to the Patron of the vaiking Kirk, as the presbytery shall think most expedient. It is always declared, that this order shall be without prejudice to the Presbyteries, with consent foresaid, to put actual Ministers upon the said List of six persons, to be sent to the Patron of the said vaiking Kirks, if they please. And least that the nomination of Expectants by Presbyteries, Synods, or Assemblies, in their Rolls or Lists foresaid, be mis-interpreted, as though the Expectants nominated in these Rolls and Lists, were thereby holden and acknowledged to be qualified, which is not the intention of the Assembly, who rather think, that in respect of this Order, there should be a more exact trial of Expectants then before: Therefore the Assembly ordains, That no Expectants shall be put on the Rolls or Lists above-mentioned, but such as have been upon the public exercise, at the least by the space of half a year, or longer, as the presbytery shall find necessary. And suchlike ordains, that hereafter none be admitted to the public exercise, before they betrayed, according to the trial appointed for Expectants, at their entry to the ministery in the late Assembly at Glasgow, in the 24. Article of the Act of the 23. Session thereof: which trial, the Assembly appoints to be taken of every Expectant, before his admission to the public exercise. And suchlike ordains, That the samine trial shall be again taken immediately before their admission to the ministery, together with their trial mentioned in the advice of some Brethren deputed for penning the corruptions of the ministry, approven in the said Act of the general Assembly at Glasgow. And because that Kirks of the patronages foresaids, will vaik before the Rolls and Lists be made up by the Presbyteries, Synods, and general Assemblies, in manner foresaid: Therefore in the interim the Assembly ordains the Commissioners of every presbytery here present, to give in a List of the ablest Expectants within their bounds, the morn, to the Clerk of the Assembly, that the Assembly may out of these Rolls, make a List to be sent to every presbytery: Out of which the Presbyteries shall make a List of six persons, with consent foresaid, and sand the famine upon vacancy of any Church within their bounds, together with a presentation to His majesty, or any other patron, in manner foresaid. And because the Procurator and Agent of the Kirk cannot get sufficient information to the Lords of Exchequer, anent the Right and Interest of the Kirk, and Presbyteries in Kirks, whereof gifts of patronages may be presented to the Exchequer: Therefore the Assembly ordains for their better information hereanent, that every presbytery, with all diligence, use all means of exact trial of the nature and quality of all Kirks within their bounds, as what Kirks belong to the Kings Majesties patronage, what to other laic patronages, what Kirks of old were planted by Presbyteries, and what by Prelates, and Bishops, before the Assembly at Glasgow 1638. what hath been the way and time of the change of the planting and providing of the Kirks, if any have been changed or any other thing concerning the nature and quality of every Kirk within their bounds, and to sand the same to the Procurator of the Kirk with all diligence. Act anent Lists for the Kirks in the High-lands. THe Assembly considering that in Argyle, and in other places of the Irish language, there will not be gotten six expectants able to speak that language, And therfore the Assembly is hopeful, that in these singular cases, His majesty will be pleased for Kirks vacand in the Highlands, to accept of a List of so many expectants as can be had, able to speak the Irish language. And the Commissioners Grace promiseth to recommend it to His majesty. Overtures against Papists, non-Communicants, and profaners of the Sabbach. THe Assembly would draw up a Supplication to be presented by the Commissioners of the presbytery of Edinburgh to the council at their first meeting, for the due execution of the Acts of Parliament and council against Papists, wherein it will be specially craved, that the Exchequer should be the Intromettors with the Rents of these who are excommunicate, and that from the Exchequer the presbytery may receive that portion of the confiscate goods, which the Law appoints to be employed ad pios usus. Every presbytery would convene at their first meeting, all known Papists in their bounds, and require them to put out of their company, all friends and servants who are Popish within one month: also within that same space, to give their children, sons and daughters, who are above seven yeers old, to be educate at their charges, by such of their Protestant friends, as the presbytery shall approve, and find sufficient caution for bringing home within three moneths such of their children who are without the Kingdom, to be educate in schools and colleges at the Presbyteries sight; to find caution likewise of their abstinence from mass; and the company of all Jesuits and Priests. That all, of whatsoever rank or degree, who refuse to give satisfaction in every one of the foresaid Articles, shall be Processed without any delay; but those who give satisfaction shall be dealt with in all meekness, after this manner: The Presbyteries shall appoint such of their number as they shall find fittest to confer with them so frequently as the Brethren are able to attend, until the midst of October next, against which time, if they be not willing to go to Church, they shall give assurance to go and dwell in the next adjacent University Town, whether Edinburgh, Glasgow, S. Andrews, or Aberdeen, from Novemb. 1. to the last of March, where they shall attend all the diets of conference which the professors and Ministers of the bounds shal appoint to them: by which if they be not converted, their obstinacy shal be declared in the Provincial Synods of April, and from thence their process shall go on to the very closure without any farther delay. That every presbytery, as they will be answerable to the next general Assembly, be careful to do their duty in all the premises. That there be given presently by the members of this present Assembly unto the Commissioners of the presbytery of Edinburgh, a List of all excommunicate Papists they know, and of all Papists who have children educate abroad, that they may be presented, together with our Supplication, to the council, at their first sitting. That the council may be supplicate for an Act, that in no Regiment which goes out of the Kingdom, any Papists bear office, and that the colonel be required to find caution for this effect, before he receive the councils Warrant for levying any Souldiers: also that he find caution for the maintaining of a Minister, and keeping of a Session in his Regiment. Item, the Assembly would enjoin every presbytery to proceed against non-Communicants, whether Papists or others, according to the Act of Parliament made thereanent. And suchlike, that Acts of Parliament against prophaners of the Sabbath be put to execution. The Assembly approves the Overtures foresaid, and ordains Presbyteries to put the samine to execution with all diligence: and that the Commissioners of every presbytery give in a List of the excommunicate Papists within their bounds, and of Papists children out of the country, to the Clerk, that the same may be presented to the council by the Commissioners of this Assembly. Act anent the joining of the presbytery of Sky to the synod of Argyle. THe general Assembly having considered the whole proceedings of the Commissioners of the late general Assembly holden at Edinburgh, anent the reference made to them concerning the presbytery of Sky, together with the whole reasons pro& contra in the said matter, after mature deliberation have ratified and approved, and by these presents ratify and approve the Sentence of the saids Commissioners thereintill. And further ordains the said Presbytery of Sky, and all the Ministers and Elders thereof, to keep the meetings of the Provincial Assembly of Argyle, where they shall happen to be appointed in all time coming, suchlike as any other presbytery within the bounds of the said Province of Argyle uses to do: And that the samine presbytery be in all time hereafter within the jurisdiction of the said Provincial Assembly, without any further question to be made thereanent. Sess. VIII. 3. Aug. post meridiem. The Supplication of this Assembly to the KINGS majesty. To the Kings most Excellent majesty, the hearty thanksgiving, and humble Petition of the general Assembly of the Kirk of Scotland, met at S. Andrews July 27. 1642. OUr hearts were filled with great joy and gladness at the hearing of Your Majesties Letter, which was red once and again in face of the Assembly, every line thereof almost either expressing such affection to the reformed Religion, and such royal care of us, as we could require from a Christian Prince; or requiring such necessary duties from us, as we are bound to perform as Ministers of the Gospel, and Christian Subjects: For which, as solemn thanks were given by the Moderator of the Assembly, so do we all with one voice in all humility, present unto Your majesty the thankfulness of our hearts, with our earnest prayers to God for your Majesties prosperity, and the peace of Your Kingdoms, that Your majesty may be indeed a nursing Father to all the Kirks of Christ in Your Majesties Dominions; and especially to the Kirk of Scotland, honoured with Your Birth and baptism: promising our most serious endeavours by doctrine and life, to advance the Gospel of Christ, and to keep the people in our charge in Unity and Peace, and in all loyalty and obedience to Your majesty and Your Laws. Your Majesties commands to Your Commissioner, the earl of Dumfermling, to receive from us our just and reasonable desires for what may further serve for the good of Religion here, the favours which we have received already, and Your Majesties desire and delight to do good, expressed in Your Letter, are as many encouragements to us, to take the boldness in all humility to present unto Your majesty( beside the particulars recommended to Your Majesties Commissioner) one thing, which for the present is the chiefest of all Our desires, as serving most for the glory of Christ, for Your Majesties Honour and Comfort; and not onely for the good of Religion here, but for the true happiness and peace of all Your Majesties Dominions; which is no new motion, but the prosecution of that same which was made by the Commissioners of this Your Majesties Kingdom in the late treaty, and which Your majesty, with advice of both Houses of Parliament, did approve in these words: To their desire concerning unity in Religion and uniformity of Church government, as a special means of conserving of Peace betwixt the two Kingdoms, upon the grounds and reasons contained in the Paper of the 10. of March, given in to the Treaty and Parliament of England: It is answered upon the 15 of June, That His majesty, with advice of both Houses of Parliament, doth approve of the affection of His Subjects of Scotland, in their desire of having the conformity of Church-government betwixt the two Nations, and as the Parliament hath already taken into consideration the reformation of Church government, so they will proceed therein in due time, as shall best conduce to the glory of God, the Peace of the Church, and of both Kingdoms, 11. of June 1641. In Our Answer to a Declaration sent by the now Commissioners of this Kingdom from both Houses of Parliament, we have not onely pressed this point of unity in Religion and Uniformity of Church-government, as a mean of a firm and durable union betwixt the two kingdoms, and without which former experiences put us out of hope long to enjoy the purity of the Gospel with Peace, but also have rendered the reasons of our hopes and confidence, as from other considerations, so from Your Majesties late Letter to this Assembly, that Your majesty in a happy conjunction with the Houses of Parliament, will be pleased to settle this blessed Reformation, with so earnestly desired a Peace in all Your Dominions. And therfore we Your Majesties most loving Subjects, in name of the whole Kirks of Scotland, represented by us, upon the knees of our hearts, do most humbly and earnestly beg, that Your Majesty in the deep of Your royal Wisdom, and from Your affection to the true Religion, and the Peace of Your Kingdoms, may be moved to consider, that the God of Heaven and Earth is calling for this Reformation at Your hands, and that as you are his Vice-gerent, so You may be his prime Instrument in it. If it shall please the Lord( which is our desire and hope) that this blessed unity in Religion and Uniformity in Government shall be brought about; Your Majesties Conscience, in performing of so great a duty, shall be a well-spring of comfort to yourself, Your memory shall be a sweet favour, and Your name renowned to all following generations. And if these unhappy commotions and divisions shall end in this peace and unity, then it shall appear in the Providence of God, they were but the noise of many waters, and the voice of a great thunder before the voice of harpers harping with their harps, which shall fill this whole island with melody and mirth, and the name of it shall be, THE LORD IS THERE. The Declaration of the Parliament of England, sent to the Assembly. THe Lords and Commons in this present Parliament assembled, finding to their great grief, that the distractions of this kingdom daily increase, and that the wicked counsels and practices of a malignant party amongst us( if God prevent them not) are like to cast this nation into blood& confusion, To testify to all the World how earnestly they desire to avoid a Civill war, they have addressed themselves in an humble Supplication to His majesty, for the prevention thereof. A Copy of which their Petition, they have thought fit to sand at this time to the national Assembly of the Church of Scotland, to the intent that that Church and kingdom( whereunto they are united by so many and so near bonds and ties, as well spiritual as Civill) may see that the like mind is now in them, that formerly appeared to be in that Nation. And that they are as tender of the effusion of Christian blood on the one side, as they are zealous on the other side of a due Reformation both in Church and State. In which work, whilst they were labouring, they have been interrupted by the plots and practices of a malignant party of Papists, and ill-affected persons, especially of the corrupt and dissolute Clergy, by the incitement and instigation of Bishops, and others, whose avarice and ambition being not able to bear the Reformation endeavoured by the Parliament, they have laboured( as we can expect little better fruit from such trees) to kindle a flamme, and raise a combustion within the bowels of this Kingdom: Which if by our humble supplication to His Majesty it may be prevented, and that according to our earnest desire therein, all Force and Warlike preparations being laid aside, we may return to a peaceable Parliamentary proceeding, We do not doubt, but that by the blessing of Almighty God upon our endeavours, we shall settle the matters both in Church and State, to the increase of His Majesties Honour and State, the peace and prosperity of this kingdom, and especially to the glory of God, by the advancement of the true Religion, and such a Reformation of the Church, as shall be most agreeable to Gods Word. Out of all which, there will also most undoubtedly result a most firm and stable Union between the two kingdoms of England and Scotland, which according to our Protestation, we shall by all good ways and means, upon all occasions, labour to preserve and maintain, Subscribitur Jo. Brown clear. Parl. The Assemblies Answer to the Declaration of the Parliament of England. THe general Assembly of the Kirk of Scotland, having received a Declaration sent unto them by the Commissioners of this kingdom, now at London, from the Honourable Houses of the Parliament of England, expressing their care to prevent the effusion of Christian blood in that kingdom, and their affections to Reformation both in Kirk and State, and having taken the same to such consideration as the importance of so weighty matters, and the high estimation they have of so wise and honourable a meeting as is the Parliament of England, did require; have with universal consent resolved upon this following Answer. That from the recent sense of the goodness of God, in their own late deliverance, and from their earnest desire of all happiness to our native King and that kingdom, they bless the Lord for preserving them in the midst of so many unhappy divisions and troubles from a bloody Intestine War, which is from God the greatest Judgement, and to such a nation the compend of all calamities. They also give God thanks for their former and present desires of a Reformation, especially of Religion, which is the glory and strength of a kingdom, and bringeth with it all temporal blessings of prosperity and peace. That the hearts of all the members of this Assembly, and of all the welaffected within this kingdom, are exceedingly grieved and made heavy, that in so long a time, against the professions both of King and Parliament, and contrary to the joint desires and prayers of the godly in both kingdoms, to whom it is more dear and precious then what is dearest to them in the world, the Reformation of Religion hath moved so slowly, and suffered so great interruption. They consider that not only Prelates, formal professors, profane and worldly men, and all that are Popishly affencted, are bad councillors and workers, and do abuse their power, and bend all their strength and policies against the Work of God; but the God of this world also, with Principalities and Powers, the rulers of the darkness of this world, and spiritual wickedness in high places, are working with all their force and fraud in the same opposition, not without hope of success, they having prevailed so far from the beginning, That in the times of the best Kings of Juda of old, and the most part of the Reformed Kirks of late, a through and perfect Reformation of Religion hath been a work full of difficulties, Yet do they conceive, that as it ought first of all to be intended, so should it be above all other things, with confidence in God, who is greater then the world, and he who is in the world, most seriously endeavoured. And that when the supreme Providence giveth opportunity of the accepted time and day of salvation, no other work can prosper in the hands of his servants, if it be not apprehended, and with all reverence and faithfulness improved. This Kirk and Nation, when the Lord gave them the calling, considered not their own deadness, nor staggered at the promise through unbelief, but gave glory to God. And who knoweth( we speak it in humility and love, and from no other mind then from a desire of the blessing of God upon our King and that kingdom) but the Lord hath now some controversy with England, which will not be removed, till first and before all, the worship of his name and the government of his house be settled according to his own will? When this desire shall come, it shall be to England, after so long deferred hopes, a three of life, which shall not only yield temporal blessings unto themselves, but also shall spread the branches so far, that both this nation and other reformed Kirks shall find the fruits thereof to their great satisfaction. The Commissioners of this kingdom in the late Treaty of peace, considering that Religion is not only the mean of the service of God, and saving of Souls, but is also the base and foundation of kingdoms and Estates, and the strongest band to tie Subjects to their Prince in true loyalty, and to knit the hearts of one to another in true unity and love, They did with preface of all due respect and reverence, far from arrogancy or presumption, represent in name of this kingdom, their serious thoughts and earnest desires for unity of Religion, That in all His Majesties Dominions, there might be one Confession of Faith, one directory of worship, one public catechism, and one form of Kirk Government. This they conceived to be acceptable to God Almighty, who delighteth to see his People walking in truth and unity, to be a special means for conserving of peace betwixt the kingdoms, of easing the Kings Majesty, and the public government of much trouble, which ariseth from differences of Religion, very grievous to Kings and Estates; of great content to the King himself, to his Nobles, his Court, and all his People, when( occasioned to be abroad) without scruple to themselves, or scandal to others, all may resort to the same public worship, as if they were at their own dwellings; of suppressing the names of Heresies, and Sects, Puritans, Conformists, Separatists, Anabaptists, &c. which do rent asunder the bowels both of Kirk and kingdom; of despair of success to Papists and Recusants, to have their profession, which is inconsistent with the true Protestant Religion, and authority of Princes, set up again, and of drawing the hearts and hands of Ministers, from unpleasant and unprofitable Controversies, to the pressing of mortification, and to Treatises of true piety, and practical Divinity. The Assembly doth now enter upon the labour of the Commissioners, unto which they are encouraged, not only by their faithfulness in the late Treaty, but also by the zeal and example of the general Assemblies of this Kirk in former times, as may appear by the Assembly at Edinburgh, Decemb. 25. in the year 1566. which ordained a Letter to be sent to England against the Surplice, Tippet, Cornercap, and such other Ceremonies as then troubled that Kirk, that they might be removed. By the Assembly at Edinburgh, April 24. 1583. humbly desiring the Kings Majesty, to command his ambassador, then going to England, to deal with the Queen, that there might be an Union and Band, betwixt them and other Christian Princes and realms, professing the true Religion for defence and protection of the Word of God, and Professors thereof, against the persecution of Papists and confederates joined and united together by the bloody league of Trent: as also that her Majesty would disburden their brethren of England of the yoke of Ceremonies, imposed upon them, against the liberty of the Word: And by the Assembly at Edinburgh, March 3. 1589. ordaining the presbytery of Edinburgh, to use all good and possible means for the relief and comfort of the Kirk of England, then heavily troubled for the maintaining the true discipline and government of the Kirk, and that the Brethren in their private and public prayers, recommend the estate of the afflicted Kirk of England to God. While now by the mercy of God the conjunction of the two kingdoms is many ways increased, the zeal of the general Assembly towards their happiness ought to be no less. But besides these, the Assembly is much encouraged unto this duty, both from the Kings Majesty and his Parliament, jointly, in their Answer to the proposition, made by the late Commissioners of the Treaty, in these words: To their desire concerning unity of Religion, and uniformity of Kirk government, as a special means for conserving of peace betwixt the two kingdoms, upon the grounds and reasons contained in the paper of the 10 of March, and given in to the treaty and Parliament of England: It is answered upon the 15. of June, That his majesty with advice of both Houses of Parliament, doth approve of the affection of His Subjects of Scotland, in their desire of having conformity of Kirk-government between the two Nations, and as the Parliament hath already taken into consideration the Reformation of Kirk-government, so they will proceed therein in due time, as shall best conduce to the glory of God, the peace of the Kirk, and of both kingdoms. And also severally: for His majesty knoweth that the custody and vindication, the conservation and purgation of Religion, are a great part of the duty of Civill authority and power. His Majesties late practise while he was here in person, in resorting frequently to the exercises of public worship, His royal actions, in establishing the worship and government of this Kirk in Parliament, and in giving order for a competent maintenance to the ministry and Seminaries of the Kirk, and His Majesties gracious Letter to the Assembly( seconded by the speech of His Majesties Commissioner) which contains this religious expression: Where any thing is amiss, we will endeavour a Reformation in a fair and orderly way, and where Reformation is settled, we resolve with that authority wherewith God hath vested us, to maintain and defend it in peace and liberty, against all trouble that can come from without, and against all Heresies, Sects, and schisms, which may arise from within. All these do make us hopeful that His majesty will not oppose, but advance the work of Reformation. In like manner the Honourable Houses of Parliament, as they have many times before witnessed their zeal, so now also in their Declaration sent to the Assembly, which not only sheweth the constancy of their zeal, but their great grief that the work hath been interrupted by a malignant party of Papists and evil affencted persons, especially of the corrupt and dissolute clergy, by the incitement and instigation of Bishops and others, their hope according to their earnest desire, when they shall return to a peaceable and Parliamentary proceeding, by the blessing of God, to settle such a Reformation in the Church, as shall be agreeable to Gods word, and that the result shall be a most firm and stable union between the two Kingdoms of England and Scotland, &c. The Assembly also is not a little encouraged by a Letter sent from many reverend Brethren of the Kirk of England, expressing their prayers and endeavours against every thing which shall be found prejudicial to the establishment of the kingdom of Christ, and the Peace of their sovereign. Upon these encouragements, and having so patent a door of hope, the Assembly doth confidently expect, that England will now bestir themselves in the best way for a Reformation of Religion, and do most willingly offer their prayers and uttermost endeavours for furthering so great a Work, wherein Christ is so much concerned in his glory, the King in his honour, the Kirk and kingdom of England in their happiness, and this Kirk and kingdom in the purity and peace of the Gospel. That the Assembly also from so many real invitations, are heartened to renew the Proposition made by the aforenamed Commissioners of this kingdom, for beginning the Work of Reformation, at the uniformity of Kirk-government. For what hope can there be of Unity in Religion, of one Confession of Faith, one Form of Worship, and one catechism, till there be first one form of ecclesiastical Government? Yea, what hope can the kingdom and Kirk of Scotland have of a firm and durable Peace, till prelacy, which hath been the main cause of their miseries and troubles, first and last, be plucked up, root and branch, as a plant which God hath not planted, and from which, no better fruits can be expected then such sour grapes, as this day set on edge the kingdom of England? The prelatical hierarchy being put out of the way, the Work will be easy, without forcing of any conscience, to settle in England the government of the Reformed Kirks by Assemblies. For although the Reformed Kirks do hold, without doubting, their Kirk Officers, and Kirkgovernment by Assemblies higher and lower, in their strong and beautiful subordination, to be jure divino, and perpetual: yet prelacy, as it differeth from the Office of a Pastor, is almost universally acknowledged by the Prelates themselves, and their adherents, to be but an human ordinance, introduced by human reason, and settled by human Law and custom for supposed conveniecie: which therefore by human authority, without wronging any mans conscience, may be altered and abolished upon so great a necessity, as is a hearty conjunction with all the Reformed Kirks, a firm and well grounded Peace betwixt the two kingdoms, formerly divided in themselves,& betwixt themselves by this partition wall, and a perfect Union of the Kirks in the two Nations: which although by the providence of God in one island, and under one Monarch, yet ever since the Reformation, and for the present also, are at greater difference in the point of Kirk-government, which in all places hath a powerful influence upon all the parts of Religion, then any other Reformed Kirks, although in Nations at greatest distance, and under divers Princes. What may be required of the Kirk of Scotland, for furthering the Work of uniformity of Government, or for agreeing upon a common Confession of Faith, catechism, and directory for Worship, shall according to the order given by this Assembly, be most willingly performed by Us, who long extremely for the day when King and Parliament shall join for bringing to pass so great, so good a Work, That all Warres and Commotions ceasing, all Superstition, Idolatry, heresy, Sects, and schisms being removed, as the Lord is one, so his name may be one amongst us; and mercy and truth, righteousness and peace meeting together, and kissing one another, may dwell in this island. Act Sess. VIII. Aug. 3. 1642. Overtures for transplantation of Ministers,& provision of Schools, ordained by the late Assembly at Edinburgh to be sent to Synods, and reported to this Assembly. Act Sess XI. Edinb. Aug. 5. 1641. These Overtures underwritten, anent the transporting of Ministers and Professors to Kirks and colleges, being red in audience of the Assembly, and thereafter revised by a Committee appointed for that effect, The Assembly appoints them to be sent to the several Synods, to be considered by them, and they to report their judgements thereof to the next general Assembly. NO transportation would be granted hereafter without citation of parties having interest( viz. the Minister who is sought and his Parish) to hear what they can oppose, and the matter is to come first to both the Presbyteries( viz. that wherein the Minister dwells, whose transportation is sought, and the other presbytery to which he is sought if the Kirks lie in several Presbyteries) and if the Presbyteries agree not, then the matter is to be brought to the Synod, or general Assembly( which of them shall first occur after such transportation is sought) and if the Synod( occurring first) agree not; or if there be appeal made from it, then the matter is to come to the general Assembly. A Minister may be transplanted from a particular Congregation( where he can onely do good to a part) to such a place, where he may benefit the whole Kirk of Scotland, because, in reason the whole is to be preferred to a part, such as Edinburgh. 1. Because all the great Justice Courts sit there, as council, Session, Justice general, Exchequer, &c. and it concerns the whole Kirk, that these Fountains of Justice be kept clean, both in the point of Faith, and Manners. 2. Because there is great confluence to Edinburgh, from time to time, of many of the chief Members of the whole kingdom, and it concerns the whole Kirk to have these well seasoned, who( apparently) are to be the Instruments of keeping this Kirk and kingdom in good temper. That this may be the more easily done, the Assembly first recommends to Edinburgh, that some young men of excellent spirits may be( upon the charges of the said Town) trained up, at home or abroad, toward the ministry from time to time. Secondly we mean not, that all the places of the ministery of Edinburgh be filled with Ministers to be transported by Authority of this Act, but only till they be provided of one Minister( transplanted by the Authority of the Assembly) for every Kirk in Edinburgh, and that the rest of the places be filled either according to the general Rules of transportation for the whole kingdom, or by agreement with actual Ministers, and their Parishes, with consent of the presbytery or Synod, to the which they belong. In the next room, we find, that it is a transporting of Ministers for public good, that colleges,( having the profession of divinity) be well provided of Professors. Wherein the college of divinity in S. Andrews is first to be served, without taking any Professors or Ministers out of Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Aberdeen, and then the rest of the colleges, would be provided for, as their necessity shall require: yet( in respect of the present scarcity) it were good for the Universities to sand abroad for able and approved men, to be Professors of divinity, that our Ministers may be kept in their pastoral charge as much as may be. Towns also wherein colleges are, are very considerable in the matter of transportation. 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 presbytery: and moreover it is necessary, that such Ministers as dwell where Popish Noblemen are, and are not able for controversies, that they be transported. They who desire the transportation of a Minister should be obliged to give reasons for their desire: Neither should any presbytery or Assembly, pass a sentence for transportation of any Minister, till they give reasons for the expediency of the same, both to him and his Congregation, and to the presbytery whereof he is a member. If they acquiesce to the reasons given, it is so much the better: if they do not acquiesce, yet the presbytery, or Assembly,( by giving such reasons before the passing of their sentence) shall make it manifest, that what they do is not pro arbitratu, vel imperio onely, but upon grounds of reason. Because there is such scarcity of Ministers having the Irish 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. In the point of voluntary transportation, no Minister shall transact and agree with any Parish, to be transported thereto, without a full hearing of him, and his Parish, before the presbytery to which he belongs in his present charge, or superior Kirk judicatories, if need shall be. The planting of vacant Kirks, is not to be tied to any( either Ministers, or Expectants) within a presbytery: but a free election is to be, according to the order of our Kirk, and laws of our kingdom. The chief Burghs of the kingdom are to be desired to train up young men of excellent spirits for the ministry, according to their power, as was recommended to Edinburgh: Which course will in time( God willing) prevent many transplantations. The Overtures underwritten anent the schools being likewise red in audience of the Assembly, they recommend the particulars therein mentioned, anent the providing of the maintenance for School masters, to the Parliament: and ordain 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. EVery Parish would have a Reader and a school, where children are to be bread, in reading, writing, and grounds of Religion, according to the laudable Acts, both of Kirk and Parliament, made before. And where Grammar schools 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. Anent these schools, every Minister with his Elders, shall give account to the Presbyteries at the visitation of the Kirk; the Presbyteries are to make report to the synod, and the synod to the general Assembly, that Schools are planted, as above-said, and how they are provided with men and means. And because this hath been most neglected in the High-lands, islands, 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 certify from one General Assembly to another, whether this course is continued without omission, or not. And because the means hitherto name or appointed for schools 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 majesty and the Parliament) the Assembly would further supplicate this Parliament that they( in their wisdom) would find out how means shall be had for so good an use, especially that the children of poor 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 name by this Assembly, to wait upon the Parliament, may be appointed to represent this to his majesty, and the Parliament, seeing His sacred majesty, by His gracious Letter hath put us in hope hereof, wherewith we have been much refreshed. 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 bread in Universities. For the time and manner of visitation of schools, 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 ordains them to have the strength of an Act and ordinance of Assembly in all time coming. Sess. XI. 5. Aug. 1642. Act anent contrary Oaths. THe general Assembly finding the inconvenience of contrary Oaths in trying of Adulteries, Fornications, and other faults and scandals, do therefore for eviting thereof, 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 ways of trial used in such cases: And that there may be a common order and course kept in this Kirk of trying of public scandals, The Assembly ordains the Presbyteries to advice upon some common order hereintill, and to report their judgements to the next Assembly. Overtures anent Family Exercises, catechizing, keeping of Synods and Presbyteries, and restraint of Adulteries, Witch-crafts, and other gross sins. The Committee supplicates the Assembly, I. TO urge the several Synods and Presbyteries, especially these of the North, that Family Exercise in Religion, visitation of the Churches, catechizing, keeping of the presbyterial and provincial 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 margin, for a directory of expedition. III. That the Assembly would seriously study by all means and ways how to procure the Magistrates concurrence to kerb 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 readiness 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 gross and fearful 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 careful herein, as they will answer to the general 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, catechizing, and conferring, to inform their people thereintill. Sess. XI. 5. Aug. 1642. Act against Petitions, Declarations,& such like in name of Ministers, without their knowledge and consents. THe general Assembly being informed, that after the Petition presented to the Lords of His Majesties privy council by the Noblemen Burgesses, and Ministers, occasionally met at Edinburgh 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 〈◇〉 day of June last, entitled, The Petition of the nobility, gentry, Burrows, Ministers, and Commons: which as it was not accompanied with any one Minister to the Lords of privy council, so all the Ministers of this Assembly, disclaims and disavow●● any knowledge thereof, or accession thereto. And the Assembly conceiving that the Kings majesty Himself, and all the Courts and Judicatories of this kingdom may be deluded and abused, and the Kirk in general, and Ministers in particular injured and prejudged by the like practices hereafter, Do therefore prohibit and discharge all and every one to pretend or use the name of Ministers to any Petition, Declaration, or such like at any time hereafter, without their knowledge, consent and assistance: And if any shall do the contrary, ordains Presbyteries and provincial Assemblies to proceed against them with the highest censures of the Kirk. Sess. XI. 5. Aug. 1642. Act anent the Assemblies desires to the Lords of counsel, and Conservators of Peace. THe Assembly being most desirous to use all, and to omit no lawful mean or occasion to testify their zeal 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 jointly their best endeavours to this happy end: Therefore enjoins the Moderator, and the Commissioners from the Assembly, to supplicate with all earnestness and respect, the Lords of his Majesties Honourable privy council, and likewise the Commissioners appointed by His majesty, 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 kingdom, at London for the time, that by all possible means, Civill, and ecclesiastic, this blessed work may be advanced, and a happy settling betwixt His majesty and His Parliament, may be endeavoured, and the common Peace betwixt the kingdoms continued and strengthened. Sess. XI. Aug. 5. 1642. The Assemblies humble desire to the Kings majesty for the Signator of 500 l. Sterling, and recommendation thereof to the Kings Commissioner. THe general 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 royal hand, his pious resolution and dedication of 500. l. sterling, out of the readiest of his Rents and revenues, to be employed yearly on public necessary and pious uses of the Kirk, at the sight of the general Assembly, as His Majesties 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 zeal, doth more fully proport. Likeas being informed that His majesty was graciously pleased to sign and sand down to the Kirk the Signator of the said 500. l. yearly to have past the Exchequer, albeit the famine 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 kingdom, 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 public visitations, And withall to remonstrate to His majesty 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 majesty, with his best assistance, the humble and necessary desires of the whole Assembly, that His majesty will be graciously pleased to command that Signator, already signed by His royal hand( or to sign another of the samine tenor, whereof they deliver the just double to His Majesties 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 majesty shall more and more oblige this whole Kirk to pray for a blessing from Heaven upon His royal Person and Government. Sess. XI. 5. Aug. 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 enclosed Copies, and by our desires to His Majesties honourable privy council and Commissioners for the conservation of the Peace, to join their best endeavours with His majesty and the Parliament, and their directions to your Lordships, by our leaving a Commission behind us, to concur with them in all ecclesiastic ways, and by our appointing public 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& Uniformity of Kirk-government is the chiefest of our desires, prayers and cares: whereunto as we have been encouraged by the faithful labours 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 happiness of our sovereign, 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 welbeloved 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 year. Some of us in the name of our Brethren thought it then fit by M. Alexander Henderson( a Brother so justly approved by you, and honoured by us) to return our deserved thanks. And we now further think it equal upon this occasion, to make a more public acknowledgement of such a public 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 challenge. We doubt not but your experience, together with your intelligence, abundantly informs you of our condition, what various administrations of providence we have passed through, and we still lie betwixt hopes and fears, 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 do our fears 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 subtle, authors and fomentors of these our confused conflicts: which we conceive to be the Hierarchical faction, who have no way to peace and safety, but through the trouble and danger of others. Our prayers and endeavours, according to our measure, have been, and shall be for the supplanting and rooting up whatsoever we find so prejudicial to the establishment of the kingdom of Christ, and the peace of our sovereign. And that this Declaration of ourselves may not leave you unsatisfied, we think it necessary further to express, 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 directory of Worship, one public catechism and form of government: Which things, if they were accomplished, we should much rejoice 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 wisdom of that grave and religious Assembly, may be taken for the furtherance of our endeavours in this kind. We understand that our Parliament hath been beforehand with us in this intimation, and it cannot but be our duty, who are so much concerned in the business, to add what power the Lord hath given us with you to the same purpose. This design and desire of ours hath enemies on the Left-hand; and dissenting brethren on the Right; but we doubt not, that as our hearts justify 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 effectual 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 mutual national interest( though we know you will not overlook them) to enforce this request, the firm bond wherewith we are all united in our Lord Jesus Christ, we are assured will alone engage your faithful endeavours in this business. 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 faithful Brethren, whose hearts we doubt not of, neither need you, though their hands in regard of the suddenness 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 majesty and the Houses of Parliament, The desires of the late Commissioners of this kingdom for Unity in Religion, in the four particulars remembered 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 endeavours 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 kingdoms, that without it we cannot hope for any long time to enjoy our purity 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 happiness of the People of God in that kingdom, 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 pass. And since we have with so great liberty made our desires and hopes known both to King and Parliament, it is a duty incumbent 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 righteousness of Sion go forth as brightness, 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 harken unto the motion, for which end we have resolved to keep a solemn Fast and Humiliation in all the Kirks of this kingdom, 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 ecclesiastic meeting of the best affencted to Reformation there, and of the Commissioners of the general Assembly here, that in end it may have the approbation of the general Assembly here, and of all the Kirks there, in the best way that may be, we wish and hope at last in a national Assembly; Our Commissioners at Edinburgh, shall in our name receive and return answers for promoving so great a Work, which we with our heart and our soul 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 majesty, 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 and quality for to present their humble Supplication to His majesty, 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 well-affected Ministers of that Kirk: And having certain knowledge of the worth, ability, and faithfulness of John Lord Maitland, one of their number, who being witness to all their intentions and proceedings, can best relate their true loyalty and respect to their sovereign, 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 premises, which hereby they commit to his diligence and fidelity, willing his Lordship to make account of his proceedings herein to their Commissioners appointed to sit at Edinburgh. Sess. XII. 5. Aug. post meridiem. Commission for public affairs of this Kirk, and for prosecuting the desires of this Assembly to His majesty and the Parliament of England. THe general Assembly considering the laudable custom 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 majesty, the Lords of His council, 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 ministry there, with their own Answer to the Parliament and ministry, and their humble Supplication to His majesty for Unity of Religion and Uniformity of Kirk-government. And withall remembering their desires to the Honourable Lords of His Majesties secret council, and to the Commissioners appointed by the King and Parliament, for conservation of the common Peace, That they would join their concourse in their desires to His majesty 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 iceland, 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 lawful means and ecclesiastic ways 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,& by these presents do nominate and appoint, Masters, Andrew Ramsay, Alex. Henderson, Robert Dowglas, William colvil, William Bennet Ministers at Edinburgh, M. William Arthur Minister at S. Cuthbert, M. James Robertson, John Logan, Robert Lighton, Commissioners from Dalkeith to this Assembly: Masters, Andrew Blackhall, James Fleeming, Robert Ker, Commissioners from Hadingtoun to this Assembly: Masters, George Hamilton, Robert Blair, 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: M. David Calderwood Minister at Pencaitland, M. John Adamson Principal of the college of Edinburgh, M. John strange Principal of the college of Glasgow, M. David Dickson, M. James Bonar, M. Robert Bailie, M. John Bell, M. Robert Ramsay, M. George Young, M. Henry Guthrie, M. Samuel Oustein, M. John Robertson Minister at S. Johnstoun, M. John Robertson Minister at Dundie, M. John Hume Minister at Eckills, M. Andrew Cant, M. William Guild, M. Samuel Rutherfurd, M. James Martin, M. Alexander Monroe, M. Robert Murray, M. John Maclellan, Andrew Doncanson, M. Silvester Lambie, M. Gilbert Ross, Ministers: marquis of Argyle, earls of Lauderdaile, Glencarne, Kinghorne, Eglintoun, Weemes, Cassils: Lords, Gordoun, Maitland, Balcarras, Sir Patrick Hepburne of Wauchtoun, Sir David Home of Wedderburne, Sir David Creightoun of Lugtoun, Sir David Barclay of Cullearnie, John Henderson of Fordell. M. George Winrame of Libertoun, Sir Robert Drummond, Sir William Carmichaell, John Binnie, Thomas Paterson, John Sempill, John Kennedy of Air, John Leslie from Aberdeen, William Glendining Provest of Kirkubright, John Colzear, Ruling Elders, with the concourse 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 convene at Edinburgh upon the 17. day of this month of August, and upon any other day, or in any other place, as they shall think convenient: And being met and convened, or any fifteen of them, there being always twelve Ministers present: With full power for to consider and perform what they find necessary for the ministery, by preaching, supplicating, prepairing of draughts of one Confession, one catechism, one directory of public Worship( which are always to be revised by the next general Assembly) and by all other lawful& ecclesiastic ways, for furtherance of this great Work in the Union of this island 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 island. Like as if it shall please God to bless the prayers and endeavours of his Saints for this blessed Union, and that if either the Lords of council, or Commissioners for the Peace shall require their concourse at home or abroad, by sending Commissioners with theirs to His Majesty and Parliament for that effect, or that they themselves shall find it necessary; The Assembly grants full power to them, not only to concur by all lawful and ecclesiastic ways, with the council and Conservators of the Peace at home, but also to sand some to present and prosecute their desires and humble advice to His Majesty and the Parliament, and the ministery there, for the furthering and perfecting o● so good and great a work. Like as, with power to them to promove their other desires, overtures and recommendations of this Assembly, to the Kings majesty, Lords of council, 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 famine were herein particularly insert, and with as ample power to proceed in the matters particularly or generally above-mentioned, as any Commissioners of general Assemblies have had, and have been in use of before: They being always comptable to, and censurable by the next general Assembly, for their proceedings thereanent. Sess. XIII. 6. Aug. 1642. A Petition from some distressed Professors in Ireland. To the reverend and right Honourable the Moderator and remanent members of the general Assembly of Scotland, convened 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 fruitful ministery of the Gospel, yet through our own abuse of so rich a mercy, and through the tyranny 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, and left us but a few, and that a poor handful 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 prelates Injunctions in execution, then feeders of our souls: So that now being visited with sword and sickness, and under some apprehension of famine, if withall we shall taste of the sorest of all plagues, to be altogether deprived of the ministry 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 kind; a Land whence many of us drew our blood and breath, and where( pardon the necessary boldness) 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 zeal 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 entreat, 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 neck of time, when the sword of the enemy making way for a more profitable entertaining the Gospel, having also banished the Prelates, and their followers, when our extremity of distress, and the fair hopes of speedy settling of peace, hath opened so fair a door to the Gospel, you would take the cause of your younger sister, that hath no breasts, to your serious consideration, and pity poor 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 sand 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 prelates drew from us, yet our interest in them could not be taken away, wherein we trust in regard of several 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 sand 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 discern a call from God, there may be no difficulty in their losing from thence, but they may come back to perfect what they began, and may get praise and famed in the Land, where they were put to shane. Neither are you to question your power over us so to do, 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 public spirits, which are not spent, but increases by your so many noble designs; you shall leave upon us and our posterity the stamp of an obligation that cannot be delete, or that cannot be expressed; you shall sand to all the neighbouring Churches a pattern, and erect for after-ages a monument of self-denying tender real; you shall disburden the Land of the many out-casts, who will follow over their Ministers; and you shall make it appear, that the churlish bounty of the prelates, which at first cast some of these men over to us, is not comparable with the cheerful liberality of a rightly constitute general Assembly, to whom we are persuaded, the Lord will give seed for the loan which you bestow on the Lord; yea, the day may come, when a general Assembly in this Land may return to you the first fruits of thanks, for the plants of your free gift. And although you were scant of furniture of this kind yourselves, or might apprehended more need then formerly, yet doubtless, your bowels of compassion would make your deep poverty even in a great trial of affliction, abound to the riches of your liberality. But now seeing you abound in all things, and have formerly given so ample a proof of your large bestowing on Churches abroad in germany and France, knowing that you are not wearied in well-doing, we confidently promise to ourselves in your name, that ye will abound in this grace also, following the example of our Lord and the Primitive Churches, who always sent out disciples in pairs. But if herein our hopes shall fail 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, go serve other Gods; yet looking for another kind 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 campbel our Brethren, who may more particularly inform you of our case, and desire that at their return, 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 ministery of the Gospel, occasioned by the tyranny of the prelates, and the sword of the Rebels, and desiring some Ministers, especially such as had been chased from them, by the persecution of the prelates, 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 go and settle there; together with some particular Petitions, desiring the return of some particular Ministers, who had laboured there before: All which the Assembly hath taken to their serious consideration, being most hearty willing to sympathise 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 solicitude, as they would be loathe to usurp without their own bounds, or stretch themselves beyond their own measure; so they dare not be wanting, to the enlargement of Christs kingdom, where so loud a cry of so extreme necessity, could not but stir 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 sand over some for the present exigent till the next general Assembly, by courses to stay there four moneths allanerly: And therefore do 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 Maclelland Minister at Kirkudbright, for the next four moneths: and to M. Robert bailie, professor of divinity in the university of Glasgow, and M. John Levistoun, Minister of Stranraire 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 faithfulness and singleness 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 ministery, Giving charge unto the persons foresaid in the sight of God, that in doctrine, in worship, in discipline, and in their daily conversation, they study 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 necessary detained from this service, the Assembly ordains the Commissioners residing at Edinburgh, for the public affairs of the Church, to nominate in their place well qualified men, who hereby are authorised to undertake the foresaid employment, as if they had been expressly nominate in the face of the Assembly. And this, although possibly it shall not fully satisfy 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 recompense, but that they in all cheerfulness may embrace and make use of the message of salvation, and promising to enlarge their indebted bounty at the next Assembly, as they shall find the work of the Lord there to require. In the mean 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. XIII. 6. Aug. 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 ministery, but doth also prove often a great prejudice and hindrance to the promoving of the Gospel: do therefore ordain Presbyteries and Synods to proceed diligently in process against all persons, that shall reproach or scandal Ministers, with the censures of the Kirk, even to the highest, according as they shall find 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 Aberdeen for ordering the House of the Assembly to be kept hereafter punctually. And for that effect, that the samine be read the first Session of every Assembly. Act for remembering in public Prayers the desires of the Assembly to the King and Parliament, and indiction of a public Fast. THe general Assembly being desirous to promove the great work of Unity in Religion, and Uniformity in Church-government, in all their three Dominions, for which the Assembly hath humbly supplicate the Kings majesty, and remonstrate their desires to the Parliament of England, lest they should be wanting in any mean that may further so glorious and so good a Work: do ordain, that not only the said Declaration to the Parliament, and supplication to the Kings majesty, shall be accompanied with the earnest Petitions and prayers of the whole Brethren in private and public, for the Lords blessing thereunto, according to the laudable custom of our predecessors, who in the year of God 1589. ordains that the Brethren in their private and public 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 abound, may mar this so great a Work, do also ordain a solemn Fast to be kept on the second Lords day of September, and the Wednesday following throughout the whole kingdom for the causes after specified. gross ignorance and all sort of wickedness among the greater part, security, mere formality and unfruitfulness among the best, and unthankfulness in all. The sword raging throughout all christendom, but most barbarously in Ireland, and daily more and more threatened 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 kingdoms. That God may graciously bless the supplication of the Assembly to the Kings Majesty, and their motion to the Parliament of England, for unity in Religion, and Uniformity of Kirk-government, and all other means which may serve for the promoving of so great a work, and advancement of the kingdom of Christ every where. That God may powerfully overturn all wicked plots and designs 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. That God may bless the harvest. Reference from the presbytery 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 tyrants should stand. THe Assembly refers the Answer of this Question, to the Acts of former Assemblies. Reference from the synod of Fyffe. THat the Provincial of Angus keep their meeting on the same day with the Synod of Fyffe, which breaks the correspondence between them, appointed by the general Assembly of Glasgow. ANSWER. THe Assembly ordains the provincial Assembly of Angus to keep their first meeting upon the third Tuesday of April, conform to the Act of the said Assembly of Glasgow. Overtures to be advised by Presbyteries against the next Assembly. HOw Appeals shall be brought in to the general Assemblies, and by what sort of citation. What shall be the prescription of scandals, 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 sand 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 Testimonialls. THe Assembly appoints the next general Assembly to hold at Edinburgh the first Wednesday of August, 1643. FINIS. INDEX OF THE principal Acts of the general Assemblies holden at Edinburgh 1639. At Aberdeen 1640. At S. Andrews and Edinburgh 1641. And at S. Andrews 1642. which are not Printed. Index of the principal Acts of the Assembly at Edinburgh 1639. not Printed. THe Kings Majesties Commission to John earl of Traquair. Election of M. David Dickson Moderator. The Kings Majesties Commissioners, and the Assemblies Declarations anent the Assembly of Glasgow. Renunciation of M. Alex. Lindsey pretended Bishop of Dunkell, of episcopacy. Commission for visitation of the university of S. Andrews. Commission for visitation of the university of Glasgow. Act reviving former Acts against going of Salt-pans on the Sabbath day. Act for drawing up of a catechism. Articles and Overtures to be presented to the ensuing Parliament. The report of the Committee appointed for examination of the Book called, The Kings Manifesto, or, Declaration. The Covenant or confession of Faith. Act anent the adjoining of some Kirks in the Ile of Boot to the Presb. of Denune. Act adjoining some Kirks in the Iles of Coill and Tyrie, to the provincial of Kilmoire. Commis. for visitation of the college of Aberdeen. Commis. to the Presbytery of Edinburgh. Index of the principal Acts of the Assembly at Aberdeen 1640. not Printed. ELection of M. Andr. Ramsay Moderator. Act against profaning of the Sabbath. Act anent Charmers. Act renewing a former Act made against Priors and Abbots. Commission for attending the Parliament. Commission anent the Province of Rosse. Commis. anent the Presbytery of Kirkwall. Act anent the Presbytery-seat of Selkirk. Report of the Visitors of the university of Glasgow, and a new Commission of visitation of that University. Act anent the carriage of Ministers. Act anent the ordering of Family Exercise. Act for Ruling Elders keeping of Presbyteries. Act anent Magistrates being Members of Kirk Session. Approbation of the proceedings of the Commissioners appointed to attend the preceding Parliament. Act anent abolishing idolatrous monuments Act anent abolishing idolatrous monuments in and about Aberdeen. The report of the Visitors of the university of Aberdeen. Commission for visiting the university of Aberdeen. Index of the principal Acts of the Assembly holden at S. Andrews and Edinburgh 1641. not Printed. HIs Majesties Commission to John earl of Weemes. A Letter from the Parliament to the general Assembly. Act anent the continuation of M. Andrew Ramsay Moderator. His Majesties Letter to the Assembly. Act anent the translation of the Assembly from S. Andrews to Edinburgh. Election of M. Alex. Henderson Moderator. Declaration of the Assemb. anent the translation thereof to Edinburgh. Act for drawing up one catechism, one Confession of Faith, Directory of public worship and form of Kirk-government. Act anent M. Andrew Ramsays delivery to the Clerk the Books, Warnesius Book, and others, which he received at Aberdeen. Overtures anent transportation of Ministers, and plantation of schools, recommended to be advised by Synods. Ref. to the Parl. anent the Kirks of Dunkeld. Act anent M. David Calderwood. Commis. anent erecting a Presb. in Biggar. come. for visitation of Orknay and Zetland. Act anent bringing of the synod Books to the Assemblies. Ref. from the Parl. anent a Band and a Paper called a Manifesto. Act anent the deleting of the E. of Traquairs Declaration out of the Books of secret council. Report of Overtures made anent the plantation of Kirks in the High-lands. Commission for visitation of the university of S. Andrews. Commis. for visitation of the university of Glasgow. Commis. to attend the Parliament. Ref. to that Commis. anent the Presb. of Sky. Index of the principal Acts of the Assembly holden at S. Andrews 27. July 1642. not Printed. HIs Majesties Commission granted to Charles earl of Dumfermling. Election of M. Robert Douglas Moderator. Acceptation of the Commission from the Scottish Kirk at Campheir, granted to M. William Spang. Act renewing the Commissions for visitation of the Universities of S. Andrews and Glasgow. Act anent delivery of the Irish contribution to the receivers appointed by the secret council. Act anent idolatrous monuments in Ruthwall. Act anent the Books of the Presbyteries in our army that went to England. Act anent planting the Kirk of Kilwinning. Commis. anent erecting a Presb. in Biggar. Act repealing the act of the Synod of gallovvay concerning trial of actual Ministers. The Kings declare. anent the gift of 500 l. Act for sending of Expectants to Ireland, and for a Commission to be drawn up to some Ministers to go there. Recom. to the Marques of Argyle anent Patrick Egertie Priest, and all other Priests, or sayers of mass in the North Iles, or within the bounds of his Justiciarie. Act anent the reponing of M. Gilbert Power. Act for putting the Overtures anent maintaining Bursars in every Presb. in practise. Report of the come. for revising some Synod Books, and the Assemblies approbation. Act for giving transumpts of the Covenant and Band. Act for sending of general acts of Assemblies to Synods. Act anent james Murray. Report of the Committee of reports of the proceedings of the Commissioners of the last Assembly appointed to attend the Parl. with certain Overtures of the Assemblies approbation thereof, with the double of the Signator of 500 l. sent to His majesty. come. for visitation of Orknay and Zetland. Ref. to the Commis. of this Assembly, anent the choice of any Minister to go to Ireland in place of any of the 6. appointed by this Assem. to that effect, in case they or any of them be impeded by sickness or death. Recom. of the Iles, Anandail, Escdaill, Liddisdaill, &c. for want of Kirks& Schools of the Presbyteries of Lochmaben, and Newbie, for want of a civill Mastistrate, to the Commission for planting of Kirks, and secret council, respective. Ref. to the Commission of this Assembly for planting of the Kirk of Edinburgh. Act anent M. Colvils invitation to S. Andrews Commission anent the planting of the Landward Kirk of S. Andrews. References and Overtures, and the Assemblies answer thereto. Ref. to the Commis. of this Assembly anent M. james fairly. Ref. to the Commis. of this Assembly anent the planting of the Kirk of Dundie. Overtures anent the Kirk of Campheir. Recom. to the Magistrates of Glasgow anent mondays Market. Act anent giving in to the Clerk the List of Expectants. Act giving power and liberty to Sir Archibald johnstoun Procurator for the Kirk, and Clerk to the general Assembly, to adjoin any to himself, or to deputy any in these Offices whom he shall think fit. FINIS.