anu Poe Sears ein fi! i te xia ae y Toe eee a _ TGP Ee a RT ET Oe ee ee . e 4 SS aS; ~ ———————— SS ——$———— | —————— ————— ——— ——— ————— ——<—<———— | ———— ——— ———— ————J SSS== SS = ——> —— — ——> I i » Oy Bis ay a , ff ? Ibe Thigh) Viepetcame he Abnaer fo ¢ _ i) fF : GY yh, : Lenses GG wipe id Riniis Le Chicabal Cri Cran GUC e ey SHE Sscofal Church tn © Loblaw. Engraved bs WBond Jrom aMiniature Printed. by A Robertsor a Max 9°68 by ABrown, Aberdeen. ANNALS OF SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY, FROM THE YEAR 1788 TO THE YEAR 1816, INCLUSIKE; BEING THE PERIOD DURING WHICH THE LATE RIGHT REV. JOHN SKINNER, OF ABERDEEN, Ma os oro Senior Bishop an¥ Primus: OF WHOM A BIOGRAPHICAL MEMOIR . IS PREFIXED. BY THE REV. JOHN SKINNER, A. M. FORFAR. Sit Rector operatione precipuus, ut vite viam subditis vivende * denuntiet, et grex, qui pastoris vocem moresque sequitur, per EXEMPLUM melius quam per VERBA gradiatur. Grec. Mace. EDINBURGH: PRINTED FOR A. BROWN AND COMPANY, ABERDEEN; LONGMAN, HURST, REES, ORME, AND BROWN ; AND J. HATCHARD, LONDON. 1818. : SORES Sat eee # oe ites ; ’ % x due wees aha * \ ol o eh” o % fant (APIO. Bay - a . * Pi x ~ . - Mar ed tS VRS eS bs ther. é f é . eh * . - en - ik ‘ E mm “aadiaps SMe yen HO SY geeeF es Ac t tite ad And - aig en ae I as ys Bitar yarns se 4 ‘ eae HaXC TE A (THAT DS aay , ets afi Z “ YowoRe GH Saito weet Prt bike‘: £4 wean - x MODAOI ABER ILE RT eee iy K “e a ‘ . eee : \ P| - wees x - oie ; 283 4/ | - S6284 THE VERX REVEREND AND REVEREND THE DEAN AND CLERGY OF THE Dtorese of Aberdeen, Ee MY CLERICAL BRETHREN, AND MUCH VALUED FRIENDS, As you were pleased to honour, with your warm and unanimous approbation, an attempt, on my part, to embalm the memory of your late revered Diocesan; and as, from your long and intimate knowledge of Bishop SKINNER, his sen- timents and administration, you can better appre- ciate the fidelity of the present performance, or detect its errors, than any other body of Clergy, or individual Clergyman of the Scottish Episco- pal Communion; to you do I most respectfully inscribe the Annals of your departed Ordinary’s eventful Episcopacy. And, be the fate of the ~ ae B iv DEDICATION. Work, in other respects, what it may, I shall have my reward, if, on perusal of its pages, they shall have the effect of imprinting more and more indelibly, on your and on your people’s minds, the sound Church principles, and unceasing pro- — fessional exertions of one, to whose thoughts both you and yours were ever present, and who, <‘ labouring,” as he did, ‘‘ among you, and being over you in the Lord, and admonishing you, was ever, by you, esteemed very — in love, for his work’s sake.” ¢ In this hope, I do persuade myself, I shall not be disappointed ; and therefore, with fervent prayers for your happiness, both temporal and | eternal, I have the honour to subscribe myself, Reverend and Dear Sirs, Your affectionate Brother i in Christ, And obliged humble Servant, THE AUTHOR. ~ Tachgarth, April 1. 1818. '* a ¥ : es ' ® i ae PREFACE. slates! ; 4 - Berore the Reader proceed to pass judgment on the follow- ing pages, the Author respectfully claims permission to obviate such objections as either have already been started, or such as, by presentiment, he is aware will be started, to his humble Essay. : ¢ It has been truly said, that no Son is competent to the’task of giving to the Public, a fair, just, and acceptable account of a Father’s life, character, and official conduct. And so con-~ vinced of the truth of this objection was the Writer of the fol- lowing Biographical Memoir, and Compiler of the Annals of the late Bishop Skinner's official administration, that although the undertaking was not without a precedent in the family to which he belongs, he only complied with the solicitations of some of the most respectable and respected friends of Scottish Episcopacy, when assured by them that his incompetency, on the score of consanguinity, would be atoned for, by his. steadily confining himself to such written documents as his venerable Father's repositories were known to afford, and by his aiming, in the character of Biographer as well as of Historian, at no higher distinction than that which rightfully belongs to a faith- ful Compiler and Annalist. — 62 Me Vi PREFACE. Yet, in this humble walk of literature to which the Author has strictly confined. himself, he cannot but admit, that, to a satisfactory arrangement of materials, or interesting compila-— tion, talents and powers of discrimination are necessary, far be-— yond those which have fallen to his lot, Henee, being ready _ to confess that he has come short of giving satisfaction to him- 7 self, it will naturally be asked, How he can expect to give sa- ee tisfaction to others, whether friends to Bishop Skinner or friends to the Church, in which, for upwards of half a century, the Bishop faithfully served? Above all, how can he give satisfae- tion to a fastidious Public ? The answer is ready Sait no other way, assuredly, but by an undeviating regard to truth, and by never admitting an expression, or even a thought of his own, when he could find a written document prepared to his hand. — While, therefore, it may be the opinion of one class of Read- ers, that Bishop Skinner’s Son ought to have devolved the whole, or the greater part of the Work now before the Public, on some more’experienced and more competent writer than he | has proved himself to be;—while it is the opinion of another class, that, waving the validity of this objection, the method and arrange- _ ment of the Work are unskilful, and display a want of taste equal to its Conductor’s want of talent;—and, while it is the opinion of a third class, that much irrelevant matter is introduced, by which means the Annals are not merely devoid of neatness, but of interest :—the Biographer and Annalist has this supreme personal consolation, that having consid-red himself in duty bound to undertake and conduct the work in the very form in which it now appears, the form of a text-book to the future Ecclesiastical Historian. of Scotland,—no man, let his, other objections be what they will, shall have it in his power to say, that Mr Skinner has used an expression which truth did not 7 = ** PREFACE. = vii * warrant him to’use,—that he has introduced a document which had not, for its ultimate object, the elucidating of some plan on his beloved Father’s part, for the future prosperity and respec- tability of the Episcopal Church in Scotland, or asserted a fact which he has not established by ample evidence. _ The truth is, that in no Society professing itself Christian, ‘does there, or can there exist less desire, less temptation to in- novate, than in a regularly constituted Episcopal Church, such as confessedly is the Episcopal Church in Scotland. Like the Great High Priest of the Christian profession, the Shepherd and Bishop of souls himself, true religion is “ the same yester- day, to-day, and for ever.” Hence, although a sectarian spi- © rit be daily at work “ in telling,” or in hearing “* some new thing ;” in “* wresting the Scriptures to the destruction” of thousands, and in putting glosses and interpretations on the word of God, which render it literally ‘* of none effect ;” the “ quod semper, quod ubique, quod ab omnibus,” in other words, the faith and practice which have ‘“ antiquity, univer- sality, and consent” to support them ; ‘these form the pole-star of the sober-minded Episcopalian, by which, in peace, in confi- dence, and in joy, he steers his course through the quick- sands of modern “* confusion, and every evil work,” “ to the ” haven where he would be,” the land of everlasting rest. So that “ when they shall-say,” (as is the cry of modern fanati- cism,) “‘ seek unto them that have familiar spirits,” (in) other words, ‘‘ experiences, assurances,” and what not) “ and unto wizards that peep and that mutter, should not a people seek unto their God ?’—«< To the Law and to the Testimony,” is the meek reply of the Churchman. “If they speak not ac- cording to this word,” i. e. if binding up the testimony,” (ad- hering to sound doctrine only,) they neglect to seal the law ay Vill PREFACE | a Be ™ a = * _ mong God’s disciples,” (to have any veipien genni aii, | institutions of Christianity, ) ‘ there is no light in them ;” and « « ifthe light thatis in them be darkness, how great is that dark. * i” ness !” mi on ety Steadily adhering, therefore, to the test laid down by'an in= : b spired prophet, and “ asking for the old paths,” the Scottish q : Episcopalian “ brings every thought into. captivity to theobed” dience of Christ.” He ‘“ boasts not of things without his mea-_ sure ;” but believes, and lives, and acts, and hopes, «“ accord- ™ ing to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed.”: And the xeywy, the rule, he holds to be this, “ ye are the bos dy of Christ, and members in particular, and God-hath set some ” La in the Church, first, Apostles ; secondarily, prophets; thirdly, teachers,” &c. In direct opposition to which rule, thes* Will- worshippers” of the present day do “ set,” nay, do “« heap unto, themselves teachers, having itching ears,” being for the most 4 part “all Apostles, all prophets, all teachers,”-&c. the“ eye - * saying to the hand, I have no need of thee; the headto the ——- feet, I have no need of you!” a - But “ what concord hath Christ with Belial ?” “ Is Christ. divided ?”—These striking interrogatories of the great Apostle tiie of the Gentiles, flash such conviction on the mind of the man who knows and believes that, in baptism, he was made “a member of Christ, a child of God, and an inheritor of the king= dom of heaven,” that he holds on «* the noiseless tenor of his way,” though the cry of «« Lo, here is Christ, or lo there,” be continually assailing him ; and “ though false prophets be hour- ly employed in deceiving, if it were possible, the very elect.”. «Tn patience does he possess his soul ;” notwithstanding every -where around him is that “ strong delusion” which leadeth the unwary ‘ to believe a lie,” « herein always exercising him= “i * PREFACE. ix ~ self to have a conscience void of offence towards God and ta- wards man.” -..If the Annalist of Scottish Episcopacy has been fortunate ‘enough to establish this fact, in the Work now before a discern- ing Public, as far as regards the Bishops and Clergy of that Communion, he has obtained his aim; and the arbiter of taste in composition, the self-complacent rounder of periods, the fas- tidious critic, and the bewildered fanatic, may sneer at his un- dertaking, but for him they will sneer in vain. When the Prince, whose ‘“« immortal memory” is daily toast- ed with “‘ the Majesty of the People,” thus addressed the only Scottish Bishop whom he ever saw, the amiable Bishop Rose of Edinburgh: «‘ My Lord, are you going to Scotland ?”——« Yes, Sir, if you have any commands for me.”—<* I hope,” rejoined the Prince, “ you will be kind to me, and follow the example of England.”—~<‘« Sir,” returned the venerable Prelate, «I will serve you, so far as Law, Reason, and Conscience, will allow me.” Then was the period, the Reader will allow, when law, reason, and conscience were put to the test: When the Scot- tish Episcopalian “‘ was tried, as it were, by fire ;’ there being, on the one hand, presented to him the continuation of affluence, worldly honours, and legal establishment; on the other, nought _ but poverty, persecution, and legal oppression! Which of the two to choose he hesitated not. In his opinion, « law, reason, and conscience,” decided in favour of the latter. And how, under God, the ejected Church has, without the sacrifice of principle, _ been once more restored to freedom, to legal toleration, and to a state of comparative independence, the Author hopes that the following pages will satisfactorily explain. In the mean time, the interview which took place at White- hall, December 1688, between the Prince of Orange and the a ° ’ Lord Bishop of Edinburgh, as commissioned agent of the'Scot: tish Church, having been introduced to the Reader's» notice, justice to both parties demands that the matter should be stat ed in an authenticated shape. And as this interview - clearly decided the fate of Scottish Episcopacy, no place for the inser- tion of such authentic document, in these Annals, seems so proper as the Preface to them; since thus the Reader is, with- out the trouble of reference, at once apprised of the cireum- 4 stances which, leading to the overthrow of that establishment, render this work worthy of every Scottish been and serious Churchman’s regard. : we «« T have,” says the venerable Bishop Keith®. “< an original holograph letter of this Bishop,” (the Bishop of Edinburgh, ) « they resolved to. send up two of their number to the King, with a.renewed tender of their duty ; instructing tliem also to wait on the Bishops of England for their advice and assistance, in case that any unlucky thing might possibly happen to occur with respect tojour Church. This resolution being taken, it was represented by the two Archbishops to his Majesty’s Privy Council, in which the Lord. Perth sat as Chancellor, and was agreed to and approved by them. Whereupon, at -the next meeting of the Bishops, it was not thought fit, even by the “Archbishops themselves, that any of them, (though they were men of the greatest ability and experience, ) siould go up, as being less acceptable to the English Bishops, from their having consented to the taking off the sanguinary laws against the Pa- pists; and so that undertaking was devolved over upon Dr Bruce, Bishop of Orkney, and me,—he having suffered for not agreeing to that project, and I not concerned, as. not being a Bishop at that time; and accordingly a Commission was drawn up and signed for us two, December 3. 1688. The Bishop of Orkney, promising to come back from that country in eight or ten days time, that we might journey together, occasioned my ; stay. But when that time was elapsed, I had a letter from him, signifying that he had fallen very ill, and desiring me to go up ‘by post as soon as I could, promising to follow as soon as health would serve. Whereupon I took post, and in-a few days, com- ing to Northallerton, where, hearing of the King’s having left Rochester, I stood doubtful with myself whether to go forward or return ; but, considering the various and contradictory ac- counts I had got all along upon the road, and that in case of the King’s retirement, matters would be so much the more dark and perplexed, I resolved to go on, that I might be able to give a just account of things to my brethren here, from time - Ps Xii PREFACE. — s, to time, and have the advice of the English Bishops, whore I ! never doubted to find unalterably firm to their Master's’ inter- est. And as this was the occasion of my coming to London, so, by reason of the continuance of the Bishop of Orkneys illness, that difficult task fell to my share alone. Qe some: sgt” « The next day after my arrival at London I waited on the: Archbishop of Canterbury, (to whom I had the honour to be known some three years before ;) and, after my pre’ his Grace's reading my commission, his Grace said, ‘ Tee ‘ters were very dark, and the cloud so thick and gross that r « they could not see through it ; they knew not well what to do ‘ for themselves, and far less what advice to give me; that there ‘ was to be a meeting of Bishops with him that day, and desir- “ed me to see him a week thereafter.’ I next waited on the then Bishop of St Asaph, (being my acquaintance also,) who treated’ me in such a manner that I could not but see through his in= clinations, wherefore I resolved to visit him no more, nor to ad- dress myself to any others of that order, till I should have oeca~ sion to learn something farther about them. Wherefore, the i week thereafter, I repaired again to Lambeth, and told his. Grace all that passed between St Asaph and me; who, smiling- ly, replied, « That St Asaph was_a good man, but an angry — ‘ man ;’ and withal told me, ‘ that matters still continued dark, “and that it behoved me to wait the issue of their Convention, ‘ which, he suspected, was only that which could give light and ‘open the scene; but withal desired me to come to him from time to time, and if any thing occurred he would signify it to me. In that wearisome season, (wearisome to me, because, ac- quainted with few, save those of our own countrymen; and of these I knew not whom to trust,) I waited on the Bishop of London, and entreated him to speak to the Prince.to put astep, *e- * PREFACE. ~ xiii, to the persecutions of our Clergy,—but to no purpose. I was also with the then Dr Burnet upon the same design, but with “no success, who told me ‘he did not meddle in Scottish affairs.’ s Iwas also earnestly desired by the Bishop of London and the _ then Viscount of Tarbat, and some. other Scottish Peers, to wait upon the Prince, and to present him with an address upon that head. I asked, ‘ whether I or my address would meet with - “ acceptance or success, if it did not compliment the Prince “upon his descent to deliver us from popery and slavery.” ~ * They said ‘ that was absolutely necessary.’ I told them, ‘I “was neither instructed by my constituents so to do, neither _ had I myself clearness to do it; and that, in these terms, I ‘neither could nor would, either visit or address his Highness. » «In that season also I had the honour to be acquainted with, and several times visited, the worthy Dr Turner, Bishop of Ely, whose conversation was very useful to me, and evety way agree- ‘ able. And, besides these Bishops already mentioned, I had not the honour to be acquainted with any other ; and thus the whole time of the Convention was passed off, excepting what was spent in necessary duties, and in visiting our countrymen, even until the day that the dark scene was opened by the surprising vote of abdication ; on which I went over to Lambeth. What passed there betwixt his Grace and me, (being all private,) ‘tis both ‘needless, and would be very tedious, and perchance not sa very proper to write it. In the close, I told his Grace, that I would make ready to go home, and only wait on his Grace once more before I took my journey. « While I was making my visits of leave to my countrymen, I was surprisingly told that some two or three of them, attempt- ing to go home without passes, were, the first stage, stopt up- onthe road, and that. none were to expect passes without wait- xiv * — pRrFAcE. ing on the Prince !. Whereupon I repaired again to Lambeth, to have his Grace’s advice ; who, consiiering the necessity of that compliment, agreed to my making it. Upon my applying to the Bishop of London to introduce m», his Lordshpa ked me, ‘ Whether I had any thing to say to the King?” (so was the stile in England then.) 1 replied, « I had nothing to say, save « that I was going for Scotland, being a member of the Conven- «tion; for I understood, that, without waiting on the Prince,’ (that being the most common Scottish stile, ) ‘I could not have ‘a pass ; and that without that I must needs be stopt upon the “4 ‘ road, as several of my countrymen had been.’ His Lordship asked me again, saying, ‘ Seeing the Clergy have been and are “so routed and barbarously treated by the Presbyterians, will * you not speak to the King to put a stop to that and in fayour ‘ of your own Clergy ?’ My reply was, < that the Prince had * been often applied to in that matter by several of the nobility, ¢ and addressed also by the sufferers themselyes, and yet all to *no purpose, wherefore I could have no hopes that my inter- * cessions would be of any avail; but. if, his Lordship thought * otherwise I would not decline to make them.’ His Lordship asked me farther, ‘ Whether any of our countrymen would go ‘along with me,’ and spoke partly of Sir George Mackenzie, I replied, ¢ I doubted nothing of that.’ Whereupon his Lord- ship bade me find him out ; that both he and I should be at court that day against three in the afternoon, andthat he would surely be there to introduce us. All which.I, haying found Sir George, imparted to him, who liked it very well, and said, “it ‘was a good occasion, and wished that several of our nobility ‘ might be advertised by us to be there also.’ To which I re; plied, « that I doubted much, whether, coming in a body, he * (the Prince) would give us access ; and that our nobility would PREFACE. ; x¥ “be much offended at us, if, coming to court upon our invita- § tion, access should be denied them ; and therefore I thought it best that we alone should meet the Bishop at the time ap- * pointed, and advise with him what was fit to be done,’—which was agreed to. Upon our meeting with the Bishop, Sir George made that overture to his Lordship, which he clozing with, very warmly said,‘ he would go in to the King, and see if he * would appoint a time for the Scottish Episcopal nobility and * gentry to wait upon him in favour of the Clergy of Scotland *so sadly persecuted. Whereupon the Bishop, leaving us in a room of Whitehall, near adjoining to the place where the © Prince was, staid above a full half hour from us, and, upon ‘his’ return, told us, that the King’s answer was,’ ‘he would. . ‘not allow us to come to him in a body, lest that might give * jealousy and umbrage to the Presbyterians ; neither would he ‘permit them, for the same reason, to come to him in numbers, ¢ and that he would not allow above two of either party, at a * time, to speak to him on Church matters.’ Then the Bishop, directing his discourse to me, said, ‘ My Lord, you see that the ¢ King, having thrown himself upon the water, must keep him- ‘ self a-swimming with one hand. The Presbyterians have join- * ed him closely, and offer to support him ; and therefore he can- © not cast them off, unless he could see how otherwise he can ‘be served.’ And the King bids me tell you, ‘ that he now ‘ knows the state of Scotland much better than he did when he * was in Holiand ; for while there he was made believe that Scot- * land, generally all over, was Presbyterian, but now he sees that ‘ the great body of the nobility and gentry are for Episcopacy; * and it is thé trading and inferior sort that are for Presbyte- ¢‘ ry; wherefore he bids me tell you, ‘ that if you will undertake * to serve him to the purpose that he is served here in England, XV1 : PREFACE. ‘he will take you by the hand, support the Church and order, ‘and throw off the Presbyterians.’ My answer to this was, . « My Lord, I cannot but thank the Prince for his frankness and * offer ; but withal I must tell your Lordship, that when I came ‘from Scotland, neither my brethren nor I apprehended any « such revolution as I have seen now in England ; and therefore ‘I neither was nor could be instructed by them what answer to « make to the Prince’s offer ; and therefore what I say is not in « their name, but only my private opinion, which is, that T tra= ‘ly think they will not serve the Prince as he is served’ herein ‘ England, that is, as I take it, to make him their King, nor Hi « give their suffrage for his being King; and though; as to this. ‘ matter, I can say-nothing in their name, and as from them, « yet I for myself must say, that, rather than do so, I will aban- «don all the interest that either I have or may expect to have ‘in Britain.’ Upon this the Bishop commended my openness and ingenuity, and said, ‘ he believed it was so; for,’ says he, ‘all the time you have been here, neither have you waited on ‘the King, nor have any of your Brethren, the Scots Bishops, ‘made any address to him; so the King must be excused for ‘standing by the Presbyterians: «© (eo datthivansl anata eae «Immediately upon this, the Prince, going somewhere a- broad, comes through our room, and Sir George Mackenzie takes leave of him in very few words. I applied to the Bishop, and said, ‘ My Lord, there is now no farther place for apply- ‘ing in our Church-matters, and this opportunity of taking * leave of the Prince is lost; wherefore, I beg, that your Lord- ‘ ship would introduce me for that effect, if you Can, next day, ' ‘ about ten or eleven o'clock in the forenoon.’ This his Lord. ship promised and performed. And, upon my being admitted into the ‘Prince’s presence, he came three or four steps for- PREFACE. . XVii ward from his company, ‘and prevented me, by saying, ‘ My - ‘herd, are you going for Scotland?’ My reply was, ‘ Yes, Sir, “if you have any commands for me.’ Then he said, ‘ I hope * you will be kind tome, and follow the example of England.’ Wherefore, being somewhat difficulted how to make a manner- ly and discreet answer, without entangling myself, I readily replied, ‘ Sir, I will serve you, so far as law, reason, and con- “science, will allow me.’ How this answer pleased I cannot well tell; but it seems the limitations and conditions of it were not acceptable ; for instantly the Prince, without saying any more, turned away from me, and went back to his company. » & Considering what had passed the day before, I was much garprised to find the Prince accost me in these terms; but I presume that either the Bishop (not having time) had not ac- quainted him with what had passed, or that the Prince propos- ed to try what might be made of me, by the honour he did me of that immediate demand ; and as that was the first, so it was the last time I had the honour to speak with his Highness: « The things write were not only upon the matter, bit in the self-same individual! words that I have set them down,—whe- ther what the Bishop of London delivered as from the Prince was so or not I cannot certainly say; but I think his Lordship’s word was good enough for that; or whether the Prince would have stood by his promise of casting off the Presbyterians and protecting us, in case we had come into his interest, I will not determine, though this seems the most probable to me, and that for these reasons : He had the Presbyterians stire on his’side, both from interest and inclination ; many of them having come ‘over with him, and the rest having appeared so warmly for him, that, with no good grace imaginable, could they return to King James's interest. Next, by gaining, as he might presume to gain, the Episcopal nobility and gentry, which he saw was a” ‘ XViii PREFACE. great party, and consequently that King James would be de- prived of his principal support. Then he saw what a hardship it would be upon the Church of England, and of what bad con- sequence to see Episcopacy ruined in Scotland, who, no doubt, would have vigorously interposed for us, if we, by our carriage, ~ could have been brought to justify their measures. And I am the more confirmed in this; for, after my coming down here, my Lord St Andrews and I, taking occasion to wait on Duke Hamilton, his Grace told us, a day or two before the sitting down of the Convention, that he had it in special charge from King William, that nothing should be done to the prejudice of Episcopacy in Scotland, in case the Bishops could by any means be brought to befriend his interest; and prayed us most pa~ thetically, for our own sake, to follow the example of the Chureh of England. To which my Lord St Andrews replied, that «both _ * by natural allegiance, the laws, and the most solemn oaths, “we were engaged in the King’s interest; and that we were, - ‘by God’s grace, to stand by it in the face of all dangers and ‘to the greatest losses ;’ suhjoining, that his Grace's quality and influence put it into his hands to do his Majesty the great~ est service and himself the greatest honour ; and that if he act- ed otherwise, it might readily lie as a heavy lash and curse both upon himself and family. I can say no more for want of paper, save that I am, as before, Tse « Auex. Eprns.” To the letter, Bishop Keith adds the following N. B. “ This letter was written te the Hon. Archibald Campbell, Bishop. MEMOIR OF BISHOP SKINNER. MEMOIR, &c. Tue late Senior Bishop and Primus of the Scotch Episcopal Church, was the second son of the Rev. John Skinner, Episcopal clergyman, for 64 . - years and upwards, in the parish of Longside, in the district of Buchan and county of Aberdeen. His mother was the eldest daughter of the Rev. Mr Hunter, the only Episcopal clergyman in the remote islands of Shetland, and the last of the Episcopal persuasion whose services were sought for, in that detached part of the British empire. _ That Bishop Skinner was eminently blessed in both his parents, he himself has not failed to make known,’ having, in the year 1809, published an A 4: MEMOIR OF © interesting biographical memoir of his father, pre- fixed to the learned theological works of that distinguished divine ; in which memoir, he gives the following amiable character of his beloved mother :—that ‘‘ to her husband she was the first _ of all earthly blessings, a sweetly soothing, af- fectionate wife, his dear companion, who minis- tered tenderly to a his wants for the uncommon space of 58 years.” The subject of the present Memoir was rane on the 17th of May 1744, and educated, with an el- der brother, at the parochial school of Longside. When in his ninth year, it happened that his fa- ther was very unexpectedly apprehended, and, by a warrant of the Sheriff-substitute of Aber- deenshire, committed to the common jail of the county, being charged with a breach of the act of Parliament, which deprived the Episcopal cler- gy in Scotland of the right of officiating to more than four persons, besides their own families. Mr Skinner “ unwilling,” says his biographer, “ to give the court any trouble in calling evidence to prove his having been guilty of this offence, emitted before the Sheriff a voluntary confession, acknowledging that, in the discharge of his pro- fessional duty, he had been in the practice of offi- ciating to more than the statuted number; in BISHOP SKINNER. 5 consequence of which confession he was senten- ced to six months imprisonment, which, commen- cing on the 26th of May 1753, ended on the same day in November following.” It may naturally be supposed that a clergyman so respected through life as Mr Skmner was, be- ing carried to prison like a common felon, would excite, in no small degree, the indignation of his hearers, and of the whole surrounding country. The boys at school regarded the event with unu- sual emotions of consternation and alarm; and, deeming imprisonment a prelude to execution, they so wrought on the tender and affectionate hearts of Mr Skinner’s sons, that they actually believed they never should be permitted to see their beloved father again. From that moment, John became the most miserable little creature alive. He loathed his food, his sleep forsook him, and he would have pined to death, had not his father been permitted to receive him as his companion and bed-fellow in prison, where, it was remarked, the boy had not been a week immured, when he became as well and as lively as ever. Previous to his going to College, aise to-. gether with his elder brother, James Skinner, (who died upwards of twenty years ago in North 6 MEMOIR OF America,) was committed to the charge of his grandfather, parochial schoolmaster of Echt, in_. the county of Aberdeen; a man, * whose dili- gence was such in the line of his profession, that he fitted out more young men for the university than most country schoolmasters of his day *.” And when the reader is informed, that Mr Skin- ner of Longside had himself no other instructor — in the Latin language, yet was pronounced “ to have written the best Latin of any Scotehman since Buchanan,” the above eulogium, from the pen of his pupil and grandson, cannot be — merely complimental. Although competently skilled in the teeritlhs languages, whether it was that the son found himself no match for his father in classical at- tainments, or that, though a fond admirer of Latin verse, his genius took a different bent, Bishop Skinner never attempted Latin composi- - tion in any form. Nor does he seem, as was his father’s case, to have attracted notice, while a student at Marischal College in the University of Aberdeen, beyond that which a youth, whose talents are respectable and morals correct, does at all times attract. * See Vol.I, of Theological Works of Mr Skinner of Leng- side, p. 4. BISHOP SKINNER. a Having, in the year 1761, finished his mathe- matical and philosophical studies, Mr John Skin- ner, as is common with candidates for holy orders in Scotland, was employed as a private tutor ; in which capacity he lived for two years, in the family of Sir Hugh Paterson 6f Bannockburn, near Stirling. That, at this period, the father and son occasionally corresponded in Latin is not improbable, since, in December 1761, the former addressed to the latter an Ode in Latin Sapphic verse, which the Bishop has published in the memoir of his father’s life ; and which, as the following letter will shew, has been admired. for the charming domestic picture which it ex- hibits. | yi LETTER I. LORD WOODHOUSELEE TO BISHOP SKINNER. : Edinburgh, November 28. 1809. “‘ T had the pleasure of receiving a few days ago, from Mr Moir the printer, the two copies _of your father’s posthumous works; one of them very elegantly bound, as I understand, according to your directions. This favour was not necessary, in addition to the honour you did me in dedi- / be a MEMOIR OF cating the volume of poetry to me, in terms (1 fear) of unmerited encomium; an honour, how- ever, of which I am justly proud, as not only . affording me a valued testimony of your regard, but as associating my name with a character so © highly respectable, both for his virtues and liter- ary talents, as your venerable father. “ With his exemplary worth and abilities, as it was not my good fortune to be acquainted from personal knowledge, farther than the inter- change of a letter or two in the very end of his. days, I have now obtained a very competent ac- quaintance from the ample and excellent memoir » which you have drawn up of his life. This bio- graphical account, I think, you have executed with great judgment, blending the detail of facts with the progressive history of the writings and literary correspondence, so as to form, on the whole, a very interesting and instructive nar-— rative. The concluding part I particularly ad- mire, and indeed could not read it without emo- \ tion. | “It was well judged to make the volume of poetry a separate publication. — But I trust that when a new edition of this volume is called for, you will render it complete, by the insertion of all those poetical pieces which are printed in the BISHOP SKINNER. 9 other volumes. Of these there are some which possess very high merit,—as the beautiful verses on the death of your mother,—the address to yourself prefixed to the Ecclesiastical History,— and the Sapphic ode, ‘ Ad filiam suum apud ‘ Bannockburn,’—which contains a charming domestic picture. \ "IT cannot help regretting that these make no part of the poetical volume, as they would have shone conspicuously among the productions of the author’s muse. If this hint should be adopt- ed in any subsequent edition of the poems, I would recommend likewise the recovery, if pos- sible, of all the little pieces which are mentioned as a-missing ;—lost indeed they cannot be, for theit merit must have imprinted them on the me- mory of many yet alive, although no written co- pies may be found. Dr Doig’s excellent verses, entitled ‘ Fortuna Mediocris,’ which were meant to be descriptive of your father’s life, and which he justly therefore says, ‘ Mihi fortuneeque mez ‘ totam vendico,’ should certainly find a place in the poetical volume. Perhaps I ought to ask your pardon for the liberty I take in thus offering my advice ; but the interest you have given me in that volume will, I trust, be sufficient apology. Of your father’s theological writings, and of his 10 MEMOIR OF opinions on sacred subjects, it would be great presumption in me to offer any judgment. A large portion of the former is connected with a branch | of learning of which I have no knowledge. Of the latter I can only say, that, so far as I am fit to judge of them, they are congenial to imy own. Nor can I form a better wish on, those matters of most serious import than,— ~ ¢ Sit anima nostra cum sua.’” In the year 1763, such was the want of labour- ers in the humble vineyard of the Seotch Epis- copal Church, that, although but recently entered into his 20th year, Mr John Skinner was, by his ever Zealous father, thus urgently required, ina letter addressed to him at Bannockburn, to quit his comfortable situation in that family, and re- » pair to Aberdeen for admission into holy orders. — LETTER II. MR SKINNER, LONGSIDE, TO HIS SON AT BANNOCK- BURN. Linseed June 5. 1763. ‘ Thope this will be the last letter I shall need to write to you, till we meet, Your time is out BISHOP SKINNER. 11 the end of June, and there is great need of your making all the dispatch you can. I had your last the ojher day, and was doubly glad to find you in good health, and so busy in preparing for your new state of life. You will soon begin to see what a laborious employment ours is, and how much they must be disappointed who foolishly enter into it for ease. I know this is not your case, but I make the observation to assist you to contemn all who either act or think after that piti- ful way! I have seen none of the Ellon folks, the Dudwick family excepted, since I wrote last, but have frequent occasions of hearing concerning ~ them, and how keen they continue for your set- tlement among them. A great many of the worldly wise are, indeed, surprised at your incli- nation and my consent ; but ‘ the wisdom of this world,’—you know what it is,—‘ coram Deo stul- titia ;;>—-and if there should be what these folks would call loss by it, you serve a good Master, who can make you up, and upon him, I trust, it is that you depend. I had intimated to the Bi- shop your consent to his plans, immediately on receipt of yours to that purpose ; but it seems my letter had, somehow or other, miscarried; so that, after waiting some little time, I wrote him again, which found the honest man so much distressed 12 MEMOIR OF with the gout that he could not handle the pen, but earnestly begged that I would make a stretch to see him, and converse with him on the subject. I went accordingly, and found him intent on your ordination, as, in this pressing exigency, he thought himself at liberty to dispense with the canonical years, and paid you the compliment to say, ‘ he neither feared your capacity nor your ‘behaviour.? On my return I was a night at Dudwick, where the family were all pleased with the Bishop’s determination, and fond of having you among them. The living, they fear, will not be great, but, from what they tell me, it will be no way inferior to my own; and you know that you do not labour under the disadvantages I did, on my entering into the world. While I flatter “myself the prospect of doing God and religion service, and that, too, so near to me, will induce you to put up with little, and there is no fear of starving! Were I to chalk out a route for you, I . would have you come north by Brechin, to’ Mr Lunan’s at Northwater-bridge, . where you may attend prayers on a Sunday, and be at Bauchory to tea on Monday afternoon, at which place I shall meet you. This is my scheme for the-begin- ning of a week, because I don’t choose to be from home of a Sunday ; and, if you can order your BISHOP SKINNER. 18 matters accordingly, let this be the first Monday of July,—July 4th. I do not, however, propose to fix you, as I do not know your mind on the subject. You will therefore fully resolve before you write, and let me know, that I may concert according to your motions. In any shape choose the way most convenient for yourself, as I can defer visiting my father till afterwards; only let your journey take ,place as soon as possible, as the people and Bishop are much importuning me on that score. With respect to your apparent change, we can talk more properly of that at meet- ing; which I wish God may make and continue happy to us both. Only, I repeat, you are not to expect ease or affluence ; but with an inten- tion to do God and religion service, you are to do your best, and leave events to him.” Having acquiesced in this summons, Mr John Skinner was ordained by Bishop Gerard of Aber- deen, on his arrival there, and settled in the charge of two congregations, at that time widely separated, but which, under his own auspices, as their Bishop, he lived to see so far happily ~ united, that a chapel in the village of Ellon, Six- teen miles northward of Aberdeen, was actually to have been opened for their joint accommoda- 14 MEMOIR OF tion, by himself, on the 25th July, St James’ Day, 1816, for which occasion a sermon was found — in his writing-desk ready for delivery. The Bi- - shop, alas! was buried on the 19th day of that month; but the clergyman now serving the cure, having had this posthumous discourse of his diocesan consigned to him, did, after an ap- propriate prefatory address, deliver it from the pulpit the day on which the chapel was opened, when the impression made by it on the ‘good - people was such as will not speedily be obliter- ated. In this extended charge young Mr Skinner laboured most assiduously and usefully for the space of eleven years ; having, for the first two or three years of his incumbency, to officiate dur- ing the summer season twice every Sunday, and to travel no less a distance than 15 or 16 miles to and from the different chapels where his peo- ple assembled :—the emoluments of the charge, from written documents under his own pom: varying from L.25 to L.30 per annum, In the year 1764, when Mr Skinner had little more than completed his 20th year, he was most respectably and happily married to a parishioner of his beloved father’s, and the only daughter of a deceased brother-clergyman, the late Rey. Wil- liam Robertson of Dundee. : BISHOP SKINNER. 15 This gentleman being the younger son of Tho- mas Robertson, Esq. of Downiehills in Aberdeen- shire, and having married Jane, daughter of Sir John Guthrie, formerly of King-Edward, at that time of Ludquharn, Baronet, was originally pas- tor of the Episcopal congregation in Longside, where the estate of Ludquharn is situated,—and therefore Mr Skinner senior’s immediate prede- cessor in that numerous and respectable charge. On the melancholy event of Mr Robertson’s death, which happened when his daughter was in her 9th year, his widow and family returned to their relatives in the north country. Hence- it happened, that from their childhood Mr Skin- ner and Miss Robertson were intimately ac- quainted,—which acquaintance ripened into mu- tual attachment and regard,—so that no sooner was Mr Skinner settled in a little farm belonging to Mr Fullarton of Dudwick, whose son was the husband of Miss Robertson’s aunt, than they were happily united on the 27th day of August -1'764, and continued to live together in the full enjoyment of conjugal and domestic bliss for the space of 43 years. ‘To add to Mr Skinner’s comfort and respectability in his married state, no sooner was Mrs Robertson freed from her at- tendance on an aged mother, than she became 16 MEMOIR OF an inmate of his family ; where she continued to live “‘ a Christian in deed and iin truth,” until she had completed her 90th year ! 4 In the year 1775, when Mr Skinner had be- come the happy parent of three daughters and two sons, (the youngest of whom died in in- fancy,) a wider field of usefulness opened upon him. By the death of the Rev. William Smith, one of the Episcopal clergy in the city of Aber- deen, a vacancy took place, which the subject of this Memoir was well qualified to fill; and to fill it he was, by the Bishop and people, unanimously invited. Mutually, however, attached to each other, as he and his flock in the country were, it was with no small reluctance that Mr Skinner _acceded to the proposal. Nor would he have acceded, had it not been that the education of a rising family rendered the proposed change of situation almost a matter of necessity. At the period when he entered on his new charge, it did not consist of 300 people ; yet such was Mr Skinner’s zeal in his holy calling, that he had not served the cure above twelve months when ad- ditional accommodation was required. — But, in 1776, even the idea of erecting an ostensible churchlike place of worship dared not be che- rished by Scotch Episcopalians. Hence was Mr | BISHOP SKINNER. 17 Skinner obliged to look out for some retired si- tuation, down a close or little alley, and there, -at his own individual expence, to erect a large dwelling house; the two upper floors of which, being fitted up as a chapel, were devoted to the -accommodation of his daily increasing flock, and the two under floors to the residence of his fa- mily. In this house, which contained between 500 and 600 people, Mr Skinner continued for the space of nineteen years to discharge his ministe- rial office; when the penal laws being at last happily repealed, and not a single seat to be pro- cured, he and his flock were induced to set sub- scription papers on foot, for building a proper and commodious edifice as a chapel, capable of accommodating from 700 to 800 people. This desirable measure was accomplished in the year 1795 ; while such continued to be the success of this worthy man’s labours, that, having possess- ed this house for twenty years, it also became ctowded to such excess, that the public spirit- ed members of his flock urged him, not many months before his death, to set about erecting, in the spacious street which forms the north en- try to the city of Aberdeen, a truly magnificent structure, capable of containing no fewer than B 18 MEMOIR. OF- 1100 people, and fitted up in a ‘manner more ap- |, propriate and ,churchlike than: any edifice of ‘the kind northward of the Forth. This, to him ever grateful. work, their beloved pastor set about with all the ardour of youth; and, although he lived not to assemble his people within its walls, yet he lived to see the plan matured, and’ the, walls of the building raised some feet above the level of the ground. To his immortal honour, and in evidence of their indelible attachment to him, and gratitude for his pious labours among them, the congregation of St Andrew's Chapel, _ Aberdeen, aided by other zealous friends of Scotch - Episcopacy, have placed in the chapel a full length statue of its founder, by Flaxman of Lon- don, one of the first artists of this or any other country, thus verifying the declaration ‘of the meat 5 ide egal ‘¢ The righteous shall be had in err remembrance.” To the whole body of Scotch Episcopalians, as well as to their immediate spiritual governors, it must have been clearly visible, that such a man as Mr Skinner of Aberdeen was, on every — account, a fit person to be invested with the highest ecclesiastical dignity in. the church in ' which he served. For, as the glory of God and the BISHOP SKINNER. ~~ 19 good of souls actuated his conduct at all times, and in all seasons, his talents and acquirements, joined to characteristic zeal and firmness, pru- dence, and self-command, were peculiarly adapt- ed to the arduous task of elevating a society so depressed and cast down as was the Scotch Epis- copal Church about the middle of the last centu- ry, when Mr Skinner took part of her ministry. The Right Rev. Robert Kilgour, of Peter- — head, a man of uncommon benignity of mien and manner, and of the greatest private worth, had succeeded, in autumn 1760, to the charge of the diocese of Aberdeen, then become vacant by the death of Bishop Gerard. But the duties of the office, as he advanced in life, proving too great for his naturally delicate frame, Bishop Kilgour, with the unanimous consent of his clergy, appli- ‘ed to the Episcopal College for a Bishop co-ad- jutor to him in his extensive diocese. His col- leagues chearfully acquiescing in thismeasure, Mr__ Skinner of Aberdeen was duly elected ;to the of- fice of a Bishop by the clergy of the district, and _ “consecrated at Luthermuir, in the diocese of Brechin, on the 25th day of September 1782, by - the Bishops—Kilgour of Aberdeen, Ross of Dun- blane, and Petrie of Ross and Moray. And such, in the space of four years, was the confidence Ba 20 MEMOIR OF with which Bishop Skinner, then only in his 42d year, inspired the venerable members of the Epis- copal College in Scotland,"that Bishop Kilgour, having been nominated Primus Scotize Episco- pus, on the death of Bishop Falconer of Edin- burgh, in 1784, did, with the approbation and consent of the College, divest himself entirely of all Episcopal relation to the diocese of Aber- deen, retaining the office of Primus only, and “was succeeded by his co-adjutor, Bishop Skinner, in terms of the ninth Synodical Canon of 1'743*. From that period, the Bishop of Aberdeen is known to have devoted every thought of his heart and every faculty of his mind towards rendering the sadly depressed church in which he served, alike respectable and “ worthy of all dccepta- tion”’ in the eyes of men, as he trusted, by rea- son of her resemblance in doctrine and discip- line to the primitive church of Christ, she would be found acceptable in the sight of God, and conformable to his holy word and will. But although a Memoir of the life of Bishop — Skinner must also prove an interesting narrative of the history of the Scotch Episcopal Church, * See Skinner's Eécles. Histery of Scotland, Vol. II. p. 683. : BISHOP SKINNER. Ql from the date at which his revered father con- cludes his Letters on the Ecclesiastical History of Scotland, yet the author of these pages, aware that he possesses neither the talents nor the ac- quirements which befit an historian, has been in- duced to frame his narrative in the more humble form of * Annals of Scotch Episcopacy.” Before, however, entering on “his work and labour of love,” for which Bishop Skinner’s pa- pers afford him the most ample and authentic materials, justice to the Bishop’s memory re- quires his biographer to state, that, though ac- cused by some of his countrymen and contem- poraries of being ambitious, and more eager for the immediate success of his measures than for their permanent utility,—at no period of his life did sélfish or sinister motives for one moment influence his thoughts, much less his words or his actions. When his small pecuniary means, and the expences of maintaining and educat- ing his family are taken into account, Bishop _ Skinner’s liberality to the clergy of his diocese, and his hospitality towards all and sundry re- commended to his notice, were truly wonderful. Under God, however, such good management may be said to have been the peculiar work of Mrs Skinner, who, as a wife, a*mother, and a 22 MEMOIR OF house-keeper, never in any sphere of life had a superior. This, alas! when his amiable partner came to be numbered with the dead, the good Bishop lived to feel, beyond what in his lifetime even he had any idea of. To the sick, the aged and the infirm, he himself was not more regular, in discharging the necessary pastoral duties, than was the wife of his bosom in tendering them her personal aid; more frequently discharging the — duties of nurse and sick-bed attendant, than ex- 7 hibiting the formal and unavailing sympathies-of friendship, “ falsely so called!” It was in con- sequence of carrying the offices of charity and. mercy beyond what attention to her own growing. infirmities required, that Mrs Skinner was so. suddenly arrested in her Christian course! Al. though very unwell, no personal considerations. would restrain her from passing a most tempes- tuous day, in the end of February 1807, with a widowed lady, then on her death-bed, who, be- ing a stranger in Aberdeen, was without a female” friend to minister to her wants or soothe her sorrows. From that lady’s house, Mrs Skinner walked home at night; but went to bed, alas! to rise from it no more. An obstruction had taken place, which resisted the most powerful prescrip- tions of medical skill ; and, in the morning of the BISHOP SKINNER. 293 %: e 4th of March, in the arms of her devoted husband, she resigned her pious spirit into the hands of him who gave it. In announcing the sad event to his aged father, thus feelingly does the sur- viving sufferer depict the loss firhich he and his family had sustained. : “¢ Great is the‘loss which we have all sustained on this most melancholy occasion. But her own family, O! what have they not lost,—one of the mosttender and affectionate mothers,—so anxious for.their welfare,—so kind and attentive to them in every situation! If it were not that I have _ already been obliged to write so much upon this most affecting subject, I should wonder at my being still able to dwell upon it, and give vent to those feelings which, in my mind, are inse- parable from it... There is a luxury in indulging this'kind of sober; serious grief, while it tends to cherish the resignation of the heart, and keeps at a distance every repining thought. May no such thought ever find a place in my breast, for- tified, as I trust it will always be, by the aid of an Almighty comforter, and a grateful sense of - the many blessings I still enjoy ;- the sympathy of numerous friends, and the affectionate atten- tion of those of my own family, all striving to do what they can for my comfort and support. Who Qt MEMOIR OF » ( could have the heart to murmur under the im- pression of so many instances of the divine ‘nier- cy and compassion! Who but would sayy in stich a case as what I have now experienced, severe and trying as it is,—‘ It isthe Lord; let him do what seemeth him good.’ ‘To him it belongs to act the part of a wise and tender father 5 to such a father we have only to say, * Thy willbe done*?”” Yet, to his family and intimate nd yudddroanliapl it was sufficiently obvious that Bishop Skinner never recovered from the shock, which the removal of such an helpmate gave to his debilitated frame. For forty years and upwards, through Her unde viating attention to his petsonal comfort, he had been a complete stranger to his own bodily wants, and in some respects insensible to his bodily ma firmities. And now that she was gone, such was his feeling of independence, that he would; on no account permit his sons and daughters, or any of them, to become to him the kind assistant and comforter that their mother had been. At theidea of giving trouble to any one, Bishop Skinfer uni- formly shrunk ; and such was his abhorrence of personal ease, hak he never failed to characterise — itas criminal. Hence he was induced to persevere * Works of Mr Skinner; Vol I. p: 212. BISHOP SKINNER. 95 with undiminished, if not with increased zeal and activity, not only in his Episcopal, but in his pas- toral duties, to the visible injury of his constitu: tion, which, though naturally hale and sound, was never robust. ‘The church, his family, and flock, were indeed blessed with his continuance among them for the space of nine years after he had been - deprived of her who, under the Great Shepherd atid Bishop of Souls, was his stay and support ; yet this was a space of comparatively little enjoy- ment to the good Bishop himself. For, though alive to- the calls of duty beyond what was re- quired of him, having for fourteen years enjoy- ed the official aid of his youngest son, yet, from — the hour of his beloved partner’s demise, Bishop Skinner became in a manner regardless of do- meéstic endearments. The “* feast of reason and the flow of soul” had no longer any charms for him. | In the end of the year 1814, he was seized with an alarming illness. For weeks he conti- -nued in great bodily pain, but happily was never confined to his bed or tochis bedchamber. As spring 1815 advanced, he recovered so far-as to be released from confinement to the house, and, though much debilitated, entered with characte- ristic keenness on his professional labours, preach- Fo 26. MEMOIR OF ing regularly every Sunday, discharging more | than his share of the pastoral labours of his con- gregation, and taking his turn of duty as a ma- nager of several charitable institutions in the. city of Aberdeen, viz.—the Infirmary, the Luna; . tic Hospital, and the Poors’-House. And so short was the period of his confinement,at last, . that the very forenoon on which he died, Satur-. day, July 13, 1816, he was in his’ dining-room, and on Friday, the day preceding, at prayers in. the chapel. ; a To all who were interested in Bishop Siisastia, : life, (and, besides his sorrowing family and flock, they were not a few,) it was a source of unayail-. ing regret that their worthy father, bishop, pas- tor, and friend had -concéaled from his physici- ans the fatal disorder, viz. Strangulated Hernia, which at last so speedily terminated his ‘mortal ex- -istence. Had this disorder been discovered, and the necessary operation undergone at “its com-. mencement, his valuable life might for a time have probably been preserved. But though, when the case became desperate, the operation of reducing the Hernia was most dexterously and successfully performed, morbid. symptoms had, ere then, taken place in the frame at large, and the Bishop sunk into the sleep.of death with- - BISHOP SKINNER. 27 out being conscious, to all human appearance, of any such change befalling him. ~ Were it not that the writer of this Memoir is afraid he has already subjected himself to the charge of unnecessary prolixity in. his details, he would endeavour to do justice to the ‘ sor- rowing not without hope,” with which Bishop Skinner’s brethren in the Scotch Episcopate, his clergy, and the Episcopal clergy of Scotland at large, his flock, his friends, and his fellow-citizens of all ranks and degrees, received the accounts of his sudden and unlooked for dissolution ! Hundreds besides the large company who were specially invited, followed his body to the grave. And, though apparently a rude rabble had seat- ed themselves on the walls of the Mausoleum, a burying-place in the ’Spital Church-yard of Old Aberdeen, near to which his mortal remains are deposited, yet when the officiating clergyman commenced the funeral service, not a breath was _ heard,—not a head but was instantly uncover-— . ed;—and, while tears were seen to flow apace, not a trace of disrespect marked the conduct of the most ragged spectator of the impressive scene ! r | On the succeeding Sunday, the 21st of July, the proximus resident Bishop, the Right Rev. 28 MEMOIR OF ° | Patrick Torry, of Peterhead, did ample justice to . his late colleague’s private and professional cha- racter, in an excellent discourse, from the pulpit of St Andrew’s Chapel, Aberdeen; and, in con. cluding this little Memoir, the author takes leave to express himself in the words of the Sermon, delivered by a clergyman of the diocese of Aber- deen, on the afternoon of the same mournful day, throughout which the eyes of every auditor were moistened with tears ; and the gait, the gatb, the gesture of “ high and low, rich and poor, one with another,”—marked the undissembled, the heartfelt grief, with which they were all deeply affected. «« That ‘ in the midst of life we are in dehtlye not a moment passeth without some striking evi- dence.—We know not what an hour, much less ~ ‘ what a day may bring forth ? Littledid you, my Christian friends, imagine, when last assembled here, that, ere the next Lord’s day came round, you were to be deprived of your venerable Bi- shop and Pastor ; or, that the lips, which then en- joined you to ‘* buy the truth and sell it not,*” should so suddenly be sealed by death, never to address you more ! * It was from these words of Solomon, i in Prov. xxiii. v. 28, that, for the last time, Bishop Skinner spoke from the pulpit. BISHOP SKINNER. 89 - | * His Right Rev. colleague and friend has al- ready done such justice to his character in the church,—to his talents, his zeal, and his unwearied assiduity in all things pertaining to Christian edi- fication, that I shrink from the thought of adding my mite of well-earned tribute to his immortal memory. Convinced, however, that it is a theme on which all who hear me delight to dwell, I can- not refrain from a feeble attempt to gratify both you and myself, by something like the truth you have already heard,—by something like a por- trait of our deceased father, friend, and guardian. « Nursed in the bosom of the church, and train- ed to the office of the holy ministry, by a parent - go eminently qualified, so highly endowed as the Rev. Mr Skinner of Longside was, it would have been matter both of surprise and disappointment, if our late Bishop had not given early promise of superior usefulness and distinction in the cause of * true and undefiled religion.’ Barely had he reached his 20th year, when he had two distant country congregations consigned to his pastoral care, the duties of which were discharged by him, at that juvenile period of his life, in a manner so highly satisfactory to the people, that, when he received a call to exercise his sacred office in this populous city, his flock in the country could hard- Fal ‘ 30 MEMOIR OF ly be brought to acquiesce in his removal, while nought but the interests of his young and rising family would have brought him to leave those — who, for the space of eleven years, had honoured him with such distinguished regard. “In this numerous and respectable congrega- tion, however, few are they who recollect the Bi- shop’s removal to Aberdeen, while fewer still sur- vive who were instrumental in promote that removal. Forty-one years elapse not without bringing in their train many, many changes; and, such are the changes which the good Bishop himself was accessary to producing, in the num- ber, circumstances, and accommodation of his (originally) < little flock,’ that I may truly say, the * place thereof knows it no more.’ And, if changes so great, so encouraging, were effected here, by the blessing of God, through his pastoral labours,—still are they as nought to the changes,” which, during the 34 years of his Episcopate, Bi- shop Skinner was instrumental in producing on the Scotcu Episcopat Cuurcs at large ;—which - church, from a state of obscurity and depression unknown in the annals of any other regular branch of the church-of Christ, has risen, under his fostering hand, to a state of respectability BISHOP SKINNER. 31 and distinction, such as no other merely tolerated church on earth enjoys. . « My respected clerical brethren here present, know that our late Primus and spiritual father found our ‘ little Zion’ sunk under a dark cloud - of political jealousy and suspicion ;—he has left our little Zion a ‘ praise on the earth.’ He found this portion of the ‘ vineyard of the Lord of © Hosts’ chilled, and rendered unfruitful, by the mists of popular prejudice and worldly wisdom; he has left it in full bearing,—no longer perse- cuted and forsaken, but counted worthy of ho- nour by all * who, by patient continuance in ‘ well-doing, seek for glory, and honour, and im- _ * mortality. * A besieged city’ no more; the Episcopal church in Scotland has her gates no more ‘ made desolate ;’ every bar and restraint have happily been removed, so that the righteous of all ranks ‘ resort unto her company,’ and * enter into her courts with praise.’ “ Should it be enquired how a single individ- ual could have been so instrumental, as Bishop Skinner is known to have been, in effecting this auspicious change on the face of Scattish Epis- copacy ? Without arrogating a tittle of merit to himself, it was thus that this humble-minded ser- 52 MEMOIR OF - Og vant of the humble Jesus accounted for his: ‘good —* success :’— to Wags: {s ‘© « The consecration of Bishop Seabury. for ‘ the state of Connecticutin North America, first ' ‘introduced me tothe knowledge and. acquain- ‘ tance of some eminent divines of the Church of ‘England. They were the men who thenceforth ‘interested themselves so much in the repeal of ‘the penal statutes, and in the grievously depres- ‘sed situation of our church, that, for my own ‘ part, I had only to inform them and some inyalu- ‘able and equally zealous lay friends, . what my * venerable colleagues and I wished to be done, ‘and they did it? aidliaay * “ Would the man ambitious of Bhar have thus meekly relinquished his prize? Would the lover of personal. distinction, more than ¢ a lover of God,’ have thus voluntarily denuded himself of all distinetion, and,, self-divested as he was, have chosen to attribute to others that good work which his excellent ¢o-operators he- sitate not to acknowledge was, under God, ef- fected by his own unwearied labours, his.own sleepless nights and thoughtful days,—labours which at last completely undermined a consti- — tution which, though never vigorous, was origi- nally so hale and sound that, on his entering in- . BISHOP SKINNER. 83 to the Episcopate, Bishop Skinner had the pros- pect of numbering as many years as his vener- able progenitors. * Many a time did his-family, many a time did his clergy and friends urge him to be less anxious, less thoughtful on the state of the church at large, and less occupied (now that he enjoyed the pastoral assistance of a beloved son) with the duties of his immediate charge. In the words of an eminent English divine, Bishop - Cumberland, his uniform answer was, ‘ better wear out than rust out :’—better for me ‘ to spend -* and be spent,’ in my blessed Master’s service, than to waste my life, as some.do, in doing no- thing.’ ‘QO! that his bright example may be indelibly recorded in the Episcopal church in Scotland, as a pattern to all who engage in her ministry and service! “And O! that you, my beloved brethren in Christ,-with the worthy people who now hear me, and their childrens’ children, may maintain inviolate those principles, and ‘ continue in those ‘things’ which we and they ‘have learned of *‘ him and been assured of, knowing (as we all do” * His grandfather lived till after 80. His father died at the age of 86, and his mother at the age of 82, He had recently completed his 72d year. Cc 34 MEMOIR OF ‘know) of whom he learned them,’—even of the apostles and prophets,—Jesus Christ himself be- ing ever with him the ‘ chief corner-stone.? ” ~ In secular learning, Bishop Skinner was no adept, his studies being solely directed to ‘the ‘knowledge of Jesus Christ and’ him crucified.’ In the arts of ornate composition and methodical address, he was, as his works bear witness, but ~-little skilled. His aim was uniformly to edify, not to entertain, an over-anxiety for which ren- dered his style diffuse and tautological, though it was always impressive. His sole and unceasing desire was to ‘shew himself approved unto God, ‘a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, ‘rightly dividing the word of truth.’ In evidence of which, manuscript sermons in his hand-writing exist, to the amount of nearly two thousand, and embrace ‘ the whole counsel of God’ revealed in holy Scripture. Still, though listened to with more than ordinary attention, and even pleasure, Bishop Skinner was not, in the common accepta- tion of the terms, ‘a popular preacher ;’ his at- tractions lay in the art of ‘ comparing spiritual ‘ things with spiritual,’ and of thus illustrating Scripture by Scripture itself. The lambs of his flock, as was prophesied of his divine Examplar, — BISHOP SKINNER. 35 he « gathered with his arm, and carried them in ‘his bosom,’ imparting tothem, in a Sunday school, which he regularly superintended, and, throughout the whole season of Lent, in Chapel, when public worship was over, ‘ precept upon ‘precept, line upon line, here a little and there ‘ a little,’ as their tender minds would bear, until being ‘no more children,’ they ‘ grew up unto ‘ Him in all things, which is the Head, even | ‘ Christ,’ having been duly taught to ‘ mark'them’ ‘ which cause’ or encourage ‘ divisions, and to a- ‘void them.’ The youth of his congregation, thus ‘brought up in the nurture and admoni- * tion of the Lord,’ thus ‘ trained up in the way ‘that they should go,’ seldom or never ‘ depart-— ‘ed,’ in things essential; from that way; and hence was Bishop Skinner’s ministry so success- ful as has been already stated. : From the year 1786 to the year 1792, he an- nually held two diocesan meetings of his clergy, and delivered a charge to them at each meeting. But from 1792 to the year in which he died, his | diocesan meetings were annual only, and took place at Aberdeen, regularly on the Wednesday _after the third Sunday in. August. Hence, his charges to his clergy amount to no fewer than thirty-six, and are directed against all the pro- c 2 a a6 MEMOIR OF minent errors, schisms, and divisions of modern times *. ’ 4 QE eight children, born to ‘aici Skinner, : four have. survived him, two sons and two daughters. His two sons being educated for the Ciflkeh, John, the elder, was ordained, on St Matthias’ day, 1790, by the late Bishop Strachan or Dun- _ dee ; and, for the last twenty years of his clerical life, has been settled in the Episcopal charge of Forfar, in the diocese of Dunkeld. William, the Bishop’s second son, and youngest child, was or- dained deacon in March 1802, by the late Dr Samuel Horsley, Bishop of Rochester, and priest in the year following by the same distinguished Prelate, then Bishop of St Asaph; and, having assisted his father from that date, was duly con- secrated Bishop of Aberdeen in his father’s stead, * To present the public with a printed volume or two of such admirable matter as Bishop Skinner’s manuscript char- ges and discourses afford, would, to his executor and biogra- pher, be a most grateful task indeed! But for him to do so now, when works of this description are so little esteemed, without such pecuniary hazard, (not to say loss,) as, in his situation and circumstances of life, amounts to a virtual pro- hibition, is impossible! May more propitious times speedily dawn upon our country. BISHOP SKINNER. 37 on the 27th October 1816, having been regularly and canonically elected to that sacred office by the clergy of the diocese on the 11th day of September of the same year. Jane, the elder daughter, is unmarried ; the younger, Mary, is the wife of Alexander Dal- garno, Isq. merchant in Aberdeen. Grace ex- cepted, who lived till she reached her eighth year, Bishop Skinner's other children, all boys, were cut off in infancy. END OF THE MEMOIR. . ; j Oped ae tyes Ae - | s 4 | ANNALS or SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. y . Me . ae ad ¥ ’ - y f . * et S hy ae 4 te RRP ; ; a " . be \ $y 41 ANNALS OF SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. Tue Ecclesiastical History of Scotland, by Bi- shop Skinner’s father, reaching down from the first appearance of Christianity in this kingdom to the first of May 1788, the present humble Annalist of Scottish Episcopacy is to be under- stood as commencing his labours from that date. . Yet; as the work is meant to be conducted so as to illustrate the character, the views, and the ex- ertions of the late senior Bishop and Primus, it is necessary for the author to trace back his steps to the year 1784; when, as was observed in the excerpt from the sermon above quoted, the event of Bishop Seabury’s consecration, for the State of Connecticut in North America, first “ introducing Bishop Skinner to the knowledge ! 42 ‘ ANNALS OF and acquaintance of some eminent divines of the Church of England,” ultimately led to the strik- ing change wrought on the face of the Episcopal Church in Scotland, during the meat years. of the Bishop’s Epica: At the time when the Rev. Dr sings Sea- bury was in England, (whence he obtained his: letters of orders,) exerting himself for the estab- lishment of a regular Episcopacy in the state of Connecticut in North America, a gentleman of equal worth and equal eminence in his station, the Rev. Dr T. B. Chandler, formerly Rector of Elizabeth-town in the state of New Jersey, was resident also in the British Metropolis, entrusted with a similar commission by the Episcopal clergy of Nova Scotia, in aid of the church in that set- tlement. On the first day of April 1785, Bishop Skinner wrote to this gentleman as follows :— LETTER I. BISHOP SKINNER TO DR CHANDLER. *“* T hope you will excuse this trouble from one who wishes to be known to you as the friend of Dr Seabury, anxious for the welfare of that worthy man, and for the success of his designs. In a letter, which I had from him lately, dated at Gravesend, when I suppose he was waiting his SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 43 embarkation, he mentions you as a person with whom I may freely correspond, about sending some copies of a sermon, preached here at his consecration, for sale in London. In itself this isa matter of no moment, but I cannot help look- _ing upon it as a fortunate circumstance, in so far as it affords me an opportunity of introducing my- self by letter to your acquaintance, as one who sincerely wishes a happy issue to the good cause in which you are engaged. Allow me, therefore, good Sir, to entreat the favour of a few lines from you, when any thing occurs which you think in- teresting to that cause, I mean to the establish- ment of a pure and primitive Episcopacy in the Western World. « Our worthy friend, who is now, I hope, crossing the Atlantic for that blessed purpose, will have many difficulties to struggle with and much opposition to encounter; but his cause is God’s, his heart is good, his resolution firm and steady, and'I trust in the mercy of his heavenly master, that these will ensure success to his pious services. He has promised to write tome on his arrival in America, and, I doubt not, he willbe as good as his word. But as you will perhaps have occasion to hear more frequently from-him, I shall think myself highly obliged to you for any intelligence respecting him or his affairs which you may be pleased to communicate. For, be- sides my being very much interested in his mat- ters, from a similarity of office and character, the 7 4 4h _ ANNALS OF: short time I had the pleasure of seeing and con- versing with him here, has given me such a high. opinion of his personal worth, as must ever en- title him to my warmest esteem and most affec- tionate remembrance. ‘This honest declaration, therefore, of my attachment to Bishop Seabury, will, I hope, plead my excuse with his worthy friend Dr Chandler, for thus intruding upon him without a more formal introduction. T have taken the opportunity of a private bearer to con- vey this to your hand; but, if honoured with a reply, let me beg that it be sent by post, as the surest and speediest mode of conveyance. Ac- cept of my best respects, &c. LETTER II. DR CHANDLER TO BISHOP SKINNER. - London, April 23, 1785. ** About three days ago, I was honoured with your very friendly and obliging letter of the first instant. I feel myself greatly indebted to my excellent friend, Bishop Seabury, for having men- tioned me in such a manner as to occasion the offer of so reputable a correspondence as is pre- sented in your letter ; and were I to remain in a situation that favoured it, I should embrace it with all thankfulness. But I am soon to embark for America, and for a part of it where, during, Se SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. — 45 ray continuance there, I shall be unable to answer your expectations. «¢ You may perhaps have heard, ‘that after hav- ing been separated eight years from my family, which I left in New Jersey, I have been detained here two years longer, with the prospect of being appointed to the superintendency of the church in our new country. This business, though the call for it is most.urgent, is still postponed ; and it appears to be in no greater forwardness now than it dida'year ago. In the meanwhile, 1am labouring under a raneeies corrosive disorder, . which rendérs a sea voyage and change of cli- mate immediately necessary. I gectaue thought proper to wait upon the Archbishop a day or two ago, to resign my pretensions to the Nova Scotia Episcopate, that I might be at liberty to cross the Atlantic and visit my family, consisting now of a most excellent wife and three amiable daugh- ters. His Grace would not hear of my giving up my claim to the above mentioned appointment, but readily consented to my visiting my family, on condition that I would hold myself in readi- ness to undertake the important charge when- ever I might be called for, which I promised, in. case my health should admit of it. Accordingly, Ihave engaged a passage in a ship bound to New York, which is obliged to sail by this day fortnight. By this migration you can be no loser, if you will.be pleased in my stead to adopt, for your correspondent, the Rev. Mr Boucher of 46 , ANNALS OF 0 #. Paddington, a loyal clergyman from Maryland, the worthiest of the worthy, and one of the most confidential friends of Bishop Seabury. I have taken the liberty of shewing him your letter, and making him the proposal. He will think himself happy in answering your inquiries from time to time, and will, as a correspondent, be able to give you more satisfaction than I could. — ‘I have often expressed my wish that your truly valuable Consecration Sermon might be ad- vertised for sale in this city. If this had been done while the occasion was fresh, I am persuaded that a large edition would have sold, and much good would have arisen from it. I am of opinion that, late as it now is, many copies would still be call- ed for were they known to be at hand. I should think Mr Robinson of Paternoster-Row might be properly employed in-that way, who has mostly © published for Mr Jones, and sometimes for Dr Horne. By the bye, it gives me pleasure to see my two learned friends here mentioned, honour- ed with your notice. In this sermon you have ably, clearly, and unanswerably explained the ori- gin and nature of ecclesiastical authority, and *he ‘ that hath ears to hear let him hear?” ide ““ This is a subject which I have repeatedly - had occasion to consider, in the course of my pub- lications in defence of our claim to an Episco- pate, and I am ashamed to find that it is so little understood by the English clergy in general. ~ “ Dr Seabury, of whom you cannot have so SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 47. High an opinion as I have, because you are not so well acquainted with him, left the Downs on the 15th of last month; on the 19th he was 65 leagues west of the Lizard, with a fair prospect of a died passage, at which time he wrote tome. Itap- | pears from the late letters from America that there ~ was great impatience for his arrival, and no appre- © hension of his meeting with ill-treatment from any quarter. In my opinion, he has more trouble to expect from a certain crooked-grained false bro- ther, (of whose character you must have some knowledge, ) than from any other person. I mean Dr S—th, late of Philadelphia College, now of - Maryland. He is a man of abilities and applica- - tion, but intriguing and pragmatical. His prin- ciples, with regard both to church‘and state, if he has any, are most commodiously flexible, yielding not only to every blast,, but to the gen- tlest breeze that whispers! With professions of | great personal esteem for Dr Seabury, made oce- casionally, he has always counteracted and oppos- ed him as far as he dared, and I doubt not but he will continue to oppose him in his Episcopal cha- racter. He will be able to do this more effectu- ally if he succeeds in his project of obtaining consecration himself, with a view to which he is said to be about embarking for Britain, His cha- racter is so well known by the Bishops here, that I trust they would have the grace to reject him, ~ even were he to carry his point with the ministry ; and J am sure there is no danger of his imposing ' pe 48 : ANNALS OF ; i upon your venerable synod. Before I was aware I have got to the end of my paper, and must now take my lea but I hope only for a little while; for wherever or however Providence may dispose of me, I shall be happy in any opportunities of prov- ing myself your very respectful and obedient ser- vant.” Previously to receipt of this letter, it is doubt- ful whether Bishop Skinner had ever heard of Mr Boucher, more than by name. Eager, however, to learn tidings of the first Bishop of the Western Hemisphere, he introduced himself to Mr &. by letter, thus— LETTER III. BISHOP SKINNER TO THE REV. JONATHAN BOUCHER. Aberdeen, 25th June 1785. — “« Sometime ago I wrote to your acquaintance, Dr Chandler, begging, as a singular favour, that he would be kind enough to communicate to me any interesting intelligence he might receive of — our worthy friend, Bishop Seabury, of whose wel- fare and success, you may believe, I will ever be anxious to hear. The good Doctor lost no time in making a most obliging return to my letter ; but informed me, to my great regret, that his state of health was such as to render a sea voyage ab- solutely necessary for the recovery of it, and that ‘\ . SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY, ~ 49 he was to sail in a short timefor New York, being obliged to leave the great object of his coming to Britain unaccomplished. | Pity were it that a de- sign so laudable, and so essential to the interests of religion in the new province, should thus be set aside by reasons of state, without any other - formidable impediment in the way of it. “‘ With uncommon attention to my anxiety, after informing me of his intended departure from England, and the afflicting cause of it, Dr Chand- der adds, ‘ that by his migration I can be no loser, ‘if in his stead I will adopt for my correspondent ‘ the Rev. Mr Boucher of Paddington,’ of whom he gives a most amiable character, and, what en- dears you still more to me, describes you as one of the most confidential friends of Bishop Seabury. -As such, I now gladly embrace the opportunity: of introducing myself to you, in hopes that, by the time this reaches your hand, there will be some account of the good Bishop’s arrival in Ame- Tica, if it has pleased God to grant him a speedy _and prosperous voyage, for which I doubt not the prayers of many have been grees addressed to heaven. ** The Bishop promised to write me from Ha- lifax, if he found “any vessel there for Scotland, But as you will probably hear of him, if not from him, sooner than I can expect, and oftener than he will have occasion to write to me, it will be do- ing me a very great favour, if you will be so good as to inform me, from time to time, what accounts D 50 ANNALS OF you may receive either from him or of him, such as you think will be acceptable to one-who loves and esteems him, and wishes his success and hap- piness, as I do. This is a task which I would not ‘have presumed to impose on you, had not Dr ' Chandler so kindly paved the way for it. ‘“‘ Our amiable friend, the Bishop of Connecti- cut, will have many difficulties to struggle with in the blessed work he has undertaken; and particularly from certain occurrences in some of the southern states, which will, I fear, create no small opposition to the conscientious discharge of his duty. The busy, bustling President of Washington College, Maryland, seems to be lay- ing a foundation for much confusion throughout the churches of North America, and it will require all Bishop Seabury’s prudence and good manage- ment to counteract his preposterous measures. I saw a letter from this man lately toa Clergyman im this. country, wherein he proposes to be in ~ London as last month, and wishes to know what the Bishops in Scotland would do, on an applica- tion to them from any foreign country, such as America is now declared to be, for a succession in their ministry, by the consecration of one or more Bishops for them! By this time, I suppose, he knows both what we would do and what we have done; and perhaps is not ignorant, that, as our terms would not please him, so his measures would be equally displeasing to us. ; ‘“* L have seen, in the Gentleman’ s Mpls SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. $1 various strictures on the subject of Dr Seabury’s consecration; and the sermon preached on the occasion has been criticised, and some passages in it found fault with, as disrespectful to the English Bishops, and even to the authority of the British Parliament. As the author intended not his dis- course for the meridian of London, he was at no pains to adapt it to the notions that are cherished under the warm sunshine of civil establishment ; it is Sufficient for him, if it meets with the appro- bation of the truly wise and worthy, wherever they be, that look more to the things of Christ than to the things of this world.” Mr Boucher-being on a continental tour when this letter reached him, delayed answering it un- til his return to England. The following grateful communication, of date the 6th of December 1785, was then despatched from Epsom. . LETTER IV. . REY. JONATHAN BOUCHER TO BISHOP SKINNER. ‘* When your very obliging and acceptable fa- vour of the 25th June reached Paddington, I had just left it, to go on a long tour into Germany and France, from which I returned late in Octo- ber. Your letter was delivered to a most valu- able and confidential friend, William Stevens, D2 an .<° ‘ANNALS. OF | Esq., who is also the friend of. all your friends. Mr Stevens tells me he acquainted you with my absence, which, I hope, would apologise for my not having sooner thanked you for what I really consider as a very great favour. | ‘«« No doubt you have long ago heard of good — Bishop Seabury’s arrival, and most affectionate reception among the poor scattered sheep of yon- der wilderness. He carries himself with such a- steady prudence, as to have commanded the re- spect of even the most spiteful ill-willers of his. order; and, with all the countless difficulties he has to encounter, yet, by the blessing of God on his firm mind, there is, I trust, little doubt that the church will grow under his pastoral care. I have as yet heard only of his having ordained five presbyters, one or more of whom are from the Southern States, which I mention, as considering it as an acknowledgment of his powers, eyen be- yond the limits of his professed district. ** A general convention of the Episcopal Cler- gy of all North America, made up of an equal proportion of lay members, was to meet in Phi- ladelphia about Michaelmas, to form:some gene- ral plan for the whole Episcopal Church. Dr Sea- bury, I have understood, though not from him- self, was invited and pressed to attend this meet- ing, but he very prudently declined it, as, from its motley composition, he could not. be sure of things being conducted as they ought. He will be there, however, or has been there, (and Dr SCOTTISH ‘EPISCOPACY. | 88 Chandler ‘also,) with his advice and influence ; and this is the only reason I have to form any hopes of any good coming from the meeting. «© [hear of some very alarming symptoms at- tending the poor church in the Southern States. The few Episcopal Clergymen left there are not, as you may imagine, men the most distinguished. for abilities or warth. The enemies of the Church see this, and avail themselves of it. _ I have sun- dry late letters from thence, which all speak, far too confidently, of some wild purpose of forming a coalition, (too like some other coalitions) be- tween the Episcopalians and Presbyterians. I have, by every means in my power, put those, over whom I have any influence, in my old neighbour- ’ hood of Virginia and Maryland, on their guard against a measure which I cannot but deem insi- dious, and therefore likely to be fatal. And I have also called in the aid of those stout cham- pions, Drs Chandler and Seabury. God grant that our united effogts may all avail! It adds not a little to my apprehensions, that all these things are carrying on within the vortex of Dr S—th’s immediate influence, who is bent on being a Bi- _ shop, ‘ per fas aut nefas,’ and who, if he cannot otherwise compass his end, will assuredly unite . with the P ns; and so Herod and Pontius Pilate shall again be made friends! «‘ You may not perhaps have heard, as I have, that he affected to be much pleased with Dr Sea- ey 54 ANNALS OF bury’s having returned to America, invested with the Episcopal character, all which will be abun- dantly explained to you when I farther inform you of his having found out that one Bishop alone may, in certain cases, consecrate another. The English of this is plain, and may account for your not having seen him in Scotland! The case is a ticklish one, and will require poor Seabury’s ut- most skill to manage. He knows S—th well, and, of course, thinks of him as we all- do. Yet, if S—th is thus properly consecrated, such is his in- fluence, it may be the means of preventing that sad state of things in Virginia and Maryland which I hinted at above. Yet it is dreadful to think of having such a man in such a station! _ I daily expect further and fuller accounts, and, on your signifying that it will not be disagreeable to you, I shall have much pleasure in commu-. nicating cae } The reader will not doubt, of rial Skinner’s eagerness to cultivate a correspondence, in all re- spects so desirable as was the correspondence of this zealous friend of Church and State, Early in the ensuing year, therefore, the Bishop repli- ed to the above interesting letter. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 55 ‘LETTER V. - BISHOP SKINNER TO MR BOUCHER. « Aberdeen, Jan. 4, 1786. « T acknowledge, with much satisfaction, the fayour of your obliging letter of 6th December, which I received with the greater pleasure, as the intimation given by your friend Mr Stevens of your absence had unluckily not come to my hand. ‘The accounts of good Bishop Seabury’s favourable reception in America, you may believe were highly agreeable to me, and my brethren of the Episcopal Church in this country ; and though as yet we have not had these accounts confirmed under his own hand, we have no doubt but that a little time will bring us these refreshing tidings, and open up a happy correspondence between _ the pasters of the truly ‘little flock’ here, and those of the ‘ many scattered sheep of yonder wilderness.’ I observed in the newspapers the other day a paragraph, as quoted from the Ma- ryland Journal, which gives no more, I hope, than a true account of our worthy friend’s pro- ceedings, and the honourable reception he has met with. The description you give of the alarm- ing symptoms appearing in the Southern States, is indeed very-affecting, and shews such a mise- rable deficiency in point of knowledge, as well as zeal, among the Episcopal Clergy in those parts, as could hardly have been suspected among any p, 56 ANNALS OF - who had received regular Episcopal ordination, It gives me some comfort to hear that such able advocates for primitive truth and order as Dr Chandler and yourself, are stepping forth in op- position to the wild undigested schemes of mo- dern sectaries. God, of his-mercy, grant success to your endeavours in so good a cause, and raise up many such to strengthen the hands of his faith- ful servant, the Bishop of Connecticut, while he stands single in the great work he has undertak- en. But is there no prospect of his getting some fellow-workers of his own order, to assist him in stemming that torrent of irregularity which seems — to be pouring down upon him from the Southern States? What you mention of my countrymaa, | Dr S—th, is too much of a piece with his former conduct, and plainly shews what some people will do to compass the end they have in view. © As to what the Doctor has found out in fa- vour of a singular consecration, I know nothing that can justify such a measure but absolute ne- cessity, which in his case cannot be pleaded, be- cause, in whatever way the Scottish Bishops might treat an application in his behalf, there i is no reason to doubt of their readily concurring in any proper plan for increasing the number of | Bishopsin America. And as Dr Seabury must be - sufficiently sensible of their good inclinations that. way, I hope he will be the better able to resist the introduction of any disorderly measure which might be made a precedent for future irregula- SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 57 tities, and be attended with the worst of conse~ quences to the cause of Episcopacy. If S—th — must be promoted to the Episcopate at all ha- zards, let him at least wait until there be a ca- nonical number of Bishops in America for that purpose. ‘That thus, whatever objections may be made to the man, there may be none to the manner of his promotion. « You will oblige me much by communicating, from time to time, what accounts you receive of _these matters, as I shall always be anxious to hear of our worthy friend in Connecticut, and how things fare with him and the cause which he has undertaken to support. And although I shall have little to say in return worthy of your notice; I shall not fail to acknowledge the continuance of your correspondence as a very singular favour. “< We have been lately flattered with the pros- pect of some friendly notice from the church of England, and are told that, at a convenient sea- son, it is intended to do us some service with the people in power. An anonymous letter to this purpose, signed ‘ A Dignified Clergyman of the ‘ Church of England,’ was last summer transmit- ted to our Primus, Bishop Kilgour, at Peterhead. I wrote to Dr B*******, at Canterbury, wishing to know if he could inform us who the author might be; or what ground there appeared to him for the assurances which the letter contains, but as yet 1 have received no satisfactory reply. Thus kept in the dark, it is no wonder if sometimes we 58 ANNALS OF mistake friends for enemies, and behave to them, as such, not knowing whom to trust, or where to look for that relief which the distressed condition of our church has so long called for invain. God pity and protect us, and.support his church in all ” places where the hand of the oppressor lies hea- vy on it! ra aehnt eke “* Wishing to hear from you as often as conve- nient, I am, with great regard,” &c, . It stands confessed, that the sentiments of the very best and wisest of men are liable to be sway- ed by situation and circumstances. Had the Bri- tish Government not dreaded the political expe= diency of giving a valid Episcopacy to the Wess tern World, at the time when Dr Seabury sos licited that gift from his mother church of Eng- land, he had never been constrained to apply elsewhere for consecration. But political expe- diency was the last thing which men. situated.as at that period the Scottish Bishops were situated, would think of consulting. On the contrary, they must and did feel what the Bishop-elect of the State of Connecticut felt, and what Bishop Skinner, not aware that he was doing any thing improper, expressed in. his consecration sermon, > viz. that ‘“ as long as there are nations to be in- structed in the principles of the gospel, or a. church to be formed in any part of the inhabited world, the successors of the Apostles are obliged, by the commission which they hold, to contrie SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 59 bute, as far as they can, or may be required of them, to the propagation of those principles, and ~ to the formation of every church, upon the most pure and primitive model. No fear of worldly cen- sure ought to keep them back from so good a 5 work ; no connection with any state, nor depen- dence on any government whatever, should tie up their hands from communicating the blessings of that ‘ kingdom which is not of this world,’ and diffusing the means of salvation by a valid and regular ministry, wherever they may be wanted.” Similarly situated and circumstanced, the No- va Scotia candidate for the Episcopate, the learn- ed Dr Chandler, so far from disapproving of this, or any other sentiment or expression in Bishop Skinner’s discourse, tells him, (as the reader will haye remarked, ) ‘‘ in this sermon you have ably, clearly, and unanswerably explained the origin and nature of ecclesiastical authority ; and, < he that hath ears to hear, let him hear!” Differ- ently situated, however, from both or either of these parties, the writer of the anonymous letter to Bishop Kilgour, supposed to be the great and ‘good Bishop Lowth, who died two years after, expresses himself in terms as little expected on © Bishop Kilgour’s part, as was the offence on his colleague Bishop Skinner’s part an intentional offence. The letter is verbatim as follows: 60 ANNALS OF ** Right Rev. Sir, “‘ The Consecration of Doctor Seabury, by the Scotch Bishops, was an event which gave much pleasure to many of the most dignified and respectable amongst the English Clergy, and to none more than to him who now has the honour. to address you. A man who believes Episcopacy, as I do, to be a divine institution, could not but rejoice to see it derived through so 08 a chan- nel to the Western World. ‘* Full of the greatness of this aniline? ‘Tim- mediately sent for the sermon preached at the consecration, on observing it advertised. And I am sorry to say, that I perused it with a mixture of satisfaction and deep concern. Much of it met my entire assent. It exhibits principles which Ihave always entertained, and which every friend to Episcopacy must approve. There are some passages in it, however, which I sincerely wish it had not contained, and which 1 cannot help thinking it was injudicious to publish, as I am afraid they are calculated to hurt your Church, and dangerous to the interests of Berner itn in North Britain. ** Nor is this my own opinion: merely; but of several of my brethren, well affected to the Epis- copal Church of Scotland who have read the dis- course. Many think they perceive in it the English Bishops treated with contempt, for not London, J une 9. 1785. ee SCOTTISH “EPISCOPACY. OL: éonsecrating Dr Seabury at every risk; and the manner in which the Acts of the British Parlia- ment: are mentioned in a note, gives general of- fence. For passages of this nature there is the less indulgence, because it is conceived, that, on such an occasion they were perfectly unnecessary, and cannot, in any view, possibly do good *. -* Assuredly had this been the case,-—had the contents of the note been “ perfectly unnecessary,” the writer of this ad mirable letter, whoever he was, had good right to be offended ; but was it “ unnecessary” for men, in the situation and circum- stances of the Scottish Bishops at that period, to shew, by the authority of Divines of the Church of England, that, in the good work which they had on hand, they were fulfilling, in some measure, the purpose of their ministry? The offensive note is shortly this :—<“ The late Dr Sherlock, Dean of St. Pauls, in his Summary of the Controversies, p. 119, says ex- pressly: ‘If Bishops will not exercise that power which ¢ Christ has given them, they are accountable to the Lord for ‘it. But they cannot give it away, neither from themselves * nor from their successors; for it is theirs only to use, not to ¢ part with it.’ Another divine of the Church of England, Mr Reeves, in his sermon on Heb. xiii. 17. speaking of the independency of the Church, says: ‘ It has been largely and < warmly argued on both sides, but the merits of the cause seem to lie in little room. The question to be resolved in short is, Whether Christ has committed the government of the Church to the Apostles and their successors, or to the laity and civil magistrate? Now this can be decided only by Scripture, from Christ’s commission, and from the practice~ of the Apostles and their successors consequent thereupon, and therefore all arguments for the Regale, (that is, for the King being head of the Church,) taken from year-books, reports, and even Acts of Parliament, are of no weight in the question before us. For be they never so full and positive a“ vn fe & oOo @& A 82 A 62 ANNALS OF « Who the author of this performance is, E have not been informed ; but I address myself to you, Sir, having been told that you are one of the Scottish Bishops. My purposeis not to eriti-« cise the sermon ; if such were my views, I might justly be reckoned an impertinent meddler. I. am actuated, I hope, by better motives, and such as you will approve. | Ta ** The Church of England, Sir, I am well au- thorised to say, hath, of late years, looked on her sister in Scotland with a pitying eye. Many of our Clergy have regarded her as hardly dealt with, and wished for a repeal of those laws un- der which she now suffers. I have good reason - to believe that there is an intention formed of endeavouring to do her some service at a con- venient season; and I sincerely hope, no cir- cumstance will intervene to frustrate that inten- tion. It pains me to say, howéver, that this Sermon is not likely to promote it. I cannot suppose that the Prelate who preached it, meant by its publication either to ‘alienate the English Clergy from the society to which he belongs, or ‘ against the inherent power of the Clergy, yet certain it is, * and may be spoken I hope without offence, that there is no ‘ omnipotency in Parliaments, and that the gospel is not “.repealable by the civil powers.’ Bishop Skinner merely adds: «Many thanks to Mr Reeves for this strong and * sensible vindication of the Clergy of the Episcopal Church in, ‘ Scotland, who have ventured for a long time to shew more ‘ regard to the Acts of the Apostles than to the Acts of the | * British Parliament.’ SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 63 to insult the British Government; for I will not suppose that a Bishop would write purposely to prevent the good of that Church which, above all others, it is his duty to cherish. But surely there are passages in this sermon not well fitted to induce either the Clergy of England to apply for a mitigation of those rigours of which the preacher complains, or the State to grant that mitigation were the application made. It is in this view, Sir, that many of us regret the publi- cation of the sermon, and think it imprudent. We wish our sister church to prosper, and would be happy could we contribute to her prosperity. ~ But with what face could we apply for relief to her, while her governors openly avow such sentiments? We flatter ourselves that they are not the sentiments of many of the Bishops and Clergy of Scotland; and we would hope, nay even beg and entreat, (had we any right to do so, ) that they would not themselves put it out of our power to make use of those exertions which we are much disposed to employ in their favour, and which we doubt not might prove successful. «© After what I have said, Sir, I hope I have no occasion to apologize for this letter. I can affirm with truth, that it is dictated by the warm- est attachment to the interests of Protestant Epis- copacy, dnd has no other end m view but the good of that Church over which you preside. Who the writer of it is you may possibly hereafter learn; at present he can only assure you that he is, 64 ANNALS OF ' with every sentiment of respect for your sacred character, A DIGNIFIED CLERGYMAN OF THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND. *“« P. S.—May I claim your indulgence for franking this letter only to Edinburgh.. It is owing to my not being able-to learn the name of the place where you reside.” That this “ Dignified Clergyman” was a Bishop of the Church of England, the postscript leaves little room to doubt, from his possessing the Par- liamentary privilege of “ franking ;” and the eon- jecture of his being the Bishop of London for the time being, seems not ill-founded, from the non-fulfilment of the implied pledge ‘ hereafter’ to discover himself, Bishop Lowth having died the 3d November 1787. , Had he given the author of the sermon an opportunity of explaining himself, or pointed out any channel of communicating with one who, though evidently a warm friend, was desirous of present concealment, the writer of the above excellent letter would have received Bishop Skinner’s thanks, not only for his proffered services, but also for pointing out to him wherein ‘he had so unwittingly deviated from the strict line of duty. To any one not cireumstanced as ‘the “* Dignified Clergyman’. shews himself to have - been, it will appear evident that the Bishop only / meant to indulge ina little harmless pleasantry, SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 65 when, in the ‘ note which gave such general of- ‘ fence,’ he contrasts * the Acts of the Apostles’ with ‘ the Acts of the British Parliament,’ and says, (what was very evident to every body, ) ‘that the Clergy of the Episcopal Church in ‘ Scotland had ventured, for a long time, to shew ‘more regard to the one than to the other.’ It is to be hoped, that the Bishop, by his reply to the following application, will be acknowledg- - ed to have made the amende honorable for the ' offence of which, in such friendly terms, he had been pronounced guilty by a Dignified inconu. LETTER VI. ' BISHOP SEABURY TO BISHOP SKINNER. Wallingford, Connecticut, March 2, 1787. “TJ write a short and hasty letter from this place, where I have been attending a meeting of my Clergy. They are much alarmed at the steps taken by the Clergy and Laity to the south of us, and are very apprehensive that, should it please God to take me out of the world, the same spirit of innovation in the Government and Liturgy of the Church would be apt to rise in this State, which has done so much mischief in our neighbourhood. The people, you know, es- pecially in this country, are fond of exercising _ power, when they have an opportunity ; ate x . eter ; 66 ANNALS OF. * should this See become vacant, the Clergy may — find themselves under the fatal necessity of fal- ling under the Southern establishment, which they consider as a departure from Apostolical institution. ‘«‘ To prevent all danger of this, they are anxi- ous to have a Bishop-coadjutor to me, and will send a gentleman to Scotland for consecration as soon as they know that the measure meets with the full approbation of my good and highly re- spected brethren in Scotland. It has not only my approbation, but my most anxious wishes are, that it may be soon carried into execution. You will, I know, consult the Right Rev. Bishops Kilgour and Petrie, and will give me the necessary information as soon as possible. In the mean- time, we shall be making the proper arrange- ments here, that the person fixed on may avail himself of the first opportunity of — af- ter receipt of your letter. : “ T can, at this time, say no more, than to re- quest you to remember me most respectfully and affectionately to our good Primus and Bishop Petrie, to Mrs Skinner and family, and to all who — think so much of me as sometimes to enquire about me.” iy SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. = LETTER VI. BISHOP SKINNER TO BISHOP SEABURY.. Aberdeen, June 20, 17. 87. aif CE as I ever am, to hear of your wel- fare, I was much refreshed some weeks ago, even by a short letter from you, dated the 2d March, at Wallingford, where it would seem you had been attending a meeting of your Clergy. I lost no time in communicating to our worthy Primus this agreeable intelligence ; but it came too late for good Bishop Petrie, who, to the great regret of this poor and desolate church, was taken Ren us by death on the 9th of April last, after a long and painful struggle with a complication of bodi- ly infirmities. “‘ Happily for us, and through the good Provi- dence of God, he was enabled to assist at the con- secration of a Coadjutor, about six weeks before his death. Your good friend, Mr Macfarlane at Inverness, was the person made choice of for this office, who accordingly was promoted to the Epis- copate, in the Primus’ chapel at Peterhead, on the 7th day of March last. He has now succeed- ed to the districts that were under the charge of Bishop Petrie ; and, I make no doubt, will prove Bi 68 ANNALS OF > . a zealous and faithful member of our small Epis- copal College. * « Last year Bishop Kilgour, deeming fake too weak for the burden of this diocese, resigned the whole charge of it into my hands, but still continues to act as Primus, and T hope will yet be spared for some time with us. I sent your letter to him, and a copy of it to Bishop Macfar- lane, and having received answers from both, shall now lay before you our joint sentiments on the subject of your proposal. ‘‘ It has given us great concern to hear of ‘the cdelcsiasaee proceedings in some of your South- ern States. We fondly hoped that Episcopal Cler- gymen would have gladly embraced the opportu- nity of settling their Church on a pure and primi- tive footing, and of regulating their whole ecclesi+ astical polity, as well as their doctrine andworship, according to Apostolical institution. In this hope, however, we have been sadly disappointed, by the accounts we have received of the nature and design of their several conventions;-and some ex-) tracts, which were published from their new Li- turgy, increased our dread of a total apustacy, * In the course of the year 1787, other two members were added to the Scottish Episcopate. Bishops Abernethy Drum- mond and Strachan were consecrated at Peterhead, on the 26th September, by Bishops Kilgour, Skinner, and. Macfar- lane ; Bishop Abernethy Drummond being, in due time, ap- pointed to the See of Edinburgh, and Bishop Strachan to that of Brechin, in which his pastoral Cure (Dundee) was situated. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 66 giving us ground to apprehend a total departure, not only fan ancient discipline, but even from ‘ the faith once delivered to the saints.’ _ “ Hearing of their intended application to the English hierarchy, we were full of anxiety for the event of it. The character of the present Arch- bishop of Canterbury gave us reason to think, that he would not ‘ lay his hands suddenly,’ on any one;—and farther information confirmed our good opinion of his Grace’s orthodoxy, which, we are informed, would bend to no solicitation in favour of Socinian principles, or the tenets of those who ‘ deny the Lord that bought them.’ Nay, we have farther learned, and we are led to think from good authority, that Drs White and Prevost, the two new American Prelates, * before they left Lambeth, became bound, in the most solemn manner, not to lay hands on Dr S—th, or on any other man who calls in question the doctrine of the Trinity, or of our Saviour’s atone- ment. And we are even made to understand, that * See Note to Eccles. Hist. of Scotland by the Rev. J. ‘Skinner, Vol. IT. p. 687, where it is stated, that, on being in- formed that the alleged obstacles in Bishop Seabury’s case had been purposely and legally removed, a body of Episcopal Clergy in the Southern States of America made application to the English Bishops for consecration to their Bishops elect, in consequence of which, on the 4th February 1787, Drs. White and Prevost, the former elected for Philadelphia, the latter for New York, were both consecrated at Lambeth by the Archbishop of Canterbury, assisted bythe Archbishop of York, the Bishop of Bath and Wells, and the Bishop of Peterborough. 70 ANNALS OF it was recommended to the two Prelates to hold ' communion with the Bishop of Connecticut, to” which recommendation a considerable degree of credit seems to attach, from the circumstance of no more than two being invested with the a copal office. ba Jenbs ‘* It is moreover said, that a second’ ellitiod of their Book of Common Prayer has appeared, and on a plan much more unexceptionable than the first, there being no alteration to the worse, and some even to the better. It is presumable, that the English Consecraters have both seen and are satistied with the Liturgy which the new Bishops are to use; and, provided the analogy of faith and the purity of worship be preserved, it were a pity, we should think, to interrupt Episcopal union, and communion in any part of the Ca- tholic Church. We do not read that the litur- gical variations, which are known to have prevail- ed in the primitive times, occasioned any breach of communion among Bishops, while no essential corruptions were introduced, or impure addi- tions imposed as terms of communion: Where- fore, all these things duly considered, we are humbly of opinion, that the objects which our good brother of Connecticut and his Clergy have in view may be now obtained, without putting any of them to the trouble and expence of com- ing to Scotland. “* We can hardly imagine that the Bishops of Philadelphia and New York will refuse their bro- SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 74 therly assistance in the measure which you pro- pose to us,"or yet take upon them to impose their own Liturgy as the sole condition of compliance, Should this be the case, and these new Bishops either refuse to hold communion with you, or grant it only on terms with which you cannot in conscierice comply, there would then:be no room for us to hesitate. But fain would we hope bet- ter things of these your American brethren, and that there will be no occasion for two separate communions among the Episcopalians of the U- nited States. P « We are well persuaded that neither you nor your Clergy would wish to give any unnecessary cause of disgust on either side the Atlantic ; and _ prudence, you must be aware, bids us turn our eyes to our own situation, which, though it af- fords no excuse for shrinking from duty, will, -at the same time, justify our not stepping beyond our line, any farther than duty requires. “« Before this reaches your hand, the English. Consecrate will not only have arrived in Ame- rica, but will also have probably taken suck mea- sures as will enable you to judge of the propriety. of an application to them for the end you have in view. We shall therefore expect to hear from you at full length on this interesting subject, and doubt not but you will believe us ever ready to contribute, as far as is necessary or incumbent on us, to the support of primitive truth and order in the Church of Christ.' ’ 72 ANNALS QF eo «© T wrote you in June last year, to the care of a friend at New York, who informs me that he forwarded my letter to you, together with a small publication of mine which accompanied it.. I shall send this by the packet, and will be glad to hear from you how soon it comes to hand ; if you have leisure for along letter, it will be doubly welcome. All whom you met here remember you most kindly, particularly your friends. in this family, to whom you will be ever dear; accept of their and my warmest wishes for your health and happiness, and believe me ever,” &c. &c. ba In the’ reply made by Bishop Seabury to this truly Catholic epistle,he fears that what his friends in Scotland recommend to him, ‘* cannot immedi- ately take place, unless we adopt their (the Ame- rican Convention’s) book of Common Prayer and. lay delegates. The people here dislike their book, and the Clergy will have nothing to do with lay- ~ men in Church government. This made mean- — xious to have another Bishop in this state, that we might stand on even terms with them. « The public papers have announeed that the Episcopal Clergy in Scotland now (Nov. 7, 1788) pray for the King by name. I hope itis true, and flatter myself it will free them, ere long, from many embarrassments. I shall still pursue mea- sures for uniting with the Southern churches, and shall acquiesce in any terms, consistent with sound 1788. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 73 ecclesiastical principles. But I cannot give up what I deem essential to Episcopal Government, by admitting laymen into any share of it, farther than the external or temporal state of things may require. ‘Tosubject a Bishop to the censure of a consistory of presbyters and laymen, even with a Bishop at their head, I cannot consent. From that thraldom the Church in Connecticut must, if it please God, be preserved.” And, as far as is known tothe Annalist of Scot- tish Episcopacy, that Church, the first to boast of Episcopal regimen among the Churches of the West, has been so preserved,—esto perpetua. The -union which his Episcopal brethren in Scotland -were also so eager to see effected by Bishop Sea- bury,’'took place. This excellent Prelate joined ‘with the Bishops of New York and Philadelphia in the consecration of Bishops for the states of Vir- ginia and Maryland, and died in full communion with the whole Western Church in the year 1796, to the unfeigned grief of all who knew him, or who felt interested in the cause of sound and so- ber Christianity, 1788.] ‘The event of the Protestant Bishops , -and Clergy in Scotland putting up public pray- ers for the King and Royal Family of Great Bri- _ tain by name, having slipped into the reader’s _ notice in the course of developing another sub- ject, it is high time for the Annalist to announce hs ANNALS OF 5 > 1788. the matter in its proper form, and to enter on the discussion of the consequences. which im- mediately followed ;—*“ Consequences,” writes” the Ecclesiastical Historian of Scotland, whose heart was full of them, “ which will be found :of considerable importance im the history of the Scottish Episcopal Church.” Hence,’ being the last event which the Rev. Mr Skinner of Long- side records, there seems to be a propriety in the writer, whose work aims at no higher rank than that of a text-book to the future historian, laying the matter before his readers, in his learned re- lative’s own words. . jie ad Gene < On the 24th of April 1788, the Protestant Bishops in Scotland having met at Aberdeen to take into their consideration the state of the Church under their inspection, did, upon mature deliberation with their Clergy, unanimously agree to comply with, and submit to the present Go- vernment of this kingdom, as invested in the per- son of his Majesty George the Third. They also resolved to testify this compliance by uniformly praying for him by name, in their public wor- ship, in hopes of removing all suspicion of disaf- fection, and of obtaining relief from those penal Jaws under which this church has so long suffer- ed. This resolution was duly intimated to the Clergy and laity of their communion, as proceed- ing from principles purely. Ecclesiastical, and to which the Bishops are‘moved by the most just \ 1788. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 15 and satisfactory reasons, in discharge of that high trust devolved upon them in their Epis- copal character, and to promote, as far as they can, the peace and prosperity of that por- tion of the Christian Church committed to their charge*.” But “ why,” the reader will naturally ask, ‘s was this particular year and period of time fix- ed on for such compliance and submission?” Mr. Skinner, in his History, assigns no other reason but the fiat of his Ecclesiastical superiors, and the accordance of the Clergy. About the mid- dle of February 1788, accounts reached Scotland, that on the 31st day of January of that year the Count of Albany, the eldest grandson of King James VII. of Scotland and II. of England and Ireland, and undoubted heir-male of the roy- alhouse of Stuart, departed this life in the city of Rome. This event had been long looked for- ward to asa matter of very great importance to the Scottish Episcopal Church, whose sufferings for the now generally received principle of legitimate government had been so great. In fact, the event was regarded as the means of placing that Church in a more critical situation than any in which she had stood, since the era of the Revolution in 1688. Immediately, therefore, did the Bishops, as the guardians of the faith and practice of their ° several districts, communicate to each other their * Skinner's Eccles. Hist. of Scotland, Vol. II. p: 688. 76 ANNALS. OF — _ 19788. . respective opinions with regard to the steps that were proper to be taken by the Church at large: Bishop Abernethy Drummond was the first who laid the matter formally before his Clergy of the diocese of Edinburgh ; and, in a letter addres- sed to them on the 8th of March 1788, gave them a very full account of his own sentiments, accompanied. with a request, that they would lose no time in meeting together for the purpose of deliberating on that important business which he had submitted to their consideration: The Edinburgh Clergy met accordingly, on the 13th of March, and addressed a letter to their Bishop, in which, after expressing very free- ly their sentiments on the subject of civil govern- ment, and their readiness now to offer their alle- giance to the house of Brunswick, they earnestly hope that their Ecclesiastical superiors will lend a favourable ear to the reasonings of their Clergy, and take the important case, on which they had been deliberating, into their most serious consi- deration. On the 9th of April 1788, the usual synodical meeting of the Clergy of Aberdeen- shire was holden at Longside; when, after cal- ling their attention to Ht present depressed state _ of pid Church in this kingdom, their Bishop in- formed them, that, in his view of matters, it was now not only expedient, but necessary for them, to consider whether, and to what effect, compli- — ance with the existing Government might afford the means of wished-for relief. 1788; SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY, 77 ‘“* After arguing at length on the subject *, the Clergy were unanimously of opinion, that as mat- ters now stood, they were at full liberty to pray, by name, for the reigning Prince and the Royal Family ; but considering how necessary it would be to sanction a measure of this description, by the highest Ecclesiastical authority, they humb- ly submitted to the Episcopal College, whether it would not be proper that it should issue a mandate to the Clergy, explanatory of the rea- sons on which it was founded, that they might read the same to their respective flocks, prior to the introduction of such a change into the pub- lic prayers of the Church.” Meetings to the same effect were held in all the other dioceses of Scotland, and similar re- solutions adopted. Mr Brown of Montrose, in the diocese of Brechin, being the only presbyter who opposed the sentiments of his brethren of the second order, and Bishop Rose of Dunblane being the only member of the Episcopate who did not enter cordially into the measure; the worthy man being at that period, from mental imbecility, incapable of attending to business of any sort. Matters being in this train, the Bish- ops were desirous that an affair of such impor- tance should be forthwith discussed in am Epis- copal Synod, and this Synod having been, by special appointment of the Primus, holden at * The Annalist writes from a document m Bishop Skin- net's hand-writing. _— 78 ANNALS OF 1788. Aberdeen, on the 24th of April, (the Deans’ of the several districts also attending, as represent- ing their diocesan brethren,) it was unanimously resolved to give an open and public proof of their submission to the present Government, by pray- ing in the express words of the English Liturgy, — for his Majesty King George, and the royal family ; and the Bishops appointed the same to take place, in all the Chapels under their spirit~ ual jurisdiction, on Sunday the 25th of May of the current year; thus affording time to all and sundry to state their objections, if they had any, to their respective Bishops and Pastors, who were instructed to do every thing in their power for their removal. This appointment the Synod also duly notified in the Edinburgh and Aber- deen newspapers of the day, and caused printed. intimations, signed by the Bishops, to be cireu- lated throughout the Church, in order that neither Clergyman nor layman might plead ig- norance of the appointment. The consequence of which preliminary steps was, that, (the Rev. James Brown of Montrose excepted,) every Cler- gyman doing duty on the 25th of May 1788, did freely, and ex animo, pray by name for his most gracious Majesty King George, the Queen, the Prince of Wales, and Royal family. ‘Thus, “‘was an end put to those unhappy divisions, which so long distracted the kingdom of Scot- land; thousands of her sons who had hitherto been suspected of disaffection to the present 1788. . SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 79 Government, becoming not only loyal and obe- dient subjects” as the Historian of the day pre- dicted, but “ staunch men and true,” as their conduct for 30 perilous years has proved. .. The important business of the Synod was no sooner harmoniously concluded, than the Bishops conceiving it their duty to inform Government of their proceedings, drew up a letter, which they severally signed and addressed to Lord Sydney, at that time one of his Majesty’s prin- cipal Secretaries of State, acquainting his Lord- ship with what they had done, and requesting that he would have the goodness to lay their sub- mission at the foot of the Throne. LETTER VIII. THE PROTESTANT BISHOPS IN SCOTLAND TO LORD SYDNEY. Aberdeen, April 26, 1788. “« Perhaps it is not unknown to your Lordship, that a remnant of the old Episcopal Church of Scotland still subsists, under the inspection of Bishops deriving their authority by a regular succession from the Prelates ejected at the Re- volution, ' ** Those Bishops are the persons who now have the honour of addressing your Lordship. Certain statutes enacted at different periods did 80 ANNALS OF “>>” 1788. indeed greatly weaken that Church, and, per- haps in time might have destroyed her, had not the gracious lenity of his Majesty afforded her a degree of peace and security, of which we and ‘die. other Clergy, with the laity of our persua- sion, will ever entertain a most grateful sense.’ Anxious to remove every doubt of our attach- ment to his Majesty’s Government, we have re- solved to pray in time of divine service for the King’s most excellent ‘Majesty, his heirs and successors by name, and for all the Royal Family, as the law directs. We have also recommended to the other Clergy of our persuasion to follow our example, and we are happy to find at they are heartily disposed so to do. “* If this step shall be acceptable to his Majes- ty, we trust that it will be considered as an une- quivocal proof of our loyalty, and of our steady resolution to support his Majesty’s Government ° at all times, and by every means in our power. — We hope your Lordship will not consider it as too presumptuous, when we request you to lay this testimony of our attachment and submission at the foot of the Throne.—And we have’ the honour to be, my Lord, your Lordship’s,” &c. &c. As a piece of respect due to their eminent sta- ’ tions in the Church of England, from which, as may be seen in the Appendix,* the’ present Epis- * Appendix, No. J . Da SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 81 ‘ opal succession in Scotland is derived, and na- turally expecting to receive some aid from these venerable Prelates, in endeavouring to obtain a repeal of the penal laws, the Scottish Bishops, at the same time addressed, by letter, the Arch- bishops of the provinces of Canterbury and York, - in which they express their humble confidence, that, upon ‘ their Graces recommending to the Bishops of their respective provinces the mea- sure of repeal of those penal statutes under which the Episcopal Church in Scotland has so long groaned, they cannot doubt but that, by such powerful assistance, they shall obtain the desira- ble end they have in yiew,” The business on which the Synod met, and which the members of it had now concluded in so harmonious and becoming a manner, was not _ the effect of any rash or hasty resolution. It had been long and deliberately weighed with all its _ probable consequences. And every circumstance relating to it having been seriously pondered and | considered, the Scottish Bishops and their Cler- gy now felt a peculiar satisfaction in reflecting, that what they had done proceeded from no self. ish or interested motives, but from a pure regard to that important trust devolved upon them in their sacred character; from a strong sense of duty, a sincere desire to be more extensively use- -ful in their several stations, and a pious wish to unite the real good of théir country with the in- terests of that “ kingdom which is not of this F a ANNALS OF 1788. world.” These were the motives which induced the Bishops and Clergy in Scotland to pursue the path marked out, as they thought, by the wisdom of Providence, for the peace and preservation of their Church. They had good ground, certainly, to expect the concurrence and support of all who adhered to their humble ministry ; and in this expectation they were not disappointed to any great extent. Some, they were aware, would be disposed to look upon the step which they had taken as nothing short of an abandonment of their former principles, there being no society without individuals of such factiousand pragmatic humours, as are not easily satisfied with any mea- sures which do not originate with themselves ; nor was it long before a party of this descrip- tion was formed in the city of Edinburgh, and letters, signed by some of its leading members, were addressed to all the Bishops, complaining of undue haste on the Bishops part, and threat- ening that, unless time was given to satisfy their tender consciences, many of them, “ finding themselves placed in an obnoxious situation, would prefer joining the English Chapels.” ‘These few malcontents were much encouraged. in their schismatical proceedings, by the Rev. James Brown of Montrose, formerly mentioned as the only non-conformist. of the second order of the Scottish priesthood, who not only took upon himself the pastoral charge of them, but also made a most daring attempt to perpetuate 1788. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 38 the schism, by invading the right of the Episco- pate itself,—having the hardihood to repair to the village of Downe in Perthshire, where Bi- shop Rose resided, in the extreme of dotage, and causing him to perform the office of conse- cration:! When questioned soon after, whether the case were so, the venerable Prelate, in all the simpli- city of childhood, made answer,—‘* My sister may have done it, but not I.” Being a bache- lor, an aged sister was Bishop Rose’s housekeeper and guardian. A few years, however, were suf- ficent to remove, by death, the whole indivi- duals concerned in this petty cabal;—so that, among the Episcopalians of Scotland, a seed of political disaffection exists no longer. On the 1st of July, Bishop Abernethy Drum- mond had the honour of receiving a reply to the communication made by the Bishops to Lord Sydney. LETTER IX. LORD SYDNEY TO BISHOP ABERNETHY DRUMMOND, « Whitehall, June 28, 1788. ‘© I have had the honour of receiving your let- ter of the 26th of last month, as well as that which you transmitted to me, notifying the reso- lution of your body to pray, by name, for the King and Royal family. F2 84 _ ANNALS OF 5) » 988. - '« J did not fail to lay those letters before the King, and I have received his Royal commands to acquaint you, that his Majesty received, with great satisfaction, this proof of your attachment to his.person and family. Oh 8 «« T am happy to find the resolution has been carried into execution, and that it has fallen to my lot to communicate to you his Majesty’s plea- sure upon. a subject which must, im every point - of view, tend to unite the affections of his faith- ful and loyal subjects of every profession.”” Encouraged by the gracious manner in which his Majesty was thus pleased to receive the al- legiance of Scottish Episcopalians, the Bishops were now occupied in devising the most proper mode of laying their case before Parliament, and of humbly soliciting from the British Legislature, relief from those severe restraints and penalties which, during the period of disputed succession to the Crown, that Legislature had in its wisdom - seen fit to impose. Living im the immediate vicinity of the late Lord Viscount Melville, then treasurer of the British navy, Bishop Abernethy Drummond had frequent conversations with that distinguished statesman on the subject, as well as with his Lordship’s highly respected kinsman the Lord Advocate for Scotland, now Lord Chief Baron of the Court of Exchequer, both of whom joined in commendation of the step which the Scottish Episcopal Clergy had taken, and gener- \ 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 85° ously promised to befriend their cause. But, before any direct application could be made to the other members of administration, the King’s alarming indisposition put a stop to every kind of Parliamentary business, except that:of providing for the necessities of the State by the appoint-° ment of a Regency. During this gloomy period of ee anxiety, the Episcopalians of Scotland did not fail to tes- tify their loyalty by the most fervent public - prayers for the King’s happy recovery; and — when that longed-for event took place, they were not unmindful of the duty of solemn and general — thanksgiving. The Bishops having also on this joyful occasion drawn up an humble address to their beloved Sovereign, and having signed the same, in their own names, and in the names of the Clergy of their respective districts, it was forwarded (1789) by Mr Henry Dundas, then a Commoner, to Lord Sydney; and being the first of “ kind, it is here inserted. 9809 ‘To the King’s Most Excellent Majesty; the humble Appress of the Proresranr. Bisnors in Scotland, and of the Clergy of their Communion. , —~“ Most Gracious Sovereign, ‘* We your Majesty’s most dutiful and loyal subjects, the Protestant Bishops in Scotland and Clergy of their communion, most humbly request 86 ANNALS or | 1789. your Royal permission to mingle our hearty con- _ gratulations with those that are daily flowing from all parts of your Majesty's dominions on the present joyful occasion. | | « Deeply sensible of the mildness, equity, and wisdom of your Majesty’s Government, while we _ joined with our fellow subjects in sincerely la- menting the calamitous situation of the British empire, suffering in the distress of your Royal per- son, we did not fail most earnestly to implore that much desired relief, which could come only from the father of mercies and God-of all com- fort. We are now happy to find that the pray- ers of a united people have met with a gracious acceptance, and have obtained from Heaven that complete restoration of your Majesty’s health, for which, with most grateful hearts, we humbly adore the goodness of the Almighty. f “ We cannot omit this opportunity of acknow- ledging, with all becoming thankfulness, those endearing proofs of your Majesty's distinguished — clemency and condescension, which have en- couraged this humble address. And when we consider how much it is the anxious wish and desire of your Majesty’s heart to contribute to the ease and happiness of your people, we rely with confidence on your paternal goodness for a participation in the protection and religious liber- ty which are enjoyed by the rest of your Ma- jesty’s loyal subjects. By this means we shall be enabled to manifest'in an-exemplary manner 1789. _ SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 87 ~ that attachment to your Royal person and family, which we can truly say is founded on a sense of ' duty, and confirmed by the warmest gratitude. ‘«‘ These sentiments of loyalty and affection to the best of Princes, we shall make it our constant study to inculcate on the minds of those who ad- here to our ministry; and your Majesty may be assured of their good dispositions to promote the public peace and prosperity, by yielding an uni- ‘form and cheerful obedience to your Majesty's sacred authority. «« That the great God, by whom Kings reign, may take your Majesty under the peculiar care of his watchful Providence, may guard you from every danger and preserve you long in health and. Bieianass as a blessing to the British nation, and a comfort to your own. illustrious house, is, and ever shall be, the ardent prayer of us, *¢ Your Majesty’s most faithful and obedient subjects, the Protestant Bishops in Scotland, and the Clergy of their Communion.” ** Signed for ourselves,’and in behalf of the Clergy of our respective dioceses, by’ &e. &e, Bishop Skinner having been elected Primus in December 1788, in consequence of Bishop - Kilgour’s resignation of that office, accompanied the above address with a letter to Mr Dundas, thanking him, in the most cordial manner, for the attention he had already paid to the case of — $8 | ANNALS OF 1789, the Scottish Episcopalians, and earnestly request-— ing a continuation of his friendly offices. “‘ We cannot,” (the Bishop writes, ) ‘* but flat- ter ourselves, that this is a most promising sea- son for obtaining the object of our humble wishes, which is, only to be put on an equal footing of protection and religious liberty with the other Dissenters from the Scottish establishment, par- ticularly with those who have their orders from the Church of England. We presume that this concession on the part of Government cannot give the least offence to the candid and liberal minded of any profession; and it shall always be our study to cultivate the good opinion 5) -our fellow subjects of every persuasion.” pine x The address having been presented in- ithe usual manner, Lord Sydney did the Bishops the honour to notify to them that his Majesty was pleased to receive it most graciously. A draught of a Bill of relief having been now prepared by Bishop Skinner, at Mr Dundas’s special desire, it was forwarded to him at his seat near Edinburgh. But this most active servant of the Crown, having been unexpectedly summoned to London before he could give his opinion fully on the nature and language of the proposed Bill, it was the opinion _ of many, the warmest and. best friends to its enactment, that nothing effectual would be done by either branch of the Legislature, without the personal appearance of one or more agents on the spot, if not to conduct the business in its dif- 1789. . sCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 89 ferent stages of progression, yet to act as promp- ters to those who weré qualified for the under- taking ; and, by being constantly at hand, to solve any difficulties that might be started, and, at the same time, prevent the measure from being. lost sight of. ; Among those who honoured the Scottish Bi- shops with this salutary advice was a worthy, and, at that period, most intelligent member of the House of Commons, George Dempster, Esq, of Dunnichen, in the county of Forfar, who, from the sincerity of regard, which he continued to manifest throughout the business, informed the Primus, that unless a member of administration: would positively pledge himself to introduce in- to Parliament the Bill for repealing the penal statutes by which the whole Episcopalians were So aggrieved, and~to carry it through all its stages, it would be absolutely necessary for some of the Bishops to repair to London, there to ap- pear as loyal subjects, claiming a just and reason- able relief, not only for themselves, but for the society to which they belonged. The propriety - of adopting this advice was, at the very time, rendered more obvious, if possible, by the disco- very of some unfair (to call it by the gentlest Mame) representations of the religious tenets of ‘Scottish Episcopalians. Those English ordained clergymen, who, being Scotchmen by birth and parentage, had procured orders with no other view but that of opposing Scottish Episcopacy, bd 90 ANNALS OF 1789. became very much alarmed at the favourable re- ception given, by all ranks of men in Scotland, to the cause and claims of the Church of their forefathers! And Dr Bagot, Bishop of Norwich, had been particularly applied to, to thwart, as far as possible, any measures that might be taken by the Scottish Episcopal Clergy for their relief. The applicants went even the length of stating, that the Scottish Bishops, not satisfied with the prospect of obtaining liberty for themselves, wished, nay proposed, to have those clergy sub- jected to their authority, by act of Parliament, who officiated, or might hereafter officiate in this country by virtue of orders from an English or an Irish Bishop. On what ground such am inju- rious report could have been raised, the Annalist _ cannot possibly imagine. But having been not only raised, but actually communicated to the venerable English prelate above-named, Bishop Skinner, after shewing the draught of the intend- ed Bill of relief to the late Dr Beattie of Aber- deen, the intimate friend of Bishop. Porteous of London, requested that the Doctor would unde- ceive his Lordship, as one of the most respecta- ble of his order, on this head, and assure him, « that though the Scottish Bishops and their Clergy heartily wished. for union, founded on principle, among all the Episcopalians in Scot- land, yet had they not the most distant idea of endeavouring to promote it by the interposition of civil authority; nothing being more absurd 1789. SCOTTISH EPICOPACY. 91 of illiberal than the very thought of depriving others of that liberty of conscience which they were so desirous of procuring for themselves.” Dr Beattie, expressing himself perfectly pleas- ed, not only with the principle of the bill, but with the language in which it was framed, un- dertook to mention the matter to the Bishop of London, and to inform him, at the same time, that as some of the Scottish Bishops were on the eve of setting out for London, they would, on their arrival at the seat of Government, have the honour of waiting on the Archbishops and ie Bishops of England individually, and would give them a full and fair account of the religious prin- ciples, as well as political hardships, of their hum- ble Church. Immediately after Easter 1789, and when the nation at large was exhibiting transports of joy on account of the King’s happy recovery, the Bi- shops, Skinner of- Aberdeen, Abernethy Drum- mond of Edinburgh, and Strachan of Brechin, set out for London, furnished with the most am- ple recommendations from all and sundry, in the different districts of Scotland, who had friends or relatives members of the British Legislature. Those which were afforded by nobleman and gentlemen of the Episcopal persuasion, the rea- der will not doubt, were framed in terms of the - most friendly and favourable description. Nor were the recommendations given by members of the Scottish establishment less honourable to 92 ANNALS OF 1789. themselves, than to the parties more immediately . interested. In proof of this, the Annalist cannot forbear recording the following letter to a noble- man of parliamentary eminence, the Lord Vis- count Stormont, from a distinguished member of the Courts of Session and Justiciaryin Scotland, the late Hon. Alexander Murray, Lord Henderland. LETTER X. 78 TG LORD HENDERLAND TO. LORD VISCOUNT STORMONT. “«« Edinburgh, 21st April 1789, © «* The Gentlemen who will wait upon’ your Lordship with this are Mr Abernethy and MrSkin- ner, Bishops of the Ancient Episcopal Church of Scotland. Theygo to London to obtain a repeal of the disqualifications imposed. by act of Parliament upon persons of that persuasion in certain cir- - cumstances, and will, with your Lordship’s s per-. mission, explain more fully to you the nature of _ their business. They, as well as all of their order that I know of in Scotland, are men of irreproachable cha- racter and exemplary conduct ; and as they desir- ed a letter of introduction to your Lordship, who ~ _receives with so much politeness every person en- gaged in public concerns, I thought you would excuse my presumption in giving it. I have stat- ed what I believe to be a fair testimony in their $ / 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 93) favour. As to the propriety of the measure, I leave others to decide upon it.” In farther submitting to the reader’s notice the interesting progress of the Bill of Relief to «* Pastors, Ministers, and Lay Persons of the Epis- . copal Communion in Scotland,” it would be pre- sumption in the author of these pages, when in possession of a regular journal of the whole pro- cedure in his venerable father’s handwriting, (and. which, in proof of its authenticity, Bishop Skinner has ordered his executor to place among the ar- chives of the Church,) to seek for more satisfac- tory documents, or to attempt the use of more perspicuous language than the Bishop’s own. That some slight abridgment. will be had re- course to, the reader must be fully aware, other-- wise this work would swell out far beyond the li- mits prescribed to it; but as all facts and circum- _ stances which may, in the judgment of the An- nalist of Scottish Episcopacy, seem interesting. to his readers, will fall to be stated in, as nearly as possible, the words of Bishop Skinner’s own . manuscripts, for abridgment only does the com- ‘piler of these Annals hold himself responsible. “We left Edinburgh on the 20th of April, | and arriving in London on the 24th, addressed a card tothe Lord Advocate of Scotland, inform- ing-his Lordship, in compliance with Mr Dundas the treasurer Of the navy’s instructions, of the 94 ANNALS OF 1789. purpose of our journey to London, and express- ing our anxiety to have the honour of waiting up- on him as soon as convenient. Our request was very speedily granted; and, after entering on bu- siness, his Lordship interrogated us, ‘ Whether ‘the Established Church of Scotland was disposed, ‘as far as we had heard, to make any opposition to our relief 2 To this our answer being that, ‘ as far as we had access to know, we had no appre- hensions of hostility from that quarter,’ his Lord- ship said, ‘he believed it to be very true, and hoped there would be none from any quarter.’* The interview at this time concluded with his Lordship’s promising, when we had consulted the — English Bishops, that he would lay a state of our case before the Lord Chancellor. Having learned that a plan was in agitation for authorising, by a clause in our Bill, some English or Irish Bishop to perform Episcopal offices in Scotland, a scheme for the support of schism and division, which we were sensible must have originated in Scotland, and been recommended to the attention of the % So far, in fact, from opposing, it will be seen in the sequel that the leading men of the Established Church in Scotland were most anxious for the success of their Episcopalian breth- ren’s application. In proof of this, Mrs Skinner informs the — Bishop by letter, dated Aberdeen, May 30, 1789, that, in his thanksgiving Sermon for the King’s recovery, Principal Campbell mentioned the application to Government for repeal of the penal statutes, and said that his Majesty's countenance to that measure would add to the mapy good things he had done in the course of his reign. Sa 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 95 English Church by very unfair and ill-founded representations, we resolved to write to the Arch- bishop of Canterbury, and to give his Grace a fair and candid account of these points, which we had most reason to fear had been thus misrepresented, Lest, however, our letter should not have been couched in proper Archiepiscopal form, as my worthy friend the Vicar of Epsom was to intro- duce us to two of the soundest Churchmen of whom England has to boast, the Rev. William Jones of Nayland, and William Stevens, Esq. treasurer to Queen Anne’s Bounty, we were an- xious to have their approbation of the letter, pre- vious to its being forwarded to Lambeth. The letter having been approved by those warm and zealous friends, was transmitted to his Grace ac- cordingly.” LETTER XI. THE SCOTTISH BISHOPS IN LONDON TO HIS GRACE THE ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY. ‘¢ May it please your Grace, London, May 1. 1789. «* We had the honour of addressing your Grace about a year ago from Aberdeen in Scotland, when we formed the resolution of testifying in a Jegal manner our attachment to his Majesty’s person and Government. And we are now come _. ANNALS OF # . Ve. - tutes pani which the Church i in whieh we pres - side has so long suffered. ‘et ‘‘ With this view, it was our intention to sub- _ mit our case to your Grace, to the Archbishop of © York, and the other Right Rev. Prelates of the Church of England; but having brought a letter from a friend in Scotland to the Lord Bishop of Worcester, his Lordship has kindly hinted tous _ the propriety of giving your Grace a full expla- nation of our business, as the best means of com- municating it to the other Bishops. This, we hope will plead our apology with his Grace of York and their Lordships for not immediately addressing ourselves to them. epee Our case, your Grace will readily perceive, is very different from that both of the English Dis- | senters and of the Scottish Roman Catholics, with - which some affect to compare it. ‘‘ They are both restrained on account “of their religious Creed, which continues the same; — -whereas‘the restraints laid upon the Episcopal Church in Scotland were judged necessary only for crushing the political disaffection ascribed to the Clergy and Lay members of that Church, which political disaffection is now ee done _ away. M 3p “« Wherefore may we ‘humbly hope. to enjoy in common with his Majesty’s other loyal sub- jects, the benefits of his mild and equitable Go- yernment, especially as we ask no more than te ° 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 07 be put on an equal footing, in the article of tole: ration, with the other Protestant Dissenters from the Scottish establishment: “* Such, indeed, is our es fichoanice in his Ma- jesty’s goodness and in the justice of his Parlia- ment, that we are fully persuaded our request will not be refused, particularly if we shall be. so happy as to obtain your Grace’s powerful sup- port, with that of the Archbishop of York, and the other Bishops of the Church of England, to whom, we have no doubt; your Grace will do us the honour of recommending our cause. ° _ “ We have only further to add, that having, since we came to England, joined in the public devo- tions of the English Church, we hereby declare ourselves to be in full communion with that Church. The Book of Common Prayer, we be- lieve, in our hearts, to be the best composed Li- turgy in the world. The. Morning and Evening Service, as read in that Book, wé constantly make use of, and the offices of Matrimony, Baptism, Confirmation, &c. as occasion offers; and though we generally use the Scottish Communion Of- fice, nearly as authorised by Charles I. and in- serted in the Book of Common Prayer for the Church of Scotland, yet, so far are we from mak- ing this usage a condition of communion, that our own Clergy have a discretionary power to use which of the two offices they please, and some of them do actually make use of the English Of- fice. « 4 wm: 9S ANNALS (OF 00? . 1789. «* Having reason to believe that our practice in these matters has been misrepresented, we have deemed it necessary to trouble your Grace with this short account of it, which, when ho- noured with a personal interview, we shall, with your Grace’s permission, eularge in a manner, we flatter ourselves, to your Grace’s satisfaction. | « Our business is evidently of the greatest im- portance to the support of Episcopacy in Scot. land, and thereby to the interest of that which we hold to be true religion ; which interests, we are confident, are so dear to your Grace, that we have the best ground to hope for your stone tion on this occasion. ‘© We shall. be happy to know: when we -may have the honour of waiting on your Grace. And: we are, with the most profound respect and: es- teem,” &c. «« A few days after receipt of this letter, we had a message from the Archbishop, desiring to see us. We went to Lambeth accordingly, atthe hour appointed, and were received with every mark of respect, his Grace apologising to us for not answering our letter of last year, as well as for now sending us a verbal invitation by Mr Jones. His inquiries after our situation, were, as might be expected, very particular ; to all of which we returned such plain and candid an- swers, as seemed to give the satisfaction wished for. ‘ The pressure of ecclesiastical business,” / . 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 99 however, he told us, was at that time so great, and the intended motion in favour of the English Dissenters so completely engrossed the attention of the Episcopal Bench, that, until it was discus- sed, they could not take our business into their consideration ; but as soon as that matter was disposed of, the Bishops would meet for the pur- pose of considering our case, and ‘ he should then - € desire the honour of seeing us again.’ “In the meanwhile, the Bishop of St David’s, Dr Horsely, having been waited on by myself and colleagues, entered on the discussion of our > claims with all his characteristic keenness, tak- ing notes of our answers to all his queries, and happy to find that we differed from the Church of England in no essential point of doctrine or discipline ; for ‘ whatever,’ said he, < might ‘ have been your religious tenets, as your political * disaffection is removed, I think you entitled to “toleration, as far as you ask it. But perhaps it “may facilitate your business to let it be known, ‘as Tam now competent to do, that you do not ‘ essentially differ trom our Church.’ ** The Earls of Braedaibane and Fife, the Lords Stormont, Kinnaird, &c. &c. did us the honour “to call for us and proffer us their services, as soon as we had drawn up a memorial of our case, which they could put into the hands of their re- ‘spective friends, in and out of administration. The Bishop of Norwich, Dr Bagot, received us “with a great deal of mild civility. He had the. G2 100 ANNALS OF — © 1789. Ecclesiastical History of Scotland, lately publish- ed, on his table, and immediately turned to the passages which referred to our situation.) He talked very properly of the reasonableness of our request; but was of opinion, that the state of the qualified Clergy of the Episcopal Communion in Scotland was to be considered. ‘ It was proper,’ he said, ‘ to hear what might be urged in their | ‘behalf; for which purpose time and serious ‘ consideration would be required, such as might ‘ prevent our business being brought to an issue ‘this session. At any rate, he was sure that the ‘Bishops of England would do nothing with a ‘ view either to oppress us or to countenance di- © vision, if at all to be avoided ; and much,’ con- » cluded he, ‘ will depend on the opinion of the ‘ Archbishop, who has been at great pains to im- ‘form himself of your situation and that of the “English ordained Clergy in Scotland; of nei- «ther of which, till within these few years, the ‘ English Bishops hardly knew any thing.’ «: Having again had a long discussion with the Lord Advocate for Scotland, he» recommended us to lose no time in drawing out a state of our case, giving a historical detail of the statutes/of which we complained, and the relief which we deemed necessary; in order that Mr Pitt and the Lord Chancellor might be rightly informed. And, on our mentioning Mr J. Allan Park, a worthy young Barrister, to whom we had been recommended, asa fit person to take charge of 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 101 ‘our matters, his Lordship cordially approved of our chgice, and bid us desire Mr Park to call on him for information, if he needed any, and to bring him, (the Advocate,) a scroll of the paper before a clean copy was made out; and the soon- er the better, as his Lordship must set out for Scotland in a week. “* After some little alterations in the scroll of the case drawn up by Mr Park, the Lord- Advocate and the Treasurer of the Navy, (who is well known to have acted as Minister for Scotland,) sanction- ed the printing of it; the latter informing Bishop Skinner, that ‘ if the Archbishop did not send to * him in the course of two or three days, he (Mr * Dundas) would write to his Grace, and desire * an interview, as he knew Mr Pitt would do no- * thing in matters Ecclesiastical without consult- ‘ing the Archbishop.’ ” * Case of the Errscopat Cuierey in Scotland, and of the Larry of their Communion. * Tt is a fact well known, that the Bishops of Scotland, who were deprived of their sees at the time of the Revolution, continued to exercise ‘their Episcopal functions, and to ordain ministers for supplying the vacant congregations of their persuasion ; which was so far from giving offence to Government, that it was even deemed ne- eessary to afford the Scotch Episcopal Cler- gy the aid of the law, to protect them in the me lh 102 ANNALS OF) | 1789. exercise of divine worship, from any disturbance, to which they might be exposed, from theigno- rance or misguided zeal of those who happened to entertain different opinions in religion. ~~ ** Accordingly, in the tenth of Queen Anne*, ’ an act passed, declaring it lawful for those.of the Episcopal communion in Scotland, to meet and assemble, for the exercise of divine worship, to’ i be performed after their own manner, by Pastors” ordained by a Protestant Bishop, and who are not established Ministers of any Church or pa- rish, and to use in their Congregations the Liturgy’ - of the Church of England, if they think fit, with- out any let, hindrance, or disturbance from any person whatsoever.—The next section provides, that none shall presume to exercise the functions of a Pastor in the said Episcopal meetings, ex- cept such as shall have received holy orders from the hands of a Protestant Bishop; and every person called upon to be a Pastor or Mi- nister of any Episcopal Congregation, before he takes upon him to officiate, shall register his let- ters of orders at the general or quarter-sessions. The rest of the act is employed in stating the oaths to be taken by such Pastors or Ministers, in describing their powers, declaring it to be free ' and lawful for them, not only to pray and preach in the Episcopal Congregations, but to adminis- tex, the sacraments, and marry ; and also requir- ing them to pray for the Queen and Royal Fami- ly, in express words. * 10 Anne, Chap. vii. 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 103 “‘ It is here worthy of observation, that at the time of, passing this act, it was universally un- derstood to mean, by the words * Protestant Bi- ‘ shops,’ the deprived Bishops and their succes- sors; for it must be acknowledged as an histori- cal fact, that almost every Minister, who then — took the benefit of the act of Queen Anne, had received his orders from no other than one of the deprived Bishops or their successors. ve Many of the Episcopal Clergy then living, who did not think themselves at liberty to com- ply with the terms, could not claim nor avail themselves of the full benefit of the statute: And as an attempt was made to disturb the Govern- ment, soon after the accession of George the First, it was thought proper to lay further re- straints on those who had not complied with the statute of Queen Anne. “ Accordingly it is enacted*, that no person shall perform any part of divine service in any Episcopal Meeting-house, where nine persons or more shall be present, besides those of the house- hold, or supply the place of Pastor in any Epis-- copal Congregation, except such as shall pray for the King and Royal Family, in express words, and shall take the oaths to Government, a certi- ficate of his doing which he must obtain from the clerk of the court where such oaths are adminis- tered. . P * 5 Geo. I. Chap. xxix. Sect. 3. 104 ANNALS (OF? (22° 1789. « In the subsequent reign; when a further at- tempt was made by the exiled family, it ‘was con- ceived, whether rightly or not itisnow immate- rial to enquire, that much of the disaffection’ to the Government proceeded from the: ‘toleration allowed to those places of worships the Pastors of which had not duly qualified. themselves accord- ing to the act of Queen Anne. Very severe Te- gulations were therefore thought necessary to be adopted, which it is the object of the present ap- plication to Parliament to repeal.—It was en- acted*, that the Sheriffs should return lists of all Episcopal assemblies, that the Pastors should produce certificates of their having qualified, and should pray for the King, &c. otherwise their Meeting-houses were to be shut up, and the proprietor to give security of L.10Q;not to let them again for the same uses: That unqua- lified Pastors officiating, should, for the first of- fence, be imprisoned for six months; for the second, be transported for life, and: if: they returned from transportation, should suffer im-— prisonment for life. -The statute likewise inflicts the penalty of five pounds, or six months impri-— sonment, on every one attending such Meeting- house, and not giving information ; and in the following section declares, that no letters of or- ders shall be deemed sufficient, or admitted to be registered, but such as have been given by * 19 Geo. II. Chap. xxxviil. Sect. 1. &e. 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 105 some Bishop of the Church of England or Ire- land, or if they are, such registration shall be veid.—The act then proceeds to the disqualifi- cations of those resorting to Episcopal unquali- fied meetings, by declaring*, that any Peer who has been twice present at such place’ of worship, within one year preceding the election, shall be incapable of being elected, or of voting in the election of the Sixteen Peers: That any person so offending shall be incapable of being elected, or of voting in the election of a member of Par- liament, a magistrate or counsellor for boroughs, or deacon of crafts, or collector or clerk of the. land-tax or supply; and also, that any person, Peer, or Commoner, holding any office, civil or military; shal] ipso facto forfeit the ‘same, and shall be incapable of holding any office, civil or military, for the space of one year. ** Such is the summary of those laws under which both Clergy and Laity of the Episcopal Commu- nion in Scotland at present labour. While sus- picions prevailed against them, it was in vain to think of obtaining relief; and while attempts were making in behalf of the exiled family, it was out of their power to remove those suspicions. All they could do was to conduct themselves in such @ quiet and inoffensive manner, as might convince Government that there was no danger to be ap- prehended, and no necessity for putting those se- vere laws in execution. Even the terms in which * This clause explained by 21 Geo. II. Ch. xxxiv. Sect. 13. 106 ANNALS OF 1789. the laws were conceived afforded reason to hope, that a time might come when they might safely be erased from the Statute-book. Causes of a.ci-_ vil nature alone produced these disabilities ; but. a continued oppression of those whose, religious tenets and doctrines are, in t e strictest sense, the doctrines and tenets of the Church of Eng- land, never could be intended. ‘Itis well known that instead of exciting and fomenting a spirit. of disaffection, the Scottish Episcopal Clergy have invariably employed themselves in vindicating the fandamental truths of our holy faith, in recom- mending the great duties of the Christian life, and in enforcing those obligations and virtues which. tend tothe quiet, peace, and comfort of society 5 for the truth of which, they can safely appeal, _ not only to the effects their labours have produced on the lives and conversations of those committed to their care, but also to those of the Established Church of Scotland, who have been daily witnes- ses of their conduct. «¢ The period is now happily arrived which has put an end to all political distinctions, and united, in the acknowlegment of a mild, gracious, and beloved Sovereign, all his subjects of every deno- mination. Those of the Scottish Episcopal. Church have, for a considerable time past, offer- ed up their public prayers in terms of the statute of Queen Anne, for the King by name, for the ~ Queen, and for all the Royal Family ; and this open and unfeigned proof of their loyalty his Ma- 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 107 jesty has been pleased most graciously to accept. The restraints under which they at present Ia- bour are prejudicial to the interests of religion, by imposing peculiar hardships on a respectable body of men, both Clergy and Laity, by reducing them to a state of political insignificancy, and preventing them from employing their talents in the support and'service of a Government to which they have given, and are ready to give all other marks of attachment. "© Whether the laws in question at the time they passed were politic or not, it is, on the present occasion, unnecessary to inquire. It is enough that the cause for passing them is evidently re- moved. The mischief, whatever it was, now no longer continues, and therefore the necessity for providing against it ceases of course. It never can be the object of the Legislature, by a conti- nuance of these disqualifying acts, when there are now'no Episcopal meetings held contrary to the spirit and intention of the law, to prevent persons who are attached to Government, and who are respectable both by their rank and for- tune, from attending the worship of God in a way agreeable to their consciences, and conformable to the principles of the Church of England: His Majesty having graciously accepted of the late proof of their loyalty, it is hoped that every branch of the Legislature will view the subject in the samefavourable light, and remove every odious mark of distinction, by putting all the Protestant 4 ; aia 108 ANNALS OF > 1789. Episcopal Dissenters from the Scottish establish- ment, in the article of toleration, on an equal foot- = ee ing. They are far from wishing to encroach on — : the rights of the establishment in’ either part of the united kingdom. All they presume to request is, the protection and indulgence granted to those of the Episcopal Communion by the act of Queen Anne, and which, since the 19th of Geo. II. have been restricted to the communion of those pastors who have their orders from an English or an Irish Bishop. This restriction be" ing no longer necessary, they humbly pray that it may now give place to the original design of | the statute of Queen Anne, and that the Legis- lature will be pleased so to adjust the: provisions. of that act, particularly that part of the» oaths which seems to have a retrospective view, to'the circumstances of the Scottish Episcopal Clergy, that they may be able to enjoy the benefit of it, and at the same time to express their attachment. to his Majesty’s person and Government in a sin- eere and conscientious manner,” After detailing the means used to give this pa- per the necessary publicity, and the difficulties which he and his colleagues had to encounter, in so framing their Bill as that the wished for relief might be obtained, and yet no expressions be used which might excite jealousy and opposition, Bishop Skinner’s journal narrates, that ** on Mon. - day the 15th of June, Mr Dundas, the Treasurer 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 109 of the Navy, moved for leave to bring in a Bill, _ which motion was seconded by Mr Dempster, who informed us, that not only did every person in the House listen to the motion with apparent satis- faction, but that when Sir Harry Houghton was voted into the chair, he was heard to say, he ne- ver took it with greater pleasure than on this same occasion. «© On the day of the second reading of the Bill, however, we were for the first time inform- ed; that the Lord Chancellor, with the Attorney and Solicitor-General, was complaining that nei- ther he nor they knew any thing of the Bill; for which reason Mr Dundas moved for the printing of it, requesting, in the mean time, that we would send each of them a written copy.. This we did immediately, accompanied with letters of apolo- gy for the unintentional mistake into which we had fallen. LETTER XIL. THE SCOTTISH BISHOPS IN LONDON TO LORD CHAN- “ CELLOR THURLOW. » © We liad the honour of addressing your Lord- shipsome weeks ago, and of enclosing in our let- ter the case of the Scottish Episcopal Clergy. - We presumed also to take the same liberty when we transmitted to your Lordship a copy of the first Billintended for our relief. Finding, however, that 110 ANNALS OF i 1789. some alterations were thought necessary, to ob- viate every cause of offence to the Establishment in Scotland, we would have done ourselyes the honour of sending your Lordship a copy of the second Bill, had it not been, as we are assured, altogether unexceptionable, and therefore not ' Jikely, we imagined, to be epee of by ad Lordship. re a Ron this reason, and knowing mens Herc to be much engaged with a multiplicity of busi- ness, we naturally thought, that to have given your Lordship what appeared to us unnecessary trouble, would have been blameworthy... « But, understanding that the Archbishop of Canterbury desires to see Mr Dundas before the 3 Bill proceeds any farther, and that your Lordship, with the Attorney and Solicitor,General, ought to have been informed of the nature of the Bill as it now stands; if there has been any want of attention on our part, we would be most happy to atone for it, if we knew how. Men im our de- pendent circumstances, your Lordship may be- lieve, would be glad to wait upon the lowest clerk in office, could it advance the cause in which we are engaged, and therefore cannot be suspected of any intentional neglect of duty to persons of such weight and influence as his Majesty’s At- torney and Solicitor-General, far less of any such conduct towards your Lordship, _ 524 x ** \iay we therefore presume to hope; that your Lordship will beso condescending as to forgive 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. lll any error into which we may have undesignedly fallen, and to grant your powerful support to the Bill, a copy of which is here enclosed, when it shall come before the House of Peers.” _ 35, Whitcombe Street, June 20. 1789.” “The Attorney-General, (Sir Archibald Mac- donald,) and the Solicitor-General, (Sir John Scott, now Lord Eldon,) were very easily recon- ciled, and had the condescension to say, that, as they considered no blame imputable to us, so we should meet with no opposition from them. This emboldened us to address the Archbishop on the head, and to inform him of the fact, add- ing, ‘ that we would be happy indeed to be as * sure of the Lord Chancellor’s forgiveness, which * we cannot but flatter ourselves, from what we ‘have heard of his Lordship’s humanity and love * of justice, your Grace’s favourable interposition ‘in our behalf will have the effect of procuring “us. We have used the freedom to enclose a ‘copy of the Bill, as printed by order of the * House of Commons. And hoping that your ‘Grace will excuse this trouble, we have the ‘ honour to be,’ &c. &c.. © ** Next day his Grace condescended to do us the honour of calling on us, and told us, that he came in consequence of our letter, to satisfy us that he had no new objection to our Bill; but, said he, * I have certainly heard some’ doubts * started by Lay Peers, as to. the propriety of the 112 ANNALS Of +. MBO « measure, and beg to know when the Bill may be -* expected to be brought into the Upper House.’ “* On receiving this information, although un-, able to give his Grace an explicit answer, we wrote cards, by Mr Dundas’s desire, to the Lords Camden, Bathurst, Loughborough, and Kenyon, and enclosing for these Noblemen copies.of our Bill, solicited their support. During all this dis- cussion our Bill was passing through the House of Commons, without one dissentient voice ; and on Friday the 29th June; was read the third time, passed, and ordered to the House of Lords, where it was presented by Mr Dundas, and, on motion by the Earl of Hopetoun, was read the first time. , shag ‘‘ This introduction gave us hopes, that there. was no serious opposition intended on the part of _ the Lord Chancellor. A few days after, how- ever, we learned from undoubted authority, that this great man was still adverse ‘to the measure, and said, ‘ it was most indecently brought for- ‘ ward.’ ‘‘ This information we lost not a moment in communicating to his Grace the Archbishop, and to all the Scottish Peers in town, viz. the Lords Braedalbane,; Hopetoun, Galloway, Stormont, and Kinnaird, requesting the support of the Archbishops and the Bench of Bishops, as well as of the Lords above-named, our countrymen, on the second reading of our Bill, as a measure which their Lordships well knew could give just 1789. $COTTISH EPISCOPACY. 113 offence to no party in Scotland, and least of allto | the Established Church. To the Earl of Hope- toun, a zealous member of the Scottish establish- ment, we were peculiarly indebted, both for at- tention and advice; who, though ready to move the second reading of our Bill, purposely delayed it for some days, in hopes that we might yet have interest enough to get the eg ee S Opposi- tion conquered. ** Should that be found impossible, (as the se- _ quel shews,) there was one expedient, we thought, worthy of trial, viz. to propose not legal tolera- tion, but connivance simply. This expedient, therefore, we resolved to adopt, and with that view wrote to the Lord Chancellor, previously submitting our letter, however, to Mr Dundas’s ' perusal, and begging that he would favour us with his opinion how we ought to proceed. The letter itself and Mr Dundas’s very friendly reply are here recorded. LETTER XIII. THE SCOTTISH BISHOPS IN LONDON TO LORD CHAN- CELLOR THURLOW. «* My Lord, ** Since we had the honour of sending your Lordship a copy of the Bill for granting relief to the Ministers and Lay-members of the Episcopal H 114 ANNALS OF. 1789. Communion in Scotland, we have heard, with - much concern, that your, Lordship objects to the oath inserted in the Bill, in place of the oath of -Abjuration. We therefore beg leave to state to your Lordship the reasons on which that conces- sion was requested on our part, as well as agreed to by the Lord Advocate for Scotland, and other servants of the Crown. « We do not, My Lord, pretend to disguise the political scruples which so long prevented the Members of our Society from testifying their allegiance to the present Government. But no sooner was the cause of that unhappy disaffection — removed, than we cheerfully came forward, and avowed our sincere attachment to his Majesty’s person and Government, and our determined re- solution to manifest that attachment in the most open and unequivocal manner. At the same time, as we dare not profess to have been loyal before we actually were so, and as the oath of Ab- juration has an evident retrospect, and can be taken with safety only by those who never be- lieved the rights which it disclaims, we acknow- ledge that we cannot venture upon it without in- volving ourselves in the guilt of perjury, a hard- ship which, we humbly trust, the British Legis- lature, will never impose upon us. © Jt is now our earnest desire, and will be henceforth our constant study, to approve our- selves faithful and loyal subjects, in the fullest ~ sense of the expression ; but, to be so, we con- 1739. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 115 eive it necessary that we act an honest and con- Scientious part, otherwise no government can have any confidence in us. ** Weare told that the Roman Catholics, on account of their religious scruples, have been in- dulged with a new oath of Supremacy; and we cannot but hope, that, for a similar reason, your Lordship will view our case in a like favourable light, and permit our Bill to‘ pass through the House of Peers, with the same indulgence which it has experienced in the House of Commons. Or, if your Lordship is of opinion, that, without taking all the oaths prescribed by law, we are. not entitled to legal toleration, we shall be satis- fied with that connivance which is extended toa ‘numerous body of Scottish Dissenters, of whom no oaths of any kind are required ; and only beg to have those acts repealed which at present hang _ over our heads, and deprive us of that freedom of worshipping God, as conscience directs, which all other léyal subjects in the British dominions do enjoy. * Should your Lordship think proper to adopt this mode of granting us relief, we have only to request that the Bill may not be rejected, but re- mitted, with amendments, to the House of Com-~ mons, and thus be prepared for the Royal assent as soon as possible. : “Fear of being tedious, My Lord, has pre- vented us from expressing ourselves so fully, or ‘so clearly, as we could have wished. May we H2 116 ' ANNALS OF -7789. therefore presume to request the honour of wait- . ing on your Lordship, if any doubts should still remain concerning the commutation of the oath, or any other clause of the Bill.” . Duke Street, York Buildings, » 3d July 1789.” ‘LETTER XV) ee 3 « 4th July 1789. «¢ Gentlemen, « T have just now, (half-past 9,) received your letter. Isee no objection to your sending your letter to the Chancellor, but I do not promise - you any probable’ hopes from it. I can give you “no advice as to your conduct in the House of Lords, nor can I advise you how to obviate objections which I do not understand, nor could have conceived that they could have been made! Lord Hopetoun, however, will be able to inform you upon these points better than I can do. 1 was surprised to hear that the Chancellor had quoted the Lord Advocate’s name. If the Lord Advocate had been here, I should have considered him as perhaps the most proper peér- son to move the Bill. I certainly did not under- stand from him, that a Bill, proposed upon the ground of the present Bill, would have met with objection from the quarter you suggest. ‘© Do precisely what you shall think best for your own success. I am perfectly ready now, or a 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. ] V7 in any future Session, to maintain, your cause, for I think it the cause of justice and humanity.” “On Monday, July 6th, we waited on Lord Hopetoun by invitation, from whom we learned, that our letter to the Lord Chancellor was too late for answering our present purpose; as Lord _ Kinnaird having that very day proposed that our Bill should be read the second time, the Chancel- lor moved that it should be adjourned to the 29th of September. To acquiesce in this, without a ' division, Lord Hopetoun considered preferable to running the risk of a trial of strength, when the Chancellor might have been induced to speak — on the subject, and thus do the cause irreparable injury. ‘The good Earl, after hinting to us some © modes of future procedure, assured us that we might depend on his continued support.and_ as- sistance. To the Bishop of Bangor, Dr Warren, as one who was said tobe more in Lord Thur- low’ s confidence than any other of the English Bench, we failed not to represent our case in as strong language as we could ;—‘ that there could © ‘be no Bishops without the King’s authority *,’ we remarked to his Lordship, ‘ was an assertion “by one who professed himself a member of an * Episcopal Church, which not alittle surprised us. « Were this the case, the Apostolic power of Con- * The.avowal of this sentiment by the Chancellor of Eng- Jand, must have excited, and did excite, the surprise of others besides the humble representatives of Scottish Episcopalians. 118 | ANNALS OF 1789. ‘ secrating Bishops must have been lost as soon’ ‘as obtained; hence, there is, at this day, not ¢ one Bishop in the whole Christian world. It is ‘well known, My Lord, that the Church of Eng- _ ‘Jand, from the murder of Charles the First to’ ‘the restoration of his son, was covered with as ‘ dark a cloud as ever overshadowed her unfor- ‘ tunate Sister Church in Scotland. Nay, had Ri- ‘ chard Cromwell been as ambitious and as able a ¢ man as his father, Oliver, her misery might have © ‘ been as great and as lasting as that of the Scot- ‘tish Church has been. But we thank God it ‘was not so. We bless the Almighty that the ¢ Church of England was restored ; and we pray _ €to God she may not only subsist, but flourish im ‘ purity and peace till time shall be no more! ¢ Yet, for argument’s sake, My Lord, let us sup- “ pose that the Church of England had not been * restored, but had subsisted and persecution, “as our Church has done, to the present day, ‘ would your Lordship,—would any English Pre- ‘late have admitted that the Church of England ‘had no Bishops? And would not the Bishops ‘have thought it hard, upon their acknowledg- ‘ ing the civil powers, to be denied the liberty of ‘ worshipping God in their accustomed forms, as ‘well as the right of spiritual jurisdiction over ‘ the people who adhered to their Communion ? ‘Yet this is all that we presume to ask; and ‘certainly it is what, in this age of liberality,’ ‘ will not, nay, cannot be denied us! Wherefore, 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 119\ ‘we do-again beg leave to propose a friendly ‘meeting with your Lordship on the subject of ‘this letter; since we have hopes, that on hear-. « ing a just representation of our case, your Lord- ‘ship will have the goodness to endeavour to sof- . ‘ten the Lord Chancellor, and to procure for ‘ our cause that generous treatment in the House ‘ of Lords with which it has been honoured in ‘the House of Commons. « The Scottish members of both Houses know *‘ how generally acceptable our success will be in ‘ our own country. And, ‘when we inform your * Lordship, that there are many gentlemen in ‘Scotland who have taken all the oaths to Go- *vernment, and have distinguished. themselves ‘in the service of their country, who, notwith- standing, are restrained from praying for the ‘ King, whom they have faithfully served, in our ‘ religious assemblies, without forfeiting very es- ‘ sential privileges, and are obliged either to join ‘in other worship which they do not approve, or ‘ go to no place of worship at all. We need say “no more to point out to your Lordship, whose ‘ principles on the subject of the Church are re- ‘ presented to us as strictly correct, the unhappy ‘ effects of these political restraints, and the pro- ‘ priety of removing them as speedily as possible,’ ‘*¢ To this communication we received, the same day on which it was written, the following ane ply — 120 , ANNALS OF, 5 1789. . LETTER XV. THE BISHOP OF BANGOR TO THE SCOTTISH BISHOPS. Great George Street, 6th ia 1789. 1789. after in the Scottish Episcopal Church. I there- fore claim no right from my, office or character, to preside'in it. It was necessary that some per- son should call you together,—should appoint the time and place of your meeting, and signify the ~ object of it. That task my situation m_ the Church naturally assigned to me; but having thus far discharged my duty, I have now only to propose, that, in the jirst place, You proceed. to choose a Preses and Clerk ; and, in the second place, To lay down a few general rules for car- rying on the business of the meeting with such order and regularity as become the purpose and design of it.’, wel Bishop Skinner having been unanimously cho- sen Preses, and the Rev. Roger Aitkin of Aber- deen clerk, the Convention resolved: ‘* That every Clerical member shall have a vote for him- self, and for every proxy produced by him, whe- ther granted by a Clergyman or a Congregation : and, That every Lay-member or members shall have one vote for the Congregation which he or they may represent: And where there is no Lay representative from ‘any Congregation; the Clergyman who has the charge of it, or his proxy, shall be considered the representative, and have | the vote accordingly. But every Clergyman, be the number of his charges what they may, shall be supposed to have but one such charge, and therefore but one vote for it.” ‘ From the foregoing resolution, it was found that no fewer than eighty-four votes were pre- 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 129 sent, or duly represented in the Convention be- fore the business commenced, which was done by the Clerk putting the question, ‘ Is it the plea- * sure of the Convention that the proper business ‘ of it be now opened from the chair 2?” This being answered in the affirmative, the Primus, as chair- man, spoke as follows :— “In compliance, Gentlemen, with your de- sire, I must, first of all, refer to the intimation which was circulated in name of the Bishops, from which it appears, that this Convention was called, and is now holden ‘ for the purpose of ‘ taking into consideration the present state of ‘ an application to Government for a repeal of * the penal laws.’ This necessarily implies that an application has been made, and is now pend- ing; so that our present business leads us to en- quire into the naturé of this application, the man- ner in which it has-been conducted, the probable consequences of it, and the best method of car- rying it on, so as to render it finally successful. These appear to me to be the general outlines of that important business for which we are now as- sembled ; and if this atrangement is carefully at- tended to, it will, I hope, enable us to proceed ina methodical manner, and to bring our busi- ness to an amicable and happy conclusion. - With regard to the nature of the application which has been already made to Government, and the man- ner in which it has been conducted, as it fell to my lot to have an active hand in it, being one of I 150 ANNALS OF =~ 1789. the three principal agents in the ‘cause, it will no doubt be expected from me, in the absence of one of those Gentlemen, and with concurrence of the - other now present, that I should give this Con- vention a full detail of the part which we have acted, of the motives which led us so to act, and of the result of our actions. Such an account I am now ready to render, in as clear and concise a manner as the nature of the subject will admit, and with all the accuracy and fidelity which my memory, or rather my materials, shall enable me to do. Before, however, entering on my narra- tive, I must be permitted to claim a strict depen- dence on the honour, the prudence, and the:good sense of the Gentlemen who are members of this Convention. Remaiks will necessarily be made on the sentiments and behaviour of persons high in office, or respectable in character and rank, which it would be very imprudent to publish to the world, or even to be repeating too freely in promiscuous companies, and where no good end is likely to result. In this respect, therefore, proper caution and reserve are so necessary; (more especially im our situation,) that I hope ‘you will excuse the liberty which I have taken in recom- mending to you their strict observance. I shall trespass no farther on your patience by: this:pre- amble, than to mention, that in the narrative which I'am about to submit to you, you willfind frequent reference made to letters, cards, or other vouchers, the originals, or copies of the 7789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 131 whole, or greater part of which, being now on the table, if it be the wish of any Gentleman to peruse any of them, or to move that any of them be read at full length when referred to, the wish shall on my part be cheerfully complied with, either at the immediate time of reference, or when the narrative is concluded, as shall to the general sense of the Convention appear to be ‘most agreeable.” » The reader having had Bishop Skinner’s nar- tative already submitted to his perusal, is doubt- dess of opinion, that it was not only sufficiently Minute, but sufficiently satisfactory, and that all was done which men in the situation and circum- stances of Bishops Skinner, Abernethy Drum- ‘mond, and Strachan, could have done to effect the object which they took in hand. As this, however, constituted the leading charge against them in the printed ‘* Address to the Clerical and Lay Members of their Communion,” it seems incumbent on the Annalist to put the read- er in possession of the Primus’ defence of him- self and colleagues, as forming the introductory part of his narrative :— “In managing the affairs of any community, unless some persons take the lead, either by vir- tue of their office, or from motives of peculiar generosity, we seldom see any great efforts made ‘for the public good. In a religious society, it may justly be expected that the ministers of reli- gion will step forward as the leading persons ; ; 12 ~ 132 ; ANNALS OF 1789. and in an Episcopal Church, such as ours, Thope that, without being suspected of unduly magni- fying my office, I may say, that the chief lead and direction must be supposed to rest with the Bish- ops. On this delicate point, however, Tet me not be misunderstood. I am well aware, that in the management of such a business as that for which we are now assembled, though the Bishops may, from their more responsible sitaation, find themselves obliged to be the first movers, yet they ought not to go forward, they cannot indeed, with any propriety, go forward in any such under- taking, without the support of those who are equal- ly interested in the issue of it. Impressed, as I have all along been, with this sentiment, and ear- nestly desirous to shew its operation on every part. of my conduct, it gave me great concern to be de- '. prived of the means of practising it, at the very time when both duty and inclination called upon me so to do. Yet such was the situation of things at the period to which I am now looking back, that it was not in my power, nor in the power of my colleagues, to take any other measures than those which the spur of the occasion prompted. The month of March last being the time when Parlia- ment may have been said to have recovered from the shock produced by his Majesty's dangerous indisposition, my colleagues and myself were daily reminded, from all quarters of the kingdom, that now was our time to apply to Government for @ redress of our grievances, while our compliance 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 133 was fresh in the minds of the people, and when the nation was all in good humour. And had we neglected an opportunity which appeared so very favourable to our wishes, we, the Bishops, had certainly incurred no small degree of blame and reproach, for our remissness and inattention to the interests of our society. But in the month of March this year, when such a Convention as the present would have proved a measure of first rate expediency, there was such a fall of snow on the ground, as to render the roads well nigh im- passable in most districts of Scotland ; and before the weather was tolerably settled, and the roads fit for travelling, the Easter holidays were at hand, a season, we all know, which admits not of Clergymen travelling to any distatice from home, yet the week preceding passion- week, or passion-week itself, was the very time when such a meeting as the present could have answered any good purpose, as thegene- ral opinion was, that the last Session of Parliament would not have lasted above a month or six weeks after the Easter holidays, and many reports pre- vailed that it would have ended sooner. In such a state of uncertainty, had it been otherwise con- venient to call a general meeting of the Church, it is far from probable that any decisive resolu- tion would have been the result of it. Both Clergy and Laity were then too much in the dark to know precisely what path would have been most proper for them to pursue ;- and at our first outset to haye stumbled into a wrong course, 134 ANNALS OF - W789 might have been of very hurtful consequences. Besides, as a Convention of this nature must make some little noise in the country, and be talked of in all parts of the kingdom where there are mem- bers of our communion, it was difficult to say what construction might have been put upon it, and to what reports it might have given rise, had it been assembled at the time when I and my colleagues, at the desire of the other members of the Scottish Episcopate, set off for the seat of Government. The case is very different now indeed; our cause has been gradually brought _ into public view; it has been treated with be- coming respect, and honoured with friendly sup- port by some of the first characters in the nation. - Tt has,even received the sanction, the unanimous -sanction, of one of the branches of the British Legislature. And, under these circumstances, we need no longer doubt of the propriety of our meeting here, asa Convention, to deliberate on a subject which was so honourably introduced, and so candidly attended to in the House of his Ma- jesty’s faithful Commons, Nay, our very meet- ing, (though for another purpose,) having been recommended by one of the principal officers of “ the Crown as a proper measure; it will not, we may now hope, be branded as too bold or too presumptuous for persons in our political situa- tion, while the mouths of our enemies, if not shut by the countenance which we have received, will not be opened half so wide as they would have 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 135 been, six months ago. For my own part, there- fore, I freely own, that I should not haye attend- ed a meeting of this nature in April last, with the same courage, and the same confidence in its pro- priety, which I this day feel. I should have met you then, Gentlemen, with many doubts hang- ing on my mind with respect to the prudence of our conduct, and been afraid that in trusting to the ‘ harmlessness of the doye,’ we had lost sight of the ‘ wisdom of the serpent.’ _ * Let it not, however, be supposed, that in the midst of so much doubt and diffidence, as to the propriety of a public general meeting, the bene- fits of it were wholly overlooked even by my col- leagues or myself. Though I could not convene, at that season of the year, the Clergy of my own diocese, I took the opportunity of a few of them being met together at Aberdeen, and laid before them the proposal of an immediate application to Goverument, by three of the Bishops going to London for the purpose. Of which measure they not only heartily approved, but promised to pro- cure, and did procure, introductory letters from Gentlemen of weight. and influence in their re- spective neighbourhoods. Withthe same view, I wrote to all the other Clergy of the diocese of Aberdeen, who I knew had opportunities of that kind, and had the pleasure to find them all equal- ly active and zealous in what I recommended to them. ‘To Bishop Macfarlane I applied, for the same brotherly support from him:and his Clergy ; 136 , ANNALS OF 7 (1789. and to Mr Skene at Forfar, as Dean’ of the dio- cese of Dunkeld for the like assistance, and had most satisfactory and favourable returns from both. To the same great object I had no reason to doubt but the two Bishops who were to ac- company me to London were equally attentive ; so that we were really honoured with the most. ample recommendations to members of both ~ houses of Parliament; and, being chiefly from members of our own communion, the obvious in- ference was, that they not only thought themselves interested in the success of our application, but that they also considered the Scottish Episcopal Laity, as well as Clergy, sufficiently represented by those who had undertaken to conduct their cause. _ " ‘* But be in this what may, I will not, Gen- tlemen, on this occasion, dissemble my opinion that the Bishops of a Church so circumstanced as ours is, may, in the act of soliciting any favour or indulgence, be considered as virtually repre- senting those, whether Clergy or Laity, who are to share in that favour or indulgence. I ground not this opinion, however, on the plea of Epis- copal authority, but on the faith of that paternal care, that tender and affectionate concern for the welfare of its members, which may well be looked for in the chief rulers of every society” in which _ ~ an union of interests is the surest basis of perch cal confidence. _f* Were the Protestant Bishops: in Scotland dis. 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 137 tinguished by any outward appendages of worldly honour and dignity which might tempt them first to court promotion to the Episcopate, and afterwards to claim an undue authority in the exercise of it; or had they separate interests to pursue, unconnected with the interests of those for whom they are bound ‘to watch,’ there might be some reason for regarding the whole, and every individual part of their official proce- dure, with a jealous eye. But assuredly those men ‘ must be afraid, where no fear is,’ who can entertain the least apprehension of Ecclesiasti- cal tyranny on the part of such poor, untitled, unendowed, and unprotected Prelates, as now constitute the Episcopate in Scotland. So far from harbouring the most distant idea of invad- ing the privileges of those with whom we are spiritually connected, we were most anxious for an opportunity of shewing how ardently we wish- ed to befriend and do them all the good in our power. Had we wished to make a merit of this then, had we waited until we had been courted and importuned to exert our abilities such as they were ; then we should not have moved one single step without a delegated power, conferred with all the absurd formalities of those motley con- ventions so well suited to the levelling spirit of the age. But seeking no more formal commis- sion or delegation than what our office gave us, we needed no prompting beyond what our own inclination afforded, and, with hearts devoted to the interests of that Church in which we have 138 ANNALS OF. 1789. the honour to serve, we voluntarily engaged in the laudable design of effecting her relief from the pains and penalties of law, by, which, for half a century, she has been aggrieved; and. the pro- cess and issue of, our labours shall now meee briefly be laid before YOU." |. oesifeh as hewttie No sooner had the Primus scmniadal his aia rative, than it was, on motion, resolved, that he, as Preses of the Convention, do leave the chair ; and that the Convention, with Bishop Maefar- lane, as Chairman, do form itself into a Commit- tee for taking into consideration the proceedings communicated by Bishop Skinner. This being cordially agreed to, it was moved by the Rey. Roger Aitkin, and seconded by the Rey. doha Allan,—That ‘© The Convention, having taken the proceed: ings of the Bishops into consideration, do consi- der the same to have appeared, at the time, the most proper steps that could haye been taken for procuring the proposed relief; that though the measures which they adopted were not attended with the desired success, the disappointment did not arise from any misconduct on their parts, but from causes which, persons 4 in their situation eould not be supposed. to foresee, and therefore could not guard against; and, That, therefore, the thanks of the Convention, be given. to the Bishops, forthe zeal, alacrity, and indefatigable diligence with which they attempted the relief of this Church.” Sora sxonhite FON 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY 139 © The motion being manimously agreed to, the Rev. R. Aitkin, J. Allan, and G. Gleig, with John Niven Esq., were ordered to prepare an ad- dress of thanks, in terms of the motion, and to report the same at next sederunt.” Having so reported, and the address being agreed to, Bishop Macfarlane was requested to communicate the same to the Bishops Skinner, Abernethy Drum- mond, and Strachan, by letter under his hand, in manner following :— “To the Right Reverend the Bishops, &c. »* Bishop Skinner having this day read a nar- tative of the proceedings of the three Bishops who went to London for the purpose of solicit- ing a repeal of the penal laws, and being desir- ed by the Convention to leave the chair, into which I was immediately voted, the Convention resolved itself into a Committee, and voted the thanks of the meeting to those Bishops who had distinguished themselves with so much zeal in - the important cause which they had undertaken. ‘«* I am therefore desired, Right Reverend Sirs, to request your Reverences’ acceptance of their thanks for the able and upright manner, in which you exerted yourselves in so arduous an enter- prise ; and it gives me pleasure to subscribe, in their name and my Own, a vote which so hearti- ly meets my approbation. ‘© ANDREW MacFaRLANE, “* Bishop of Ross and Moray.” * Laurencekirk, November 11. 1789. . OL 140 ANNALS OF}. : 1789: It was next resolved, that the Convention should name a Committee, with full powers to manage and carry on the measures still held ne- cessary for obtaining a repeal of the penal sta- tutes ; which Committee should consist of three Bishops, three Presbyters, and. three Lay-per- sons; the senior Bishop to be Preses, and allow- ed to call meetings with consent of two-thirds of the Committee. 8 They were also to choose a Secretary ; and, if they found it expedient to send agents to Lon- don, these agents were to be chosen from among themselves, and to be styled, “‘ Delegates from the Committee of the Convention of the Scot- tish Episcopal Church.” The persons named by the Convention for this Committee, were,— The Right Rev. Joun SxinneR, Bishop of Aberdeen. Wan. ABERNETHY Drummonp, Bishop | of Edinburgh. Joun Stracuan, Bishop of Brechin. The Rey. Joun ALLAN, Edinburgh. Grorce GLEIG, Stirling. Rocer Aitkin, Aberdeen. Joun Patutxo, of Balhouffie, Esq: Commissary of St Andrews. Joun StrRLinc, Esq. of Kippendavie, near Stirling. Joun Niven, Esq. of Thornton and Peebles, near Arbroath, On the second day of the Convention, Novem- ber the 12th, they took into their consideration the state of the charitable funds belonging to the Scottish Episcopal Church ; finding that, by bank- ~ Le ol 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 141 ruptcies and otherwise, they had of late much decreased, and that no distribution had been made during the last twelve months, to indigent clergymen and widows as usual, the Convention - made choice of the following five Bishops, viz. Skinner, Kilgour, Macfarlane, Abernethy Drum-- mond, and Strachan, as trustees for managing these funds, and did immediately execute in their favour a deed of election upon stamped parch- ment, empowering them, and those named by them as their successors in office, to do whatso- ever was necessary for discharging the trust com- mitted to them, as more particularly expressed in the minutes of this sederunt, and subject to such rules and restrictions as this or any other Convention should think proper to frame for the >. security and increase of said funds, and to ensure an equitable distribution from them for the pur- poses to which they were originally appropriated. The thanks of the Convention having been voted to the Preses ‘* for the able and candid manner in which he had conducted the business of the meeting,” as also to the Clerk’ ‘for his im- portant services, it was forthwith dissolved; the Preses and Clerk subscribing the minutes, from which the above account of. its, proceedings is faithfully extracted. Nor can the Annalist for- bear from here recording ‘an’ instance of ‘pure and disinterested friendship to the cause of Scot’ tish Episcopacy, and of zeal for its prosperity,— such as may be equalled, but never'was and ne- 142 ANNALS OF | 1789. ver will be surpassed. ‘Three of the invaluable per- sonal friends whom Bishop Skinner had been for-. ‘tunate enough to acquire during his stay in Lon- don, now informed him, that such was tlie inte- rest which they felt in the repeal of the penal statutes, and such their anxiety to'see thesound and orthodox Episcopacy of Scotland alike: re- spected as it was respectable, ‘they had formed — themselves into a Committee of Correspondence with the Committee appointed in Scotland by the Laurencekirk Convention, and had determined to meet once a-week, or as often as occasion might require, for the communication of intelli- gence, and to deliberate on the most proper steps to be taken for the speedy relief of a Church they so much venerated.” Two of these Gentlemen are yet alive, and to - mention their names is enough to satisfy suchvof the readers of these Annals as may have heard of them only by ‘the hearing of the ear,’ that as men of professional talents and acquirements, of unimpeachable integrity, fidelity, and worth, of sound religious and political principles, they have, at this day, no superiors in Church or State,—the Honourable Sir James Allan Park, one of the Judges in his Majesty’s Court of Com- mon Pleas, andthe Rev. George Gaskin, D: D. Secretary tothe London Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, &c. The third Gentleman, William Stevens, Esq. Treasurer to Queen Anne’s Bounty to the Clergy of England, lives only in 1789. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. _ 143 the good name which he had secured to himself by his never ceasing endeavours “ to adorn the doctrine of God, his Saviour, in all things ;” and the refder may be assured that this name will be- come extinct in the Annals of Scottish Episcopa- ey, only when that Episcopacy, like time itself, shall be no more! , The following letter to Bishop Skinner, from the near relative and beloved friend of Mr Ste- vens, the amiable and accomplished Bishop Horne, then Dean of Canterbury, may serve to shew how happy «the Episcopal Church in Scotland might deem itself in such a patron. - LETTER XVII. THE DEAN OF CANTERBURY TO BISHOP SKINNER. Déanry, Canterbury, Dec. 15, 1789. “It gives me great pleasure to hear that the Convention went off so well, and that all is har- mony amongst you. ‘** When I consider that last session of Parlia- ment you had ‘not one opponent in the Com- mons, and only one among the Lords, I am rea- dy to hope, if that one be gained, (and unless he can you may all ‘sit still,) the business might be done without the trouble and expence’of a dele- gacy coming to London. But youmay say, who can gain him ? J'should imagine either the Arch- 144 ANNALS. OF 1790. bishop or the Bishop of Bangor the most likely to doit; or, at least, after “mal to inform you whether he is to be gained or not. If he is, it might not perhaps be, necessary for an applica- tion to be made again to the members of Parlia- ment individually, &c. which is a tedious and la- borious work. All this I write on supposition that there is no opposition stirred up on fresh grounds, of which you will get intelligence if there should be any thing of the kind on foot. « T am glad you have “heard from my friend ‘and kinsman, Mr Stevens, who knows the trim of the times as well as any man. He has cer- tainly had conversation with the Archbishop on the subject, and therefore | do not think it im- probable his Grace may have chosen to _com- municate through him any advice he may haye — thought useful upon the occasion, —and a better adviser you cannot have. «© As to the point of law, how you should pro- ceed, or whom you should send, &c. you must be yourselves the best judges. Believe me,” &c. ** GEORGE Horne.” 1790.] The first act of the Comme: with the approbation of their respected co-adjutors above named, to transmit letters to the Lord Chancellor, and to the Attorney and Solicitors General, apologizing for any impropriety or ne- glect which might have happened in the mode of application last year, and requesting the power- 1790. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 145 ‘fal support of these great officers of the Crown, in carrying the repealing Bill through the pre- sent Session of Parliament. These letters being despatched early in January 1790, the manner in which they were delivered, and the reception which they met with, will appear by the follow- ing extract of a letter to Bishop Skinner, dated London, January the 28th. “ Your Committee agreed, that instead of de- livering'your general letters in person, they should _ be sent, accompanied by a card, to each of the great men, that they might have an opportunity — of considering the contents, and of conferring together. I have since endeavoured to see the Attorney-General, but in vain, as he is indispos- ed. . I had a short conversation, however, with the Solicitor yesterday, and he said he had not seen the Chancellor, (who, Mknow, has been con- fined for ten days ;) that he himself was a warm friend to the Clergy, and particularly to those of the Episcopal Church ; but he feared that, on ac- count of the Dissenters, we had come at a bad time. He, however, declined giving any opinion as to the part he meant to take, until he had seen the Lord Advocate’s letter, and conferred with the Attorney-General: Thus at present the mat- ter stands as to them; but I am happy to give you better accounts from Dr Gaskin, who, by the hurry of business, is himself prevented from writ- ing for a few days. ; K 146 ANNALS OF . 1790. «© The good Doctor waited.on the Bishop of Bangor, who received him with much kindness, and. confessed himself friendly to your cause. He cheerfully undertook to deliver, in person, your general letter to the Chancellor, and said, that he would, from time to time, communicate with Dr Gaskin, upon the steps most proper to be taken. But he was most decidedly of opin- ion, that your business must be postponed to that of the Dissenters ; as he is satisfied, thatone main ground of your former miscarriage Was, that the nature of your demand, and the deserip- tion of persons you were of, were not fully un- derstood. | awe «© His Lordship has also promised to consider the point, whether the Bill should be introduced in the Upper or Lower house, and to let us know. And, as he has been so good as to intro- duce our cause to® the Chancellor’s notice, I think we should be determined by his opinion. Ofthe same mind with the Bishop of Bangor, as to time, is the Bishop of Salisbury ; with whom Dr Gaskin has also done you much service.” ee ew Early in the year 1790, Lord Gardenston, at that time one of the Judges of the Court of Ses- sion in Scotland, wrote the following laconic but interesting letter to the Lord Chancellor, in fa- vour of the Scottish Episcopal Clergy ; and that, as far.as is known to the Annalist, of his own ac- cord, without the solicitation of any ones - 1799. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY: 147 * LETTER XVIII. LORD GARDENSTON TO LORD THURLOW: Edinburgh, January 20, 1790. «© My Lord Chancellor, “« As one of the Judges in Scotland, and as I had an occasion of being acquainted with you when at London, many years ago, in the great Douglas’ cause, I take the liberty (I am sure with a good intention, and I hope without im- _propriety,) to offer, for your Lordship’s conside- ration, my humble testimony in favour of the | Episcopal Clergy in this country. _. “ Though bred a Presbyterian, I have ever revered the order and decency of the Episcopal Church. In doctrine they are soundly Protes- tant. ‘Their principles in regard to Government are now reformed, and not less loyal than ours. Lam so much convinced that this measure will be a public good, that I have resolved to endow and establish, at my private éxpence, an Episco- pal Chapel in my village of Laurencekirk, now in a remarkably flourishing progress. ** I flatter myself your Lordship will receive this address with indulgence ; and I have the ho- nour to be, &e. fe _ * Francis Garpen.” 148 ANNALS OF 1790. Bishop Skinner was informed, by letters from London, of date the 3d of February, that the Attorney-General entered very fully into the sub- ject of the Bill of Repeal, proving himself tobe _ well versed in the history of the Scotch Episco- pal Church, and the points upon which its spirit- ual authority depended. In the learned Gentle- man’s opinion, the blunder committed last year had no connection with Parliamentary etiquette ; but as the Scottish Episcopalians came, confess- ing themselves delinquents, and that they were’ willing to renounce, and had renounced their er- rors, the matter should have been first debated in the Cabinet ; that the ostensible servants of* Government, as a body, and not individually,” might have been satisfied that their professions © were sincere. Instead of which, the first officer’ of the Crown was not consulted, but the Bill of Relief was introduced as a private matter. The Attorney-General was much pleased that” thé Chancellor had been written to by Lord Gardenston ; and also that the Bishop of Bangor™ had undertaken to introduce the Committee's” letter and cause to the Chancellor’s notice. And he was quite sure, that when the Bill was under-— stood, there would not bea man to oppose the . prayer of the petition, it was so very reasonable and just. For his part, he was a warm and zeal. ous friend to it, and would do every thing in his” power to assist. He was also convinced, that no more could be required of the Episcopal Clergy & _ 1790. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 149 t . in Scotland, than to swear allegiance for the time _ to come, without any retrospect whatever. «‘ It is universally agreed,” added Bishop Skinner’s correspondent, “ that the business must be postponed to the Dissenters Bill; for even the Bishop of St David’s, (Bishop Horsley) who is a warm friend to the cause, told Dr Gaskin the other day, that ‘ your Bill must not be received * until that is disposed of.’ Indeed it is not to be expected that the Church of England will go to the field to assist an ally, when she herself is at- tacked in her own fortress. About this time, it appears, that Bishop Aber- nethy Drummond, having had an interview with the Lord Advocate, found him of the same mind with the Attorney-General. He wished that the Bill of Repeal should not be pushed during this Session, lest, by stirring up the opposition of the Dissenters, the success of it might be endanger- ed for ever; adding, moreover, as a reason for delaying it another year, that the last session of a Parliament was always timid, the first of a new one as constantly bold and confident. Bishop Skinner finding matters in this criti- cal situation, and anxious to have the opinions of the other members of the Committee, thought it necessary to call a meeting of them, and, as Pre- ses and Convener, appointed the same to be hold- en at Perth on the 24th day of February. Be- fore the meeting, however, took place, he re- ceived a letter from Dr Gaskin, mentioning very - 150 ANNALS OF 1790. - fully his late correspondence with the Bishop of Bangor, and giving the following additional in- formation. « Last Thursday I was again with the Bishop, when he told me that he had delivered your let- ter to the Chancellor, who did not seem to un. derstand the matter,. but that he (the Bishop) meant to confer with him again, The Chancel- lor mentioned to the Bishop his having receive aletter from Lord Gardenston. The Bishop | de- sired to see again your printed case, which, though perhaps in his possession, he could not find. Fortunately, I was in possession of a copy, ‘which I told his Lordship I would send to him next day ; ; when I sent it, I wrote to him that we had it in contemplation to reprint the sheet, and that if his Lordship would be so good as sigpea, bond alteration, it would be attended to. « This morning it was returned to me uy? ‘the | Bishop, with a letter, in which is the following ‘clause :—‘ I have returned the’ case of the Epis- ¢ copal Clergy in Scotland, and after perusing ‘it ¢ with care and attention, I am of opinion that it ‘ ought to be reprinted as it now stands, and this © should be done without any farther delay.’ Fe Accordingly, it is gone to press, and a con- siderable impression will be struck off, which, at a proper time, we shall cause to be conveyed i in- to proper hands. The Dissenters application for the Test Repeal coming on in the same Session is an awkward thing ; for though there is no man- —— 1790. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. | 151 ner of similitude in the two cases, there are many persons, both in and out of Parliament, who will not give themselves even a little trouble to ex- amine the difference. This made the Attorney- General start the idea of postponing it, till next year, but it will be best to follow the advice of the Bishop of Bangor and the Chancellor, if the Jatter can be had. .On the whole, your little Committee think that things augur well.” _ _ On the 24th of February, in consequence of the appointment of their Chairman, the great Committee met at Perth. Members present, Bishop Skinner, the Reverend Messrs Allan, Gleig, and Aitkin, (appointed Secretary,) John Stirling of Kippendavie, and John Niven of Peebles, Esquires. Bishop Strachan and Mr Patullo sending valid excuses, yet cordially ap- proving of the resolutions formed, of which the following statement is extracted from the mi- nutes. *« The Preses gave the Committee a detail of an extensive correspondence which he had held on the subject of the proposed act of Repeal, par- ticularly with Dr George Gaskin, James Allan Park, and William Stevens, Esquires, all of the, City of London. The Committee having con- sidered that correspondence, and heard each others sentiments on the present state of the affairs of this Church, were unanimously of opin- ion, that an application should be made in the present Session of Parliament, for obtaining re- 152 ANNALS OF © 0% 1790, dress of the grievances complained of; and that. as the Session may soon be at an end, and much — influence may be necessary for ensuring success, it was resolved that the application should be, made without delay, and the assistance of such, persons or bodies requested, as were most likely ) > to promote the business. _— [uk Sia ‘‘ With that view, the Committee’ resolved to, draw up and transmit to each of the Universities _ of Oxford and Cambridge, a letter soliciting their » support, together with a copy of the case which: had been printed for the information of the mem- . bers of both houses of Parliament, that they might - . see the state of the Church, and the nature of, the relief of which she stood so much in need. _ Agreeably to this resolution, letters both in English and in Latin were written and sub-. scribed by all the members present, and trans- mitted to the Reverend Dr, Horne, then Dean of Canterbury, and President of Magdalene Col- . lege, for the University of Oxford, and to the. Reverend Dr Farmer, for the University of Cam- ( bridge. SRY whe, «“ The Committee further considering that Dr. _ Gaskin, Messrs Stevens and Park, had exerted themselves with much zeal on behalf of this » Church, and had. generously offered to meet at. stated times in London, as a Committee of cor-., respondence with the Scottish Committee, for. carrying on the intended application to Parlia- ment, resolved that the thanks of the Committee 1790.. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 153 be given to those worthy Gentlemen, and that they be authorised to meet and act as before mentioned.” A letter to this effect was im- mediately written and subscribed ; while it was resolved, ‘that on account of the great distance from each other, at which the members of the Committee lived, the Preses and Secretary should’ be empowered, and were empowered accordingly, to correspond in their name with the London Committee, and to take such steps for bringing the proposed repeal to an issue, as might con- duce to the'general interests of religion in. this part of the united kingdom, and be consistent with the constitution and dignity of the Bipaac es Be Church in Scotland.” On his return from the meeting at Perth, Bish- op Skinner received a letter, informing him that the Archbishop having been waited on at his own request, and having had explained to him every thing that had been done since the Scottish “Bishops had been at Lambeth, his Grace was not only very much satisfied with the steps that had been taken, but hoped and trusted that the Bill would now succeed, being in a very proper train. “The Archbishop,” coneludes the letter, “ sees. no necessity for any of your brethren taking a journey to London, as detention in town might be tedious and expensive; at the same time, he is of opinion that the Bill ought to be brought forward this Session of Parliament, not only on ’ 154 ANNALS OF 9005). 1790. account of the poor Clergy who are injured by the delay, but for the sake of those people who at present go to no Church at all, and whose morals are consequently injured. Lam sure that this opinion must give you, as it gave me, very great pleasure. ro? Ae Reis About a fortnight ago, a letter arrived from Dr Gaskin, dated March the 6th; informing Bishop Skinner that a meeting of the little Sub-commit- tee had just been held, and that they had been honoured with a visit from Sir William Dolben, one of the members for the University of Oxford, who assures us of his disposition to render you all the service in his power. The letter from Perth (continues the good Doctor,) eame to hand, and in the name of my two colleagues, as well as in my own name, I am authorised to assure you, and do assure you, of the alacrity with which we are all engaged in the cause of the Scottish Epis- copal Church, and of the hope which we enter-_ tain, that, through the divine blessing, our efforts will not be in vain. No explicit reply has yet been had from the Chancellor, but from circum- stances we are led to conclude that he will not stand out in opposition to your most reasonable requests. If we cannot get Sir Archibald Mac- donald to introduce the Bill, nor any other Jaw- yer, we have reason to believe that Sir William Dolben will do it; but it is Sir William’s opinion, that the introduction would more fitly come from a professional man. ot hae ——————————————e OSee : 1790. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 155 ") * We are of opinion that it will not be advisa- ble just now to trouble the English Universities, and therefore Mr Stevens has written to Dean Horne, as I have to Dr. Farmer, requesting them to suspend the communication of their papers, until they hear from us again on the subject. Since receipt of your letter, I haye not had an opportunity of seeing the Bishop of Bangor, as he is gone to Bath, whence, however, he will return in the course of a few days. - Inthe Bill a clause will certainly be intro- duced against receiving your letters of orders Jas qualifications for English preferment ; but it _ ‘will be such a clause as shall cast no more slur . upon the spirituality of your character than the elause in the American Episcopal Bill does upon the spiritual character of the American Bishops.” ‘Immediately on receipt of this intelligence, Bishop Skinner communicated it to the other members of the Committee; and being of opi- nion that no time was to be lost in adverting to the proposal mentioned in the above paragraph, ‘he drew up a representation on behalf of the Committee, setting forth, that “ having taken into their serious consideration a proposal for in- serting a clause in the Repealing Bill, whereby no letters of orders granted by the Scottish Bi- shops shall be admitted as qualifications for pre- ferment in the Church of England, and being apprehensive that such a clause, if expressed in general terms, without any reference to the ex- 4 156 ANNALS OF ? 1790. pediency of it, or any discretionary power left to. the proper judges of that expediency, mighteven- tually prove-very hurtful to the cause of Episco- pacy in Scotland, they thought it their duty to suggest, with all becoming deference to the. judgment of others, what appeared to them the probable consequences of it, and to propose the. following clause as sufficiently answering the end which the proposers of the clause had in view, _ and at the same time preserving such strict can- dour and equity towards the Scottish Episcopal Church as implied not the least doubt of the va- lidity of its orders ;— : « And be it enacted, by the authority afore- © said, that no Pastor or Minister of the Episco-> ‘pal Communion in that part of Great Britain » - € called Scotland, although ordained by a Protes-. ‘tant Bishop, and according to the form of or- ¢ dination of Deacons and Priests in the Church . ‘ of England, as required by law, shall be there-» ‘by entitled to induction into any benefice . ‘within that realm, unless it shall appear expe-. ¢ dient to the Bishop of the diocese within which ‘ such benefice lies: Nor shall a presentation. to, . ‘ any benefice, or a call or invitation from any., . ‘ Congregation in Scotland, to be its pastor, be . ‘ deemed a legal title for qualifying any person , © to receive letters of orders from an English Bi- . ‘shop. Provided always, that nothing. herein _ ‘enacted shall disqualify any Pastor or Minister * 1790. - —s SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 157 * ordained as aforesaid, from being a Chaplain in “his Majesty’s army or navy.’ The representation, of which the above is the substance, was signed by the Preses and Secreta- ry, and transmitted to Dr Gaskin on the 18th March 1790, with a request that he would take the most proper method of communicating the contents, and of enforcing the purpose of it. Dr Gaskin’s reply, dated March 26, is as follows :— LETTER XIX. DR GASKIN TO BISHOP SKINNER. “ “On the day of receiving your favour of the 18th inst. I wrote a letter to Bishop A. Drum- mond, in reply to one I had received from him ; and because I could not then write also to you, I requested him to acknowledge. for me receipt of yours, enclosing the representation signed by yourself and Mr Aitkin. « It happened that I had an immediate oppor- tunity of shewing your letter and representation — to the Bishop of St Davids, of whom you may be. assured, thathe is your hearty well- wisher, and that he has precisely the same views of your spiritual character, as Bishops of the One Catholic Church of Christ, as you have yourselves, and will not . only rejoice to'see the penal statutes removed, — — 158 ANNALS OF fyo50 1790. a but will also use his best endeavours to remove: 4 them. I requested his Lordship: to t xe a pers home with him, and favour ‘me. with» his 9 judgment of the clause framed by you, and of | . the reasons on which you had amps oe Lordship the day after sent for me to conier, a on the matter, and to dine with him. Iw ent for — these purposes yesterday, when the Bishop gave’ a me his full and undisguised opinion that: such a clause as you had framed was inadmissible, and 7 that if every Bishop on the English Bench would — give his consent to the introduction thereof, still . he was confident it would not pass the Houses of — Parliament. The King, his Lordship observed, _ j is, in a certain sense, the Head of the Church, — and without his permission our Bishops are not — to consecrate any Bishop, nor is any British stb- ject, obtaining the Episcopal character without — the King’s permission, so far to be acknowledg-_ 4 ed x Bishop as that his Episcopal acts shall have — a civil effect in the Established Church of Eng- — 4 land. It does not follow, that because the same, ‘ regard is not paid to the letters of orders of a 4 Protestant Bishop m Scotland as to those of a Popish Bishop abroad, therefore the validity of — the former, in a spiritual or ecclesiastical sense, is in the least degree a doubtful point. Butthe — fact is, that considering the Regal Supremacy in — Britain, our Bishops think that they cannot in- troduce into their Church persons admitted to holy orders by a Bishop in Great Britain, to 4 1790. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. | 159 whose consecration, the King in virtue of his supremaccy, had not given his consent. é “There are Bishops of the Popish persuasion in England, and no doubt in Scotland, of whose ‘valid Episcopacy no more doubt is to be enters tained than of your Episcopacy, or of the Epis- copacy of the English Bench. But the letters of ‘orders of one of these Bishops would not have the same effect towards an English institution as ‘those of a foreign Popish Bishop; and, in this view you are supposed to stand in the same pre- dicament as do the Popish Bishops who are Bue tish subjects. ** By an act of the Legislature, alto go- ‘vernment in Scotland is done away, at least as far as the Legislative acts of man can do it away ; and since the passing of that act the King of ‘Great Britain has not given his permission, his congé, for the Consecration of any Scottish Bi- shop. The King of Great Britain, therefore, as King, knows nothing of. any such Bishops; and our Bishops must not be allowed to give a civil effect in the Church of England to their letters ‘of orders, Hence, the whole difficulty with re- ‘spect to introducing in the Bill such a clause as you have framed, arises from the peculiar nature of our Keclesiastical constitution. If, of their own ac- ‘cord, any three English Bishopswere to consecrate me, I shouldcertainly be vested with the real Epis- ‘copal character, and you would give.all the effect ‘in your power to my Episcopal acts; but the Eng- * 158 ANNALS OF T)502 1790. but will also use his best endeavours to rémiove them. I requested his Lordship to take the pa- pers home with him, and favour me with his judgment of the clause framed by you, and of the reasons on which you had framed it. His Lordship the day after sent for me to confer, up- on the matter, and to dine with him. I went for these purposes yesterday, when the Bishop gave ie his full and undisguised opinion! that such » clause as you had framed was inadmissible, and that if every Bishop on the English Bench would give his consent to the introduction thereof, still . he was confident it would not pass the Houses of Parliament. ‘The King, his Lordship observed, is, in a certaim sense, the Head of the: Church, and without his permission our Bishops are not to consecrate any Bishop, nor is any British sub- ject, obtaining the Episcopal character without the King’s permission, so far to be acknowledg- ed a Bishop as that his Episcopal acts shall have a civil effect in the Established Chureh of Eng- land. It does not follow, that because the same regard is not paid to the letters of orders of a Protestant Bishop m Scotland as to those of a Popish Bishop abroad, therefore the validity of the former, in a spiritual or ecclesiastical sense, ig in the least degree a doubtful point. But the. fact is, that considering the Regal Supremacy in Britain, our Bishops think that they cannot in- troduce into: their Church persons admitted to holy orders by a Bishop in Great Britain, to F 1790. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 159 whose consecration, the King in virtue of his supremaccy, had not given his consent. «There are Bishops of the Popish persuasion in England, and no doubt in Scotland, of whose valid Episcopacy no more doubt is to be enter- tained than of your Episcopacy, or of the Epis- copacy of the English Bench. But the letters of orders oi one of these Bishops would not have the same effect towards an English institution as those of a foreign Popish Bishop; and, in this view you are supposed to stand in the same pre- dicament as do the Popish Bishops who are Bri- tish subjects. *¢ By an act of the Legislature, bla go- ‘vernment in Scotland is done away, at least as far as the Legislative acts of man can do it away ; and since the passing of that act the King of Great Britain has not given his permission, his congé, for the Consecration of any Scottish Bi- shop. The King of Great Britain, therefore, as King, knows nothing of. any such Bishops; and our Bishops must not be allowed to give a civil effect in the Church of England to their letters of orders. Hence, the whole difficulty with re- spect to introducing in the Bill such a clause as you have framed, arises from the peculiar nature of our Ecclesiastical constitution. If, of their own ac- cord, any three English Bishopswere to consecrate me, I shouldcertainly be vested with the real Epis- ‘copal character, and you would giveall the effect “in your power to my Episcopal acts; but the Eng- \ 162 ANNALS OF 1790. doing all in my power to obtain as complete and effectual a redress of their grievances,»as their peculiar circumstances will admitso¥-——-.¢ “AR « T see the force and propriety of that traimof reasoning which you have so correctly detailed from the conference you had the honour to. hold with the venerable Bishop Horsley, on the:subject of my last letter and representation. Iam well — convinced that his Lordship’s views of the pure Episcopal character, are as just and accurate as his friendship to our cause has been hearty. and uniform, ever since he was made acquainted with. it. A mind bold and discerning like his Lord- ship’s, can easily distinguish between those spirit-. - ual powers, which a valid Episcopacy necessarily, implies, and that civil effect to ‘these powers, which a temporal establishment only can grant. But, alas! the bulk of mankind are so poorly en- dowed with this discriminating faculty, that they: will not be able to perceive the distinction; so that where the civil effect is peremptorily re~ fased, they will be apt to suspect that the spirit-. ual power is at least tacitly denied. : > 'g bash << Tt is this unhappy tendency, which the world daily exhibits, to confound things in their real natures perfectly distinct, that alarms our fears on the present occasion, and makes us entertain such apprehensions from the proposed clause in_ our Repealing Bill absolutely incapacitating Us — from officiating in the Church of Englands » ~ tae « The great difficulty in attempting to Temove » 1790. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 163 the cause of these apprehensions arises, as you justly observe, from the peculiar nature of your Ecclesiastical constitution. But as that consti- tution is already so well defined, and firmly estab- lished by statutes well known to all concerned, might it not have been expected that no new act, or clause of an act, would have been necessary to explain or ratify what has been long sufficiently understood, and duly observed by those whose business is to provide ‘ ne quid detrimenti Eccle- * sia capiat.’ Had this matter been permitted to Temain sub silentio, as was happily intended by the last year’s Bill, in our favour, we should have been perfectly easy under the supposed incapa- city of our. Clergy to hold livings in the Church of England, because our adversaries would have had no new handle against us; and it was on this footing that the Archbishop himself, as we were told, wished the matter to rest, fully satisfied that the Legislature had provided sufficiently already against any encroachments on the rights and privileges of the Church of England, and desirous of casting no slur on our orders as to their spi- ritual effect in Scotland; though unrecognised by the law of the land, these orders could have no civil effect in England. Happy had it been for us, and for the cause of Scottish Episcopacy, if his Grace’s opinion had prevailed ; as in that case " no suspicions could have been entertained of the English Bishops being unfavourable to the spirit- ual -powers of the Scottish Episcopal Church. ae 164 ANNALS OF ~~ 1790. And had any Scottish ordained Clergyman been ~ so ambitious as to aspire after a presentation ‘to a living or cure of souls in England, the Bishop in whose, diocese the living or cure was situated, might very properly have said, ‘ I makeno doubt ‘ of the spiritual authority of the Scottish Bish- ¢ ops in their own Church, but asthe law neither — ‘ of England nor of Scotland recognizes any such ‘ Bishops, their orders cannot be sustained as legal ‘ qualifications for institution here, nor have any ‘ civil effect within the Church of England.» ” « Such an answer would have settled the busi- ness immediately, and would have prevented any further attempts of a like kind. Weare far from thinking it unreasonable that the patrimony of the Church of England should be effectually se- cured to her own sons. We beg leave only to request of her venerable fathers that this security may be preserved in such a form as throws not even a shadow of doubt on the validity of our or- ders, nor interposes any legal obstacle to com- munion in things spiritual, between the two churches. ke ages. “¢ We are well convinced that those worthy Prelates whom you have consulted on this tender - subject, have paid the most friendly attention to it ; as a proof of which, I am happy in acknow- ledging the favourable addition which has been suggested to the clause, of which you send mea copy. Yet the candid and equitable design of that addition might be evaded, (and. often I fear, 1790. = —Ss- SCOTTISH EPISCOPAcY. 165 would be evaded,) by our candidates for English orders procuring a title from some of the Clergy in the northern dioceses of England, and by their being ordained within such dioceses upon this legal title. To procure this title, and afterwards to quit the cure on which it was founded, for a Chapel in Scotland, might in certain cases be at-- tended with trouble. But it is a sort of trouble which an enterprising young man would cheer- fully undergo, rather than accept of such orders -as malice working upon ignorance might repre- sent as of no validity. To prevent such abuses, ‘therefore, equally hurtful to the cause of Episco- -pacy in both parts of the kingdom, would be an jobject worthy of the piety, prudence, and good sense of the English hierarchy ; and to their su- -perior judgment and penetration, must we refer the determination of this weighty and important ‘matter. It has been suggested to me, that a di- rect application to some of their Lordships, par- ticularly to the Bishops of Bangor and St Davids, might be of great use. _ But, for my own part, I think it more prudent to commit the manage- -ment of the business to you, and our other zea- lous friends. This letter, if you think proper, ~ smay be shewn to such of the Bishops as shall honour you with a conference on the subject, or perhaps greater justice may be done to the con- .tents of it by using your own arguments, if not by putting mine in a proper dress. In a word, having already intrusted the whole of this busi- 166 ANNALS OF — * 1790. } x ness, (which, however simple in itself, seems now to be entangled in consequential difficulties, ) to the care of our London Committee, on whose zeal and activity we have the utmost reason to rely, I have only, in the name of all concerned, to entreat that you will do with us and for us _ the best that is in your power, and not allow our | troublesome animadversions to abate your assi- -duity in our behalf, or interrupt the progress of the main design, ‘ A repeal of the penal laws.’ “« This is the principal object of our present solicitude, and, after the assurances of support which you have received, and the hopes which, in consequence of these assurances, you so kind- ly cherish, we cannot but flatter ourselves that the present Parliament will do something for us. - A second disappointment would undoubtedly — make people suspect that there is still some ground for Government to be dissatisfied with us; and such a’suspicion, if we have enemies, (as who, or where are they that have. not ?) would certain- ly give them a great advantage against us. With © respect to the new clause in our Bill, which doubtless has excited fears of future harm, we have lifted up our voice against it, ina modest, and, I trust, inoffensive manner. If we cannot be heard, there is no help; we must here submit to the will of our earthly superiors, and confide . the care of the Church, and every faithful por- tion of it, to its Almighty Head, our Heavenly rae 1790. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY 167 ‘ make all things work together for good to them ‘ who’ sincerely ‘love’ and seek. to please him. In-name of all concerned, I have the honour to be,” &c. } Sovereign, in ‘humble expéctation that he will Before this letter could have reached Dr Gas. kin, Bishop Skinner received LETTER XXI.° DR GASKIN TO BISHOP SKINNER. ‘¢ Anxious to communicate to you all the in- formation respecting the concerns of your Church in my power, I embrace the earliest opportunity of writing to inform you, that I have this morn- ‘img (April the 8th) had a long conference with the Bishop of Bangor, on the subject of your Bill. His Lordship, who, you may be assured, is your very hearty friend, sees your hierarchy in its true point of view, and is for having it as explicitly acknow- ledged as to its inherent spiritual power, as is that of the American Bishops. He even commissions ‘me to assure you of this; so that I do hope, after all, that we shall get every thing, excepting an allowance of your actual ministrations in the Church of England. The clause here enclosed was framed by his Lordship last year, and he in- tended to introduce it, in case the Bill had been 168 ANNALS OF Piéoe — UE @ suffered to go on. This is what he now recom: - mends; and if it be suffered to pass, there will evidently be a clear Parliamentary recognition of) your spiritual character, although your ministra-- tions are confined to the other side of the Tweed. If we can obtain this, it will be more than I ex- pected a few days ago. The ,Lotd: Advocate is: unfortunately gone to Bath, but he will return’ very soon. I shall, immediately on his return,) ; wait upon him again, and on the suggestion of his Grace of Canterbury, desire him, without de- lay, to go in person to the Lord Chancellor and Mr Pitt. After this, two of the Bishops have explicitly assured me, that they have no doubt of their being able to convince his Lordship of the fitness of granting our request. _.% The Bishop of Bangor does not think Par- - liament so near its dissolution as some people dos and if so, we may still have sufficient time for our purpose. God, we confidently trust, is with us ; therefore let us not be cast down, but humbly 4 hope all things will go well.” iy) eee sg: ‘ _ The clause ccmbaibeanl in the per as framed by the Bishop of Bangor, runs thus: ‘ Provided also, and be it hereby declared, that no person or persons, admitted to the order of deacon or of ~ priest, by any Bishop or Bishops soconsecrated, _ shall be thereby enabled to: exercise his or their respective office, or offices, within any of hisMa- jesty’s dominions, except Scotland aforesaid) in A - 1790. — SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 169 the manner herein before declared.” ‘The words being very little varied from a similar clause in the act passed anno 1'786,-by which certain per-: sons were permitted to be consecrated for the Episcopal Church in America, and which express- ly disqualifies all such Bishops, or the persons consecrated or ordained by them, from exercis-. ing their office within any part of his Majesty’s dominions. And the enactment may be further illustrated by what daily occurs in both the army and navy of Great Britain, when a man, though duly promoted to the rank of a General or of an Admiral, &c. is permitted, by the Commander m chief, or Board of Admiralty, to exercise the functions of his office in the East or West Indies, or in such and such foreign parts only. ~ Yet even a clause of this restrictive nature was not likely to meet with assent, as appeared by LETTER XXII. DR GASKIN TO BISHOP SKINNER. Fins] London, April 22, 1790. _ “ Lacknowledge receipt of your letter, dated April the 13th, and am truly sorry to inform you, that your suggestion respecting the Bishop of Bangor’s original clause was right. We have been obliged to abandon it; and what are the precise ‘terms in which the clause is now to be framed, I | ' ; 170 ) ANNALS OF 1790, do not certainly know, though I expect to hear in the course of this day or to-morrow. 9 << The Bishop of St David’s is still anxious for the introduction of his addition, depriving our Clergy of the power of holding any cure or chapel in Scotland. On this account he is desirous of being furnished with instances of persons being ordained by English Bishops, in order to: officiate in Scotland. The day before yesterday I wrote to Bishop Abernethy Drummond on the subject, and desired him to send his answer by return of » post. You may also be able to give us informa- tion of the same sort, and we request you will favour us with it without delay. fick is » Mr Jones of Nayland has been in town, and has had a Jong, interesting, and satisfactory con» ference with the Archbishop om the subject of your Bill; and Mr Stevens, having just left me, is gone where he will meet his Grace, so that the next letters you receive will, I trust, be brimful of good news, at least. they will contain impor- tant. information. You may be assured that we act in your business in perfect unison, and are all three equally zealous in pursuing the best means in our power, and in such a way as shall be most likely to secure the end. iyo “* May God give success to our labours, and grant to every part of his church the blessings of peace and prosperity.” peered, OF the same date with the foregoing, Bishop ie i 1790. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 171 Skinner received information that the Lord Ad- vocate for Scotland, having arrived in London on the evening of the 18th of April, had, the day after a conversation in the House of Lords, with Lord Chancellor Thurlow, on the Scottish Episcopal Bill, the result of which was, that the Chancellor would think of what had passed for a day or two, and let his Lordship know his sentiments. Two objections, it appeared, had arisen in Lord Thur- low’s mind ; the first was, that the Scottish Bish: ops derive their authority from the Pretender ; the second, that they were desirous of acquiring temporal ecclesiastical jurisdiction, by legislative sanction. The London Committee rejoiced to find these the only serious objections in this great man’s mind; because, say they, “ an instant of time will'now set him right ;” and then add, “we have written three letters,—to the Archbishop of Canterbury, to the Bishops of Bangor and St David's, stating the Chancellor’s objections, and requesting their immediate assistance, so that we trust a few days now will determine the event of this cause.” In reply to Dr Gaskin’s letter, intimating the Bishop of St David's desire to be furnished with instances of persons being actually ordained by English Bishops “in order to officiate in Scot- _ land,” Bishop Skinner writes as follows :— 172 . | ANNALS OF = 1790. ; +) a Vier LETTER XX, Pa | BISHOP. SKINNER TO DR GASKIN. | ; : aiieoad: Aberdeen, April 29, 1790. « I wish it were in my power to give such:ex- plicit information on this head as might lead to farther inquiry into the’ manifest. irregularity of that scheme which has been productive. of so TE ° ee much unhappy division among the Episcopalians in Scotland. rite) « That within the last forty or fifty years.a considerable number of candidates for. holy.or- ders have gone from this country, and obtained ‘ordination in England, with no, other view but 6) Noes & that of officiating in chapels im Scotland, is a fact well known in every corner of this coun- try. On what titles they were ordained, or whe- ther they produced a call or obligation for a cer- tain living from the Congregations which they — were to serve, it is impossible for me. to say. But the following instances consist with my, own knowledge, and have happened since I entered into the Church, (C0 Racor at “Inthe year 1763 I was collated by Bishop Gerard, then Bishop of this diocese, to the charge ‘of an Episcopal Congregation in the parish of Ellon. A year or two after I was settled, two gentlemen of the neighbourhood wished to have a qualified Clergyman set up in opposition to my oe 1790. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. __ 178 ministry. With this view they agreed with’a Mr Blake, then a Presbyterian schoolmaster, who proceeded to London, and was certainly ordained by the Archbishop of ‘Canterbury of that day *. “This Gentleman having found the encou- ragement inadequate in a country village, was speedily removed, by the intérest of some friends, to a small Chapel in Aberdeen, where he now resides ; and, if report speaks true, has shewn himself decidedly inimical to our Bill. Much about the same time a similar attempt was made ‘to oppose a brother Clergyman of mine in the parish of Lonmay in Aberdeenshire, by a Mr ‘Bruce, who also got orders purposely in Eng- land; but from what Bishop I cannot say. His renidedwinits: in the country proving also abortive, he left his situation there abruptly, and now of- ficiates in what is called the English Chapel of . Arbroath, in the county of Forfar. About the year 1770, a Mr Laing, in the little town of Pe- terhead, in the county of Aberdeen, was actual- ly ordained in Peterhead, where Bishop Kilgour, the Bishop of the diocese, had his‘pastoral charge, by Dr Trail, Bishop of Down and Connor in ‘Treland, then travelling for his amusement. And about six or seven years ago, a Mr Stephen was recommended by the Countess of Errol, and or- dained by the Archbishop of Canterbury to suc- * Dr Secker became Archbishop of Canterbury in April 1 ere and died in 1768.— Anzalist. 174 ANNALS OF 1790. ceed a Mr Mason, whom the Countess had brought from England on her marriage with the late Lord Errol. This gentleman now officiates in the parish of Cruden, Aberdeenshire, in a Chapel opposed to the Scottish Episcopal Cler- gyman*, Other instances there Ss are of persons being ordained in Engla pose of officiating ‘as Episcopal Clergymen in Scotland. I have particularised the above, be- cause they have occurred in my own time, and in that part of our Church with which | ammore immediately connected. When my colleague, Bishop A. Drummond, shall have furnished you with his list, I hope you will have it in your power to satisfy his Lordship of St Davids, that the additional clause which he has proposed may be productive of the happiest consequences to _ for the pur-- the cause of Episcopacy in this country. With - regard to the progress of our main business, though it is not very pleasant to lie under impu- tations which are owing entirely to ignorance, yet I feel myself somewhat relieved by hearing that the opposition of a certain great man is * It did not then occur to Bishop Skinner that Dr Moore, in ordaining Mr Stephen, required no title beyond that of domestic Chaplain to the Earl of Errol; while it is but do- ing justice to Mr Laing of Peterhead, as well as to Mr Stephen of Cruden, (although both are now in the silent grave,) to state that they both united themselves and flocks to the Scottish Episcopal Church, and entered with heart and hand. on promoting the general union of Episcopalians in Scotland, as will be shewn in the sequel.—Annalist. ee 4 1790. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 175 founded on objections which can be so very easily removed. The Scottish Bishops can all take God and a good conscience to witness, that their authority has no more connection with ‘the ‘Pretender,’ than has the authority of the Arch= _ bishop of Canterbury, or that of the Lord Chan« cellor /himself!: And as to their desiring any temporal jurisdiction in their Ecclesiastical ca- pacity, it is what you know they have repeatedly and, solemnly disclaimed in every stage of the business now in agitation. Bishop Abernethy Drummond. having, about. this period, been requested, by a gentleman be- longing to the established Church of Scotland, to consecrate a burying-ground on his property ; and having sent the Bishop of Carlisle, Dr Dous. _ glas, a copy of the form of ,Consecration which he made use of, received from his Lordship the following answer :— LETTER XXIV. THE BISHOP OF CARLISLE TO BISHOP ABERNETHY DRUMMOND. *“ I was favoured with yours of the 14th, en« closing your very excellent form of consecrate ing a burying-ground. ““ Were it known among usin this part of the 176. ANNALS OF *. © 1790. island, how liberally the Scottish Presbyterians think about their own Episcopalians, your Bill would meet with fewer obstructions. == - T put lately into the hands of the Archbishop of Canterbury, a letter from Dr Campbell of Aberdeen, in which he laments to me the fate of your last year’s application, and bears the strong- est testimony, that the granting the indulgence ; you have petitioned for, will, so farfrom giving offence, be highly agreeable to those of the esta- blishment in Scotland. You will understand from your agents here what are the Chancellor’s objections to your Bill. _Endeavours, I make no doubt, will be used by the Archbishop, and others of our Bench, to rectify his misapprehensions, and I heartily wish those endeavours may be ef- fectual.”’ ro prebNbs. ‘ yO) Mme: On receiving the information contained in this letter, Dr Campbell’s good offices having ‘been purely voluntary, and therefore the more grati- a ee —, —— } * : —_— —_——- fying, Bishop Skinner waited on him, and, in name of the whole Bishops and Clergy of the Scottish Episcopal Church, gave the Doctor most hearty thanks for the friendly part which he had acted, in conveying to the Bishop of Carlisle such>a favourable testimony in their behalf. But the testimony of friends was, at the time, of no avail. A letter from Dr Gaskin arrived, the commencement of which augured what the sequel : would be. — 4a? 1790. SCOTTISH .EPISCOPACY, 177 LETTER XXV. , ; : - % DR GASKIN TO BISHOP SKINNER. “ Tt is with most painful reluctance that I sit - down to communicate to you, as from your Lon- don Committee, the contents of aletter from the Lord Advocate to Mr Park. I will transcribe the whole of it, and afterwards subjoin some ob- ‘servations. oe Di 4 Sackville Street, April 30, 1790. -* Dear Sir,. iy * I am to blame in having been so long in an- swering. your letters. But I wished to see the Attorney-General, with whom I have at last met, and conversed on the subject. _ “With every wish to forward the cause of your clients, if I may so term them, we both at last concurred in the inexpediency of urging the re- ‘peal this Session ; and, I am satisfied, on good grounds. It is impossible for me to go-again to the Chancellor, even supposing my ideas to have ‘been different from those I have just now stated, unless his Lordship was to send for me, and hint ‘ata desire of being farther informed on the bu- siness. - “I beg therefore that you would communicate to Dr Gaskin, and the other gentlemen concern- ed in London, that they may intimate to their M , 178 ANNALS OF - : 1790. » friends in Scotland, the inexpediency, as well as the impossibility, of bringing their case at present &c. “ To Mr Park.” “You will, I presume, with us, consider this as a final damper to all our hopes and expecta- tions this Session ; and Iam persuaded you would ~ counsel us to say, ‘ God’s will be done.’ One consolation, which at present we experience, is, that every step which seemed likely to promote the accomplishment of our wishes, has been ‘in- dustriously pursued, and nothing, I am persuad- ed, has been done to injure you. Another con- . solation is, that at this instant you stand on bet- ter ground than at any former period. Nothing has occurred which can induce you to entertain 4 doubt of success with the new Parliament ; and very many particulars conspire, all encouraging us to renew our application next winter, with under the consideration of Parliament. I am, — « R. Dunpas.” . cheerful confidence that it will not berenewed in vain. \ hee hire ‘*‘ Your church is now better known on this side the Tweed than it has been for many years past.. The spiritual character of yourself, and your worthy colleagues, is most explicitly recog- nised by the Prelates of our Bench; and Iam persuaded: they are most willingly ready to lend their helping hand towards the accomplishment J 1790. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 179 of your wishes. The business, however, they all agree, must be considered as a State measure, and without the Great Officers of State, nothing can be done. Of their concurrence next Session no doubt is to be entertained; and the Lord Advo- cate himself assured me, that he would then be ‘in Parliament, and would think it his duty to bring forward your Bill. ** On such considerations as these, in addition to the justice of your cause, and the firm belief that ‘ God is with us,’ we are not in the least dis- pirited, although for the present we are disap- pointed. - “ T hope no material injury from the delay will befal any part of your community, but that the _ same gracious Providence, which, during the pe- | riod of along and gloomy winter, has kindly watched over the shepherds and your sheepfold, will continue to you protection from without and grace from within. I need not at this time add more than that, if it please God to coutinue life and health to Mr Park,-Mr Stevens, and myself, until the time of renewing the business come’ round again, we shall be most cheerfully ready to be employed in whatever way the Committee of Delegates of the Scotch Episcopal Church shall judge fit. i Patty “I must trouble you to communicate the sub- stance of this letter, with our respectful compli- ments to the rest of the Committee of Delegates; uM 2 | 180 “ANNALS OF - ' 1790. and be assured that I am, with inviolable attach- “ment to your cause and to yourself, yours,” &e. London, May 3. 1790. - ; ‘ / : In addition, to the information and friendly suggestions conveyed in the above letter, the _very next post brought Bishop Skinner a short note from Dr Gaskin, in these words :— “© This moment the enclosed reached me. It _ will give you some comfort, and therefore I put you to the expence of postage. Communicate its contents to your brethren. “ The Bishop of St David's has at last spoken to the Chancellor, but he found him so extreme- ly uninformed upon the business, that he ‘says it will take him too much time to make him under- stand it, to give us any reasonable hope of suc- cess this Session. The Bishop says, that the Chancellor expressed a desire to hear him further upon the matter in private, but begged he would - defer the interview till the Spanish business is a little blown over. 1, ie gueak art « The Bishop designs to breakfast with the Chancellor on Saturday the.15th instant, when he will enter fully into the subject, and he thinks he shall be able so thoroughly to possess him with the merits of the cause, as to enable us to begin early in the ensuing Session. And, indeed, when I consider the ability of our advocate, and the 1790. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. : 181 anxious Zeal which he has displayed in the cause of Scottish Episcopacy, we have every thing to hope. The Bishop added, that he meant also, a day or two before he goes to the Chancellor, to have half an hour's conversation with Mr Park, . that he may be certain he is master of the subject. He desired me likewise to say from him, by way of comfort to our friends in Scotland, that there is no doubt of their ultimate success; that their cause, and their rights as a sacred body, are bet- ter understood in England than ever; and that . if the Bill is put off, it is not from a doubt of the propriety of their request, but to be imputed rather to the urgency of- public affairs, which had hitherto prevented the Chancellor from giv- ing their Bill that attention which it is necessary for him to do before it can pass into a law. “« This is most clearly my own opinion of the Scottish Episcopal Church, which I think, (and I know that you agree with me,) has already — greatly emerged, even without any Bill, from that obscurity in which it has been ‘involved, and from that oppression under which it has so long and so unjustly laboured. Were it nothing else, the countenance it has received from, and the zeal which has been displayed by, some of the most learned and distinguished Prelates of our Bench, entitle her already to hold up her head, as a very distinguished and venerable branch of the Church of Christ.” , 182 ‘ANNALS OF — 1790. As soon as possible after receiving the above friendly communications, Bishop Skinner ac- quainted the other Members of the Committee with their contents. All joined in regretting this unlucky delay in the business entrusted to their management.. At the same time they felt no . small " satisfattion in reflecting, that no part of their own conduct, or of the conduct of their highly valued friends, could be charged as the cause of this repeated disappointment. ‘On the 18th of August this year, the Diocesan Synod of Aberdeen having met, the Bishop laid before his Clergy an account of the several steps which had been taken during the last Session of Parliament for obtaining the relief so ardently desired ; when the Clergy unanimously approved ‘ofthe conduct of their Delegates, and thanked the Committee for their zeal and assiduity, recom- mending to them at the same time to solicit the aid of well disposed Noblemen and Gentlemen, particularly the support and countenance of the Right Honourable the Earl of Kellie,* of whose * Archibald Erskine, the seventh Earl of Kellie, who died in the 62d year of his.age, anno 1797. A nobleman, of whom, if a short Memoir of his life, it is justly:said, that — ‘* being himself a member of the Scottish Episcopal Church, © and having long regretted the restraints which were laid up- on her worship, it was chiefly owing to his unwearied exer- tions, that, in 1792, those restraints were removed by Act of Parliament.” See «A Short Account of Lord Kellie's Life and Opinions,” by Dr Gleig of Stirling. —— + e 1790. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 183 zeal in the cause of Scottish Episcopacy the Cler- gy of this Church could not but be highly sensi- ble. The Members of the Synod also ordered their Clerk to transmit an extract of their proceedings, signed by their Dean, to the Deans of the other Dioceses of the Church, to be by them laid be- fore their brethren of the priesthood, for their consideration and concurrence. In consequence of this resolution, the Church was unanimous in expressing the full confidence which it continued to have in the Committee of Delegates, cordially thanking them for past exertions, and requesting them to continue to use their best endeavours in forwarding the important trust to which they were appointed. ' In September 1790, Mr Park paid a visit to Scotland, and having spent some days in Aber- deen, Bishop Skinner had an opportunity of con- versing with him on the subject which had so long in a manner engrossed the Bishop’s whole thoughts. ‘The result was, the strongest assur- ance on the worthy Barrister’s part, that as soon as the new Parliament should be ready to enter on business, he, and his zealous fellow-agents, would renew their applications to those who had influence with people in power, and have the Bill introduced as early in the Session as possible. While in Edinburgh, Mr Park was introduced to Principal Robertson, who gave him full power and authority to use his name, (and his name will ever be had in honour, both in the Establish- 184 ANNALS OF 1790. ° ed Church of Scotland and out of its pale,) on every occasion where it was likely to promote the present views of his Episcopalian country- men; “ it being his decided opinion, that the Episcopalians in Scotland were well entitled to the relief they claim;—an opinion which he would, - if thought to have any weight, express to such | of the English Bishops as were known to him.” » Testimony of the same kind was also repeated to” Bishop Skinner, personally, by Dr Campbell of Aberdeen, a man of no less celebrity in the Scot- tish Establishment than the Historian of Charles the V. The Doctor, of set purpose, called on the Bishop, and wished to know, whether there was any thing farther for him to say to the Bishop of © Carlisle, which might satisfy his Lordship, and, through him, the bench of Bishops at large, that theavery suspicion of the measure of Repeal of the Penal Statutes proving offensive to the | Established Church of Scotland was wholly groundless. * i Yher eat ing ier The new Parliament met this year in themonth of November, to settle the business of the Spa- nish convention, which, with some other national concerns, occupied their whole attention until Christmas, when they adjourned to the beginning of February 1791. As Bishop Skinner, however, drew up with his own hand, and printed, “ A ~ Narrative of the Proceedings relating to a Bill (actually) passed into a law, and entitled, ‘ An «Act for granting relief to Pastors, Ministers, ao 1791. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 185 ‘and Lay-persons of the Episcopal Communion ‘in Scotland,’” the Annalist of Scottish Episco- pacy having already put the reader in full posses- sion of every objection to the measure which was started, as well as of the convincing arguments by which those objections were repelled, thinks _ himself in duty bound to confine his account of the future procedure of the Bill to the words of the printed Narrative, which at the time was pro- nounced, by all concerned, a most correct and faithful detail of every fact and circumstance interesting either 10 the Scottish Episcopalians or to the public at-large. 1791.] “ During the Christmas recess, it was suggested to our Committee, that it might be pro- per for them to address the English Bishops, and solicit their good offices in obtaining relief to the Episcopalians in Scotland. Letters were, there- fore, immediately written to the two Archbish- ops, and to all the other Prelates of the Church of England, requesting the honour of their Lord- ships powerful interest and support to the ap- plication which was meant to be renewed, and in whatever way they should think most con- ducive to its success. Among the answers which came to these letters, it was particularly men- tioned by Dr Douglas, the Bishop of Carlisle, ' that’ he had, some time last year, forwarded to the Archbishop of Canterbury, letters from Prin- cipal Robertson of Edinburgh, and Principal 186 ANNALS OF 1791. Campbell of Aberdeen, recommending, in the most liberal terms, the cause of the Scottish Episcopalians, whose relief they had reason to — think would be generally agreeable to the Church of Scotland. About the same time our friends in London informed us, that a conference had been obtained with the Lord Chancellor on the subject of our application, and a new Bill was to be framed in such terms as might be supposed to meet his Lordship’s ideas. But owing to repeated delays, arising from unforeseen causes, it was again too late in the Session before this Bill could be properly introduced into Parliament ; and from the accounts of their proceedings which were transmitted by the London Committee, it was abundantly evident, that nothing had been omitted on their part, which was likely to en- sure a favourable issue to the business entrusted to them. Every wise and prudent measure had been industriously pursued by these faithful — agents, who still promised a continuance of their services, as long as they should be necessary, or acceptable to those concerned. phi «¢ Depending on these friendly assurances, the Preses of the Scottish Committee renewed his solicitations for an early and vigorous attention to the relief of the Episcopalians in Scotland, as soon as the Parliament should meet in 1792. He also took occasion to mention to the London Committee, a proposal which had been suggested 1791. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 187 | by one of his colleagues *, of procuring from some of the Royal Boroughs petitions to Parlia- _ ment in favour of a Repeal of the Penal Laws, and exhibiting such a public mark of their approba- tion of this measure as might shew the expedien- cy of it in a very satisfactory light. It was also proposed that. application should be made to some of the Counties for the same purpose, espe-. cially to those in which the principles and con- duct of the Episcopal Clergy and their hearers were best known. The consequence was, that, in a few weeks, petitions were transmitted to both houses of Parliament from the Counties of Stirling, Forfar, Kincardine, Aberdeen, and Banff: rc and from the Boroughs of Forfar, Brechin, Ar- broath, Montrose, Inverbervie, Aberdeen, Banff, Forres, Nairn, and Dingwall, praying that such relief might be extended to those of.the Episcopal Communion in Scotland as should seem expedient to the wisdom of the British Le- gislature.. At the same time, the Lord Provost of Edinburgh very obligingly acquainted the public, that by the authority, and in the name of the Magistrates and Council, he had earnestly entreated the city’s representative, Mr Dundas, to give our Bill all the support and countenance in his power. Letters were written to the same purpose by the Freeholders of Moray, and the Magistrates and Council of the Boroughs of El- - © Bishop Macfarlane at Inverness. 198 ANNALS OF 1791. gin and Inverness, to their respective ‘represen- tatives in Parliament. ‘The petitions from the above mentioned Counties and Boroughs, intended. for the House of Lords, were transmitted to the Earl of Kellie, one of the Sixteen Peers for Scot- land, who was known to have exerted his in- fluence for some time past in: promoting the ob- * ject of these applications. PP A Ts) ph “Matters being thus prepared for introducing our Bill into Parliament with some probability of success, it was intimated as the opinion of our friends in London, that one of the Scottish Com- mittee ought to be there, to attend the progress of the Bill through both Houses; and application being made to Bishop Skinner fot that purpose, he iiceined a Delegation, signed by the other members of the Committee, empowering him to act in their names, and to take such nieastires as he might find expedient, and most likely to ob- _ tain the end in view. On his arrival in London, he was informed by our agents there of the steps which had been taken for bringing our Bill into ~ Parliament, and was particularly pleased to learn * -~—. ES ee Oe ie that Lord Grenville had promised to sup. port it. in the House of Lords, and to settle with Mr Secretary Dundas into which of the two Houses it should be first introduced. Finding things in this train, he was chiefly employed for two or three weeks in recommending the object of the Bill to the attention of some of the most distin- guished members in both Houses of Parliament. 1791. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 189 He took an early opportunity of paying his re- spects to the Archbishop of Canterbury, and was happy to find his Grace very friendly to the de- sign of the Bill. He felt the same satisfaction in conversing with some of the other Bishops, and particularly with the Bishop of St David’s, who had been at uncommon pains to make himself master of the subject, and of whatever related to the situation of the Scottish Episcopal Church. For some time past, his Lordship had been con- certing measures with the Earl of Kellie for bringing our business forward, and the favoura- ble reception it met with in the House of Peers ‘was chiefly owing to the good offices of these two noble Lords, who had been long and zealously endeavouring to set the matter in a true light, and to remove those prejudices and mistaken ap- prehensions, which some had entertained con- cerning it. : ** At last, on Monday the 2d of April, the Earl - of Kellie presented the several petitions from the Counties and Boroughs of Scotland above mentioned, and moved for leave to bring in a Bill agreeably to the prayer of these petitions. Two days after, the Bill was read a first time, without any appearance of opposition on the part of the - Chancellor, who only observed, that some altera- tions would be necessary. It was also ordered to be printed, and laid on the table at the meet- ing of the House after the Easter holidays, when the Lords would be summoned, and a day named 190 ANNALS OF ©. : 1791. for the second reading. During the recess, how- ever, Bishop Skinner learned, that the Lord Chancellor had been mentioning such difficulties about the Bill as were not likely to be easily re- moved, and the first day on which the House of Lords met, a conversation was held on the sub- ject, in the course of which the Chancellor went over all his former ground of opposition, and particularly insisted, that, without a clause re- — quiring the registration of orders, all sorts of people, even such as the Blacksmith of Gretna Greev, might assume the character of Episcopal — Ministers, and in that character, if once tolerated, might celebrate marriages, and do other irregular ' acts. To this the Bishop of St David's replied, that the Scottish Episcopal Clergy would very gladly register their orders, if the law would per- mit them; but the same act which required it, likewise declared it to be null and void; by which means these Clergy were precluded from the very possibility of qualifying themselves in ‘a legal manner, and so laid under a species of per- Se ee es secution, to which the mildness of the British — Government had never exposed any other class of its subjects. The Chancellor seemed also in- clined to say something disagreeable about what he called the connections-of our Clergy with the — Pretender, and had his doubts whether the Estab- lished Church of Scotland approved of our being put on an equal ee with the — Scottish Dissenters. 1791. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 191 On the first of these points the Bishop of St David’s desired Bishop Skinner to state in writ- — ing the fact as it really stood, with regard to some consecrations which had taken place in. our Church, soon after the death of the deprived Bishop of Edinburgh. And to remove all doubts about the other matter, he thought the best way would be, to apply for a repetition of the former assurances given by Principals Robertson and Campbell. Such application was no sooner made, than these assurances were renewed in the most - friendly manner, with the addition of a letter to the Bishop of Salisbury from Dr Gerard of Old Aberdeen, bearing the same liberal testimony to the good wishes of the Established Church in our favour. ‘* As to the other objection arising from the sup- position that the successors of the deprived Bish- ops not only held a correspondence with the ex- iled family, but even acknowledged a dependence on it in the exercise of their spiritual authority, and were invested with the Episcopal character in consequence of a recommendation from the Pretender,—our delegate found no difficulty in asserting that this was true only with respect to a very few of our Bishops at a very distant period, and that it could not be justly charged against the present Bishops, who never had any connec- tion with, or dependence on the exiled family, either in obtaining or exercising their spiritual 192 . ANNAES OF , 1791. ; functions *. The authority with which the invested is not derived from any source tl ’ in the least affect the safety of the State, or security of the Government under which they. is and they can so far comply with the oath of s premacy as to “ testify and declare, that no eign Prince, Prelate, State, or Potentate, hat th, ‘ought to have any jurisdiction, power, superiority, pre-eminence, or authority, ecclesiastical or spi- ritual, within this Realm.” ame area « To this declaration our delegate added, on the ss part of our Bishops, a solemn disavowal of any — pretensions to legal or temporal jurisdiction : ‘The authority of our Clergy, he affirmed to be entirely of a spiritual nature, such as is necessary to the preaching of God’s word, and the adminis- i in) hee can A tration of his sacraments, and which can neven ie : . he a8 ay ans >, * On the death of the Bishop of Edinburgh, who survived the other ejected Prelates till the year 1720, ‘it was proposed by a few ofthe Episcopal Clergy, that the same dependence should be acknowledged, and the same respect and submiss paid to the exiled family, in matters of Ecclesiastical concern, . which had been customary in the times of legal establish- — ment. And on this plan a few promotions soon after took — place, in consequence of recommendations from the exiled Prince. But it quickly appeared, that this scheme did not meet with the approbation of the Clergy in general, who con- sidered it not only as dangerous, but in every respect impro- per; and in a few years afterwards, all attempts to revive it were for the future prohibited by certain regulations, whick have ever since been regarded as the standard of die a the Scottish Episcopal Church. Baise ie A : ® epee st oe 1791. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 193 terfere with the civil rights of the establishment. * All,” said he, “* which we presume to request of the British Legislature, is a share of that tolera- tion, which others so freely enjoy, and the liber- _ ty of worshipping God, in conformity with. the religious principles of that Church to which we belong ; principles than which, corresponding as they do with those of the Church of England, none can be more favourable to his Majesty’s Government, or to the peace and happiness of society.”’ This was the view in which-Bishop Skinner en- - ‘deavoured to represent the principles of our ‘Church ; and he had the satisfzction to find that they were seen in this just and proper light by many distinguished characters in the Church of _ England.’ The Bishop of St. Davids was so well convinced of the propriety of granting us com- plete toleration, that he assured Lord Kellie, if it was judged advisable to push the second read- ing of our Bill at all events, he would come pre- pared to speak in its favour, and to combat all _the arguments which could possibly be urged against it. With regard to the clause which was proposed, requiring the registration of our Cler- gy’s orders, the Earl of Guildford observed, that, . upon the general principle of toleration, there did not seem to be any necessity for inquiring into the nature of our orders, more than those of other. dissenters; since it was of no conse- ' quence to the state what these orders were, or se 194 -. “you Stora @ 1791. whence derived, if our religion was friendly to Government, and.such as deservedito be tolerated. The Lords Kinnoul and Stormont: were both of the same opinion, and saw no necessity for re- quiring the registration of our Clergy’s orders, or that they should accept of such orders as could legally be registered. ‘This appeared. to them the more unreasonable, as no English or ' Trish Bishop could ordain a man, without what is called a title, and no such title could be ob- tained from Scotland. But to remove all objec- tions arising from the illegal nature of a Scottish — Episcopacy; it was thought that our Clergy might be described as “ dissenters from the Establish- 9 ed Church of Scotland, who ‘style: themselves Episcopal Clergy ;” and under that: description it was presumed. that no good reason could bevas- signed for denying us the same toleration which was enjoyed by all other Protestant dissenters in Scotland. P tr ol pear gaeaee FR Confiding, therefore, in the reasonableness of our requests, and: anxiously desirous that our cause might obtain a fair hearing; ‘Lord Kellie ee ; tec ll —— Se ed ioe moved the second reading of our Billtobeon — Wednesday, the second of May, and that) the Lords might be summoned for that purpose. ddd considerable number of the Peers attended the | house that day, and some had intended’ to-vote by proxy in support of the Bill. The Archbish- ops of Canterbury and York were both» present, as were also the Bishops of London, Durham, 1791. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 195 Salisbury, St. Davids, Oxford, Bangor, and Car- lisle: The Earl of Elgin moved the second read- ing of the Bill, and, in a short but very sensible - speech, stated the principle of it to the House, and the merits of those whom it was intended to relieve. His Lordship observed, that by the 10th of Queen Anne, the Pastors and Ministers of the: Episcopal Communion in Scotland were made liable to very severe penalties, on proof of _. having omitted to pray for the Queen, and for other instances of non-conformity. Additional penalties were imposed by the 5th of George I. and the 19th and 21st of George II., the design of all which was to check the disaffection ‘which ‘was known to prevail at that time among the _ Episcopalians inScotland. But this design, he was happy to say, was now sufficiently accomplished. ‘At present, and indeed for several years past, his Lordship said, the Episcopalians in Scotland had given proofs of their being as zealously attached to the Sovereign on the Throne, and his family, and as firm in their allegiance, as any other class of his Majesty’s subjects ; and therefore he could ‘not but hope that their Lordships would con- ‘sider them as justly entitled to the relief which the present Bill provided, ‘and which he would not have moved for, if he had not thought it a matter both of justice and expediency. The Lord ‘Chancellor then left the Woolsack, and began with declaring, that he would not ob- ject to the principle of this Bill, but he wished NQ 196 : pas oF” oe and thought it his duty to make some observa- tions on it. He then proceeded to take amex- tensive view of the subject, and entered intoa variety of reasoning, on the nature of a church oe establishment, and the general principles of toler- ation ; from which he inferred, that no Secbought = to be tolerated but those whose principles were~— q found to be such.as deserved, and might safely be indulged with toleration. _ Those, she said, who imagined that any church could become the established church of a country, merely by the _ 4 truth of its doctrines, or the force, of its argu+ 4 ments, were mistaken, and contradicted by all - history,, and all experience. Let the doctrines be ever so pure, and the arguments ever sOirre- fragable, they could not make her the-establish- ed church, unless she was: politically, reeognisec as such, and supported by the government of the . country. This support, consisted chiefly in pros | ‘viding plentiful and competent incomes for her pastors; and the distinction he now alluded to — was clearly visible in the case of Seotland, and England, in each of which countries the Esta- blished Church. was different from the other, Presbytery being that supported in Scotland,and Episcopacy in England. In stating the nature of an. establishment, he endeavoured, to shew; that it was absolutely necessary to the preservay tion of the Christian religion ; andthough he did not pretend to be deeply versed, ity ecclesiasti- cal history, he was impressed with a notion, that, - 1791. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 197 - before the time of Constantine, it was not the practice of the Church to pray for kings, which he supposed ‘was the model that had been pro- posed for the imitation of the Scottish Episcopa- fians. But they should have remembered, - that ever since the days of Constantine, such prayers had been deemed an essential part ‘of public wor- _ ship, and preseribed as such in all countries pro- fessing the Christian religion. Having stated this, his Lordship proceeded to take notice of the statutes which enacted penalties against the Episcopalians in Scotland, mentioning the 10th of Queen Anne, and the 19th and 2\st of George Ql. He said he was far from defending the se- ‘Verities of those statutes. Let the political rea- sons have been what they might, he thought the penalties much sharper than even ‘the circum- stances of those times could justify ; and, there- fore he could feel no disinclination whatever in granting the relief that was necessary, provided it was given under proper regulations ; for he was far from wishing to harass any Sect of Christians on account of their religion, much less those who professed to be of the Episcopal persuasion, since he himself was rather an Episcopalian. His Lordship then discussed what he took to have been the meaning of the Legislature in respect to the ordination of Episcopalian Pastors in Scot- land. ' He again referred -to Queen Anne’s act, _ of toleration, quoting with some emphasis the . words, ‘ Pastors ordained by a Protestant Bishop,’ ’ 198 3 annate or © .- LYON from which he inferred, that to havé been regu- larly ordained by some Protestant Bishop, (who, in his opinion, could be no other than an English or an Irish Bishop) and to have their ordination registered in the public registers, was meant to be understood as essential in point of form, and indispensable in substance. He dwelt for some time on this head, 4nd contended for the neces- sity of a due attention to this part of the statute, as a test that these Pastors embraced and taught doctrines consonant to the principles of Christi- anity, and doctrines fit to be tolerated. Inthe course of his speech he recapitulated the condi- tions under which, by the existing statutes, the Episcopalians of Scotland were tolerated at pre- sent, and argued much on the necessity of their Pastors being able to establish the validity of their ordination; instancing the two solemnities of Baptism and Marriage as solemnities which they could not perform unless they were’ legally or- | dained. » After repeating his favourable incli- nations towards the Episcopalians of Scotland; professing himself to speak as an humble member of the Established Church of: this country, and consequently as an individual who wished to treat those persons who were the objects of this Bill, with that degree of respect and decency which — became men in every. situation ; and after con- sidering and arguing upon the whole’ of their case, his Lordship closed his speech with remark- ing, that as their principles of religion were not 1 | : : 4 ne y. 1791. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 199 sufficiently known, or at least no public evidence was given what they were, or how far they de- _ Served that indulgence which was intended by this Bill, he did not think it would be prudent to _ grant it on such a broad, unlimited footing, as it - might open a door to many similar applications, and create much unnecessary trouble to the Le- gislature. st ~ Lord Stormont then rose, and began with as: suring their Lordships, that as there was no ques- tion before them, he was conscious it would ill become him to detain the House long. Whats ever fell from the mouth of the noble and learn- ed Lord, he said, had so much weight on the minds of noble Lords in that House, and with so much justice, that he begged to speak a few words in reply to some parts of the speech of the noble ° and learned Lord, and also shortly and simply to explain the principle on which he thought it his duty to support this Bill. His Lordship then proceeded to detail the grounds .on which the penalties had been imposed that the present Bill went to repeal. When the statute of Queen Anne passed, their Lordships, he said, would re- collect that the circumstances of the times were peculiar. Those of the Episcopal. Communion in Scotland were then known to be disaffected to the Government.of the country from motives of conscience, not thinking themselves at liberty to withdraw their allegiance from the heir of the abdicated sovereign. On those persons, there- 200 ANNALS OBP909% 179%. fore, and on them only, it was that the statute Bos was intended toattach. The case, however, at present was totally different. There now existed. no such description of persons as those who were the objects of that act. The Scottish Episcopa- lians of the present day were well affected tothe Government of their country, and prayed for his Majesty and the Royal Family, as formally, and: as sincerely as those in England did. With res~ pect to what the noble and learned Lord had said concerning toleration, Lord Stormont de» clared, he did not think it necessary to discuss’ - that point, or to state his opinion on the subjects) _ The noble and learned Lord, he observed; had) said, that toleration ought to be extended tathose’ persons only who were known: to profess some. principles of religion consonant to the doctrines’ 4 of Christianity. It was, however, “his Lordship’ . yemarked, a circumstance rather strong in favour’ of the objects of the present Bill, that the mem= bers of the Established Church of Scotland:wish-) ed them to be relieved from the penaltiesiin ques- tion, which, although certainly sharper thanne> . cessary under the present circumstances of ‘the times, were perhaps justifiable at that period of our history when they were first imposed. In — Scotland, his Lordship said, he should no doubt: be deemed a dissenter; yet he could not but feel some degree of national pride on observing the ~ liberal sentiments which the Established Church of Scotland had manifested on this occasion. ‘ “ o, 2 = —_— i ee ee 1791. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 201 With regard to what the noble and learned Lord had said respecting the necessity of -every Epis- copalian Pastor being able to prove that he had been regularly ordained by a Protestant Bishop of England or Ireland, Lord Stormont said, he must beg leave to differ entirely from his Lord- ship. If their Lordships would but attend for a moment, they would see that in many cases it was in its nature utterly impossible. If Episco- _ palian Pastors were men of conscience, as he hop- ed they werey they could not submit to receive a second ordination.. And if they did, he would only ask how the case would stand in the eyes of their congregations. Their hearers might justly tell them, “‘ You have passed upon us these twen- ty or: thirty years, for what you are not. You have preached to us, and we have listened to you; _ but we now at last find, that before this time you never were duly qualified.” Besides, if these Episcopalian Pastors were to apply to a Bishop of England or Ireland, where would they get a title? If an Episcopalian candidate for orders were to say, ‘“ My friends in Scotland will pro- cure a meeting house for me, and provide for my Support,”——would any of the learned: Prelates opposite to me, said Lord Stormont; pointing to the:Bench, deem that a competent title? Most certainly not. Y » With regard to what the noble and learned — Lord had said respecting marriage, it was well known, that in Scotland marriage was considered \ 202 ANNALS OF 1791. merely as 2 civil contract, as appearedif frequent reports of what was transacted om tne na Green, a place where he had some concern; — and if a Counsel.were at their Lordships bar, and attempted to bring a witness to prove that mar riage was any thing else than what he had now stated it, he was persuaded the noble and learn- ed Lord on the Woolsack, would immediately think it his duty to stop him: \ The: validity of an Episcopalian Pastor’s ordination, his Lordship contended, was totally out of the question. In considering the principle of the present Bill, the House had nothing to do with it; and ifhe held in his hand the book written by Father Courayer, some few pages of which he had once read, he declared he would not resort to the volume for a single argument in support of the doctrine he was then maintaining. The sole, and, as he had before stated it, the simple point on which rested the claim of the Episcopalians of Scotland to the relief which the Bill would give, was, that when the penalties complained of were imposed, they were clearly meant to attach on persons who were di fected to the existing government/of the country, and to the Prince upon the throne, whereasithe pre- sent Episcopalians, both Pastors an d Laymen, were persons of a totally different description. | There was no occasion, his Lordship said, for him to go back to the reign of Constantine to prove: what _. Episcopacy was; and therefore, after apologizing to their Lordships for ‘having detained them so 1791. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 203 _ Tong, he would conclude with declaring that it appeared to him an irrefragable argument in fa- vour of the present Bill, that the Episcopalians of Scotland had exactly and precisely the same elaims on the indulgence of the Legislature, as those of the dissenters in this part of the king- dom from the Established Church of vaianeoey eae Stormont was followed by the Bishop of St Davids, of whose speech on this occasion, a friend who was in the house has favoured us with the following correct statement. ** My Lords, | I am happy to perceive, that in the senti- ments which I have to deliver to your Lordships upon the present subject of discussion, I shall not have the misfortune to differ very widely, in any thing that essentially regards the principle of the Bill, from the noble and learned Lord upon the Woolsack. My Lords, a wide difference from him I should call a misfortune, because it would necessarily produce in.me a degree of mistrust of my own judgment, whieh would con- siderably abate the satisfaction which otherwise I might feel in following what still might be the firm and full conviction of my own mind. Ne- vertheless, my Lords, in any question like this, in which the interest of religion, the public weal, and the credit of the Legislature, might be con- cerned, a question of justice and mercy towards a suffering part of the family of Christ, it would 204 aNNALscor=> OT ill become me tobe concluded in the votethatl — * -should give, upon’ any: authority but'thatof my own conviction; and it might notless misbecome — me to oppose a hk authority by a’silent-vote, without stating to your Lordships’ the»grounds — on which my contrary conviction’ stood. “My Lords, the principle of this’ bill has been "so clearly stated by the noble Earl*, who moved the second reading, and so well. ilhastratediby ‘the noble Viscount t,” who » spoke last; that it is un- necessary to dwell upon it. The object “of ‘the - Bill is to relieve certain dissenters from the Es+ — tablished Church of Scotland, well» affected’ to his present Majesty and the Protestant ‘succes- sion, from the penalties of disaffection imposed by former laws... My Lords, the hardship under — which they labour consists not in the severity of these penalties. Disaffection in former times, was generally among persons of their religious — persuasion; though not necessarily connected with their religion. And of the measures of se= verity that might be necessary for those’ times; the 7 neiblatinet of those. times: were a | ealiida il onuliiall ren the disaffe of their ancestors, and: valtiogeeeipinganill ligious principles, cannot; by any thing they’can — _ do, by any security that they can give fortheir good conduct and ‘submission’ to ‘Government, secure themselves against _ sensi of disaf- oe G4 coedjature * Lord Elgin. ye Lord Stormont. _ 2791. —— scorrisH EPIscoracy. - 205 fection. As cordially attached: as any of us to the existing Government, praying in their reli- gious: assemblies for his Majesty King George and the Royal Family by name, in eb terms in which we of the Church of England in our own Liturgy. pray for them, and cacacgy the oaths that we all take, still they are liable, Clergy and Laity, — to all the penalties of the 19th of George IT. «My Lords, the good policy of this Bill of Relief is not at all connected with any question about the antiquity of the practice of praying for Sovereigns. From what fell from the noble and ' Jearned Lord, I think there must be a mistake - upon that point. His Lordship must have re- ceived-some misinformation. My Lords, I cans not believe that these Episcopalians ever alleged - the example of the ages before Constantine in | justification of their omission, in former times, of praying for the King by name. Prayers for So- vereignsis one of the very oldest parts of Christian worship... These Episcopalians must very well know, that the precept of praying for Kings, and all that are in authority, is 300 years older than Constantine, and that it was the constant-prac- tice of the earliest Christians to pray even for’ the Princes that persecuted. them. My Lords, their omission of praying for the King by name, was owing to their notions about indefeasible heredi- tary .night, which would. not suffer them to re- nounce the family to which their allegiance. had ence been sworn, nor to adopt the Principles of Lf 206 - (ANNALS OF 0 1991. the Revolution. The omission was not defended by any pretended example of antiquity. Itstood | upon no better ground than that of grossand. — avowed disaffection. But, my Lords, the exam- ple of the ages before Constantine must have © been alleged to a very different purpose. It has been alleged by these Episcopalians: to justify their claims to an Episcopacy, and to: explain what sort of Episcopacy that is, which they claim. My Lords, it is not my wish to lead the House _ into the perplexities of that theological discussion. I shall comprise what I find necessary ‘to say upon it in very few words. -bup esbaemel «“ My Lords, these Episcopalians take a distine- — tion, and it is a just distinction, between’a purely spiritual, and a political Episcopacy.! “A: political Episcopacy belongs to an established»Church; and has no existence out of an establishment, This sort of Episcopacy was necessarily unknown in the world, before the time of Constantine. But _ in all the preceding ages there was a pure:spirit- — ual Episcopacy, an order of men set apart todn- spect and manage the spiritual: affairs | of! the Church, as a society in itself totally unconnectec with civil government. Now, my: Lords, these Scottish Episcopalians think, that“ when their Church was cast off by the State at the Revolu- tion, their Church inthis discarded divided'state © reverted to that which ‘had ‘been’ the condition of every Church in» Christendom beforesthe establishment of Christianity inthe Roman Em- — ‘ | Pe ee ns 2 "a - - —_ ras 1791. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 207 _ pire by Constantine the Great; that, losing all “their political capacity, they retained, however, the authority of the pure spiritual Episcopacy within the Church itself; and that is the sort of Episcopacy to which they now pretend. I, my Lords, as a Churchman, have some respect for — that pretension, but I have ‘no wish to lead the House into a discussion about it. The merits of the Bill rest not on the validity of that Episco- pacy in any sense. In what sense the Bishops of this Church of Scottish Episcopalians may be Bishops, whether they are Bishops in any sense, is not the question. What the validity of their ordinations may be, is not the question. The single question is, Are these Scottish Episcopalians good subjects ; and do they hold religious prin- ciples, in the emphatic language of the noble and learned Lord on the Woolsack, “ Fit to be to- lerated 2?” That is to say, are they good subjects, . and do they agree with us in the fundamentals of Christianity ? For these are the religious prin- ciples ‘ fit to be tolerated.” If they can satisfy us upon these points, the Legislature is not at all concerned in the question of the spiritual validity of their orders. My Lords, consider only how we deal with Protestant dissenters here in Eng- land, For all that I would wish for our Scot- tish brethren is, that they, as dissenters from the« Established Church of Scotland, should be put uponthe same footing with the Protestant dis- ‘senters from the Church of England. My Lords, 208 ANNALS OF 1791. ” by the Toleration Act of the 1st of William and Mary, a Pastor of a Congregation of Protestant dissenters must enter the place and situation of ‘ his Meeting-house; he must give in his own ~ name and place of abode; he must take the oaths 4 to-Government, and he must shew that he agrees with us in the fundamentals of the Christian re- ’ ligion ; and by the terms of that statute, which is 4 the narrowest of all the present schemes of tolera- tion, he must however testify hisagreement with — us in the general principles of Protestantism. — This he does by subscribing a great many of the . 89 Articles. My Lords, when the dissenting — Minister has complied with these conditions, he is never asked, no one has authority to ask him, Sir, how comes it that you call yourself a Cler- gyman? What are your orders? By whomwere you ordained ? By what ritual? He: has given the security which all good subjects give for his loyalty to Government; he esi religions. a principles, “ fit to be tolerated ;” that’s enough. — He is admitted without farther enquiry to all the benefits of toleration. Now, my Lords, here are a set of dissenters from the Established Church — of Scotland, good subjects, and halding:raligiows q principles very ‘fit to be tolerated: For the ~ cause of their dissent from the Established Chureh _ _of Scotland is their very near agreement with — the Established’ Church of England; and they — approach your Lordships with this modestete- ~ quest, that they may not be more hardly dealt . : 1791. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 209 with, than Protestants of various denominations differing more widely from both establishments. My Lords, one thing that fell from the noble - -and learned Lord on the Woolsack struck upon my mind very forcibly, as deserving, I mean, a serious consideration. His Lordship gave it as his opinion, that it would be for the credit of Episcopacy in Scotland, that their Congregations should be supplied with Ministers (according to the intention of the 19th of the late King,) or- dained by Bishops of the English or Irish Church. The noble and learned Lord, if I took his argu- ment aright, supposed that the statute passed in favour of the Scottish Episcopalians in the 10th of Queen Anne would bear him out in that opinion, That statute made it “ free and law- ful for all those of the Episcopal Communion in that part of Great Britain called Scotland, to meet and assemble for the exercise of divine worship, to be performed after their own man- ner, by Pastors ordained by a Protestant Bishop.” The noble and learned Lord conceives that un- der the latitude of this expression, a “ Protestant Bishop,” the statute meant indeed. to tolerate the ejected Bishops, and the Clergy immediately ordained by them, but not to extend the tolera- tion'to the succession. My Lords, I must take the liberty to differ from the noble and learned Lord upon the construction of this’ statute — of Queen Anne. I think it was the inten- tion of the statute to extend its toleration be- * 0 210 ANNALS OF 1791. yond the ejected Bishops themselves to the whole succession. For I find, my Lords, that of the thirteen Bishops of Scotland ejected at the — Revolution, (the dioceses were in all fourteen, - but it happened that one see was vacant when the Revolution took place, thirteen Bishops there- fore were ejected ; now of these thirteen) seven _ certainly, probably eight, were dead before the 10th of Queen Anne, and a ninth was out of the kingdom, for he fled with the abdicated king. — ‘At the time, therefore, when this act was passed, no more than four of the ejected Bishops were alive, and within the kingdom, and four new con- secrations had taken place, two in the 4th of Queen Anne, and two more in the 8th. At the © time, therefore, when this act was passed, the Scottish Episcpacy consisted of an equal number of the original Bishops and the succession, four of each; and if it was the intention of the act, as the noble and learned Lord has argued, to confine the toleration to the ejected Bishops, and exclude the succession, I can only say, my Lords, that the framers of that statute did their business not quite so well as business of that sort was used to be done in those times. PaEvera «My Lords, with respect to the interests of | Episcopacy in Scotland, my opinion is unfortu- — nately the very reverse of that of the noble and | ‘jearned Lord. The credit of Episcopacy will never be advanced by the scheme of § pplying - the Episcopalian Congregations in Scotland with 1791. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY ail pastors of our ordination ; and for this reason, my Lords, that it would be an imperfect crippled Episcopacy that would be thus upheld in Scot- land. When a Clergyman ordained by one of us settles as a Pastor of a Congregation in Scotland, he is out of the reach of our authority. We have no authority there; we can have no authority there; the Legislature can give us no authority there. The attempt to introduce any thing of an authorised political Episcopacy in Scotland would bea direct infringement of the Union. My Lords, as to the notion that Clergymen should be originally ordained by us to the Ministry in Scot- land, I agree with the noble Viscount, that the thing would be contrary to all rule and order. No Bishop, who knows what he does, ordains without a title, and a title must be a nomination to some thing certain in the diocese of the Bi- shop that ordains. My Lords, an appointment to an Episcopal Congregation in Scotland is no more a title to me, or to any Bishop of the English Bench, or any Bishop of the Irish Bench, than an appointment to a Church in Mesopotamia. “« My Lords, with respect to Marriages, I agree with the noble and learned Lord on the Wool- _ sack, that if this Bill should pass, the Episcopa- lians will be authorised to marry in their meet- . ing-houses by the 10th of Queen Anne. But, my - Lords, I see no inconvenience that can arise from this. It will open no door to clandestine marri- ages. For, though they will be authorised to a2 Q12 : ANNALS OF | | * 7O} marry, tliey will not be authorised to marry o- therwise than in conformity to the regulations of the 10th of Queen Anne; that is to say, they can marry those only whose banns have been regu- larly published, not only in the meeting- houses where the marriage is to be solemnized, but in ~ the kirks of the parishes where the parties are resident. But, my Lords, I go farther; I say that this Bill will give them no authority with respect to marriages, but what they do already enjoy and exercise. My Lords, the fact is, that these Episcopalians do now solemnize marriages every day. They solemnize marriages legally. They solemnize marriages under the express co- vert and sanction of the persecuting statutes. ‘And these marriages so solemnized.by them,—_ my Lords, in what I am going to assert, I stand in the judgment of.noble Lords, to whom the laws of Scotland are more accurately known than they may be supposed to be to me :—But, my Lords, I say. these marriages solemnized by these Episcopalians, are good and valid by the laws of _ Scotland. ip: Chau [Here the Scottish Lords all gave a a d of as- sent. | : FO ak « And, my Lords, the ground of my assertion is this. Our marridge act extends not to Scotland. Therefore, by the law and usage of Scotland, it _ is not necessary that any should be present at a wedding except the parties themselves (that’s two) oe the man who is to act as father, and give the q ee a, nae EE or? ee a 1791. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 213 bride away, (that’s three,) and the clergyman, or pretended clergyman, who is to perform the ce- remony, (that’s four.) Now, my Lords, by the express permission of the 19th of the late King, which I call the persecuting statute, four persons may assemble for the celebration of any religious rites, for the meeting is not illegal unless five be _ present, over and above the members of the fa- mily, if the place of assembly he a house inhabi- ted by a family, or five, if the place of assembly be a house not inhabited bya family. My Lords, these are my notions upon the points that have been agitated. I shall not go into points that * have not been brought forward in objection, though I am prepared to meet any other objec- tions that might be moved; but I am sensible that I have already taken up too much of your Lordships’ time, and I fear rather irregularly, when in fact no express question is before the House. Iam aware that the Bill must receive amendments in the.Committee, and perhaps ad. ditions, but the principle of the Bill has my en- tire approbation.” The Earl of Kinnoul (Lord Hay) made a short speech in favour of the Bill, and delivered his ‘sentiments with much emphasis and energy. He described the members of the Scottish Episcopal Church as a decent, quiet, respectable body of people, who, in the most trying times, had al- _ ways behaved in.a very becoming and exemplary manner, and were therefore well entitled to every 914i ANNALS OF | 1791. indulgence which the Legislature could) shew them. Whatever amendments might be propos- ed, he could see no good ground for any objec- . tion to the principle of the present Bill, and de- clared himself to be thoroughly convinced that a marked distinction of Legislative liberality ought ever to attach to the Established Church of ei- ther part of the kingdom. As soon as Lord Kinnoul sat down, the abit tion was put and carried without a division, that the Bill should be read a second time, and go in- to a Committee of the whole House on Wednes- © day next. In the mean time, it was intimated to Bishop Skinner by the Bishop of St Davids, and the Earls of Kellie, Elgin, and Fife, who had all taken a very active part in forwarding the Bill, that the only thing which the Lord Chan- cellor now insisted on, was the necessity of re- quiring from our Clergy some public declaration of their religious principles, by which it might be known that they came as snear as was said to those of the Church of England. With this view, he thought that subscription to the Thirty-nine Articles ought to be required, as the best and on- ly means of shewing, in a legal manner, what our religious principles were, and that our Church was really such a society as deserved to be toler- ated. On this head, the Bishop of St Davids observed, that he saw the justice and propriety of the Lord Chancellor’s remarks, since, except- ing what was implied in calling ourselves Epis- - aa aS eT. 1791. _ SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 215 copal, which any Sect might do, we seemed to be, at least in the eye of the law, a non-descript body, and as such, on the Chancellor’s principles, not entitled to the full benefit of toleration. He therefore thought, if our clergy could do it, it would be right in them to comply with this re- quisition ; and on the supposition of such com- pliance, he had no doubt but our business would go on smoothly, and without any farther opposi- tion. To all this, the substance of Bishop Skinner’s reply was, that he believed the Scotch Episcopal - Clergy, or at least a great majority of them, had _ no objection to the general doctrine of the Thirty- nine Articles, although they might not altoge- ther approve of some particular expressions made use of in them; and that the most disagreeable part of the clause requiring subscription would be, the obliging Scottish Clergy to subscribe them as the “ Articles of the Church of Eng- land,”? since the Scottish Episcopal Church was no part of the Church of England, and could not, either in strictness of principle, or propriety of language, be included in it. On this head he re- ceived for answer, that it was only the general doctrine of the several articles to which the sub- seniption was required even in England; that many expressions in them might no doubt be al- - tered for the better, but as those concerned would not agree about these alterations, perhaps it was as well to let the words remain as they are; that 216 ,. ANNALS OF 1791. — there could be no hardship or impropriety in our Clergy subscribing them as “ Articles of the Church of England,” after theyhad professed that . their principles were the same as hersinallthe fundamental doctrines of religion, and that they wished to be considered as in communion with her, for subscription was doing that only in a more solemn and legal manner. On these grounds it was argued, that the clause requiring subserip- tion was not only just and reasonable in itself, but might be attended with consequences very advantageous to the Scottish Episcopal Church, as it would serve to distinguish the members of that Church from the many upstart sects of dis- senters, whose principles are conformable to no known standard. In this view it seemed to meet the approbation of our London Committee, and of all those friends to our cause on whose good offices the success of our Bill depended. Another clause, which now cameto be taken ~ into serious consideration, was that whereby the — Scottish Episcopal Clergy ‘‘ were to be restricted - from taking any benefice, curacy, or other spirit- ual promotion, within that part of Great Britain. called England, the dominion of Wales, or town of Berwick upon Tweed.” A restriction which was considered as absolutely necessary for pre- serving to her own ‘Clergy the civil rights and revenues of the Church of England ; and was so far from implying any doubt of the spiritual vali-. dity of the orders conferred in the Scottish Epis- ie 1792. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 217. copal Church, that the necessity of the clause arose wholly from the belief and acknowledgment of that validity. So reasoned the advocates for this restriction. ‘ If,” said they, “ the Bishops of England were not well convinced of the re- gard which is due to Episcopal Ordination, there would be no occasion for providing against the inconvenience that might-ensue from a number of Clergy so ordained in Scotland, applying for institution in the Church of England. A similar imconvenience was foreseen when the act passed to empower the Archbishops of Canterbury or York: to consecrate Bishops for North America ; and therefore a provision was made in that act, that no Bishops so consecrated, nor any Priests or Deacons ordained by them, or their successors, should be thereby enabled to’exercise their res- pective offices within his Majesty’s dominions.” The purpose of the restricting clause being thus .defined, it was prepared accordingly, as well as the clause requiring subscription to the Thirty-nine Articles. But when the Committee met, as ordered, on Wednesday the 9th of May, they got no farther through the Bill, than to the end of the clause respecting the Laity, which Lord Grenville was of opinion ought to be alter. ed, and said he would have a proper amendment prepared before the next meeting of the Com- mittee, which was therefore adjourned to Tuesday the 15th of May: 3 , On that day, as soon as the Committee met, 3 > 218 — ANNALS OF 1792. ‘ Lord Grenville went over the heads of the Bill, explaining, as he proceeded, the reasons of the alterations which had been made in it; and when he came to the restricting clause above mentioned, the Earl of Radnor objected to it, and said “he saw no good reason for refusing that to Clergy ordained by a Protestant Bishop, which was granted to Popish Priests.” The Bishop of St. David's replied to this objection, and pointed out the distinction between a spirit- ual and legal Episcopacy, and the reasons why such Popish Priests as had been ordained by Bishops legally established in foreign countries, were admitted, on renouncing the errors of Pos pery, to institution in England. An addition was also proposed to the restricting clause, where- | by it is provided, ‘ that no Episcopal Pastor or Minister in Scotland, who has not been ordained by some Bishop of the Church of England, or of Ireland, shall be capable of officiating in any Church or Chapel in England, where the Liturgy of the Established Church is used :” which ad- dition was said to be intended merely to prevent an evasion of the former part of the clause, by persons pretending only to officiate occasionally, when they were really employed as Curates, and perhaps paid for acting in that capacity. No part of the clause was supposed to operate to the prejudice of the Scottish Episcopacy, in regard toits purely spiritual effects; and our Clergy’s subscribing the Thirty-nine Articles would be looked upon as a public testimony of the mutual ee * = es ee ee Ye a a _—-A- 1792. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 919 communion which subsisted between the two . Churches, Next day the Bill was reported, and ordered to be printed with the amendments: and after — _ being read a third time, and ordered to be car- ried to the House of Commons, it was received there on Friday the 25th of May, read a first _ time, and ordered to be printed. But when the day came for the second reading, the Speaker said, “he thought it his duty to state to the House, that the Bill containing certain money clauses, which made it inconsistent with the pri- - vileges of that House to receive it from the Lords, he was under the necessity of moving that it should be thrown out 3 at the same time observing, that another might be immediately moved for, on behalf of the parties concerned.” ' This was done accordingly by the Right Ho- nourable Henry Dundas; on which Mr Charles Fox got up, and said, “he did not rise to make any opposition to the design of this measure, but merely to take notice of the partiality of it, and how ready the present administration was to grant that relief to a peculiar description of dis- senters in Scotland, which had been denied to those in England, whose cause he had lately been pleading ;”—alluding to a motion which he had _ made a few days before, in favour of the Unitarian dissenters. In reply to this, Mr Dundas observ- ed, “ that the Bill which he now moved for, as well as one of a similar tendency which he had 220 ANNALS OF one 1792. brought forward three years ago, was intended to relieve a class of dissenters who laboured un- der grievances’ not known to those whom the - Right Honourable Gentleman had alluded to in | England; as the latter might have any sort of Ministers they thought proper, whereas the for- mer were subjected to heavy penalties because — their Pastors could-not obtain a license from an - English or Irish Bishop.” Mr Fox only answer- ed, “that the same objection which had been made to his motion, as brought forward at an improper time, he thought might with equal jus- — tice be applied to that of the Right Honourable - Secretary.” However, the motion was imme- diately agreed to ; and Mr Dundas and Sir James St Clair Erskine were ordered to prepare and, bring in the Bill. On Friday the 1st of June it. was read a first and second time in the House of Commons. Next day it was committed and re-. ported; and on the Tuesday after- was read ‘a third time, passed, and carried to the House of Lords, where it went through the several read- ings again in the usual manner, no alteration. having been made in it, and received the royal assent on Friday the 15th of June, being the last. day of the Session. The preamble to this Act runs in these terms :, «‘ Whereas, by several Acts of Parliament now in force, disabilities, forfeitures, and penalties have been imposed in certain cases upon persons fre-_ quenting, resorting to, or officiating in, certain 1792. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 22) - Episcopal Chapels and Meeting-houses in Scot- land: ; ** And whereas there is sufficient reason to be- lieve, that the Pastors, Ministers, and Laity of the Episcopal Communion in Scotland, are now well attached to his Majesty’ s person, family, and government : ** And whereas it is just aha reasonable that such of them as are willing in a proper manner ~ tomanifest such attachment, should receive relief with respect to certain disabilities, forfeitures, and penalties, in the said acts mentioned: May. it therefore please your Majesty, that it may be enacted, and be it enacted by the King’s Most Excellent Majesty, by and with the aavine and consent of the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and Commons, in this present Parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, that so much of an Act passed in the 10th year of the reign of her late Majesty Queen Anne, entitled, an Act to prevent the disturbing those of the Episcopal Communion, &c. and also so much of an Act passed in the Sth year of the reign of his late Ma- jesty we George the First, entitled, an Act for making ‘ more effectual the laws, &c. and also so ~ much of an Act passed in the 19th year of the reign of his late Majesty King George the Second, entitled, an Act more effectually to prohibit and prevent, &c. and also so much of an Act passed in the 2Ist year of the reign of his late Majesty Here George the Badong: entitled, an Act to 7 222 ANNALS OF 1792. amend, and enforce, &c. as relate to the imposing any penalties, forfeitures, or disabilities on any person or persons, for, or on account of, his or their frequenting or resorting to any Episcopal Chapel or Meeting house in Scotland, or any per- son or persons, for, or on account of his or their officiating at any such Chapel or Meeting-house, shall be, and the same are hereby repealed.” The Act then provides and enacts, that every such Pastor or Minister shall take and subscribe the Oaths in the usual manner, and shall also, at the same time and place, subscribe a declaration of his assent to the Thirty-nine Articles of the Church of England, and produce certificates from the proper officer, of his having so qualified him- self, to the Clerk of the shire, stewartry or borough, where his Meeting-house is situated, that he may make proper entries of the same, and also de- liver two attested copies of such certificates, one to be fixed on the outside of the Meeting-house where the said Pastor or Minister officiates, and the other in some conspicuous place within such meeting-house ; and every such Pastor or Mizis- ter offending in any of the premises, shall, for the first offence, being lawfully conyicted thereof, forfeit the sum of twenty pounds Sterling, and for the second offence shall be declared incapable of officiating during the space of three years. It also provides and enacts, that every such Pastor or Minister shall, as often as he shall of- ficiate i in. any Episcopal Chapel or Meeting-house, 1792. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 2935 at some time during the exercise of divine ser- vice, pray for the King’s most Excellent Majesty by name, his heirs and successors, and for all the Royal Family, as directed in the Liturgy of the Church of England; and every such per- son neglecting so to do, shall on lawful conviction thereof, for the first offence, forfeit the sum of twenty pounds Sterling, and”for the second of- fence shall be declared incapable of officiating during the space of three years; and any such Pastor or Minister offending in any of the pre- mises before mentioned, shall be incapable of voting in any election of a member of Parliament, or of a Magistrate or Counsellor for boroughs, or of a Deacon of Crafts within burgh, or of a Col- lector or Clerk of the Land-Tax or Supply; and every assembly of persons for religious worship, in any such Episcopal Chapel or Meeting-house, shall be held with doors not locked, barred, bolt- ed, or otherwise fastened, during such assembly. It further provides and enacts, that no such Pas- tor, or Minister of any order, shall be capable of taking any Benefice, Curacy, or Spiritual Pro- motion, within that part of Great Britain called England, the dominion of Wales, or town of Ber- wick upon Tweed, or of officiating in any Church or Chapel within the same, where the Liturgy of the Church of England, as now by law establish- ed, is used, ifdikees he shall have been lawfully or- dained by some Bishop of the Church of Eng- land or of Treland. Q24 — ANNALS OF 9 4 1792. The act having thus provided and enacted all -that is necessary to manifest the loyalty of the Scottish Episcopal Clergy, and to prevent their encroaching on the civil rights and revenue of the Church of England, proceeds next to declare what is necessary to be observed and attended to _ by the Laity of the Episcopal Communion in Scotland. It therefore provides and enacts, that if any person at any time after six months, to be reckoned from and after the first day ‘of July 1792, shall be present twice in the same year at divine service in any Episcopal Chapel or Meet- ing-house in Scotland, whereof the Pastor or Minister shall not pray in express words for his Majesty by name, his heirs and successors, and for all the Royal Family, in the manner’ before directed, every person so present shall, on lawful conviction thereof, for the first offence forfeit the sum of five pounds Sterling, and. shall suffer imprisonment for the space of six months, unless or until the same be paid, and for the second, or any subsequent offence, shall suffer imprisonment for the space of two years from the date of such — conviction: but every prosecution for any offence committed against this act shall be commenced within the space of twelve’ months after such’ offence committed, and not afterwards. =~ It further enacts, that no Peer of Scotland: shall be capable of being elected one of the Six.’ teen Peers to sit and vote in the House of Peers’ in the Parliament of Great Britain, or of voting 1792. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. _ 225 an the election of any of the said Sixteen Peers, ‘who shall at any time after six months, to be reckoned from and after the said first day of _ duly, be present,twice in the same year at divine Service in any Episcopal Chapel or Meeting-house- as aforesaid, whereof the Pastor or Minister shall ot pray, in express words, for his Majesty by ame, for his Majesty’s heirs and successors, and for all the Royal Family, in the manner before directed. And it shall be competent for any Peer of Scotland present at the election of the said ‘Sixteen Peers, or of any of them, to make this ob- jection, and to prove the same by a witness or ‘witnesses upon oath, or by referring it to the oath of the peer so objected to; which oath the Lord ‘Clerk Register, or either of the two Clerks of Ses- sion, appointed by him to officiate in his name at such election of Sixteen Péers, or of any of them, is hereby empowered to administer. And in case the same shall be proved, or the Peer so ‘objected to shall admit the fact, or refuse to de- pose concerning it, he shall be, and is hereby disqualified from, and rendered incapable of vo- ting, er being chosen at any such election, as aforesaid; but such admission, or confession up- - on oath or otherwise, so made at such meeting assembled for any such election, shall not be made use of, or given in evidence against any such Peer ‘Upon any prosecution for any penalty inflicted ‘by this or any former act of Parliament. ~ It further enacts, that no person shall be capa- P 226 ANNALS OF) >+ 708. ble of being elected, or of voting in any election of a member of Parliament: for any-shire or bo- rough in that part of Great Britain called Scot- land, or of being elected, or ypting in the elec- tion of a Magistrate or Counsellor for Boroughs, or Deacon of Crafts within Burgh, or of a Col- lector or Clerk of the Land Tax or Supply, who shall at any time after six months, to be reckoned from and after the first day of July aforesaid, be present twice in the same year at divine service in any Episcopal Chapel or Meeting-house, as afore- said, whereof the Pastor or Minister shall not pray in express words for his Majesty by name, for his _ Majesty’s heirs and successors, and for all the — Royal Family, in the manner before directed. And it shall be competent for any candidate or member of the meeting, assembled for any such election, to make this objection, and to prove the same by a witness, or witnesses, upon oath, or by referring it to the oath of the person objec- ted to, which oath the preses or clerk of such meeting is hereby empowered to” administer. And in case the same shall be proved, or the person so objected to shall admit the fact, or re- fuse to depose concerning it, hhe shall be, and is hereby disqualified from, and rendered incapable of voting, or being chosen at any such election as aforesaid; but such admission or confession upon oath, or otherwise, ‘so made at such meet- . ing assembled for:such election, shall not be made ause of, or given in evidence against any suchiper- or ; a re : = _ of wr =" ze a ae ee EE ee ee ae ee ee a ee ae 1792. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY, 227 son, upon any prosecution for any penalty inflic- ‘ted by this, or any former act of Parliament. And the act concludes with further enacting, that this act shall be deemed, adjudged, and taken to ‘be a public act, and shall be judicially taken no- tice of as such by all Judges, Justices, and other persons whomsoever,. without specially pleading the same. rh | When we compare this act with that passed in ‘the 10th of Queen Anne, generally known by the name of Queen Anne’s Toleration, and which is still in force, so far as it tends to pro- tect those of the Episcopal Communion in Scot- land, we find that the same penalty of twenty pounds Sterling, contained in the 10th of Queen Anne, is still to be imposed on those Pastors or Ministers of the Episcopal Communion in Scot- land who neglect to pray for the King and Royal Family in the manner directed ; and that this is all which their hearers, or the Laity of their Com- munion, have now to attend to, is evident from those clauses of this act above recited, which re. late to the persons who attend divine service in Episcopal Chapels or Meeting-houses. For in- stead of requiring the registration of letters of orders, and a-certificate of the Pastor or Minis- - ter’s having taken the oaths, and his name and. place of abode, and the place where his meeting is to be held, as was required by the 19th of George II., those clauses mention nothing more as incumbent on the Laity, than that. they take or PQ 228 ANNALS OF 1792. . cate ‘not to be present twice in the same year at divine service in any Episcopal Chapel or Meeting-house in Scotland whereof the Pastor or Minister shall not pray in express words for his — ; Majesty by name, his heirs and successors, and for all the Royal Family, in the manner before directed.” v rh nets The reason of this alteration of the law is obvi- ous, and discovers itself in that part of the pre- amble to the present act, which affirms, ‘ that there is sufficient reason to believe that the Pas- tors, Ministers, and Laity of the Episcopal Com- munion in Scotland are now well attached to his — 4 ‘Majesty’s person, family, and government.” The most public and proper manner in which such Pastors or Ministers can manifest this dutiful at- tachment, is by praying for the King and Royal Family as the law prescribes ; and, therefore, to — this alone the attention of the Laity is very ‘just- “| ly and properly directed. Where this is omitted, the law presumes that-an essential mark of loy- alty is neglected, and so puts the Laity on their guard wepuinast countenancing such neglect. But — to have involved them in the consequences of — any other omission on the part of the officiating Pastor or Minister, would have been wnrea- e sonable and oppressive, since in many instances _ they might not have it in their power to:know ‘whether, or how far such omission had taken ‘place. To the books appointed for keeping lists or registers of Episcopal Chapels, they might of- 1792. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 229 ten find it difficult to procure access; and they have no right to demand a certificate of any par- ticular registration, since the law directs that on- ly two copies, attested by the clerk of ¢ourt, _ Shall be delivered. And though these two copies are to be fixed, one on or near the door, and the other in some conspicuous place within the Meet- ing-house, yet no provision is made that they shall always there remain, in spite of the weather and other accidents ; neither can it be supposed, that every person who frequents, or happens to be present in any such Chapel or Meeting-house, will inquire or observe whether such copies have been, and continue to be so fixed. But every person present may easily know whether the King and Royal Family have been prayed for as the law directs; and should even this be omitted, no penalty is incurred till the person has been twice present in the same year where such omission has taken place. On the whole, it is abundantly evident, that the law, as it now stands, respecting _ Episcopal Chapels or Meeting-houses in Scotland, holds out complete relief to those who attend divine service in such Chapels where his Majes- ty King George and the Royal Family are duly prayed for. May such prayers be graciously heard at the throne of Heaven, and devoutly joined in by the members of the Scottish Episco- pal Church, restored as they now are to the pos- Session of those civil rights and privileges, of which they have been deprived for the last forty- Six years, p PaaS 230 “ANNALS OF " - 1792. Generous and disinterested as were the inde- fatigable zeal and assiduity of the Rev. Dr Gas- kin, Messrs Park and Stevens, in forwarding the views of the whole body of Scottish Episcopali- ans, their representative, Bishop Skinner, did not leave the British Metropolis without bestowing, on each of these revered friends, some little tok en of his constituents’ gratitude, esteem, and ress pect. A polished, vase-shaped, Silver Cup and Cover, with a rich engraved border, was present- ed to each of the two former, with the ae inscription :— THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH IN SCOTLAND, © RELIEVED FROM PENAL STATUTES; ~— exd¢ OFFERS THIS HUMBLE TESTIMONY ithe bef) OF SINCERE GRATITUDE, TO ; THE REV”. GEORGE GASKIN, D.D. TO COMMEMORATE HIS KIND AND IMPORTANT SERVICES TOWARDS THE OBTAINING OF THAT RELIEF. JUNE 11, 1792. Mr Stevens, being a bachelor, preferred a lit- erary token of regard ; Bishop Skinner, therefore, presented this invaluable man with a copy of ‘© Bruckeri Historia Critica Philosophiz,” &c, neatly bound in six quarto volumes, with a simi- lar inscription to that on the cups; and on June the 12th, taking leave of these worthy friends, set out for Scotland. The good Treasurer to Queen Anne’ s Rome 1792. SCOTTISH® EPISCOPACY. 23h classing himself with his brethren of the London Committee, writes thus to Bishop Skinner : “ We are much flattered by the quick sense which you and the Committee of Delegates in Scotland en- tertain of our friendship, though we do notfeel our pretensions very strong, as all we did was as lit- tle as could well be done, and you had the fairest claim to every attention paid either to your cause or to yourself.” The letter written by aan Dr Gaskin, in re- turn to the Bishop’s note accompanying the cup presented to him, is well worthy of a place in these Annals; bespeaking, as it does béspeak, sentiments on the subject of the Scottish Epis- copal Church which cannot fail to be most grate- ful to her friends to hear, LETTER XXVI. DR GASKIN TO BISHOP SKINNER. Islington, June 15, 1792, ae | atkatvaladée receipt of your very friendly and affectionate letter, accompanying an elegant silver cup, as a present to me from the Commit- tee of the Scottish Episcopal Church, for what you are pleased to deem services in the business of your late application to Parliament. _ The attention given by me to your concerns, during the progrsss of the Bill, originated alto- 232° ANNALS OF | 95 1792.5 gether in an attachment to those principles of a Primitive Christianity so steadily adhereditoby _ your Church, and which should ever unite toge-, ther the members of the sheepfold of Christ. I. rejoice that your efforts for the repeal of the Pe- - nal Statutes have not been fruitless, though it would have afforded me much greater satisfaction — to have seen the Bill in all respects such as we | wished it to be. escopyiget 1 ‘* The opportunity. of entertaining i my roof the Bishop of Aberdeen, which this business — “afforded me,* I reckon among the most honoura-_ ble and pleasant circumstances of my life. Ide. sire you to present my thanks to the Committee __ for their kindly accepting my poor services,and _ for the manner in which you have been pleased to signify their acceptance of them. I shall pre- serve the cup with great veneration, and endea- vour that it may continue to be preserved when I shall be removed hence. ‘“‘ May the Great Head of the Church ever esl tend with his Grace and Holy Spirit your sacred % ministrations; and when separated from the — Church militant, may we meet together in her - triumphant state! I beg you to accept yourself - * By special invitation, Hickog Skinner lodged i in this highly _ respected Clergyman’s house, during his stay in London in 1792; and continued through life to speak of Dr and Mrs Gaskin’s attentions to him in away which never failed to mark, the lively sense he entertained of their unmerited hospitality | and kindness. ' ana: = 1792. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 238 my best respects, and to present the same to the other Prelates of your Communion. Pray re- member me and my household in your prayers, and be assured that I shall ever remain,” &e, On the 4th of July 1792, Bishop Skinner being now restored to his family and flock, received a letter from three members of the Committee of - Delegates, viz : Messrs Gleig, Aitkin, and Niven, mentioning that, as the business was: now hap- pily concluded, for which the Committee had’ been appointed, it appeared to them extremely expedient, that the measures which had been adopted should be reported to a Convention of the whole Church similar to that with which their powers originated ; and also that a sum for defray- ing the expence which had been necessarily in- curred, should be raised, either by public collec- tion or private contribution, as to the Clergy should seem meet. In compliance with this sug- gestion, and well convinced of its expediency, Bishop Skinner desired Mr Aitkin, as Secretary, to intimate by letters circular, addressed to all the Clergy in the Church, that a general Conven- tion was to be holden at Laurencekirk, Kincar- - dineshire, on Wednesday the 22d day of August next for the purposes: “First, Of receiving their Committee’s Report of the Proceedings a- dopted in carrying through the Act of Repeal. Secondly, Of deliberating on an address to his Majesty. And, lastly, Of devising a plan for 234: ANNALS OF ~) POM establishing a Fund for the support of the Widows and Children of Episcopal Clergymen’ in Seot- land. You are requested also,” continues the cir- cular, “ to cause your congregation choose a des legate to represent them in the Convention for the purposes aforesaid, sending with him’ a certi- ficate under your own hand of his appointment; — or, instead of such delegate, to ee as their proxy to act in their name. © | eh «¢ And as the applications to Putliansionit hers been attended with considerable expence, it has — been judged most equitable and expedient to raise a sum for defraying the same by public collection — or private contribution, in the different congres - 4 gations throughout the Church, previous to the meeting of the Convention, when it is hoped that you will britig with you, or send to the Conven- tion the sum or sums which your Congregation shall be pleased to contribute for the purpose aforesaid ; the overplus, (if any) after paying the expence incurred, to be employed for the general advantage ofthe Church, in the manner the sete vention shall direct.” In the mean while, letters of avin were line up by Bishop Skinner, signed by the whole mem~ bers of the Committee, and addressed'to the Arch- bishop of Canterbury, the Bishops of Salisbury, (formerly Carlisle,) and St. Davids, the Earls of Kellie, Elgin, Kinnoul, and Fife, the Lords Stor- mont and Grenville, and to Mr Secretary Dun- das, for their good offices in promoting the suc- a 1792. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 935 cess of the last application to Parliament. ‘To these letters replies were made by the Lords © Fife, Stormont, and Grenville, and by the Bishop of St Davids. The Earl of Fife * bears testimony to the character and good conduct of the Clergy of the Episcopal Church in Scotland, which mes rits a place in her Annals, “Tam old enough, (writes his Lordship,) to ‘temember the restraining and penal laws since the 1745. It is but doing justice to your Church torepeat here, what I said in public, viz. _ that your attachment to your principles was al- ways honourable and disinterested, conforming yourselves to the law of the land with a conduct so regular as never to give offence. I am confit dent our present gracious Sovereign and the Con- stitution itself have the addition -of respectable friends, and that the Church and State are bene- fited by your union. I flatter myself the event will alike promote the comfort and satisfaction of your Society.’ ; “ Lord Viscount Stormont t tells Bishop Skin- ner, that he thought it his duty to give all the lit- tle support in his power to so just a cause; and most heartily do J rejoice in your success, being fully convinced of your loyalty to his Majesty, of your attachment to the constitution of your coun- try, and of the zeal with which you will constant- _ ly endeavour to inspire those sentiments into the * James, uncle to the present Earl.—Annalist. } Father of the present Earl of Mansfield. 286 ANNALS OF = 1792. ‘breast of others, and to diffuse, through every part of the kingdom to which your influence extends, — a love of order, a reverence for the laws, and a § grateful and lively sense of the numberless bless= ings which we’ enjoy.” Lord Grenville begs to ’ assure the Clergy and Laity of the Scottish Epis- copal Church, that he “ feels very sensibly flat- tered by the obliging expressions of their letter to him, and that no one is more firmly persuaded than himself of the sentiments of loyalty to the King, and attachment to the constitution, and 7 good order of the country, by which that respec. _ table body is animated.” While the language of _ Bishop Horsley is in all respects the language of a churchman. LETTER XXVII. * To the Right Baherdnid and Remap the Representatives of the Crerey and rater of the Scorrisx Eriscopat Cuurce. | v7 { - “ at London, August 9, 1792. ‘** Right Reverend Fathers, hi ie Sores and Reverend Brethren, ho ** My absence from London was the occasion that your letter of the 14th ult. came but a few days since to my hands, and has not been sooner acknowledged. Ever since it came to my know- ledge that the merciful providence of God had © 1792. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 237 \ preserved to the present day, though in a state _ of great affliction, a remnant of the old Episco- pal Church of Scotland, I felt the deepest con- cern in their sufferings, and the most earnest de- sire that they might obtain relief from the ex. treme severity of penal laws, which political con. siderations could no longer justify. ** I heartily return thanks to God for the mer- cy which he has extended to that part of his fa- - mily, and more particularly that he has vouch- safed to make me, in some degree, the instrument of it. | “ With the most earnest prayers for your hap- Ppiness both in time and in eternity, I remain, &c. _ © Samuet Sr. Davins.” ' It is the opinion of the learned Historian of the Scottish Episcopal Church, that the introduction of English ordained Clergy into Scotland, which at first took place with a view to brotherly assis- tance, has conduced more than avowed enmity would have done to depress that Episcopacy, which, waving political scruples, the English Bishops have at all times acknowledged to be or- thodox and valid*.' In consequence of the Act of Parliament passed on the 3d of March 1712, ‘and so well known in Scotland under the name of the 10th of Queen Anne, which Act required all Scottish Pastors ordained by a Protestant Bish- op, not only to produce their letters of orders be- ~ * Skinner's Eccles. History, Vol. II. p.673. 238 ANNALS OF 1792, fore the Justices of the Peace at their Quarter- sessions, but to take and subscribe the’ oaths of allegiance, assurance, and abjuration ; and every time that they officiated in their places of worship | so protected, to pray in express words for ther — Most Sacred Majesty Queen Anne, andthe Most -_ Excellent Princess Sophia, Duchess Dowager’ of Hanover, and all the Royal family, under'the © penalty of L.20 for the first offence, and for the second of forfeiting the benefit of this Act, and being declared incapable of officiating as Pastor — of any Episcopal congregation for the spaceiof — three years. In consequence of this act, with which their well known political principles pre- vented the Scottish ordained Episcopal Clergy at large from complying, one or two English ordain- ed elesineh were, at that early period, intro- duced into Congregations, the leading members ; , d 4 f | of which were actually Magistrates under the — Hanoverian ‘Government. But the terms and conditions on which their introduction into Scot- land was at the time understood to take place, — ‘ may be learned from the following letter an the — Annalist’s possession, dated Forfar, August 4th, 1717, and addressed to ‘‘ The Right Reverend my Lord Bishop of Edinburgh,” who from the ; period of the revolution was clothed with the vicarious power of Scottish Metropolitan. «> “ May it please your Lordship, “ The people of our town and country about, pat sc oe a ae 1792. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 239 being generally averse from joining the Presby- terian worship, and having been so long deprived of the benefit of public worship performed by an _ Episcopal Minister, that they begin to find the _ dismal effects of it, both among their children and those of a greater age. And seeing that the Government hath shut up us, who are their own Ministers, under such circumstances, (which grow still worse and worse,) that they can have no rea- sonable expectation of being relieved by us in that particular, our Magistrates, together with ~ some Gentlemen in the neighbourhood, (though every way well affected, yet) have resolved to call a man who is qualified according to law, and set up a Meeting-house in this town ; only they want your Lordships permission, without which I can- not give my countenance unto it ; and which, if they had, I doubt not but that they would oblige _ the Gentleman whom they call both to under- take and to act in subserviency, to my ministry in this Congregation ;* whereas, on the other hand, if I shall go about to oppose them, (they are so bent and firmly resolved upon the thing,) it will cause a woful schism among us. _ | * Wherefore have I despatched an express with this line unto your Lordship, not only informing you, (according to my duty,) but also humbly entreating your Lordship, that you may be pleas- * Mr Small was Minister of the Town and Parish of For- far, and ejected at the Revolution. 240 ANNALS OF © 1792. : ed to consider it as a matter of’ the greatest im- % “portance with respect to this place, an d-. 5 ingly to grant us your favourable answ : : though I cannot partake of their worship, but must still continue to worship God in ‘my own” . house as.before, yet if your Lordship will per- $ mit me to give countenance to their Meeting. house, the schism may be prevented, all things — may be done in subordination to’ my ministry, and we may be kept in unity among ourselves, ‘«‘ T have presumed to write the foregoing lines unto your Lordship; and if you shall think fit that I come and speak with you farther upon ' that affair, you shall be, God willing, very readily at. 7 tended by,” &c. Siw Gis | a bse’ Swann’ $M Mey As no bse appointment took stn in 1 Forfar, ‘it is evident that the good people, at whose “in- — stance Mr Small’s application was made, readily d acquiesced-in the reasons which Bishop ‘Rose — would naturally assign for his non-compliance — with their dutiful request. In fact, such appoint- ; ments were generally discountenanced, “until — the memorable year 1748, when it was enacted — that ‘* No letters of orders not’ granted ‘by some 4 Bishop of the Church of England or Ireland, shall, — from and after the 29th September of that year, — be sufficient to qualify any Pastor or Minister of any Episcopal meeting in Scotland, whether the © same wete registered before or after the Ist Sep- . ~* » 1792. SCOTTISH. EFISCOPACY. = Q4d _ tember 1746; and that. every such: registration, _ whether made before or since, shall be null.and void.” 3 The 10th of Queen Anne was evidently de- signed for the protection and preservation of .an Episcopal Church in Scotland, though no longer the Established Church in that part of the Brit- _ ish dominions. But the above enactment had no other end in view but to cut up Scottish Epis- copacy, root and branch ; or to sow the seeds of _ schism, which to this day do remain. partially uneradicated. For the fact is, as stated by our Ecclesiastical Historian, that taking advantage of the difficulties, which, under the invidious title of Nonjurors, Scottish ordained Clergymen had now to struggle with, and eagerly embracing the conditional qualification, by means of English or Irish ordination, which this act imposed, young Scottish students, who felt. themselves at a loss for other occupation, repaired to England, and, after receiving orders, on the recommendations by which they were accompanied, returned to their native land,* and then hesitated not to en« ter on the functions of Episcopal Clergymen, in open and avowed hostility to the resident Bishop _or Bishops of the. cities or dioceses in which they established themselves, regardless alike of their own and the peoples duty to walk by Apostolical eanon, and ‘ obey those who had the. rule over them, and submit themselves,” * Skinner's Eccles. Hist. Vol. Il. p. 671, Q 249 ~ ANNALS OF Immediately on the passing of the act repeal- — ing all the Penal Statutes, one of those ondaaeeh Scotchmen, the Rev. Charles Cordiner, of Banff, whose letters of orders were granted | Dr Newton, Bishop of Bristol, in 1769, for the office _ of Deacon, and by Dr Trail, of Down and Con- . nor, in the town of Arbroath, for the office of Priest, in 1770, united himself and. congregation Hi to the Diocese of Aberdeen, having become sen- Epis- copal Clergyman, he had placed dead The 2 ; union was solemnized on Sunday, July 15th, _ 1792; the Scottish Episcopal Clergyman in Banff, a and Author of these Annals, becoming Mr Cor- — diner’s colleague, and both Congregations being a accommodated in the chapel of the latter.. No man could have acted with more heartfelt good will to the cause than Mr Cordiner acted dus the two years which he survived the measure © Union. On the morning after ahah he thus — gives vent.to his feelings :-— 6 coal clade | sil Ye. aie ae a LETTER XX VID eet seplmstt'? iss THE REV. CHARLES CORDINER TO BISHOP SKINNER. ’ rod teat av ae > sly anal 16. WBrigy 1 ‘“* To the pleasure of divine service, it was a a very additional satisfaction to have your imme- diate authority for COMCREINE yesterday our 1792. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 243, joint ministry in St Andrew’s Chapel. It seem- ed to be a festival of very general satisfaction and joy. Your son, I understand, writes you by this post ; to him, therefore, I refer the pleasing task of narrating particulars. The following post will “probably convey to your hands the’ Articles of Union, regularly subscribed ; and I have only to express my acquiescence in the proposal of tak- - ing public notice of the union. It is certainly _ ight. Whether the Earl of Fife, Lord Lieuten- _ ant of the County, witnessing and countenancing our first service in the sanctuary ? Whether the Chapel having been considered as in some de- gtee under his patronage? And whether you would choose to quote the sentiments of any Bish- ‘op in England, in favour of such union ? These, and such like considerations, I entirely leave to your superior judgment, and trust to your care,— that as the union itself is equally respectable and praiseworthy, so the terms in which it is announc- ed to the Public, will be equally creditable to all concerned. ** Your pastoral affection, good wishes, and friendly regards, I receive with due gratitude and devotion. And I am,” &c. His noble Patron, the Earl of Fife, having pre- sented Mr Cordiner with a copy of his letter to Bishop Skinner, (quoted in p. 235 above, )and hav- ing authorised him to publish it in the Aberdeen Q 2 i ‘4 244 ANNALS OF . ‘1792. . newspaper, Mr C. writes again to the Bishop, (July 25th) mentioning this circumstance, and - enclosing the letter given by his Lordship, with some additional matter of his own, and thus con- cludes: ‘ Whatever in the intermediate para- graph you think superfluous or wrong, I know you will cancel, and it is my duty to acquiesce “ in your determination,—to all the world besides I would. wish to defend the whole. I laboured to express the state of the case in language that would most conciliate my other brethrens’ notice. To those of them whom I most esteemed, I have written of my having taken the lead ina union which I equally delight in as an evangelical duty, _ as in knowing it would be highly acceptable to administration. zit «© As my esteemed colleague and I have not yet met our Constituents on the subject. of repre- sentation at the ensuing convention, I shall only at present add, that you may rest assured of my most heatty concurrence to every measure, and all possible aid to every council, im which the . good of the Episcopal Community in Scotland is concerned, lam,” &c. ‘in Wea And to his memory it is but justice to say, that the good man acted up, in all respects, to his pro- —ea Oe fessions ; extending to his. colleague the right hand of fellowship, with a cordiality which’ re- quires no better evidence on the part of the An- nalist, than simply to inform the reader, that, x 1792.. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. Q45 - from the hour of their union, they never differed on any one topic connected with their profession ; Mr Cordiner regularly administering the Sacra- ment of the Lord’s Supper by the form appointed for the use of the Episcopal Church in Scotland. True, he had been reared in the bosom of that Church, and accustomed in early youth to this primitive formulary ; but being at perfect liberty to retain the office to which, asa Clergyman, he had been accustomed for the space of twenty- two years, his conformity with ‘ the authorized service of the Episcopal Church in the adminis- tration of the Holy Sacrament,” (see Canon XV.) was noless grateful to his youthful colleague, than to his Bishop and the Church at large. ~ On the 22d of August the Convention met at Laurencekirk, in terms of the order given, when Bishop Skinner having been chosen Preses, and the Rev. Roger Aitkin, Clerk, the intended bu- siness was forthwith entered on, the Bishop de- elaring, as formerly, that the Convention being merely of a civil nature, it was to be considered as no precedent for a Synod or Assembly purely Ecclesiastical. A full report of the proceedings of the Committee having been, in the first place, read to the Meeting, Bishop Skinner deemed it his dutyto address the Convention at some length, obviating every objection which parties, not on the spot, were not slack to raise against the pro- Visions of the Bill; particularly that restrictive clause which precludes Scottish ordained Clergy- 246 “ANNALS OF ' 0 1'792! men from holding livings in the Church of Eng= land. ‘ For my own part,” said the Primus, * 1 am at aloss to determine, whether we have, or have not, reason to complain of it. Time will shew how it is likely to operate, and I would faim hope that there is as much probability of its be- ing friendly, as of its being prejudicial to the in- terests of our Church, so long as our Church is considered in its true light, viz. as a Society which’ has no other object but the promotion of true re~ ligion, and which, therefore, ought to bave none’ — else for its Ministers but those who expect their’ reward in a better country even than England,’ and from a Master whose kingdom is not of this’ world. But whatever opinion may be entertained — with respect to this restriction, or whether we ‘are pleased or displeased with it, I feel no hesita= tion in affirming, that we had not the most dis- tant chance, at the time, of escaping it; because it did not originate in the humour or eaprice of any single member of Administration, but im the — decided judgment of a body of men, who thought it their duty, in their legislative capacity, to sé- cure the temporal emoluments of the Chureh of’ England, as far as they can be seeuréd, to her own Clergy, and to them only. With respect to the imposition of the oaths, the whole oaths, from: first to last, we honestly and fearlessly avowed our’ unconquerable objection to that part of them which has a retrospective view, and which would: require us to abjure, as mere pretended rights, 1792. . SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. oA47 what, in the opinion of the Church to which we belong, did once really and truly exist ; although having now, in our opinion, entirely ceased, they no longer stand in the way of our fealty and alle- giance to the reigning Prince. ** Free as we now are to profess our loyalty and unqualified submission to the illustrious family on the throne, and that in a manner the most sincere and unequivocal, we did fondly flatter ourselves, ‘that the Legislature of a country like Britain, \ would require no more of us than an oath of al- legiance ; and that in our case, as in the case of other British subjects, they would liberally dis- pense with that particular oath, which they so well knew we could do no other, as honest men, than conscientiously refuse. And this, I doubt not, they might and would have done, had not ‘an enemy done this,’ had not our adversaries, (for no men are without them,) laid hold of this very circumstance to justify an opposition which, though secretly, yet, alas! successfully, they have been from the date of our campliance systematis cally carrying on. Our candour, our honesty, in avowing our scruples, and our repeated applica- tion for a commutation of the-Government oaths, as far as we were concerned, were, I suspect, the means of imboldening our enemies in their ma- chinations against us; enabling them to lead, as it were, a proof in the eyes of them who knew us not, of our still retaining a little of what they would call ‘the old leaven,’—~a tincture of former ° 443 — ANNALS OF 5 * eae disaffection. »And hence would they insinuate, that to trust us with greater liberty than what — we formerly enjoyed from the lenity of Govern- ment. simply, would be dangerous and improper. Here it was that our opposers took their firmest ground ; and here it was that the Lord Chiancele ) lor of England fixed his foot,—that the highest — Officer. ab the Crown intrenched himself in such a manner, that, after various attempts to dislodge —_ him, it? was found necessary to drop all thoughts: of a‘commutation of the oaths, and to proposea Bill, drawn up with such scrupulous attention to» — the ideas of the noble Lord on the Woolsack, « that every man in office to whom it was shewn > approved of it, and declared they could see no good reason why it should not pass into a law. Still, however, did this’ great man’s opposi- tion to us continue, assuming various hues, so that, when to one friend he would seem tohaye _ relented, and would express himself ‘almost per- / ‘suaded that our requests were reasonable,’ in conference with. another he would recur to all his former objections, and be as stiff and inflexi- ble as he had. ever been. This, Gentlemen, I — trust, is abundantly evident from the yoranenee a now before you. flee te “ And it is a circumstance, to wrhidle ‘wish you particularly to attend, affording, as it i proof positive, that it was in vain for your Com-_ 3 mittee to think of gaining over-such a man as Lord Chancellor Thurlow, by length of time and 1792._ SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 249 repeated applications ; for the longer our busi- ness remained in suspense, the more opportuni- ties were offered to our designing adversaries of turning these delays to our prejudice, and, in the'same proportion that our difficulties multi- plied, their confidence increased, gathering fresh strength from every defeat which we experienced. Still it may be said, that the probability of Lord Thurlow’s retiring from office was a circumstance worthy of regard, and the nearer that this event seemed to approach, we ought to have the more patiently waited for it. But,/be it observed, our _ Bill had been moved, and the merits of it fully discussed before there was a probability of the Chancellor’s resignation. His objections had all been heard, his alterations, as well as those sug- gested by Lord Grenville, had been all proposed, nay had been all agreed to, and the Bill wanted nothing but a third reading, a matter of mere form. To have abandoned it at that time, (in expectation of an event, which, though it did speedily ensue, was not to have been depended on, ) after Administration itself may be said to have bestowed so much pains upon it, would confess- edly have been a very rash and imprudent step, ~ nothing short of trifling with the supreme tri- bunal of our country. Such levity and fickleness every other consideration apart, would have dis- - gusted our friends, and, to a certainty, encouraged our enemies. Thus, onthe one side, the risk was ‘imminent, on the other, the advantage to be gain- 250 ANNALS OF ed, doubtful; but had no doubt attended it, it was neither of magnitude, nor of importancesuf — ficient to have justified our withdrawing the Bill, — and delaying its enactment to a more convenient — season. Besides, | may appealtothe greater por tion of the members of this) very Convention, — whether it has not been the general and unchang- ed language of the whole body. of Scottish Epis- copal Clergy, from the moment they were aware — of opposition to the terms of relief which the first — Bill held oat, that if the Laity of our Communion { were exempted from pains and penalties, and left. free to attend on our ministrations without. diss qualification of any sort, we would; one and all be’ satisfied, and trust, as we have hitherto done; to — the mildness of the executive government for dis- countenancing all ean to turn the aa laws against us. 7. Now, by the present Act, short asit hentia . what at one period we were led to anticipate; the Laity are not only fully relieved, fully empower- { ed to give the wished for continuance to, and at tendance on our ministrations; but the Clergy themselves are placed in a far more eligible situa-* tion. Refusal to take the oaths by the statutes complained of, was for the first offence to be pun- ished with six months imprisonment ; for the se+ — cond, banishment or imprisonment for life. By. the present statute, a fine of L.20 is imposed for — the first offence, and for the second the ie ob ; man shall be declared incapable of tt for Seer Siz, i ar Sas 1792. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 951 _the space of three years. In regard to these pen- alties, therefore, we are literally brought back to’ _ the same situation in which Queen Anne’s to- _ leration would have placed us, had no stibsequetit’ Acts been passed against us ; and it has been core _ ténded that we had no right to expéct arly great! et indulgence. But there is a clause in the new’ Act, to which the Act of Queén Anne has not even an allusion, the clausé which enforces out’ subs¢ription of the Thirty-nine Articles of the Church of England. The fact is, the Articles of the English Church seem to have been consider- ed by the British Senate as that confessional of Christian doctrine, which, being best entitled to: establishment in England, is most ‘ fit to be to- ‘letated’ in Scotland ; and we having professed otirselves in communion with the Church of Eng- land, there really appears to me no ‘hardship’ in our Clergy being required, as the law directs, to acknowledge, that the Articles of that Church * are agreeable to the word of God ;’ and all the inconvenience or apparent impropriety which some may be disposed to ascribe to the Ecclesias- tical anomaly of one Church being required, whether her Clergy will or not, to subscribe the Articles of another, may be prevented by the Episcopal Church in Scotland, (having at present no Confessional but what the Creeds in the Book of Common Prayer contain,) adopting the Arti- cles of the Church of England in like manner with the Liturgy of that Church as her own, and ‘ “t. 9 952 ANNALS OF 1792 : requiring all future candidates for bldlidelerk | as such, ex animo, to subscribethem. Thisisa — matter, which. as it deserves serious consideration, — shall, I trust, in no long time receive it, inasmuch as in these days of endless innovation, the Bish- — ops and Clergy of this Church must. see'thene- — cessity of ‘ contending earnestly,” and of provid- — . ing wisely, for the solemn profession of thatfaith once delivered tothe saints, and which unless'we * hold fast without wavering,’ all the freedom we — can enjoy will be of little consequence either to — our comfort here or happiness hereafter... Acts — of Parliament may exalt or they may depress\us — in the opinion of the world, according toithe — ' fashion of the times, or according-to the light in — which religion is viewed through the medium of — worldly politics. But, like its great original, the - ‘truth as it is in Jesus’ admits of * no variable- ‘ness, neither shadow of turning’ it isthe.‘same — “ yesterday, to-day, and for ever;’ the faithof — - Christ being that impregnable Rock on which his — Church is so firmly founded as to defy the gates of hell, and all the batteries which sin: and Satan can raise against it. . MTSE T? ** While we ‘hold faith and a good-eonscience; while our determination is never to quit these — weapons of our heavenly warfare, we need be in no fear of fines and forfeitures, or any worldly loss that can befal us.. To comply with thelaws — of our beloved country, as far as we conscientious- ly can, will be alike our duty and our pride; and — 1792. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 258 even where we cannot yield an active, it will be, I doubt not, our boast to yield a passive-obe- _ dience. These arethe principles by which, through evil report and good report, we have hitherto been distinguished; and in a calm and steady adher- ence to these principles, let us be prepared sub- missively to meet the enactments of that. law, which, being entitled «An Act for granting relief *to Pastors and Ministers of the Episcopal Com- _£munion in Scotland’ can never be meant to ag- grieve them. The time will surely come when oaths of abs . Juration shall be wiped fromthe statute book, and when we shall be enabled to shew that our principles, so far from leading us to infringe the” law, are its best security and defence.- In the mean time, should any person be found so worth- Jess as to act the part of an officious informer, and should ‘ deliver us to the Judge, and the * Judge to the Officer,’ we may then, with good reason complain of legal oppression, and, on an humble representation of the oppression, hope to obtain from the lenity and wisdom of the British Government the wished for redress. Nay, ‘if ‘rendering unto Cesar the things that are Ca- sar’s, and unto God the things that are Gods,’ the _ favour of our earthly Sovereign and those in aus - thority under bim should be denied us, we have still to trust in the mercy and protection of our Heavenly Master, of him who is King of kings, and Lord of lords,—of Him, who is habd over all men and over all things unto his Church, and Q54 ANNALS OF . _ who has promised to make all things. ork to- gether for good to them who tay I love and de voutly serve him, vot onlay In justice to myself, and to shat with me in the management of our Ja mentary applications, I have farther to observe, that in every whatever our hands or our heat to be done ‘ we did it with ‘2 the zeal, talent, and energy of which we possessed, and with a single eye to the wee of our society. Should any member 0 a a- ‘vention wish for farther information ry indis vidual part of the procedure, hey th ready and willing to comply as with his wish; since to unite the the interest of both Clergy and Lai ing the peace and prosperity of f the Scottish E ae piscopal Church, having been through life my chief occupation, will be at death my chief, ioe heart-cheering consolation.” ‘si bolita pig Having finished the report and the sbovdtiilid dress, the Preses, Bishop Skinner, on motion to — that effect, left the chair, bees ‘Convention, — forming itself into a general ‘Committee, (the Very Rev. Patrick Rose, Dean of I reck » Chair — man,) unanimously approved. of what had been © done ; and having appointed a Sub-committee te draw up a minute of thanks to the Committee of _ Delegates and its Preses, the following minute — was given in, and afterwards subscribed in due — form by the Chairman. +a , 01792. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. : (Ba 5) At Laurencekirk, 22d August 1792.—A Ge- _ mera! Convention of the Scottish Episcopal Church having, at the request of the Preses of the Com- " “mittee of Delegates, met at this place to hear Re- ' portof the proceedings of said Committee ap- _ pointed by the Convention of 1'789, for obtaining a Repeal of the Penal Laws, and having heard a narrative of that Committee’s proceedings from the day of its appointment to the obtaining of _ the object intrusted to its care, resolve unani- mously, *©1mo, That the Committee of Delegates has ' conducted itself with great diligence oe pru- dence in the arduous task of procuring a repeal of those Penal Statutes by which the Scottish Episcopal Church was long afflicted. _ 2do, That no part of its conduct was more ju-’ dicious than the appointment of its Right Rever- end Preses to the office of Delegate, to superin- tend the business in London. “ Sito, ‘That the said Delegate ee oa himself to the utmost in discharge of his duty, and ob- tained the best Bill whi in the present cir- cumstances, could be expected ; and therefore the Convention retufns its best thanks to the Com- mittee in general, and to the Right Reverend Preses, for the rectitude of their conduct in that important trust committed to them; and request that their vote of thanks may be kept in the ar- chives of the Church as a testimony to after ages: “Pat. Rosg, Preses,”’ eS ee 256 * ANNALS OF (92 - «* The Convention, after a short adjo ot proceeded to enquire what steps had be agreeably to the circular letter sent to the to raise money for the purpose of defray 7 sar of the late Act oft Parliame 1 peta to hike, ‘A balance of L.91, 8s. od. remain : ing to be disposed of as the Convention shot Id deter mine, it was, after some discussion, unani« -mously agreed that the above sum Apgnid be. dew posited in the hands of the Primus, laid out at interest for behoof of th Children of the Clergy; but on tl only, “ that the Congregations, c a majority of them which have not slscady con- tributed, shall yet consent to do so, otherwise the foresaid balance shall be returned to the Con- -gregations which have contributed in proportion ; to the respective sums advanced. by each. This — resolution the Clerk of Convention was. enjoined. to communicate to those concerned, and after receiving their sentiments, they emy ) lay the same before the Primus, who is ; t= ed, in case the outstanding iat or ma~— jority of them, do not contribute, to divide the ba- dance in manner above directed ; or in the event _ of their contributing, jointly vit his Right Re- | verend colleagues to apply it to the Pup ’ 1792. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 257 forming ‘and establishing a fund, as aforesaid, and “such as to them and the Clergy of their respec- tive districts shall seem most likely to render the fund permanent and efficient.” The balance was then deposited in Bishop Skinner’s hands, and the Convention broke up. On the 20th of September 1792,-the College of Bishops met at Stonehaven, in the county of ‘Rin: cardine ; and, in consequence of a regular deed of election, transmitted to the Primus by the Dean of Dunkeld, they proceeded to the conse- cration of the Bishop elect, the Rev. Jonathan Watson of Laurencekirk, and granted him letters of collation to the charge of the diocese of Dun- eld, * vice the Right Rev. Charles Rose, Bishop “of Dunblane, who died in April 1791, and to whom no successor in the see of Dunblane has beenjudg- ed necessary, the Clergy of that Diocese being ‘attached either to Dunkeld or Edinburgh, as lo- eal situation required. The consecration being over, the Bishops Skinner, Macfarlane, Aber- nethy Drummond, Strachan, and Watson, form- ed themselves into an Episcopal Synod, when, - - * It-does not appear from the account of consecrations giv- en in Skinner’s Eccles. History, that the sees of Dunkeld and Dunblane were really distinct sees from the death of Bishops Gillan and Rattray ; for (p. 654) itis said Bishop Alexander was consecrated ‘to supply the vacancy,” on Bishop Rattray’s death, in the see of Dunkeld; whereas, in the Appendix, (p. - 696.) Bishop Charles Rose is said to have been appointed Bish- ep of Dunblane in room of Bishop Alexander. R 258 ANNALS OF - 4792. taking into their consideration the propriety of addressing the King on the late Proclamation,* and the Primus having produced and read the — form of an address, it was unanimously approved of ; and both the address and a letter to Mr Sec- retary Dundas were signed by all the Bishops, and transmitted by next day’s post to London. Before this Synod was dissolved, Bishop Skins ner submitted to the consideration of his Right Reverend Colleagues, the propriety of interest- ing the Clergy of their respective dioceses in se- veral measures which the Synod had agreed upon as matters of paramount importance to the ‘progressive prosperity of the Church, and the success of their ministry. But, as these ‘meas sures ultimately led to the subscription of the Thirty-nine Articles of religion of the English Church in the year 1804, and to the new code of Canons enacted in the year 1811, it is unne- cessary, the Annalist conceives, to swell his vo- lume by the discussion of them here. i _ He therefore proceeds to the very satisfactory reply from Mr Secretary Dundas, with which, on the 2d of October 1792, Bishop Skinner was hon- oured ; for after expressing the “ great satisfac- tion he had in informing the Bishops in Scotland that his Majesty was pleased to receive their ad- dress in the most gracious manner, the Fil adds :-— * Proclamation for the preventing of tumultuous meetings and seditious writings, issued May 21, 1792. ~ A q 1792. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 259 “I feel particularly flattered that any part of my conduct with regard to your concerns has been satisfactory to you. I can, with great truth, assure you, that no one is more sensible of the proofs of loyalty to the King, and attachment to the constitution, and good order of the country, which have been shewn by that respectable body the Bishops and Clergy of the Scottish Episcopal Church. Iam,” &c. “* Henry Dunpas.” ~ The Diocesan Synod of Aberdeen having met _ by appointment of the Bishop on the 7th of No- vember 1792, the attention of the Clergy was di- rected to the new Act of Parliament, as their Dios cesan wished them to come to some resolution on the subject, which might be entered in their — minutes, and communicated to the other districts of the Church. Their resolution was as follows: ** At a Diocesan Synod, holden at Aberdeen on the 7th of November 1792, the Bishop and Clergy of this Diocese, finding, that on taking the Act | of Parliament lately passed for the relief of this Church into consideration, they cannot, consis- tently with the principles which they have ever espoused, take and subscribe all the oaths requir- ed by that Act, by which means they are pre- cluded from an opportunity of giving their pub- lic assent to the truth of the Thirty-nine Arti- cles of religion received in the Church of Eng- land, and which, from their brotherly affection to ae R2 260 ANNALS OF ¢ * 1792. that Church they are much inclined to give, they think themselves called upon to declare, in this Synodical manner, that they will, on all proper occasions, testify to the world in general, and to the members of this Church in particular, that — though various opinions may be, and always have - been entertained in the interpretation of some of those Articles, yet they consider the doctrines proposed in the same to be agreeable to the word of God *.” With a view to the measures which the Bish- ops in Synod had agreed upon, as of paramount interest to the cause of Scottish Episcopacy, the _ Bishop of Aberdeen, after submitting them to his Clergy, and recommending them as fit objects of immediate study, ‘“ hoped that they would com- municate to him in writing whatever thoughts —— a =e might occur to them, regarding ‘ the outward ‘ profession of the faith in this Church, the cele- « bration of public worship, the exercise of disci- ¢ pline, the catechetical instruction of youth, and ‘ the performing the various occasional offices of ‘ religion,’ so that all things might be done, not on- ly « decently and in order,’ but with as much sim- plicity of manner and uniformity of practice as possible.” After this the Clergy having request- . ve ie * Tenderly alive, as Mr Skinner of Longside ever shewed himself, to the peace of the Church and the unanimity of her Clergy, and being unable at that inclement season to atténd this Synod, he addressed his brethren of the Diocese of Aber- deen, in the Latin verses, which the reader will find in the 7 Appendix, No. T. eS. es 1798. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 261 ed their Ordinary to make the proper acknow- ledgment to the Society for promoting Chris- tian Knowledge in London, for their late hand- some donation of Books of Common Prayer, the Synod was, in due form, dissolved. + 1793.) It was at this time remarked, asa singular coincidence, that the French revolution should have burst forth one hundred years exactly from the date of the revolution which, in 1688, took place in Great Britain. And that, at the very period, when Frenchmen were ready to have, once more, embroiled this happy land _ in civil war, it should have so happened that the last re- maining branch of the house of Stuart, who could dispute the succession of the reigning family, should have been most providentially removed by death, and thus.the whole British nation left to obey the dictates of conscience, and, with one heart and one soul, vigorously to repel the as- saults of every foreign foe. From the moment that the account of the demise of Charles Ed- ward, better known by the title of the young Pre- tender, reached Scotland, from that moment, as has been already shewn, Jacobitism became like a dead man, out of mind; every tongue was eager to swear fealty and allegiance to the House of Brunswick, and every arm to protect and defend the Constitution of Great Britain, as by law esta- blished. + With a foresight, for which the ihnstrions mini- 262 ANNALS OF” 1793. ster of the Crown, the Right Hon. William Pitt, was, happily for this country, famed, Parliament was called together at an earlier period than usu- al after the vacation in summer 1792, when mea sures being taken for putting the kingdom into a state of defence, the French Convention thought proper to consider these measures as indications of hostility towards them, and, in the beginning ~ of 1793, declared war against Britain. In con- sequence of this alarming step, the design of which was completely developed im the corres- pondence then carrying on between the revolu- ~ tionary demoniacs of France, and eertain socie- ties of deluded individuals, lately affiliated in dif+ ferent parts of this kingdom, the friends of the altar and the throne, all who ‘* feared God and honoured the king,” sprung forward with public - testimonies of their deep-rooted attachment to both, and of their innate abhorrence of the level- ling principles now so artfully dissemimated. A> mong these lovers of order, not “of confusion and every evil work,” the Bishops and Clergy of the Episcopal Communion in Scotland quickly ap- peared. Declarations of loyalty were published by the Dioceses of Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Ross — and Moray, Dunkeld, Dunblane, and Fife, all vying with each other in expressions of honest indignation at the conduct of France, and of their determination to resist and oppose her contamin- ating principles to the utmost of their power. The declaration of the Bishop and Clergy: of the 1793. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 963 Diocese of Aberdeen, may be taken as a speci- , men of the matter and manner of the rest.” “ Decvaration of the Bisnor and Ciercy of the Scorrisn Episcopan Cxurcu, within the Diocese of Aberdeen. «The Bishop and Scottish Episcopal Clergy of the Diocese of Aberdeen, duly sensible of the blessings which they enjoy under the mild and equitable Government of this country, think it their duty, at the present juncture, to testify in the most public manner their grateful and invio- lable attachment to the King and Constitution of Great Britain; a king, adios care and hap- piness it has ever been to govern agreeably to the laws, and a constitution which has stood the test of ages, and is admirably calculated for securing to his Majesty’s subjects all that is desirable of civil and religious liberty. ' “ Impressed with these sentiments, were consi- dering it as an obligation arising from their pro- fessional character, as well as from the regard which they owe to the welfare of their country, the Bishop and Clergy above mentioned will make it their constant study to counteract the insidious operation of all seditious and inflammatory publi- cations, tending to alienate the affections of the people from the Government by which they are _so equally protected, and to make them unhappy and discontented with their situation. Justly a- 264 ANNALS OF 1793. larmed at the dissemination of principles which have such a dangerous tendency, they will never cease to inculcate on those who attend their mi- nistrations, the genuine doctrines of that pure and undefiled religion which teacheth men ‘ to ‘ render unto all their dues;’—‘ to remember that ‘ rulers are nota terror to good works but to the — evil;’jand, therefore, thatit is as much theinterest’ _ as it is the duty of Christians to ‘honourandobey _ ‘the King, and all that are in seni vans. | ‘him.’ ab “* And whereas his Majesty has been gracious" ly. pleased, by his royal proclamation, and for cer= tain wise and pious purposes therein mentioned, to appoint a public fast to be observed through- _ out Scotland, on Thursday the 18th of Aprilnext) — ensuing, the Bishop, with the approbation of his Clergy, thinks it incumbent on him to recom- — mend a suitable observance of this religious ap- pointment to the several Congregations within the, Diocese ; most earnestly exhorting and request= ing them to assemble themselves devoutly and’ reverently on that day, for the public worship of the Almighty God ; for deprecating, in the most fervent manner, the calamities which the’sins of — this nation deserve, and humbly imploring his merciful protection of the British Empire from the principles as well as from the power of that deluded people, with whom this country is now’ engaged ina just and necessary war.) 9) “ Joun Skinner, Bishop.” « Aberdeen, March 25. 1793.” — ae & Cowan 1798. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. | 265 Nor did these declarations of the Bishops and Clergy, combined with pulpit addresses of the most zealous description, fail to produce the desired effect, on this as well as on every subse- quent occasion. In fact, than Jacobite and Jaco- bin, no terms can possibly convey meanings more heterogeneous. Hence the long suspected Scot- tish Episcopalian, confirmed in his professions of _ well merited fidelity and regard to the Brunswick: line, by the same undeviating zeal for the legiti- mate succession of the throne as for that of the priesthood, was never, during the arduous and long protracted contest, found in one instance guilty of sedition, or misdemeanour of any sort, _ or even accused of such malepractices. . On the contrary, the former adherents of the house of Stuart, nicknamed Nonjurors, uniformly swelled the ranks of every loyal association throughout the kingdom. ~ Desirable, however, as was the promotion of so- cial and political union in our, at that time, dis- tracted country, ecclessiastical unity and concord Was the measure which the Scottish Episcopate had most at heart. The thoughts of the Primus may be said to have been wholly bent towards healing the unseemly schism which political expediency had ceased to render justifiable in the sight of men, and which, in God’s sight could never, Bishop Skinner thought, be justified. . ‘The great object was to get the English ordained Clergy in the metropolis of Scotland, and their 266 - ANNALS OF — > 1793. Congregations, to set an example of sound church — principles to those in the other towns and dis- tricts of Scotland, the whole body of such Clergy amounting then in number to about a half of the regular Scottish Episcopal Clergy. > It naturally occurred to Bishop Skinner, that, as objections might yet be started to the mea» sure, by reason of the non-compliance of him- self and brethren with the literal enactments of — the Legislature, so far as concerned the state — oaths, a door should be opened by the venerable Bishop Abernethy Drummond’s resignation of the Diocese of Edinburgh, into the hands of some zealous and well affected Clergyman of the Eng- ~ lish Church, who might be prevailed on to come’ to Scotland, and, being there invested with the. Episcopal character, might take charge of the Edinburgh Diocese. His colleagues, together with the Clergy of Scottish ordination in the metropolis, approving highly of the measure, and no less of the excellent individual whom the Primus had in view, a correspondence f 1 ‘ , was immediately opened on the interesting sub- _ ject. Bishop Abernethy Drummond, with a a zeal and humbleness of mind, which would have done honour to any Prelate of any age, assured Bishop Skinner, in a letter, dated March 18th, 7 1793, that he ‘‘ most cheerfully adopted the plan — which he and Bishop Watson proposed, and would immediately resign in favour of the worthy Vicar of Epsom, if he should be so good as accept the ; * 1793. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 267 see of Edinburgh.” And the worthy Vicar him- self, after a visit to Edinburgh, and a reception there, which, to use his own words, “‘ was highly flattering and favourable,” told the Primus also, “ As for myself, God is my witness, I have much at heart the furtherance of his glory, and the welfare of his Church. If these are promo: ted, it is very immaterial whether it be by me or not. I can have no worldly interest in view, wherefore do I request and charge you to suffer no undue partiality for me, however flattering and grateful that partiality may in other respects be to me, to influence your judgment. The gra- tifying of such feelings neither is, nor ought to be, beneath our notice; but, in the present in- stance, much higher considerations demand our attention. ** J add only, that if Providence sees fit to send me on this great errand, it shall be the business of my life to pray for the grace of God to ena- ble me to do my duty in so peculiarly arduous a station. With the warmest sentiments of piety and affection, I earnestly recommend his Church; and his Ministers in your portion of it, to his pro- tection and blessing.* And I remain,” &c. * The reader has already been introduced to this venerable and yenerated name. More ample notice of it will be taken when the Annalist shall have to record his removal from this world and its vanities. In the mean time, to shew that Mr Boucher was aman who was well fitted for the situation in- tended for him in Scotland, he was not only at one time thought ; ‘ 268 ANNALS OF ) > 6) 1793. Seldom, however, di political and ecclesiasti- — cal expediency unite: interests, or concur in the same design ; and so it happened here... ‘Do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing?” instantly do consequences ensue “against the Lotd: and against his anointed ;” in other — words, religion suffers. Thus, dandahia being spread, that “ the scheme in agitation was'to in- troduce Bishops into Scotland with the sanction of Government, and on such legal footing as to entitle them to’ some legal jurisdiction,” Mr Boucher would no longer permit the measure to be proceeded in. And as the Vestry of the Cow- gate Chapel in Edinburgh had shewn a deep and laudable interest in the success of the measure, until the above absurd alarm had gone abroad, it was finally abandoned, as will appear from / LETTER XXIX. ‘BISHOP SKINNER TO SIR WILLIAM FORBES, BART. , irae. ote“ «© That the proposal of bringing Mr Boucher to Edinburgh, as the instrument of uniting the two orders of Episcopalians, who have been so — long kept asunder, should have given any offence, or cause of alarm, can be accounted for in no of for the Bishoprick of Nova Scotia, to which Dr Inglis was appointed, but the wisn ek was pressed hard to obtain him for Canada. : > ” “ 1798. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 269° ether way than by supposing that the whole af- fair must-have been grossly misrepresented. The introduction of Bishops into Scotland, with any legal claim to temporal jurisdiction, God knows, . _ was as far from the object in view, as it is from my . * view to claim a right to the revenues of the Bish- | oprick of Aberdeen, or to the jurisdiction attach- _ed to those revenues ; nothing more being intend- ed than to unite the Episcopalians in Edinburgh under one Bishop, who was in all respects.to be on the same footing, as you know, with his bre- thren in Scotland, deriving his spiritual authori- ty from the same source, and exercising it in the same limited manner as they now do, over those who choose to acknowledge it, and over those only. I have perused, with great attention, your letter to the Archbishop of Canterbury, and can- not but admire the very candid and proper man- ner in which you stated to his Grace the situa- _ tion of those of the Episcopal persuasion in this country. The very good and favourable terms in which you have had the goodness’ to mention the Scottish Bishops, deserve my particular notice, and cannot fail to make a deep and lasting im- pression on our minds. May our heavenly Master pour down his richest blessings on you and yours, and enable us, his unworthy servants, to act up to the character which you have been pleased to give of us. ‘The cause which we have all so much _ at heart,is now in such good hands, and will, we doubt not, on your part be so’ properly attended we : ' 270 - ANWALE ORE TeOeE 1793. 5 g to, that we have only to wish and pray for suc- q cess to your laudable endeavours, whenever the — time shall come for exerting them, withoutineurs _ ring any such danger as is now apprehended. ~ But when that happy period will arrive is*best known to him who knoweth all things, andhas not only times and seasons, but the hearts of meny in his hands. The spirit of seditious disaffection) which a short time ago threatened to break out — into acts of open violence, has received that seas 5 sonable and salutary check, which was the ears nest wish of every friend to social order and good government. The clamours of the unthinking — crowd are at present drowned in the noise of war; and all the political theories of our reformers © _ have given way to the more important consideras _ tions of our national danger. How far the res turn of peace may operate on the minds of the — discontented, and set them once more agog in’ search of pretended grievances, it is not easy for human foresight to conjecture. Fain would T hope, that the laudable end in view, by the pros — posed union in Edinburgh, would never again be’ so far misrepresented and mistaken, as to give the — least cause of offence, or ground of alarm; toany person of common sense, whether belonging to the Establishment or to the most zealous Sectaries, I shall long to hear of any circumstance that may % . prove favourable to the cause of that happy un) ) ion, while I fervently pray, that the God of unity — and peace may bless and prosper your good des a f 1793. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 271 signs, and finally crown them with that success ‘which may tend to his glory and the happiness of all concerned.” In the year 1798, a most beneficial act having passed the British Legislature for the encourage- ment of Friendly Societies, it immediately oc- curred to the Bishop and Clergy of the Diocese of Aberdeen, that application ought to be made to have the benefits of that Act extended to the Scottish Episcopal Clergy, their Widows and Or- phans, and indigent members; the Convention of 1792, having sanctioned the formation of a permanent and efficient fund for their relief, and applied the balance of money raised for discharg- ing the expence of the Act of Repeal of the Pe- nal Statutes, to the establishment of such a fund. _ For this purpose, the Reverend Roger Aitkin, Clerk to the Diocese, was, at the autumnal Sy- nod of 1793, empowered by the Bishop and his brethren of the Diocese to submit the matter to the other Bishops and Clergy throughout the Church, who with one or two exceptions, having cordially approved of the measure, Mr Aitkin was further instructed to lose no time in drawing up the necessary Articles and Rules, and circulat- ing them for the correction and approbation of those who were to join the * Scottish Episcopal Friendly Society.” A draught of Articles or | Rules was prepared accordingly, and having been printed, it was duly forwarded to all concerned, 272 ANNALS OF - 1793. with a notification from Bishop Skinner, as Pri- mus, that a general meeting of such Bishops and : Clergy as had a desire to become members of — the Society, would be holden at Aberdeen, on the 19th of November 1793, for the purpose of — sanctioning the said Articles in terms oflaw. .- The meeting took place on the day appointed, — when, having unanimously formed themselves in- : to a Friendly Society in terms of the Act of Par- liament, and having deliberated on the Articles or Rules drawn up for its government, these rules, after having undergone some slight alterations, were ordered to be fairly written out, aid being signed by the Preses and Clerk, to be by them presented to his Majesty’s Justices of the Peace — for the County of Aberdeen, for confirmation as | the law directs. Being confirmed accordingly on the 16th of November 1793, the Society has since that period continued to flourish beyond what the most sanguine of its institutors.could have anticipated. From the sum of L.10 annually to: the Widows of deceased members, and the sum — of L.100 to the orphan family, (if no widow ex- isted,) the annuity of each widow is now increas- — ed to L.20, and the sum given to an orphan fa- — mily 1.200, notwithstanding that the -individ- — ual members of the Society have never been as- — sessed in a sum above L.2 yearly, and that only — for the space of ten years from their admission. The liberality of Lay contributions, at the time of commencement, and the admirable mamage- — “1794. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 973 . _ ment under which the Scottish Episcopal Friendly - Society has been for twenty-four years conducted, are gratefully acknowledged as the causes which have led to this beneficial result. 1794. ] The Brief drawn up by Bishop Skinner, and subscribed by the College of Bishops, and which, in terms of an order to that effect, was read by the Clergy severally from their pulpits, on the fourth or fifth Sunday in Lerft, 1794, will shew the reader ofthese Annals the modé which was adopted for establishing the funds of the Society, the stock of which, now available to all the pur- _ poses of it, amounts to nearly L.7000. “A Brier from the Brsuoprs of the Scorcu Erts- _ copaL Cuurcn, to be read bythe Clergy of that Church, in their several Congregations, - on the 4th or 5th Sunday in Lent. “When the adorable Redeemer of mankind appeared upon earth, as God manifest in the flesh, ; he was graciously pleased to found and establish a Church, or society of faithful people, which was to be supported and governed by such means and instruments as he had appointed for that purpose. © Great and manifold are the blessings which the Christian world derives from this divine institu- tion. Wonderful are the methods by which it has been preserved amidst the fall of empires, and maintained its ground under the various revolu- ; 5 ae ANNALS OF * 1794. eitais of the kingdoms of this world. Sometimes, upheld by the arm of flesh, it has gloried in the — support of a civil establishment, and been able to allure men into its service, by holding out tempo- ral emoluments as the immediate reward of their — labours. But often has it experienced : a different fate; and, divested of all worldly honours, and — human appendages, been confined to the simple exercise of its spiritual powers, and obliged tode- pend, for the subsistence of its ministers, on the — voluntary donations of those who adhered to their — ministrations. ‘To sucha state of poverty and dependance was the national Church of this coun- . try reduced by that change of government which — took place in this kingdom towards the close of the last century. The part which the Bishops and Clergy of the Church of Scotland acted on ~ that memor able occasion is well known, and the effects of it were long and severely felt. — The : distressed situation of the ejected Clergy, many — of whom were driven to the utmost extremity of want, could not fail to excite the compassion of — : 4 a as B well-disposed Christians, especially of those who were inclined to consider them as suffering for the sake of a good conscience. Among such per- sons applications for their relief were proposed, and carried on with considerable success. Pub- SEE Ree lic contributions were made in various places, and — donations received from private hands, for. the support of the suffering Clergy of the Episcopal Church of Scotland. Nor was the aid of this 7S er . 1794. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. Q75 charity confined solely to those who had been de- prived of their livings by the abolition of Episco- pacy ; it was with equal propriety extended not only to their widows and families, but also to their successors in office, many of whom, from a varie- ty of causes, were found to stand in equal need of this charitable assistance. A conscientious regard for that form of ecclessiastical government, which they believed to be of Apostolic institution, produced a succession of respectable candidates _for the holy ministry ; but the zeal and abilities, _ wherewith they discharged the duties of their sa- cred function, were not always sufficient to pro- cure such a decent subsistence as is necessary to the support of the clerical character. It was to supply this want, as well as to hold out some small but permanent relief to the widows and orphans of such of the Clergy as died in indigent circumstances, that the plan of a charitable fund was first suggested ; and what part of the .mo- nies collected for that purpose could be spar- ed from immediate distribution, was put into the hands of such persons as were thought most pro- per to be intrusted with the management of it. Under their administration, this fund continued to be feebly supported by afew occasional dona- tions, and small but regular collections in the city of Edinburgh, which is the only place that has contributed to it for many years past. But yield- ing to the necessity of the times, and influenced by various motives, the persons to whom the care $2 276 ANNALS OF’ 1794. of it was committed, have allowed it to be almost totally exhausted ; and all that remains of it can afford but a scanty provision to the widows of those who were formerly benefited by it: The poorer Clergy are alr eady deprived of its assistance, | and no future widows or orphans can expect any relief from it. What was provided by the bounty of former benefactors is now brought to an end; and were no other spring of beneficence to be opened, sparingly would the waters of worldly comfort be dispensed to the servants of religion in that part of the Christian Church to which we belong. Butthesame Lord ‘ who gave the word,’ ‘ and sent the preachers’ who were to publish it; ‘ eth the cause of the widows.’ Their ‘ cruise of ‘ oil, supplied as it has hitherto been, he will not ‘ suffer to fail, nor allow their barrel of meal to « waste,’ till his providence point out some other > mode of relief. . Trusting to the continuance ca q : He also is ‘a Father of the fatherless, and defend- — his divine protection, ole relying on that care — and kindness of their heavenly Master which they 4 have so long experienced, the Bishops and Cler- >; gy of that small portion which yet remains of the — Episcopal Church of Scotland, have digested a + 4 My Scheme for the support of that Church, and the decent subsistence of its Clergy, and their fami- — lies, which they humbly submit to the considera- % tion of those who continue stedfast im its com- ¢ munion. Willing to take the benefit of : a. law, ; which has been “lately enacted for the encour- \ ‘ 1794. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 277 agement of Bieodly Societies, they have formed ‘themselves into one of these, and adopted such regulations for raising and managing a charitable _ fund, as have Tamra that civil sanction which the law prescribes, and will entitle them to its - protection. By these regulations they have a- greed, that every member of this Society shall contribute annually the sum of Forty Shillings, _ besides some small casual additions from those whose families are likely to be benefited by the fund. Even these contributions, regularly paid, and prudently managed, would no doubt, in pro- cess of time, produce such a stock as would be fully adequate to the object of this charitable in- ‘stitution. But it is obvious that a long, very long period of years would be necessary for that purpose; and, in the mean time, the claims of many destitute widows and helpless families might become very urgent, and demand from the feel- ings, if not from the equity of the-Society, that immediate relief, which, if too early, and too li- berally dispensed, would soon reduce its funds to nothing, and leave the whole work to be begun anew. ‘This was a discouraging prospect, and admitted of no other alternative, but either to give up the attempt as desperate, or to think of some other expedient, whereby it might be pos- sible to avoid the danger that threatened so lau- | dable an undertaking. It was suggested, that the lay members of the Scottish Episcopal Church had never shown themselves averse from any 278 ANNALS OF 1794. scheme that was likely to do credit to the charac- ter, and promote the increase of that Church. Many of them had embraced and adhered to her communion in the most trying times, and when their worldly interest was in danger of being af- = fected by an avowal of their principles. They — had struggled with her through evil report and good report, without being ashamed of her pover- : ty, or allured from her sacred services by the pros- pect of enjoying greater freedom, and making a _ gain of godliness. To them, as her most natural — friends and supporters, who had stood by her in the day of her greatest humiliation, and would — not now desert her when she seemed to rise a little from her former depression ; to them, it was proposed, that application should be made, and to them, do Ws, her present governors and guardi- ans, now address ourselves, with full confidence in the purity of our own intentions, and in the kind and compassionate disposition with which we trust you will receive this our application. Though various considerations give us ground to hope that you will take in good part what we are now recommending, yet you may be assured it is with regret we find ourselves obliged to lay this representation before you. We cannot but be sensible of the many public burdens, which the — exigences of the state, and the calls of humanity, — as well as the support of religion, have laid upon you. It is therefore with reluctance that we pro- pose what some may consider as a needless addi- — * . " _ > Res 1794, SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 279 tion to these burdens. But a sense of the duty which we owe to the station wherein Providence has placed us, compells us to use whatever means are most likely to promote the welfare, and for- ward the laudable purposes of the Society with which we are connected. Itis with this view that we find ourselves called upon to propose an annual collection from the several Congregations of our Church, which, with the yearly contribu- tions from the Clergy, will it is hoped, in a few years, enable the Society to open their funds for the relief of those who are the objects of this charitable institution. ‘The periods at which the distributions will commence, and bear to be in- creased, without endangering the permanency of the fund, are marked out by the regulations of the Society, copies of which are in the hands of our Clergy, and may be seen by those who will take the trouble to peruse them. You may be- lieve, it is not intended that these annual collec- tions should be continued any longer than the funds may appear to require their necessary assis- tance,—and till then, we trust, that the piety and - good sense of those to. whom we now apply will ‘not wish them to be discontinued. In this con- fidence we have desired. our Clergy to intimate to their several congregations, that this yearly col- lection is to be made on the last Sunday in Lent, or, in such Congregations as have not the benefit of publi¢ worship that day, on some other Sun- day or holiday as near it as possible, that so the 280 ANNALS: OF ‘ 1794, collections may-all be given in, with the contri- butions from the Clergy, to the treasurer of the Society before the first day of May every year, «Having now laid before you a short account of the scheme which has been. adopted for the support of an Episcopal Church in this country, a scheme suggested. by prudence, sanctioned by re- ligion, and which, we trust, will be favoured by the blessing of Heaven, and the friendly aid of all those who wish well to the cause of Episco- pacy in this part of the kingdom,—looking up to you, our dearly beloved in Christ, as its firmest friends and most natural supporters, we have oniy to add our fervent prayers to the throne of grace, that the Almighty Author of every good and perfect gift would inspire your hearts with a just sense of his great and undeserved goodness, and graciously accept of every small acknow- ledgment of it, which you are enabled to make. We are far from presuming to determine what may be the success of this application, or how far your bounty ought to extend on the present occasion. ‘Though we are willing to hope, that other less necessary articles of expenditure may be a little retrenched, and that amidst a variety ‘of such charitable demands, something may still - be spared for the laudable purpose which we are now recommending, yet we wish no person’s ge- nerosity to exceed his ability; we would rather incline to say, with the blessed Apostle of the Gentiles, ‘ Let every man give according as he 4 1794. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 281 * purposeth in his heart ; not grudgingly, or of ne- * cessity, for God loveth a cheerful giver :’ And as ‘ he is able to make his grace abound towards « you, that ye having sufficiency in all things, may ‘ abound to every good work,’ so it shall be the daily subject of our prayers, that ‘ He-who mi- . nistereth seed to the sower, and bread to the ‘eater, may both minister bread for your food, * multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits ‘ of your righteousness.’ Thus shall the adminis- -tration of this charitable service, as the same Apostle describes it, not only ‘ supply the wants of. those’ whom we have pointed out as the ob- jects of it, but be productive also of ‘ many ‘ thanksgivings to God, and supplications in your ‘ behalf,’ whilst, by this proof of your Christian liberality, they are excited to glorify God, < for ‘ your professed subjection unto the gospel of ‘ Christ,’ and for your kind and beneficent atten- tion to the Widows, Orphans, and indigent mem- bers of the Scotch Episcopal Friendly Society. May their petitions in your behalf be graciously received at the throne of mercy, and procure for you the blessings of that ‘ godliness, which ‘has the promise of the life that now is, and of ‘that which is to come,’ which will make you happy in time, and crown you with Joy to all eternity. Joun SxinNER, Bishop of Aberdeen. AnpREw Macrartanzg, Bishop of Ross and Moray. WitiiaM ABERNETHY DrumMonp, Bishop of paveberet Wittram Srracuan, Bishop of Brechin, JoNATHAN Watson, Bishop of Dunkeld. 282 ANNALS OF | 0795, 1795.| On the 29th of October 1795, his Ma- _jesty, on his way to Westminster, to open the Session of Parliament, ‘being most bvees Apne ed and abused by a daring and tumultuous mob, the Bishops and Clergy of the Episcopal @hdsch | in Scotland, to mark their attachment to the sa- cred person of the British Monarch,’ as well as — their detestation of the seditious associations and treasonable publications, to which this Adios | a outrage was ascribed, transmitted an address to the Throne, in which, after deprecating from the heart ‘* those wild licentious principles, which — are not more hostile to his Majesty’s Crown and dignity, than to the peace and prosperity of the — British empire,” they conclude thus: ‘ Con- vinced of the danger to which our country isex- posed, from the seditious combinations of evil- minded persons, we rely on the wisdom of your Majesty’s Parliament for adopting such measures — 4 as may tend to the safety of your Royal person, and to the order and good government of your — kingdoms ; for promoting which desirable ends, — as fi as ines in our power, we shall continue, (as we have hitherto done with effect,) to impress upon the minds of those who adhere to our minis- ~ try the purest principles of edna: to sine! Ma- 4 jesty, and submission to the laws.” This address, the Right Hon. Henry. Dnaid 7 did the Episcopal Church in Scotland the honour to present ; Bishop Skinner, assuring this intrepid j friend of his country, of his own, his colleagues, — 5 ; 4 1 ss 1796. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 283 ‘and their Clergy’s ‘‘ earnest desire to promote, as far as lies in their power, the salutary inten- tion of those wise and prudent measures which Government is adopting for the better preserva- tion of his Majesty’s person and authority, and thereby securing more and more the happiness of the kingdom.” 1796.] In the year 1796, the Bishop of Ross and Moray having strenuously urged the expe- diency of appointing a Bishop coadjutor to him in his widely. extended district, the Clergy of that district did, with their Bishop’s approbation, duly elect the Reverend Alexander Jolly, at Fra- serburgh, in the county and diocese of Aber- deen, as a fit person to fill that important office. For a variety of reasons, Bishop Skinner, as Pri- mus, thought it incumbent on him to dissent from the expediency of this measure at the particular time when it, was submitted to him for his sanc- tion and concurrence. To the learning, the piety, and strictly clerical deportment of the coadjutor elect, he bore ample testimony ; but, as the suc- cession was then sufficiently strong, and as, in his view of things, additional Clergymen were more wanted in the Highlands of Scotland than the aid of an additional‘and non-resident Bishop, who, though, in most respects, eminently quali- fied for the office, was confessedly ignorant of the ‘Gaelic language, the Primus refused to sanction the choice of the Clergy of Ross and Moray, or 284 . ANNALS OF 1800. to give his concurrence to the present Bc of a-coadjutor to Bishop Macfarlane. In the estimation of the other members of the Episcopal College, the theological acquirements and primitive manners of the Bishop-elect sufficed to counterbalance the arguments adduced by Bishop Skinner. Hence, Bishop Abernethy Drum- ’ mond having been appointed to fix the day of Consecration, and to preside in the Primus’ stead, _ Mr-Jolly was, on the 24th day of June 1796, duly q invested with the Episcopal character, in Bishop — Strachan’s Chapel, Dundee, by the Right Re- verend Bishops Macfarlane, pias « tick i ak : mond, and Strachan. Men, like Bishop Skinner, whose opposition to the measures of brethren in office originate in a 7 sense of duty, without any selfish or sinister ob- — jects, cherish no resentments. To his colleagues individually, as well as collectively, the right hand — of fellowship was speedily extended; and as no man experienced through Bishop | Skindek? s life more of his brotherly regard than the present j Bishop of Moray *, so did no man more cordially lament the loss sustained by himself and the Church at large, in ‘the Primus’ sudden demise, than that venerable Prelate. . 1800.] His Majesty having, on the 15th of May 1800, attended Drury-Lane Theatre; a maniac of | _» * Bishop Jolly never officiated as a coadjutor. The Dio- ceses of Ross and Moray were, after his promotion, disjoined, and Moray consigned to his Episcopal care. . 7 a “ a oe ee. ae “_ ~ : : ' 1801, SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. "985 the name of Hadfield stood up, and deliberately fired a pistol into the royal box, but providen- tially missed his mark. Addresses of congratu- lation, on an escape so grateful to the nation at large, being transmitted by all public bodies throughout the kingdom, the Bishops and Clergy | of the Scottish Episcopal Church dutifully em- braced the opportunity of testifying their unshak- en loyalty, and their determination to “ perse- vere in impressing on the minds of those who ad- here to their ministry, a just sense of what they in duty owe to the Prince whom God has set over them, and in gratitude to one of the best Sove- reigns, whom the King of kings has vouchsafed to a highly favoured people.” .1801.] In the year 1801, a little work issued from the press, under the special patronage of Bishop Skinner, and with the approbation of his ‘Right Reverend Colleagues, which had the effect not only of edifying the Scottish Episcopalian himself, but of making the doctrine and discipline of the Church to which he belongs better under- stood, and consequently more highly valued. It is entitled, “* A Layman’s Account of his Faith and Practice, as a Member of the Episcopal Church in Scotland, published with the approbation of the Bishops of that Church; to which are added _ some Forms of Prayer, &c., with a Letter from the _Reverend'Charles Daubeny to a Scottish Noble- man on the subject of Ecclesiastical Unity.” 286 ANNALS OF ; 1801. Hitherto it had been more than insinuated by _ strangers, and, it is to be feared, believed by some, not the least respectable members of the — Scottish Episcopal Communion itself, that the dis- ~ tinguishing tenets of that Society were purely political, according to its creed, ‘* The stancher Jacobite, the better Christian.” ‘The account — given by this sound and zealous Layman, of the only faith and practice which merited the appro- bation of his Ecclesiastical superiors, speaks a very different language. ‘* With the doctrines of the Church of England,” says he, “ as laid down in her public Creeds, and in other parts of her sa- cred service, the principles of the Scottish Epis- copalians will be found exactly to correspond.” » ‘* Itis not because the Scottish Establishment is founded upon, and took its rise from a differ- ent system of politics from that which distinguish- ed the former establishment, the EpiscopalChurch, from which our Clergy derive their orders; meither is it only because the mode of worship, adopted’ On in consequence of that change, differs so widely from all the venerable forms of antiquity, andis so destitute of the fullness, fitness, and extensive ‘ energy of our liturgical service: But the princi- pal and most affecting cause of our maintaining a separate communion from that, which in this part _ * of Britain has the law and the majority on its side, is the unhappy breach it has made in the chain of succession which leads up to the Apostles and to Christ ; and that woful defect in the mission of. °. 7a B 1801. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 287 ministers which, we fear, must affect the pu- rity of its worship, and the validity of its sacra- ments. For this reason, though otherwise well- disposed to promote the peace of our country, and ready to unite with the members of the esta- blishment in every measure recommended by go- vernment for securing the public safety, we hope to be excused for continuing to differ from them in matters of ecclesiastical polity, and for adher- ing to that pure and primitive Episcopacy, which we believe to be of divine institution, and there- fore not to be annulled and abrogated, with re- __ gard to its spiritual effects, by any human laws.*” * « Tayman’s Account,” &c. Ist edit. p. 94,95. A second edition of this valuable little work being called for, Bishop Skinner lived to carry it through the press ; and the Annalist _ particularly recommends it to every father of a family, or guar- dian of youth, of the Episcopal persuasion in Scotland. It may be had of the publishers, Brown and Company of Aber- deen, or of their friends in the trade. Nor can the author of these pages omit noticing a work from Bishop Skinner's pen, _ which though long out of print, (being published in the year 1786, ) was for several years the Bishop’s text book in catechis- _ ing the youth of his congregation, viz. “A Course of Lectures delivered on the six Sundays in Lent, to a Congregation of the Episcopal Church in Scotland,” &c. &c. To,.those who possess the work, it cannot fail to be grateful to peruse the following testimonial in its favour, from a man of such approved skill and: discernment as the late incomparable Bishop of Norwich, Dr George Horne :_— ; . Canterbury, Aug. 2, ¥786. a Dear Sir,—By favour of Mr Boucher I have received 2 co- py of your very valuable Lectures, for which be pleased to ac- cept my heartiest thanks. They are written with equal judg- 288 SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 1801. It is doubtful whether any act of Bishop Skin=_ ner’s official life afforded him more heartfelt gra- tification than the interest which he took in the success of this little volume, and hadi 2 4 approbation which all into whose hands i a ane stowed upon it. aa: From the little knowledge to be’ het ; England of achtirch so subsumed and isis as, for a whole century, the Episcopal Churc Scotland had been, it was a doubtful point whbs q -ther the religious principles of that Church were «© fit to be tolerated,” at the passigayof the Bill of Relief, in the mind of the highest legal . authority. - What ‘then were- Bishop Skinner’ feelings of joy, when, on the publication o Z the ‘“ Account” of the Scottish Episcopalia « Faith and Practice,” (sanctioned as its tit page bears, by himself and the other members the-Scottish Episcopate,) he received letters fr men whose names, could the Annalist : him to publish them, would, at this pets: found gt acing the senate, the bar, and the pul ment ah a in that plain and perspicuous lati bests to the subject and to the audience. I am much flattered k hearing that any writings of mine have obtained the approba of so learned, primitive, and venerable a set of men as I reason to account the Bishops and Clergy of the Episc Church in Scotland to be. The present afflicted state of Church has often of late engaged my thoughts; and I canne but hope that the time may not be far distant when, some poli- tical difficulties being removed out of the way, better and more — Comet able days will dawn upon it. I am yours, &c. : «“ Geo. Horng.” 1801. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 289 - all acknowledging the extreme satisfaction which the Scottish layman’s production had afforded them. es ** A book it is,” says one letter, ‘ which ought to be in every one’s hand, and therefore I much wish it had but half its title, or rather that another edi- tion could be printed omitting that part of the title and of the book which concerns only. the Scottish Church. - I think it then would not only sell, but do much good in England. Iam great- ly pleased with it. What a rare layman!” “* How highly do I prize,” are the words of a- nother letter from England, “ the valuable pre- sent you have sent me; valuable; not for its cost- liness, but for the seasonable instruction it con- tains, for the clearness of the reasoning, and for the satisfaction afforded on many deep and diffi- cult questions, at present, alas! either generally spoken against, or else neglected, as too insigni- ficant to deserve investigation. Much are all sound Churchmen here indebted to your vene- _ rable body, for maintaining those primitive opi- nions, which too many in this country rather dis- countenance than encourage.” _ * You are pleased to speak of your venerable, community as an humble part of the Church of Christ. You want, indeed, the ‘ gorgeous appa- * rel,’—* the clothing of wrought gold,’ but I am _ fully satisfied that, in the internal purity, which most exalts a church, if ‘ weighed against you “ in the balance, we should be found wanting.’ T 200 - ANNALS OF ‘i So BOM Whatever ‘ glory’ of this kind may attain to us, it will be ‘no longer glorious’ when brought i in- to comparison with you, by ‘ reason of the glory which excelleth.’ ‘“‘ These are sentiments which I Halve abet ed for many years, before I had the happiness of being personally known to you; and I cannot help expressing my gratitude, Right Rev. Sir, to you, in return for your grateful acknowledgments of my friendly regard towards a Church which rather reflects honour on those who ‘honour ‘it, than derives any thing from their estimation.” _ «‘ T esteem myself greatly obliged to you,” says the inestimable William Stevens, Esq. * “ for the little tract transmitted me by the Wadhamist,” — (Bishop Skinner’s son William, who completed — his education at Wadham College, Oxford, under Mr ee, s valuable patronage.) ‘ I think it the '® When the learned Dr Douglas, late Bishop « of Suissa | preached before the Society for Propagating the Gospel in Fo- ~ reign Parts, a meeting which Mr Stevens constantly attended, — and of which in his latter years he was one of the auditors, when the other Bishops were thanking his Lordship for his discourse, 1 Mr Stevens humbly, but politely, offered his tribute of thanks. The Bishop expressed himself much gratified ; and, turning to the other Prelates, said, “ Here is a man who, though not a — Bishop, would have been thought worthy of that character in : the first and purest ages of the Church.” And upon ‘a similar — occasion Bishop Horsley, who was not given to flattery, said, “« Mr Stevens, a compliment from you upon such a subject is ¢ no inconsiderable value.”—See Memoirs of William Stevens, Esq. p. 21. - ~ 1801. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY,. 201 very neatest, prettiest thing I ever saw, and its usefulness not confined to the Scottish Episcopal Church. You sent a few copies to the Riving- tons, in case of any Scotchman calling forit ; but you should have sent some in case of any English- men calling for it, which is likely to be the fact, and indeed has been, for there are none of them left ; and Mr Rivington desired me to mention to you when I wrote, that he requested to have a _ parcel of them as early as might be.” When Bishop Skinner applied to the learned author of the ‘* Guide to the Church,” Mr Arch- deacon Daubeny, for permission to annex his un- answerable letter to the late Earl of Kinnoul, (on the subject of separate Episcopalian Chapels in Scotland,) to the ‘“ Layman’s Account,” &c. that stanch friend to the Church of England re- plied, that, as * nothing certainly afforded sa- tisfaction to his mind equal to the considera- _tion of being thought worthy to promote, in _ any degree, the cause of Christ’s Church, wher- ever it may be situated, it would be a deser- tion of principle in him to object to the accom- plishment of Bishop Skinner’s wishes on this sub- ject. Atthe same time,” he adds, “‘ you wilk permit me to say, that I feel myself honoured that my sentiments, relative to the present unhap- py schism prevailing among Episcopalians in Scotland, should meet with so distinguished ap- _ probation.” And when the little work had reach- : T 2 a 292 ANNALS OF - 1801. ed his hand, the Archdeacon fails not to express ~ himself in language which may suffice’ the Anna- list, in the way of eulogium, - and’ the reader in the way of stimulus, if the Scottish layman’s — * Account of his faith and practice, as a membet of the Episcopal Church,” be not oe to him. LETTER XXX. THE REV C. DAUBENY TO BISHOP SKINNER. Bath, Oct. 26, 1801. wt ange to acknowledge the receipt of your pub- - lication, which reached my hands two days since. — The Layman’s Account of himself 1 have perus- ed with much satisfaction ; so much, that I did not lay it down until I had completely finished it. “The picture which he has given of the Scottish — Episcopal Church is a primitive one, and worthy — to be copied after. I trust that it will make the Scottish Church better known than it is at pre- sent; the more it is known the better. Your pablentiel therefore, cannot be too wide cir- | culated. ‘*T hope the letter to the Earl of Kinnoul, which you have honoured with a place in your little - valuable book*, will be read by our Bishops, * This letter Bishop Skinner omitted in the 2d edition, substituting the Canons of the Scottish Episcopal Church in — of 1801. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. - 998 and that it will make them think on what they can do, with propriety, for a sister Church. With re- spect to the laity in Scotland, I flatter myself they want only to be directed right on this sub- ject, to go right ; andif the separating clergy are. honest and conscientious men, and will take he trouble to make themselves acquainted withthe — constitution of the Church of which they profess themselves to be ministers, they cannot long per- sistin schism. ** I pray God that, both for the sake of them- selves and their flocks, they may see this subject in the important light in which it ought to be seen, for the welfare of the Church. . * “What you will, I flatter myself, be glad to hear, ‘T have received a most grateful public testimony. of acknowledgment from the convocation of the Episcopal Church in Connecticut, in the name of ; =< a the Bishop and Clergy, conveyed in a handsome letter from the Rev. John Bowden, D.D. Princi- pal of the Episcopal Academy in that State, ex- pressing their full approbation of “ the Guide to the Church,” and informing me that it is the set- tled determination of the Academy that it shall be made a standard book for all the candidates for holy orders. May the divine blessing attend it.” its stead. He wished, if possible, to have the schism com- pletely healed ; but when out of 22 chapels in a state of sepa- , tion, 15 had united themselves, he thought it expedient to drop every sort of public appeal, and leave to time to effect, in its silent progress, what has withstood the force of argu- ment drawn from sources human and divine. 294: ANNALS OF im 1801. _ After a lapse of nine years fromthe date ofthe _ Episcopal union in Banff, the year 1801 produ- ced another in a country parish of Aberdeenshire, the parish of Cruden, where the noble ma of Errol have their seat, Slains castle. On his marriage with Miss Carr of Etall, in Northumberland, the father of the present Earl of Errol had been instrumental in settling an Eng- lish ordained Clergyman in the Episcopal Con. gregation of the parish in which he resided ; but — not being able to reconcile the whole people to that measure, there still continued a“ little flock? in communion with theScottish Episcopal Church. it chanced, however, that the C lergyman of Scot- — _ tish ordination received, in the year 1801, an ap- pointment to another charge, on which the good people addressed the following artless account of their situation to the noble Lord of the manor. — LETTER XXRE us fa > THE SCOTTISH EPISCOPALIANS IN CRUDEN TO oT EARL OF ERROL. ** My Lord, “The Reverend John Gleig, rien Maske of the Scottish Episcopal Congregation, Wood- head, having accepted of a call to the Episcopal Chapel at New Pitsligo, under the patronage of the respectable Baronet, Sir William F orbes, 1 Nat 5 a we Nt a 1801. . SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 295 proprietor of the village, thereby leaves his charge in this parish vacant ; hence do we, for ourselves, and in behalf of the remanent members of our Congregation, presume to address your Lordship in our present situation. The principle on which we adhere to the Scottish Episcopal Communion is, that we conceive it to be the duty of an Epis- copal Congregation to live in submission to a Bishop, and in communion with that very Bishop within whose bounds such Congregation is si- tuated. This is a principle which we hold to be the bond of Christian unity, recognized by pri- mitive practice and universal usage, in ,which, moreover, we agree with the venerable Bishops and other respectable dignitaries of the Church of England, at this day; nor do we perceive, be- sides this, any essential difference between us and the other Episcopal Congregation in which the Reverend Mr Stephen officiates as Pastor. “The unblemished manners and Clergyman- | like behaviour of the last mentioned gentleman, obtain the esteem of all who know him; and, on our principles candidly stated above, we would willingly unite ourselves to him as our Pastor, and render him all dutiful respect, submission, and support. And such compliance on his part is not without a precedent; a respectable Congre- gation in the town of Banff, having some years ago united themselves to the Scottish Episcopal : Church, with the sanction, and under the patron- age of the Earl of Fife, Lord Lieutenant of the 296 ~ ANNALS OF 1801. County of Banfi, and other reap eeiteimmnee: men. Mer ere _ The respect which we meetin: for. ‘your Lordship, and the connection that has subsisted between many of us and your Lordship’s noble ancestors, and which still subsists between your ¢ Lordship and ourselves, has induced us to make - this address to you. It would give us pleasure to worship, without the sacrifice of principle, in that assembly of which your Loney is so Not 3 a trious a member. ** We have only to entreat from your “One ship’s goodness, that whatever the result of this application may be, your Lordship will believe us, when we assure you, it proceeds from the pur- est motives, and from our desire to promote love and concord among people living in our neighbourhood, and comely order and unity in the Church of God. We are,” &c. “ Signed by the Managers and ‘Nenmtionl Woodhead, Cruden, eight in number.’ ; 4th Sept. 1801. se With that urbanity and condescension which characterise the Earl of Errol, his Lordship re- ceived the above address, and told the good peo- ple, that if the measure to which they so proper- ly called his attention, met the approbation « of : J . a Mr Stephen, and of those clerical friends in Eng- B land whom his Lordship thought it his duty to consult, he should be most ag eg in acceding ¢ to 1802. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 297 their wishes, “‘as the best thing that could be done by both congregations.” And under such distinguished. auspices, the matter was not long in its progress towards consummation. The noble Earl having received ‘advice from England, (and such advice as, doubtless from his Lordship’s con- . _ nection with the then Primate, Dr Moore, was de- Gisive on the subject, ) lost not a moment in-satis- fying Mr Stephen of the propriety of the measure of union, which took place accordingly on the 18th of December 1801. 1202.] The definitive treaty of peace with France having been ratified early in the year 1802, the Bishops and Clergy of the Scottish Episcopal Church, in unison with every public body in the realm, had the honour- of approach- ing the Throne, with the most sincere acknow- ledgments of his Majesty’s paternal wisdom and goodness, so signally displayed in his readiness to put astop to the miseries of war, and to conclude a struggle the most arduous that ever was main- tained, for the preservation of social order and the prevention of anarchy, confusion, and every evil work. ‘ Penetrated,”’ say they, “with the most lively gratitude for the blessings which our — country enjoys under your Majesty’s mild and happy Government, we shall ever persevere in Tecommending the same becoming sentiments to those who adhere to our ministry, and shall con- tinue our most strenuous endeavours to impress ‘ 298 ANNALS OF . 1802, on their minds a just regard to those sound and salutary principles of our holy religion, from the influence of which is derived the only security for the maintenance of public peace and nation- al happiness.*” Having been transmitted to the. * This address from the Episcopal Church in Scotland, on the 5 - peace of Amiens 1802, brings to the Annalist’s mind a similar address of the Episcopal Clergy of the diocese of Aberdeen, | on the peace of Utrecht, 1713.—« presented by Dr James and Dr George Garden, attended by Mr Dongworth, Mr Gray, and Mr Greenshields, managers of the charitable contribu~ tions for dispersing Common Prayer-books among the poor people in Scotland; and introduced by the Right Hon. the Earl of Marr, one of Her Majesty’s principal Secretaries of State,’—an address which recent circumstances render wor- thy of the reader’s notice. Ever since the publication of the historical novel, entitled «‘ Tales of my Landlord,” the peri- odical press in Scotland has teemed with abuse of the author, ~ i for giving, to the conduct of the Scottish Covenanters, its true and appropriate colouring ; and much pains have been taken “3 to convince the young and credulous part of the Scottish com- _ munity that the events narrated in the “ Tales,” &c. have neither fact, nor the semblance of fact, for their foundation! The Annalist of Scottish Episcopacy has no intention of en- tering the lists with Covenant framers, or Covenant favourers ; he would only submit the language of an address delivered to Queen Anne, in person, and in the hearing of the whole British — . Court, as affording ample corroboration of the sufferings of the Episcopal Church in Scotland, at the hands of « that. fa- natical and irreclaimable party,” (they are the words of the | E 4 ' Duke of Queensberry, his Majesty’s High Commissioner for Scotland, on opening the Scottish Parliament, March 28, ¢ 1685,) “ who had brought the people’s rights and liberties to the brink of ruin and disgrace, and who were not more rebels _ against the king than enemies to mankind.” \ . - 1802. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 299 — Right Hon. Henry Addington, then Premier, with a request, that, in his official capacity, he would lay it at the foot of the Throne, that Gen- tleman lost no time in informing Bishop Skinner, * May it please your most sacred Majesty,— ** Peace is so universal a blessing, so pleasing to the God of peace, so beneficial to mankind, and in particular to us who live in this part of Britain, whom the length and burden of the war and other misfortunes have brought very low, that we should be wanting to our interests, as well, as duty, if, after public, solemn, and religious thanksgivings to Almighty God in our Churches and Meeting-houses, we did not return our most humble and hearty thanks to your Majesty, who, under God, has been the great and glorious instrument of re= storing it to us, in defiance of all the bold and restless at= tempts of those who delight in war. 4 “ We do, with the same thankful hearts, acknowledge the great freedom we now enjoy, not only in the exercise of our pastoral care over a willing people, but also in the use of the Liturgy of the Church of England, which we have ever looked upon as the stay and bulwark of the Reformation. But give us leave, Madam, to mix our joy with some allay, when we Took back on the desolation of our Church, how that the an- _ Cient and apostolic order thereof is abolished,—how some hun- dreds of our brethren were turned out of their livings by law- less force and tumult,—others by ways illegal and unprece- dentetl, and-most of them reduced to a st ing condition, though there was a proper fund for their subsistence, to which they might lay claim ;—and how much loss the Church sus~ tains through the want of divinity professors of the Episcopal persuasion, for training up youth in orthodox and loyal prin« ciples. “« We are confident that your Majesty, who has so much at heart the welfare of all your people, will, (now that you are free from the noise and tumult of war, ) be graciously pleased to look unto these matters, and give such relief, as you, in 800 ANNALS OF 1803. through Lord Pelham, that his Majesty ‘* was pleased to receive the very dutiful and loyal ad- dress of the Bishops and Clergy of the Scottish Episcopal Church, in the ‘most gracious manner.” 1803.} Like the calm which ushers in the de- solating thunder storm, twelve months of treach- - erous peace had scarcely elapsed, when the smiles of the consular government of France were ex- changed for frowns; and nought was heard throughout the British dominions, but the din of renewed preparation for war! ‘To the ambassa- dors of ** the Prince of Peace,” sort must ever prove a source of deep humilia- . tion and regret; since its recurrence, apart from the rapine and bloodshed which war occa- sions, shews, that mankind cling to the sin which most easily besets them, and fondly cherish those _ * lusts, which, warring in their members,” pro- — duce, according to the decision of Holy writ, } your royal wisdom, shall think fit. Whatever misrepresenta- tions may have been made of us by our enemies, on purpose to obstruct your royal bounty, and lessen your favour to us, we take this opportunity, with great submission, to assure your Miajesty, that, in all our devotions, as well as in the use of the Liturgy, we offer up our prayers to God to bless your Majes- ty’s person and government, and to prolong your sacred life; and when, full of years, you shall change this fading foram immortal crown, that your royal diadem may fall upon the head of a Protestant successor, is the sincere wish and fervent prayer of, May it please your Majesty, &c. &c. «« Which address her Majesty received very graciously.” die re ae sa ili ts warfare of any | 4 : > preted Saas 1803. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. sok * all wars and fightings among” individuals, as well as among states and kingdoms. Yet as, in common with every other well af- fected member of the community, Bishop Skin- ner, in his heart, believed that “ the fraternal embrace” of revolutionary France was more like- ly to contaminate the principles, and undermine the morals of Britons, than were her hostile threats to endanger their liberties and laws, no sooner were those threats put in execution, and “* the British host went forth again to the battle,” than the Bishops and Clergy of the Scottish Epis- - copal Church hastened to give the customary evidence to their King and Country of their heart- felt regard for both, the Primus transmitting to the Right Hon. Charles Yorke, an humble address to that effect, the gracious reception of which was duly announced by that statesman ; nor must the reader imagine that the zeal and sound patriot- ism of the Scottish Bishops and their Clergy ex- tended no farther, at this most eventful period, than to a few words of courtly address. “ Eager to display the interest which he took in the preservation and prosperity of his beloved - country, Bishop Skinner, with the approbation of his Right Reverend Colleagues, framed an ad- dress from himself and the other Bishops to the Laity of the Episcopal Communion in Scotland; which, being printed and circulated throughout the Church, was ordered “ to be read” by the whole body of officiating Clergymen “ after di- 302° - ANNALS OF Re OR vine service, in their several Congregations on oi first Beste after they shall have received the same.’ alty and sound discretion of the late Primus of the Scottish Episcopate, as illustrative of the live- ly interest in the success of the war taken by Bishop Skinner's fellow-labourers in the ministry of the long-depressed Episcopal Church in Scot- land, the Address is here submitted to the rea- der’s perusal. ** Dearly Beloved in Christ ! “‘ The relation which we bear to that part. of the Christian Church, of which you have the hap- piness to be members, will be admitted, we trust, as an apology for our addressing you on the- -pre- sent occasion. Your respective Pastors have fre- quent opportunities of recalling to your attention the benefits you enjoy, and the obligations you | are laid under, as members of the mystical body of Christ, as fellow-subjects of that kingdom of grace which he came into the world to establish, _ and fellow-sharers of all its spiritual privileges. But there is another relation in which you stand, not only to one another, but to all that live under _ the same civil government ;—a relation, not sO important indeed as the other, but of no less com-_ sequence to your temporal peace and safety, than — the other is to your eternal happiness; and that is, the relation of fellow-citizen upon earth, inha- Being a document alike creditable to the ae | 7 9 . Ps 4 1803, SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 303. biting the same country, owing allegiance to the same sovereign, subject to the same laws, par- _ taking of the same rights and privileges, and - mutually engaged for the defence and preserva- tion of all that is near and dear to you in this world. It is, therefore, in this character that we now presume to address you ; as enjoying all the advantages which arise from the excellency of our civil constitution of government, the free course of its laws, the regular administration of justice, and all the other privileges which have long been esteemed the glory of this happy island, and, through the divine goodness, are at ~present its principal support under all the out- ward pressures that bear so hard upon it. It has been often observed, that a long and uninter- rupted enjoyment of blessings is too apt to extin- guish in our minds that gratitude towards the Author of them, which it ought to cherish and invigorate. And those wise and wholesome Jaws which secure to us the possession of our lives and properties, and which preserve peace and tranquillity in our borders, are the less re- garded, because the courts in which they are ad- ministered are well known to,be regularly held, and open to all complainers. But very different would be our feelings and our sentiments, had we ever learned from sad experience what it was to see government unhinged, to want the pro-_ _ tection of regal power, and the due administra- tion of justice by those to whom a portion of 304 ; ANNALS OF — 3 1808, that power is delegated for the punishment of ‘ evil-doers, and the praise of them that do well. 4 How thankful then should we be, that “we live in a country where these privileges are. yet hap- - pily enjoyed, and these benefits duly and Te. gularly dispensed; where, though ~ e gu may sometimes escape, the innocent very rarel suffer, and where the rigour of justice, deh the case can possibly est of such lenity, is al -a Sovereign, who, geuBE the whole course’ tf his reign, has shewn the most anxious desire to promote the happiness, and reign in the hearts and affections of his people! These are advan- tages, which ought to be always duly valued, and constantly kept in view by those who are happy in the possession of them. But the estimation in which they are justly held, ought to strike us’ with peculiar force, at a time when we are threat- : ened with the total loss of them, and hear of such preparations making for the invasion of our coun- try, as can have no other object in view, ‘but to strip us of all our enjoyments, to destroy our — King, overturn our government, and introduce stich al eee off artarchy and confusion, of extor- tion and rapine, of murder and massacre, as can hardly be paralleled even in those unhappy countries which have already fallen a prey to that devouring monster, who has now turned his — whole fury against this envied land, and threat- ens to-* swallow us up quick, so wrathfully is hé — 1808. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 305 displeased at us.” It is because Britain alone, of all the nations of Europe, has dared to set bounds to this mighty oppressor, that he is now bursting with rage against us, calling together his impious legions to pollute our shores, and driv- ing them on to the bloody conflict by the hopes of such spoil and plunder as, he knows, will sti- mulate their brutal vengeance, and make them worthy of such a ferocious leader. . It is thus that the tyrant of France is proudly employed, forg- ing the chains with which he hopes to bind the Sons of Britain to his throne, and force them to acknowledge his usurped dominion. Because the people over whom he sways his imperious sceptre have assumed the power of making laws to all other countries, and fixing boundaries, which their constitution declares to be unaltera- ble, therefore obeisance must every where be ‘made to the arbitrary decrees of the “ great na- tion,” and all must fall down and worship the de- testable image of military despotism which that nation hath set up. It was in a situation of si- milar distress and danger that God’s ancient people were admonished not to be afraid of the utmost force and fury of their enemies, but to remember the Lord, who is great and terrible, * and fight for their brethren, their sons and their * daughters, their wives and their houses.*”? Thus were they encouraged to withstand the tyranny ef the heathen, the enemies of God’s truth, and ® Michowisk iv. 14, U0 306 - ANNALS 6F! 7 1803, — the oppressors of his people. And hence we may justly infer, that the taking up arms can never be more proper or necessary than in defence of i all that is valuable to us on this earth; of © our King and our Country, our families and — friends, our liberties and lives, and what ought — still to be higher in our estimation, our holy and venerable geliginn, given unto us by the mercy of God, and not to be wrested from us, by the — cruelty of man. For the preservation of all these, 4 our countrymen have at this time come forward with a spirit that does them honour, and with — such ardour in the common cause as deserves the — thanks of every friend to truth, order, and etna 4 “-government. ‘ 4 “‘ Those that belong to our communion, we — therefore earnestly exhort to shew the same 4 zeal and promptitude in the offer of such ser- vices as our Sovereign may be pleased to accept, f not doubting of their ardent desire to co-operate with their fellow-subjects in forwarding every yg measure which his Majesty shall think properto _ adopt for the defence of the country and the se- curity of his people.- For, though the safety of — a nation must ever depend on the protection of Almighty God, (and that protection ought to be 4 devoutly implored in the way that he has oot % cribed for that purpose,) yet it is equally certain, that the people must exert themselves in their own defence, and it is the duty of every aur bring forwerd his just proportion of aid in the af 1803. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 307 general cause, both in the way of personal ser- vice, and by such pecuniary contribution as his situation may enable him to afford, for support- ing that immense load of expence which must be necessarily incurred through every depart- ment of government on the present alarming oc- ~ easion. ** As the danger which now threatens the unit- ed kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland is singu- lar in its nature and magnitude, and far beyond any that has been experienced for many years past, so the means of repelling it are not to be measured by those of any former contest. They must be such as are suited to the present awful ‘struggle ; and when all is at stake which ought to be dearest to the heart of man, it is not easy ‘to calculate the extent of every particular sacri- fice which must be made for the general good. Tn seasons of such public and national dangey, all ranks of people must be exposed to losses and disappointments. The desire of their eyes must frequently be taken from them; and those repeat- ed and daily increasing contributions, which the exigencies of the state require, ought to put them in mind of the fleeting and transitory nature of all worldly treasures, which, if not torn from them by a furious and enraged enemy, must yet be li- berally parted with to afford the means of pro- tecting their lives and the remainder of their pro- perty from such outrageous violence. At times like these, people must not expect togo on in the © y 2 308 ' ANNALS OF 1805. way of accumulating and increasing their for- tunes. When all is in imminent danger, the pre-_ servation of a small portion becomes a matter of _, serious concern; and no British subject, who knows the value of that character, and the privi- leges connected with it, will think any hardship | or expence too great to be encountered, if-by. these he can contribute to the preservation of his. country from the woful effects of that proud, vindictive, brutal spirit, which has wrought so- much misery and mischief to many of the neigh- bouring nations. ) “‘ These are reflections on the present state of our national concerns, which we have thought it our duty to submit thus briefly to the considera- tion of all who profess to be of the Episcopal persuasion in this part of the kingdom. The Church in which we have the honour to serve, has been long distinguished by the purest prin-, ciples of loyalty and attachment to kingly power. The particular changes which have taken, place in the outward situation of things, have made no alteration in that general train of sentiment which has ever influenced the conduct of the — Bishops and Clergy of this Church. We are in no shape connected with this or that political, party, but always ready to support the measures of every administration which tend to promote ‘the safety, honour, and welfare of our, Sove- ‘reign and his dominions,’ rom the King or his ministers, however desirous we may be of their 1803. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 809 favour and countenance, we have little more to expect than that general benefit of peace and protection which all his subjects so) happily.en- joy, under his mild and equitable government. ‘We are, therefore, actuated by no selfish mo- tives, and cannot possibly have any object in view, but that which is presented to us-by_a sense of duty and a regard to conscience; a re- gard to that fixed invariable rule laid down by our holy religion, which requires us to * render ‘ to all their dues, tribute to whom tribute is due, * custom to whom custom, fear to whom fear, ho- ‘nour to whom honour.’ Thus blended with the grand system of Christian obedience, these are matters of no small concern both to our tempo- ral and eternal welfare. As such, it is the busi. ness of the ministers of the gospel to represent them in their proper light, and shew the necessi- ty of a constant attention to that beautiful plan of civil subordination which has been established by God, and for that reason ought to be revered. by man. - * Keeling the force of these sentiments, imbib- ed from the sacred souree of all political as well as religious knowledge, we have thought it our du- ty to transmit an humble and becoming address, to be presented to his Majesty in name of our- selves and of the Clergy of our communion, ‘and which we have been assured by the Principal Se- cretary of State for the home department, his Majesty has been pleased to receive in the niost 510 ANNALS OF ‘ 1808. gracious manner. The address is bniicilaiiteinal, to be readin your presence, as an additional proof of our anxious desire to promote by every means in our power, what we have been now re- commending to your generous and ‘truly patrio- tic support, the authority of our King, the digni- ty of his crown, and the safety, anes and re 403 perity of his people.” bine ee yan) ¢ time. Unto the awe? s Most Excellent ehaieaes the humble Address of the Bisuoprs ear yea of the Scorcu Eriscorpan CuurcH. 9 ** Most Gracious Sovereign ! » dplaorteceneda «At a period like the present, when every part of the British empire is threatened with danger, more or less imminent, according to its local si- tnation, and other circumstances, which may serve to provoke the avarice or ambition ofa ra- pacious, proud, and insolent enemy : We, your | Majesty's most dutiful and loyal subjects, the Bishops and Clergy of the Scotch Episcopal — Church, consider ourselves bound ‘to request | your royal permission to approach the Throne, 4 5 with those renewed assurances of the most in- violable attachment to your Majesty’s» sacred person and government, which so wellbecome our pee as Christian Pastors, and areno less conducive to our oe. and grees as Bri- it subjects. . snl" qaiiales ‘ Although we cannot fail 'to be duly sensible : | a ee, 1803. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 311 how much it accords with our profession as mi- nisters of the gospel of peace, to study the things that tend to secure this invaluable blessing, yet when it can no longer be preserved but by a sur- render of our privileges as an independent na- tion, and a most debasing submission to the repeated encroachments of that hostile power, whose progress has been every where marked with devastation and misery: in these circum- stances, we cannot but applaud the wisdom, and admire the energy which have been so powerful- ly exerted in resisting such unprovoked agegres- sion, and defending all that is truly valuable in this world. » « Impressed with these sentiments respecting the awful contest in which our country is enga- ged, we humbly beg leave to express our warm- est approbation of the loyalty, zeal, and public spirit which are now so eminently conspicuous in all parts.of your Majesty’s dominions; and our earnest and ardent wishes to promote such laud- able exertions for the general safety, by inspir- ing the minds of those who adhere to our minis- try with the most conscientious regard for your ‘Majesty’s sacred authority, funded on those ve- nerable principles of our holy religion, which af- ford the only ground for public pew and na- tional happiness. “ That the high and mighty Being, who is « King of kings, and Lord of lords, the only Ru- “ler,’.and therefore the surest guard, ‘ of princes,’ 312 ANNALS OF) > 1808; der his gracious care and protection ; may sodi- — rect the councils and strengthen the hands of Go- vernment, as to enable your Majesty!to “vans *‘ quish and overcome all your enemies,’ as it is the voice of our public supplications to the Throne of Heaven, so shall it ever be the private, un- feigned wish and prayer of, may it please your may continue to take our Weboulll Sorbet Majesty,’ Be. 0 tot sri | ** Signed by us the Bishops, for ourselves, _ and in name of the Clergy s of our respec- _ tive districts, " PhAST SK «¢ Joun SKinnER, in Aberdeen. ‘ae SORTS WILL1aM ABERNETHY DRUMMOND, Hatton _ Jonatuan Warsoy, at Laurencekirk. Tet AnpREw MAcFaRLang, in Inverness. ie 7 JouHN STRACHAN, in Dundee. Raph J ALEXANDER JoLLy, in Fraserburgh. — : ARE *¢ Aberdeen, September 19. 1803.” . i m 1. olan rah hte Of the interest which the late ornamen aie Scottish establishment, Principal. Camry af Aberdeen, took in the relief of the Scottis pis- copal Church from penal statutes, the Annalist 3 has sufficiently apprised his readers. The e learned — o Principal had the goodness, unsolicited. by any — one, to correspond with Bishop Dayalase, Seattle ' Carlisle and latterly of Salisbury, on the subject, while this excellent Prelate, as will appear from the following letter to Bishop Skinner, justly com ¥ ty a - 1808. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 8138 sidered the cordial approbation and assent of the Principals of the Universities of Edinburgh and Aberdeen, as, at the time, highly i in favour of the Bill of pee ine ¥ Ms LETTER XXXII. THE BISHOP OF CARLISLE TO BISHOP SKINNER. «« Windsor Castle, February 23, 1791. «I had the honour of your's of the Yth, and beg leave to assure you, that your application to Parliament will meet with my hearty support; I wish my interest were as powerful as my inclina- tions are sincere. Every opportunity I embrace of endeavouring to correct the prejudices and mistakes which have hitherto retarded your suc- cess. Dr Robertson of Edinburgh having, in the _most liberal manner, recommended your cause to me, I have forwarded his letter to the Archbishop of Canterbury, to whom I gave a copy of what Principal Campbell last sh had written to me on the subject. -**T cannot but hope that their testimony will be of real use. I am at present much afflicted with flying gout, which makes writing inconve- nient, so that I can only add, with great 7B, that Lam,” &c. “P. 8. I write to Principal Campbell by this post.” . ‘S14 ANNALS OF . 1808. On the passing of the Bill, Bishop Skinner — waited on his learned townsman, and gratefully | acknowledged the friendly part: which he had — acted towards the long depressed Episcopacy of — Scotland, in recommending the measure of relief from penal statutes ‘‘ as reasonable in itself, and — as generally agreeable to the established Church — of Scotland.” fexcott ane How then could it fail spinal to sisknehielsliielac | op Skinner, his colleagues, and the Scottish Epis- : eopal Clergy at large to find, on the publication of their generous benefactors, “ Lectures on Ec- | elesiastical History” shortly after the author’s — death, that at the very period when he was in cor- — respondence with an English Prelate in favour — ef his Episcopalian countrymen, Principal Camp- bell was holding up those very Episcopalians to — the ridicule and contempt of the theological students in the University of Aberdeen, to whom, in his official capacity of Theological Professor, — his lectures were addressed ; telling them, that not — only the polity of the Church of England seems to have been devised for the express purpose of rendering the clerical character odious, and the | discipline contemptible *, but that as “¢ no/ax-— iom in philosophy is more re 8 than that ‘ quod nullibi est, non est,’ the ordination of our — present Scottish Episcopal Clergy is: solely from Presbyters; for it is allowed that thosemen who ~ eame under the hands of Bishop Rose. of nee * Lectures on Ecclesiastical History, Vol. I. p, 74arey of: ier 1303. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY,. 315 burgh had been regularly admitted Ministers or Presbyters in particular congregations before the Revolution; and to that first ordination, I main- tain that their farcical consecration by Dr Rose and others, when they were solemnly made the depositories of no deposite, commanded to be di- ligent in doing no work, vigilant in the oversight of no flock, assiduous in teaching and governing no people, and presiding in no church, added nothing at all *.” No sooner had the book which contains the above insidious aspersions reached the sister kingdom, than the venerable Archdeacon of Sa- rum thus characterizes it. . LETTER XXXIII. MR DAUBENY TO BISHOP SKINNER. “ North Bradley, Trowbridge, Aug. 19, 1801, “I do not hesitate to call Dr Campbell’s late work the most hostile, the most illiberal, and the most unsupported attack that has perhaps ever been made on the Episcopacy of the church of Christ ! while his attack on the Episcopacy of the church in Scotland, added to the notorious falseness of the writer’s statement, is, me judice, marked with a superlative degree of meanness! I have a-publication coming forward, in the pre- liminary discourse to which, some strictures on * Sce Lectures on Ecclesiastical History, Vol. I. 355, 256. . 316 ANNALS OF 1808. rts ag the Doctor’s Ecclesiastical ect il ie her Be a found, for the information of 4 the j | gy*. The subject of the Such nai have purposely passed over with agen mark, because I conclude it cannot peat ~ . cape without due animadversion from sc Scotch pen. And I flatter myself, that Fam : mistaken in placing that pen in- ‘your own | har : Sorry: am I to think, that, at the commence ent of the 19th century, we should’ have ‘to con: ute. q arguments, which, for the most part, have re. ceived their decided answers two hundred years: ago. Our consolation is, that the founder of the — 7 Church has promised to be with it to the end o: of j 27 time ; consequently, though schism, which j is the work of the devil, may appear to increase, it will — not be permitted ultimately to prevail. Prone me 4 Previously to receipt of the above letter, Bie a shop Skinner had it in contemplation to vindicate ! the church over which he presided from. the ast: humous malevolence of one who had in his’ time, and in her extremity, treated her with 50. much unlooked for benevolence ! And Mr Dau: beny’s remarks confirmed him in his resolu . an * See Mr Daubeny’s highly valued « Dibineetcs on the ; Connection-between the Old and New Testament, conside ; as two parts of the same Divine Revelation, &c., accompan _ with a ce Discourse, respectfully addressed to t younger Clergy,” &c. ;—a work which ought to be in the k of every one whose office it is ¢ in Ricekintte to instruct ‘those - * who oppose themselves.” J | a / Pr 1803. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. ah He published, in 1803, his learned work, “ i Pami tive Truth and Order vindicated from modern mis- representation, with a defence of Episcopacy, par- ticularly that of Scotland, against an attack made on it bythe late Dr Campbell of Aberdeen, in_ his Lectures on Ecclesiastical History, and a con- cluding Address to the Episcopaliansof Scotland.” “‘ That the validity of our divine commission has been called in question, in a manner which surely we did not provoke, and from a quarter whence we could hardly have expected to meet _with such severe, such unhandsome treatment, is a fact,” observes the author, ‘* which cannot be doubted by any one who reads with attention those parts of Dr Campbell’s Lectures on Eccle- siastical History which are particularly levelled _ against the Episcopacy of Scotland, and who, at _ the same time, is acquainted with the history of _that Episcopacy for at least a century past, and knows how little foundation there was for such a violent and unexpected attack. “‘ From this consideration, it may perhaps be inferred, that the weapons of an adversary, so in- cautiously aimed, might have been allowed to spend their force, and fall harmless to the ground. It may, no doubt, be thought a needless waste. both of time and labour to employ them in re- futation of arguments, which, like all those that have ever been produced, against Episcopacy in general, have been so often refuted; or even to take so much pains in defending our own Epis- 318 : ANNALS Or 1803. . a s 2 copacy in particular from an attack Which has nothing but itsnovelty and perhaps the character of its author to support it. With respect to the former, we have said all that is necessary to shew how little strength there is in it; in regard to the latter, we could wish to say nothing, because we are well aware, how much might well be thought due to it *.” pat? To those readers who are in possession of Bi: shop Skinner’s Vindication, &€c. it is unnecessary to say a word in commendation of it; while to those who neither possess, nor have had an op- portunity of perusing the work, in order to excite the desire to peruse, if not to possess it, it may suf. fice to say, that the Bishop “ establishes,” to use his own words, “ the following plain-and impor- tant facts, as matters of undoubted certainty, and worthy of the most serious consideration. : “* First, that the Christian religion, being, like its divine Author, ‘ the same yesterday, to-day, “and for ever,’ ought to be received and ems : braced as it is represented and held out in’the 4 Scriptures of truth, without adding, thereto, or diminishing therefrom. iam “‘ Secondly, That the Church of Christ, in which his religion is received and embraced, is that spiritual society in which the ministration of holy things is committed to the three distinct | orders of Bishops, Priests, and Deacons, deriving — * Primitive Truth, &c. p-. 448. 449. to be had of the Pub- 4 lishers of these Annals. ae 1808. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 319 their authority from the Apostles, as the Apos- tles derived their commission from Christ. And, “Lastly, That apart of this holy, catholic, and apostolic Church, though deprived of the support of civil establishment, does still exist im Scotland, under the name of ‘ The Scotch Epis- € copal Church ;’ whose doctrine, discipline, and worship, as happily agreeing with the doctrine, discipline, and worship of the first and purest ages of Christianity, ought to be steadily adhered to by all who profess to be of the Episcopal com- munion in this part of the united kingdom.” The work is dedicated to the late Sir William — Forbes of Pitsligo, Baronet, the simple announce~ ment of whose venerated name is, in the estima- tion of every contemporary Scotchman, as well -as of every Englishman who has visited the Scottish metropolis, enough to convey associations _of private worth and public spirit, of unimpeach- able honour, integrity, and liberality in business ; of urbanity, gentlemanlike deportment, and con- descension in social life, rarely to be met with in one and the same individual. Should the reader of these Annals wish for a _ character of Bishop Skinner’s Answer to Dr Camp- bell, he is referred to two of the periodical publi- cations of the day,—the British Critic and Anti- _jacobin Reviews,—which do ample justice to its merits. To the Bishop himself, however, and the Church in which he served, it was far more grateful to find, that the book met with the ur- 320 ANNALS OF 1808. qualified ‘approbation of those great and good — men in England, who, so far from harbouring a thought of Scottish Episcopacy congenial with — Dr Campbell, were instrumental, under the great — Shepherd and Bishop of souls, in raising it to the distinguished place which it now holds in the — Christian world. Let the following quotations — from one or two letters suffice as a specimen of — what others contain. ‘ I should not be satisfied — with myself,”? says the writer of one letter, “ if 2.9 did not declare what I both think and feel, viz. that the Church of England is under infinite obligations for your general defence of Episco- — pacy, which you have argued with such clearness _ and perspicuity, and which you have supported — by such high authorities ; that you have for ever — placed it, (where it must undoubtedly be placed — by all who will consider the subject,) upon the same rock, where Christianity will ever be se- cure, even against the gates of hell. As to the depressed part of Christ’s church, over which — you, so happily for its interests, preside, yo have in this work proved your strong: attae . ment ; you have here greatly surpassed all your — Sotsnet services, and have demonstratively shewed 4 the wisdom of those pious men, who, at so 8 . a period of your life, called you to the Primat- — ship ofthis little Church.”’—* Your address to the English Episcopalians is conceived in such ~ mild and holy pastoral terms, accompanied at — the same time with such powerful and persuasive. fs 1803. SCOTTISH EPiSCOPACY. . “ Be contented,” said the learned Vicar of - Epsom to the author, “ be contented, as you well may, to stand or fall with the work before me; : in my opinion, the best, the most spirited, ani- mated, and correct of any thing I haye ever seen from your pen.” While, to sum. up the subject, another English Clergyman of equal learning, piety, and talents, after informing Bi- shop Skinner» that ‘his refutation of Professor Campbell was most satisfactory,” proceeds to say, “ T cannot but think, that the Scotch as well as . the English Church has reason to rejoice that his Lectures were published, as it has provoked a discussion which cannot -fail to render. both a very. essential service. Those of our own household, I promise myself, must yield to the affectionate persuasiveness of your concluding address. I know this to be the wish nearest your heart, and I hope and trust that you will : see of the travail of your soul, and. will be satis- — fied ; for, in charity, I cannot allow myself-to q entertain even a surmise, that my brethren will sin against conviction, which I am sure they will do, if they still refuse to acknowledge you as their Ecclesiastical superior, and thus to heal that most unnatural breach, which, that it was allowed — one moment to exist, is one of the many exam- ~ ples spatnise ys in the present day of human in- © consistency.” And so it happened that, during the year 1808, Bishop Skinner did ‘“ see of his. soul’s travail,” — 3808, SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 328 and had the satisfaction to admit into the boson of the Scottish Episcopal Church the English or- dained Clergymen in the towns of Peterhead and Stonehaven, the Reverend Dr Laing of Peter- head signing the articles of union in behalf of himself and Congregation on the 27th of June, and the Reverend Dr Memess of Stonehaven on the 15th of December 18033. The latter gentleman had been ordained by the Bishop of Durham in the year 1752; and con- sidering him as’ his spiritual adviser, he deemed it proper to consult the worthy Prelate who now fills that See, when he received this short but most satisfactory reply :— * ** Auckland Castle, September 21, 1803, «* Reverend Sir, *« The fundamental principles of the Episcopal Churches of England and Scotland are the same. While the Scottish Bishops were attached to the house of Stuart, and refused to take the oaths to the Princes of the Brunswick family, there could be no union between the Churches; since they have renounced their former political opinions, the separation founded on those opinions should ~ no longer subsist. I am, &c. ** S. Dunexm.”’ Peterhead being in the diocese of Aberdeen, Bishop Skinner, on receiving the vouchers of Dr Laing’s union, failed not to congratulate him and XQ S24 ANNALS OF 9° ss 808.. his people on the happy event. He received the following reply, evincing at onee the comfort and satisfaction which the writer received from the step which he and his flock had lately taken. ames 44. , ’ diet Oo EETTER XXXIVPOM See ned. hoe THE REV. DR. LAING TO BISHOP SKINNER. — PRY FR; «« Peterhead; July 27, 1803. «¢ Most heartily do I thank you for your kind congratulation on our- union with the ancient Christian Church of our Country, and for your good wishes and prayers for our comfort in this measure. Of our ever finding comfort init, I have no doubt, from the applause of my own mind that grows stronger on reflection, fromthe — great apparent satisfaction of both the Congrega- | tions in this place, as well as from the-expressed — approbation of various wise and good personsin other places, and particularly: that of Sic William Forbes of Pitsligo, whose piety and goodness must shew his judgment and approbation to bevhighly _ valuable. So highly was Sir Williampleasedwwith the measure, that he took the trouble:to: call on — me three times before I saw him, and twice more _ after Thad seen him. He told me the particular — eause of his earnestness at that time was not only to-express his sincere joy and: approbation; but — also to inquire by what means and arguments I 1804. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. ~ 825 had prevailed on a Congregation once, so averse from the measure of union. 1 told him all my proceedings, and mentioned to him what papers Ihad put into my people’s hands. He entreated a reading of every thing that had been written on the occasion, and next day told me he came first to return the papers with thanks and approbation, and then to ask leave to carry them with him to Edinburgh, where he hoped to do good with them. “* The meeting of our Clergy on the 24th of August, I propose, if alive and able, duly to at- tend. ‘That is usually a busy season with me in my profession as a medical man, on account of the number of strangers who visit this place in search of health ; but were it much more incon- venient than it will be, I could not think of ask- ing leave of absence from the first opportunity of seeing friends whom I shall love and esteem. ** With most respectful good wishes to you, Sir, and begging leave to commend myself to your benediction, I remain,” &c. 1804.] To communicate union among Chris- tians, professing, as the Episcopalians in Scotland do verily pies ** one faith, one. Lord, one bap- — tism,” having been long the supreme wish of Bishop Skinner’s hice of which the reader has had am- ple evidence, scarce a post now arrived in Aber- deen without bringing some proposal, some query to the Bishop’s ear, and scarce a post departed 396 ANNALS OF =°") 804, without a ready acquiescence on the Bishop’s part, if the proposal was reasonable, without a solution of the query, if the query was capable of solution. At such a period, however, it was with grief unfeigned that the Primus of the Scottish Church received intimation of the sudden demise of his highly regarded friend and fellow-labourer in the work of Scottish Episcopal union, the Reverend Jonathan Boucher, Vicar of Epsom, Surry, who was suddenly cut off in May-1804. His sufferings in-America, on account of his re- ligious and political principles, cannot fail to-ex- cite the lively interest of those who have perused his valuable work, published in 1797, viz. “ A view of the causes and consequences of the A- merican Revolution, in thirteen discourses, preach- ed in North America, between the years 1763 and 1775.” These sermons are inscribed, by a well written manly dedication, to General Wash- ington, whom Mr Boucher states to have been at one time his neighbour and friend ; but he adds, in a truly Christina spirit, ** the wahupps dispute which terminated in the disunion of our respective countries also broke off our personal ~ connection ; but I never was more than your po- litical enemy, and every sentiment even of po- litical animosity has on my part long ago sub- sided.” The Annalist of Scottish Episcopacy conceives : that he would be doing his subject injustice, were he to withhold from his readers, the following 1804. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 327 “* burst’ of true Christian loyalty,” as, the’ bio- grapher of Mr Stevens well denominates it,—of loyalty so very congenial to the political princi- ples which have ever distinguished the Episco- pal Church in Scotland,—that Mr Boucher’s re- gard for that Church need not be wondered at. ** Sincerely do I wish it were not now. necessary to crave your indulgence for a few minutes long- er;—it shall be but a few,—to speak of myself. If I am to credit some surmises, which: have been kindly whispered in my ear, (and I am_ proud thus publicly to acknowledge, that it is to a man whose political tenets are the opposite of minethat I owe this information, communicated no doubt from motives of good will and humanity,) that unless I will forbear to pray for the King, you’ are to hear me neither pray nor preach any long- er. No intimation could possibly have been less welcome to me. Distressing, however, as the dilemma confessedly is, it is not one that either requires or will admit of a moment’s hesitation. Entertaining all due respect for my ordination vows, lam firm in my resolution, whilst I pray in public at all, to conform to the unmutilated - liturgy of my Church; and, reverencing the in- junction of an apostle, I will continue to pray for the King and all that are in authority under him, and I will do so, not only because lam ‘so.com- . manded, but that, as the apostle adds, we may continue to lead quiet and peaceable lives in all — godliness and honesty. . Inclination, as. well as 328 ANNALS OF) © 1804. \ duty, confirms me in this purpose.. As long as I live, therefore, yea, whilst I have my being, — will I, with Zadoc the Priest and Nathan the — Prophet, proclaim, whi “Gop save THE Kine *.” d Although, since the time of Mr Boucher’s pro- posed elevation to the Edinburgh episcopate, a ‘ situation which he would have filled both useful. ly and honourably, union among the Episcopa- lians of that capital had often been the subject . of conversation; it had hitherto been treated with so much prejudice on both sides that the true nature of the thing had been lamentably misre- presented. It chanced, however, that so long back as 1793, when the matter was first agitated, . a most respectable member of the vestry of the © : Cowgate chapel, after having in vain exerted * himself to promote the laudable measure, was’ constrained to leave that chapel, from convic- . tion of its anomalous state, and join himself and family to the Congregation of Bishop Aber- ~ f Ee nethy Drummond. Yet, zealous according el knowledge, did this worthy layman continue to { exert himself in the promotion of a measure, of ' 4 his deep-rooted regard for which he had given ae such exemplary proof, never letting any oppor- _ tunity slip, by which he could impress upon the minds, whether of clergy or laity belonging to the Separate communion, the strange state in : y * Farewell Sermon, preached in Maryland, 1775; p. 587, ef Boucher's Thirteen Discourses, &c, 4 1804. - SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 329 : which, as Episcopalians, their separation from the regular Episcopal Church of the couatry un- questionabiy placed them. | Of date the 24th May 1804, Bishop Skinner re-. ceived from this highly respected individual the following most interesting communications :— LETTER XXXV. . DE. SPENS TO BISHOP SKINNER. ‘I take the liberty, at the request of an inti- mate friend, to transmit, for your perusal, a let- ter from him to me on a most serious subject, in which we are yery sincerely interested; and your Reverence’s well known zeal in the cause will readily excuse this freedom in a stranger. “ Not being able, from age and infirmities, to take such an active part as my inclination would lead me to take, or as the subject might require, [ have requested a clerical friend, the Rev. Mr Walker, yery zealous in the cause, to forward this to you ; and when it is convenient, and you are pleased to honour me with a reply, my ad- dress is, Dr Spens, Edinburgh.” The letter thus transmitted was from an ami- able young layman ; and, doing him lasting ho- nour, it is here recorded. 330 ; ANNALS OF - «8 « Edinburgh, May 19, 1804. «« My dear Sir, : Af) RE 9 gh “ I know I shall gain your full. aula I inform you, that I write this on the subject c the Episcopal union, ‘and as a most sincere and decided friend to that measure. I have of late applied my mind to the study of the questior attentively as possible, and the result is, my pe fect conviction that the union is most desirabl and that our Episcopal Congregations, while dis- united, are in an irregular and uncomfortable state. ** Tam happy, too, to think, hat non difficuls ties attending the union are not likely to b e _ ‘great when the question is fully and fairly con- _ sidered; and my object in addressing you is, to ; ‘point out one that, I am much inclined to think, j can be-easily removed. - 1 Oy eee ‘** The doubts of those who hesitate; can only be founded. on the nonconformity of the m bers of the Scottish Episcopal Church? So as that nonconformity is purely civil, it to the oath of allegiance, which no candid man can doubt the readiness of the Scottish Episce pal Churchmen to-take, if separately areca. the oath of abjuration, which no candidsn blame these Churchmen, (their ‘circum considered, for refusing to take. '» ‘Hise of ‘nonconformity, ange I lay ow view. ee aided 4 “ There is another vile of noneonformit 1804. © = = sCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 231 however, which, as to the Legislature, is civil, but as to English Priests is also spiritual, I mean the Thirty-nine Articles which the act of 1792 re- quires to be assented to by Scottish Episcopal churchmen, in order to give them the benefits of toleration. For want of this, it is thought by “some, that the Scottish Episcopal Church is ex- ceptionable; first, as having no confessional, and, secondly, as not acknowledging the King’s supremacy, as thereby declared in the 87th ar- ticle. ** I am far from thinking this a radical objec- tion myself; but if it be likely to prove a stumb- ling-block to any, or if the removal of it be like- ly to facilitate the object in view,. as I really think it would, you, I am sure, will concur with me in wishing it removed. Now, to me, it ap- pears that this would be an easy matter. I would have been convinced, had I never read the ve- nerable Bishop Skinner’s excellent ‘ Vindication,’ that the Episcopal Church in Scotland, . emanat- ing from that of England, whatever are its pow- ers, as a national and particular church, could - have no objection to admit all these articles as just, reasonable, and useful, for avoiding uncer- _tainties and doubts. But the Bishop’s work puts it beyond a doubt. I need not refer you to what he says at page 479, where his objection is naturally and-easily drawn from this point of con- formity, being so linked with the others that _the compliance with it is thereby rendered im- : tohim. Iam,” &e, a . ‘ A sale 382 "ANNALS OF >>) 1804, possible. So I think it as to all civil offe ots) But if the Scotch Bishops: were to adopt these articles, with the trifling variations requisite for Scotland’ instead of England, -as belonging | their Church, to sign them as such, and to. quire the signature of them at ordinations, do think it would materially affect some se worthy of attention. Can you ‘suggest thi Eishop Skinner?—as coming from ene who wishes well to so good a cause, and would be disposed to treat, with all possible caution, any comrour le cation which you might be oe to make Dr N. Spens. In the passage of Bishop Skinner’ as Vind a tion,” to which this excellent letter relearily the author had said truly, that, ‘ to subscribe a de- claration of their (the Scottish Episcopal Clergy) assent to the Thirty-nine Articles of the Chui England, was a requisition with which they ly cannot refuse to comply from “" ec are ready, on every ‘occasion, to. testify thigh ing in communion with the Church of England and subscribing her articles is only doing that a more solemn and legal manner. It therefore,’’ adds the Bishop, “‘ tend oatl cilitate our obedience to this part ¢ (of 1792,) if means could be contrived to eur compliance with it in a manner distin 1804. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 333 the other qualifications which the law prescribes.” The means being now, in some measure, pointed out, Bishop Skinner eagerly embraced the op- portunity afforded him, in the month of August following, of submitting to the Clergy of his dio+ cese, at their Synodical Meeting, what he con- ceived to be the only possible way of complying with the suggestion in the letter addressed to Dr Spens, viz. the convoking the whole Bishops and. Clergy of the Scotch Episcopal Church, for the express purpose of adopting, as the Confes- sional of that Church, the Thirty-nine Articles of the Church of England, and of emmentony to the same accordingly. Hence, no sooner did. the Alinidoen Clergy signify their entire concurrence in this plan, than the Bishop writes thus, (of date 30th August 1804,) to one of the English ordained Clergy i in Edinburgh, friendly to the measure of union: I took the opportunity of a late Synodical Meeting of the Clergy of this diocese, to lay be- fore them my opinion respecting the measure of subscription of the Thirty-nine Articles; a mea- ‘sure which has-been so strongly recommended to us. The result of our deliberation was, that the matter should be forthwith submitted to the se- rious and solemn consideration of the whole Church: - Jn consequence, therefore, of what was thus earnestly requested by the Clergy under my inspection, I have suggested to my Right Reve- rend Colleagues the propriety of our holding’ a \ 884 ANNALS OF © 1804, General Meeting of all the Bishopsand-Clergy o this Church who may be able to attend it, for the purpose of exhibiting such a public testimony of our agreement in doctrine and discipline with the Church of England as may satisfy the Clergy of that Church, presently officiating in Scotland, that they may safely and consistently join them- selves to our communion, and ‘become part of the still existing remnant of the old Episcopal, and-once established Church of this country.” Nee His- venerable colleagues concurring in the wishes of their Primus and his Clergy, a circular letter was immediately transmitted to every Pass tor and Minister of the Scotch Episcopal Chute in terms as follow :-— * Aberdeen, Beptedl, 1804. d «© Rey. Sir, 5 ental ‘‘ By authority of the Right Rev. the Bish Ds. of the Church in Scotland, I have to acquaint you, that aGeneral Meeting of them and their Clergyis to be holden in the Chapel of the village of. Lau- rencekirk, on Wednesday the 24th day of Octc ber, at 10 o’clock in the forenoon. ‘The purpose of this meeting being, in the most solemn mame ner, to exhibit a public testimony of our confor mity in doctrine and discipline with the Chun h of England, and thereby to remove every res maining obstacle to the union of the Episcop lians in Scotland, it is hoped that no Clerksinea of our communion will, without cause the mos urgent, withhold his attendance. 1804, SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 985, _. * The Bishops are the more anxious that. the meeting be duly attended, lest the unnecessary absence of any of their Clergy should be consi- dered as unfavourable to the design for which they are summoned, especially by those of the English Clergy officiating in Scotland, who have expressed, in the strongest terms, their approba- tion of a measure which promises to be highly conducive to the interests of Episcopacy, and the support of the church in this part of. the kingdom. *« Commending you to God’s grace and direc- -tion, I am, &c. ) “ JoHN SKINNER, ** Senior Bishop and Primus.” Bishop Skinner having forwarded a copy of this summons, for the satisfaction of the friends ‘of union in Edinburgh, he received a reply from the Clergyman to whom ;the intimation of the “meeting at Laurencekirk was given, which does equal honour to.the head and heart of the writer. LETTER XXXVI. THE REV. DR SANDFORD TO BISHOP SKINNER. ‘‘ Edinburgh, Sept. 18, 1804. _ “Tam happy to find by the tenor of the cir- cular letter to your clergy, that more clergy of 836 ANNALS OF 1804. the Church of England than myself have ex. pressed themselves strongly in favour of the mea- sure of union. It is pleasant to be supported by my brethren in this good cause; particularly so’ to me, who have Corinna Lit eat Aa with Mr A. and with him I have ot been able to discuss the subject of your proposed: subscti: 4 tion to the Thirty-nine Articles of thé Church of - England, on account of the present very distress-_ ing state of his health. As an individual, T have | fairly and openly stated to you my opinion, from which I cannot imagine that. I shall have any ‘reason to retract ; atic that if this testimony — of your agreement with the Church of England _be given in the solemn way which you propose, — and our Thirty-nine Articles be thus made the , permanent confessional of the Scotch Episcopal Church, there can be no objection to our ui | nay, on the contrary, that our continuing iitst | paration from you, cannot be justified on ar grounds which will bear the scrutiny of sound ecclesiastical principles. Thus, Right Rev. Sir, is my decided judgment formed, as you know, occasion.. But, at ic same time, 1 aad to consider that I speak only as an individual. — Tam not authorized to speak for my brethren, I have not as yet made known my decision, and _the reasons upon which I have founded it, to 1804. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 337 those in whose spiritual welfare 1 am most con- cerned, and who, I hope and trust, will act with me. Of this solitary opinion I surrender the use to your good sense, discretion, and friendship. _ The time is approaching, I trust, when I shall be able to say more ; but, at present, I presume the Object of your Convocation is merely to givé this desirable testimony of your agreement with us, ’ ain the hopes of that favourable result which may justly be expected from such a declaration "on your part. When you have done this, I know what I shall esteem it, in conscience, my duty to do; and you of the Episcopal Church in Scot- _ land, whatever be the consequence, may say, &- beravimus animas nostras.” ‘On receipt of this the Primus immediately made the following reply. “oe LETTER XXXVILI BISHOP SKINNER TO DR SANDFORD. ‘«* Aberdeen, Sept. 25, 1804. “It is with very great satisfaction that I ob- %erve what you have written, and written so em- phatically, on the subject of our proposed sub- scription of the Thirty-nine Articles, and of our adopting them as the public and permanent con- fessional of our Church ; after which, you think ‘that there can be no objection to the so much desired union. x a is 338 ANNALSNOFTTN 4 1804. |“ This, you say, is your ‘ decided judgment,;’ but you wish me to consider_ it, as the judgment of an individual only. To this wish I shall cer- tainly think it my duty to attend, and that the more cheerfully on account of the weight which must be allowed to the judgment of such an in- dividual,—one who has given to the subject in hand the most serious and impartial‘examination, and been at pains to divest himself of every pre- judice which might entangle his view of it. He. who now sees it in this light, must. be well qua- lified to represent it fairly to others, and I ecan- not but hope that due regard will be ea to | his representation. ‘* As our Clergy, are now animal cient their thoughts to the subject of the Thirty-nine — Articles, some of them have suggested the pro- ~ _priety of a little alteration, particularly in the seventeenth article, to free it from the absurd | Calvinistic sense which some of its subscribers in England are daily forcing upon it. But, I fear, | that to subscribe the Articles in any amended — form, might be considered as not subscribing them at all; and, therefore, any observations made with a view of illustrating the true sense — of them had better, in my opinion, be thrown ’ { 4 : into a preamble to our form of subscription; and — something of this kind seems peculiarly necessa- : ry with vesened to the thirty-fifth, thirty-sixth, and thirty- several articles, which are all peculiar to the Church of England, and therefore when aad 1804. SCOITISH EPISCOPACY. 339 seribed by us, can be considered only as articles of union, whereby we express’ our approbation * of what that Church has.intended by them, **T am just now preparing a discourse on the subject of the Articles, from 2 Timothy i. 13. which I mean, God willing, to deliver as an in- - troduction to the business of our meeting ; and in which I shall endeavour to enforce the neces- sity of our ‘holding forth St Paul’s form of sound “words, in the faith and love which he so pow- ‘ erfully recommends ; that is, with a firm faith ‘in Christ, and a true Christian love to all the ‘members of his mystical body. In that love 1 beseech you, my dear Sir, to believe that I have a most fervent desire to co-operate with you, in the pious and good work which is now engaging your zeal and attention. May God enable you to bring it to a happy conclusion, and bless you evermore with his favour and loving kindness. I shall be longing to hear again from you, and have much more to say than I can write at pre- sent. It will always, however, give me pleasure to say, with how much affection, esteem, and res gard I am, and I trust in God shall ever be,” &c, ~ On the eve of the Convocation, and when every thing had been arranged between Bishop Skin- ner and his colleagues for conducting the im- portant business which they had in hand, he was honoured with a communication from Edinburgh, ‘couched in language which, as it shewed the un- ¥ 2 * 340 Sos sl . |. R64 G precedented interest taken’ by the hight writer in the welfare of our Church, had the ef fect of instantly inducing the Primus to abar : his intended preamble to the Articles, and, in. common with the whole body of "Bishops avd q ‘Clergy, to admire the modesty, exemplary zeal, i and profound judgment, which dictated the con- _ tents of this interesting communication. tor OR ‘y ; a8 % “rey ‘9 . (fh kia, ER. ie po LETTER XXX VIL... Seen : Lae as SIR WILLIAM FORBES, BART. TO BISHOP SKINNER, “ Edinburgh, 21st October 1804. « After a long tour in England, I arrived at home last night. This morning I have had the : pleasure of an interview eit my very “wor hy friend Dr Sandford ; and it afforded me no ordi- nary satisfaction to find his sentiments as iad as ever in favour of the objeet we have so mu _ at heart, an union of all of the Episcopal meen sion in this country with the Beir Chureh in Scotland. *‘ In conformity with your $id the valid put into my hands your ample communication of — the 9th, curt. on the subject of the Scottish Church’s adoption of the Thirty- nine Articles: of. the Church of England, in order to supply the want-of a confessional, and I-request your acc | tance of my grateful thanks for the henour” : do me, by wishing that I should -co gia » " f - a ee oo © : 2 1804. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 841 - ble*, which you think it may be necessary to pre- fix to your subscription of these Articles. I have read the preamble, as well as the King’s declara- tion prefixed to the Thirty-nine Articles, with all possible attention. I have also had a good deal of conversation with Dr Sandford on this head; and, as I perceive you are to hold a Biavettion at Laurencekirk next Wednesday on that sub- ject, I do not lose a day to communicate to you what has occurred to me on this very important point. be ** With regard to adopting the Thirty-nine Ar- ticles of the Church of England as a confession- al for the Episcopal Church in Scotland, I hope I need not use many words to convince you that. I hold the honour and the dignity of our nation- al. Church as high.as any one can possibly do. I know the Episcopal Church in this land to be in- dependent of, and equal to, any Church upon earth. God forbid also that I should ever think of her Bishops and Clergy subscribing Articles, which in their hearts they do not approve. After\hav- ing heard, however, what Dr Sandford said on the head, I cannot but agree with him in strongly expressing my hope that your proposed preamble may not be insisted on. It were the height of presumption in me to think myself capable of - entering into the reasons for forming this opinion; nor is it at all necessary, baerohda Dr. Sandford tells me that he has fully explained himself on _ * For this intended preamble, see Appendix; No. II. 342 | ANNALS UF fGa5 180%. the subject to Mr Walker, who is) ve siiiaiets at the Convocation at. Laurencekirk. I may, however, mer ely go so far as to say, after read- ing over your preamble with all possible attention, that although the purpose you had in view when you drew it up be no doubt extremely laudable, viz. the preventing any misconception of the sen- timents holden by the Episcopal Church in Scot- land in regard to certain of the Articles, and al- though I do myself most cordially assent to every word of what you have written, yet I doubt whe- ther that preamble, or indeed any preamble; could be made’ to answer the purpose you have’in view. For Iam afraid it is not within the compass of human language, or in the power of human intel- lect, (in our present state of imperfection,) to frame an interpretation of such ‘abstruse and dif- ficult points of theology, which shall not be liable to objections of some sort or other ; because what appears clear_to you and:to me at this moment, may not be so to others. And even in the lapse — of time, human language itself becomes subject. to unavoidable and imperceptible changes, as has — happened, I verily believe, in the ease of ‘the Thirty-nine Articles. Vide Dean Tucker on the Quinquarticular Controversy. Ti a: 64 Perhaps, therefore, it will be best, (if you feel that you can do it,) that the Articles be sub- _ scribed agreeably to the Act 1792, as they stand in the service-book of the Church of England, and prefaced as they there are with the royal de- — 1804. SCOTTISH BPISCOPACY. 843 | elaration; every subscriber explaining them to himself, according to what seems most consonant to the word of God, and according (as I believe) to the practice in England, which I find will be most agreeable to some of the English ordained Clergymen here, who in that manner did them — selves'subscribe the Articles. . _ ‘© But I beg pardon; I feel that am var out of my ddniiy and that all which is necessary for me to do is to refer you to the communica- _ tions that have passed between Mr Walker and Dr Sandford on the subject. Requesting your forgiveness for this long intrusion, and making sails of my most respectful compliments to those fathers of the venerable Episcopacy of Scotland to whom I have the honour of being known, { remain, with much: respect, regard, and es- teem,” &c. &c. « P.S. 1 shall wait with no Merron anxiety for the result of your deliberations in Conyoca- tion next Wednesday.” As, through the uncommon accuracy and ar- rangement of the late venerable Primus, the Annalist of Scottish Episcopacy has been en- abled thus far to carry on his narrative by the most authentic documents, establishing the true and unvarnished state of things as they occurred, his purpose is to proceed by the same rule, and sedulously to abstain from thrusting in either a sentiment or a word of his own, so long as he — S44 juid “ANNALS QB ip oth { 1804. can, in the words of Bishop Skinner, and of his. : correspondents, put the reader in possession of the different facts and circumstances which he | has undertaken to communicate. Apologyig certainly due, and, being due, is. and respectfully proffered, for uinusehinghaal’ the hasty epistolar y productions of the parties to: _ the public eye. But, in so doing, the Annalist: of the Scottish Episcopal Church throws himself, | upon the clemency of her friends, and of the, friends of those with whose correspondence such > liberties are used ; for, being aware, that what — the Biographer of Bishop Skinner is solicitous to. publish is truth, they must know that truth is» only to be sought for and acquired in the holo. . graph productions of those who were immediate | j actors with the Bishop in the scenes recorded. Himself a member of the Laurencekirk Conve. i cation of 1804, the Annalist might here, if any where, introduce his own statement. of fz and “4 his own view of measures; but he for age proceeds to give, in Bishop Skinner’s own ae the history 6 his adoption of the Confession | of the Church of England by her humble sister Church in Scotland. The account is taken-from ~ the Bishop’s Journal of Transactions in the Scot. tish Episcopal Church during his administration ode _and which the reader has is already in informed,). the author of the Journal ordered to be. POs fret ie ed among the archives of that Church.) cs In consequence of the summons issued by 1 \ 1804. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 345 authority of the Bishops, there assembled at Lau-- rencekirk, on the 24th of October 1804, four Bi- ‘shops, viz. Bishop Skinner, Bishop Macfarlane, ‘Bishop Watson, and Bishop Jolly, (the other ‘two, Bishop Abernethy Drummond and Bishop Strachan being prevented from attending by old age and infirmity,) and, together with these Prelates, thirty-eight Presbyters, and two Dea- cons. They convened in the chapel at ten o'clock, a.m. when the morning-service was read by Bishop Watson, as pastor of the Congregation - of Laurencekirk. After which the business of _ the meeting was opened, in a discourse delivered from the pulpit by Bishop Skinner; which dis- - course the Convocation afterwards required the _ Bishop to print with all convenient speed, in or- der that it might be circulated by the Clergy for the satisfaction of their people. No sooner had the lay-members of the Congregation been dis- missed, than the meeting was solemnly pronoun- ced bythe Primus, A Convocation of the Bishops and Clergy of the Episcopal Church in Scotland, regularly called for the purpose mentioned in the intimation issued by the Bishops ; which purpose was now to be entered upon with all the solemnity due to the great and acknowledged importance of it. The other Bishops having severally deliver- ed their opinions on the subject before them, in terms most affectionately expressive of their anx- ious wishes for the satisfaction of the Clergy, and -for the accomplishment of the object they had in Shi. / ) SANNALS. ORppagy ” can, in the words of Bishop Skinne correspondents, put the reader in pos the different facts and circumstance has undertaken to communicate, certainly due, and, being due, is and respectfully proffered, for th: the hasty epistolary productions of the} the public eye. But, in so doing, the alist of the Scottish Episcopal Church throws hi self, upon the clemency of her friends, and of the, friends of those with whose correspon ucl liberties are used ; for, being aware, that what. the Bingrapher of Bishop Skinner is solicitous to publish is truth, they must know that truth. is ‘only to be sought for and acquired in the he graph productions of those who were imn actors with the Bishop in the scenes. Himself a member of the Laurencekirk ( cation of 1804, the Annalist might here, if where, introduce his own statement of facts, his own view of measures; but he forbe proceeds to give, in Bishop Skinner’s own the history of his adoption of the of the Church of England by her bun Church in Scotland. The account is taker | the Bishop’s Journal of Transactions in the Seot, tish Episcopal Church during his adminis ; and which the reader has been already i the author of the Journal ordered to be prese ed among the archives of that Church.’ a (hel tle consequence of the summons issuec by) 1804. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 345 authority of the Bishops, there assembled at Lau-- _ rencekirk, on the 24th of October 1804, four Bi- _ shops, viz. Bishop Skinner, Bishop Macfarlane, Bishop Watson, and Bishop Jolly, (the other ‘two; Bishop Abernethy Drummond and Bishop ‘Strachan being prevented from attending by old age and infirmity,) and, together with these Prelates, thirty-eight Presbyters, and two Dea- cons. They convened in the chapel at ten o'clock, act. when the mor ning-service was read __ by Bishop Watson, as pastor of the Congregation ~of Laurencekirk. After which the business of _ the meeting was opened, in a discourse delivered from ‘the gadlpit by Bishop Skinner ; which dis- - course the Convocation afterwards required the _ Bishop to print with all convenient speed, in or- der that it might be circulated by the Clergy for Dithelisitisfaction of their people. No sooner had 4 the lay-members of the Congregation been dis- missed, than the meeting was solemnly pronoun- ced by the Primus, A Gativacation of the Bishops and Clergy of the Episcopal Church in Scotland, regularly called for the purpose mentioned in the _ intimation issued by the Bishops ; which purpose Was now to be entered upon with all the solemnity due to the great and acknowledged importance : oft. The other Bishops having severally deliver- ed their opinions on the subject before them, in terms most affectionately expressive of their anx- _ ious wishes for the satisfaction of the Clergy, and _-for the accomplishment of the object they had in — pline with the united Church of England and — \ 348 . ANNALS OF — “1804. affirmative; andi cules sheiinsecaddiaiblinnbaloe scribe the. Thitiwbine Articles of the Church of England in the form and manner required by the - _ Act of Toleration, passed anno 1792, entitled, ‘An Act for granting relief to Pastors, Minis- ‘ ters, and Lay-persons of the Piaons Commu-— ‘nion in Scotland.” rio pkutohwiseoeuipt «« A large sheet of vellum ne. been provid- ed for hand eecasion, the following preamble was drawn up and engrossed upon it =‘ We, the Bis shops and Clergy of the Episcopal Church in Scot- land, assembled in a Convocation holden at Lau- rencekirk, in the county of Kincardine, on the - | 24th day of October, in the year of our Lord 1804 ; having taken into our serious consideration, | the oblixivion which we lie under, to provide, as far as we are able, for the preservation of truth, — unity, and concord, in that small portion of the’ Church committed to our charge; and havi ng ob-. served with regret, that, owing to the ¢ 7 of the times, ‘nth the various difficulties which the Episeopacy of Scotland had to encounter, 2 en when established by law, no public Confession of Faith has been prescribed, or handed down to us, who have thought it our duty to adhere to that ecclesiastical constitution, which we believe to be truly apostolical ;—under these circumstances, — are unanimously of opinion, that it would. be — highly expedient to exhibit some public testi- — mony of our agreement in doctrine and) disci- — 1804. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 349 Treland, as by law established, and, for that pur- pose, to give a solemn declaration of our assent to her Thirty-nine Articles of Religion, in the ‘words and form of subscription required by the ° act of the 32d of His present Majesty, entitled ‘An Act for granting relief to Ministers, Pas- * tors, and Lay Persons of the oT . Commu- *nion in Scotland.’ * Resolved, therefor e, aS We now are, by the grace of Almighty God, to adopt these Articles as the public test or standard of the religious — of our Church :— » We, whose names are underwritten, the Bi- shops and Pastors of Congregations of the Epis- copal Communion in Seotlantll meeting for divine worship at the several places atiiveiebil to our re- " spective names, do, willingly and ex animo, sub- scribe to the book of Articles of religion agreed upon by the Archbishops and Bishiogs of both provinces of the realm of England, and the Cler- gy thereof, in the convocation holden at London im the year of our Lord 1562; and we do ac- knowledge all and every the Articles’ therein contained, being in number Thirty-nine, besides tlie ratification, to be agreeable to the word of God. And we, the subscribing Bishops, have also resolved in future to require, from all candi- dates for holy orders in our Church, previously to soon being ordained, a similar subscription.’ “The Bishops and Clergy present immediate. ' Wy subscribed, according to seniority, on this sheet 850 | Siete ANNALS SOFT 1804. of veligiend which was cominislianatl charge, to be by him lodged for : preservation in the Ecclesiastical chest at Aberdeen, and for the purpose of receiving the subscription of the other Bishops and Glidiey: that are or may be consecra- ted or ordained in the Scotch Episcopal Church. «The measure of adoption and subscription being thus cordially and happily accomplislied, all that remained was to communicate, in “the most respectful manner, the procedure of the Convocation to-the Archbishops and Bishops of the United Church of England and Ireland ;— which communication the Primus was requested to make as soon as convenient. He accordingly : lost no time after the dissolution of the Convo. cation, in addressing by letter, of which a copy _ is here inserted, each of the Archbish Bishops of England, including the Bi f Sodor and Man,’ and the Archbishop of Arm agh, as Primate of the Church in Ireland... { me ot oo enseetahell ** My Lord, once yal ‘** The Bishops and Clergy of the ei copal Church in Scotland, having lately held-a Gene ral Meeting for the purpose of exhibiting a pub. lic testimony of their conformity in doctrine and discipline with the United Chureh of Engl nd and Ireland, they unanimously resolved to give a solemn declaration of their assent to her Thirty: nine Articles of Religion; which was done ac- _ cordingly in the form or words of the —— ; 1804, | SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 351 tion required by the Act in the 32d of his present Majesty, entitled, ‘ An act for granting relief ‘to Pastors, Ministers, and Lay Persons of the * Episcopal Cemmunion in Scotland ;’ the Bi- shops having also signed a resolution-to require from all candidates for holy orders, in their Church, a similar subscription. » ** A measure so expressive of our earnest de- sire to promote the true knowledge and salutary influence of those religious principles by which the United Church of England and Ireland is so happily distinguished, we deemed it our duty to communicate, in the most respectful manner, te the Prelates of that Church ; and as senior Bi- shop of our small society,.I was requested to make this dutiful communication of the sentiments en- tertained by those with whom I am officially con- nected. : “In their name, therefore, and with the most profound respect and veneration for your Lord: ship’s exalted character. I have the honour to be,” &c. “ ‘The Hon. Dr Lindsay, Bishop of Kildare, having been in Scotland, his native country, at the time of the Convocation, the Primus wrote also to his Lordship, and soon after to all the other Prelates of the Church of Ireland. To these letters, returns in due time arrived, from - the Bishops of Winchester, London, Salisbury, Worcester, Ely, Peterborough, Chester, Chiches- 352 (08 ANNALS GHTTSO2« .. EGS ter, Carlisle} Bristol, Gloucester, Exeter, Bangor, and Llandaff, in England; and from they Arch. — bishop of Dublin, and the Bishops of Kildare, — Killala, Ossory, Clonfert, and Dromore in Ire- land,—all expressing sentiments of the most friendly regard for the Dae — in Scot- — land, and for her prosperity.” ee stoned The Bishop: of Salisbury, Dr Douglas) ‘says, 7 flatter myself it will have very happy conse-' | quences, and be the means of inducing all the — Ministers of Episcopal Congregations in Scot- _ land to acknowledge and submit to ee . od of the Scotch Bishops.” Sisonrtaties - The Bishop of Ely, Dr Yorke, ate mention- — ing receipt of Bishop Skinner’s letter, adds: “It will, I doubt not, be productive of great satisface | - tion to my brethren, as it is to myself, to be poss sessed of so decisive, so authentic a testimonial : of such perfect harmony of sentiments, J expressed in it, between the two Epis iscor churches. With my earnest prayers for. tual prosperity, I subscribe myself, sit Ct sincerity and respect, your faithful brother,” &e. 4 The Bishop of Winchester, Dr North, writes F: thus :—‘* I am honoured by your valuable’ com- munication concerning the Episcopal Chureh it Scotland. I have ever retained a high respect for that Church, for the very respectable cha- — racter of its Clergy, and for your own in parti- cular. Every increase of union in the Christian — church is matter of great satisfaction to me, and, F ¥804. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 353 as such, I receive very sensible pleasure from the intelligence conveyed to me in_ your letter. I beg you to accept of my thanks for it, and to be assured that I remain, with the aces Te- spect,” &c. The Bishop of Chester, Dr Majendie, after “mentioning the communication made to him, concludes thus : “ It will doubtless prove highly. gratifying to every Prelate of the United Church of England and Ireland, to be assured of the de- elaration of conformity to her excellent doc- trines and form of discipline, from so venerable a body of men, and to learn that a similar de- elaration will be required of those who may here- after become candidates among you for holy or- ders.. Ihave the honour to subscribe myself, your obliged and affectionate brother,” &c. . The Bishop of Gloucester, Dr Huntingford, having expressed his anxiety for maintaming unity in the church catholic, adds as alii ata : *« The resolution which you have kindly impart- ed to me, passed, as it is, by a body whom I ho- nour and revere, appears to me well calculated for rendering more firm the United Church of England and Ireland. Your conformity to. its doctrine and discipline will be the occasion of disseminating, more widely, opinions favourable to its principles and practice,—the operation of _ which will be, more extensive attachment. Ta request you to thank my Right Reverend Ze 354 ANNALS OF - 1804. brethren in Scotland for this judicious and pious act of consideration towards our established Church; and allow me to say, I was particularly gratified in receiving the communication from — you, whose name and wii had before « conci- liated my esteem. Iam,” &c. iad The Bishop of Exeter, Dr Fisher, writes, that he “ feels a high degree of satisfaction from the late declaration of the Bishops and Clergy of the Episcopal Church in Scotland, being clearly of opinion that the interests of that Church will be greatly promoted thereby.” _ The Bishop of Carlisle, now Archbishop of — York, Dr Vernon, “ sincerely hopes that the: measure which the Episcopal Church in Scotland has adopted, will be productive of all the advan- tages which may fairly be expected from it.” The Bishop of Peterborough, Dr Madan, con- _ siders it ‘* as an event which cannot fail to com- fort and gladden the heart of every wep oles , and cordial friend to the Christian cause.” The Bishop of Bristol, Dr Pelham, “ takes the: first opportunity, after receipt of his letter, of assuring Bishop Skinner, how anuch satisfaction — he received in perusing its contents, by giving him that proof of unanimity, which he trusts no- thing will interop -+stvbseeritsiiag himself * the Bishop’s affectionate brother.” “Qo The letter of Dr Buckner, Bishop of Chiches- ter, the Annalist gives entire: _ ai Re Pe Oe i 1804. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 355 LETTER XXXIX. THE BISHOP OF CHICHESTER TO BISHOP SKINNER. ‘¢ Chichester House, Nov. 20. 1804. “« Reverend Brother, “I sincerely participate: in thé satisfaction which the Bishops and Clergy of the Episcopal Church in Scotland express, at the closer con- nection they have formed with the United Church of England and Ireland, by adopting our established formulary of faith; and I hope and trust, that a work which has apparently taken twelve years to accomplish, will prove of essen- tial service to the general interests of true reli- gion in this kingdom. “TO durd croyelv xavort,—7d avTd poorly are apos= tolical directions; and while we agree in_ar- ticles of belief, may we all harmonize in moral conduct, and be c¥uuvx« in brotherly love. “‘ With real respect for your venerable frater- nity, I am,” &c. ‘In addition to these endearing testimonies of brotherly regard from English Prelates of ac- knowledged worth, piety, and learning, the an swers returned by the Irish Bishops speak a lan. guage equally grateful to the Scottish Episcopate. “The Lord Viscount Somerton, Archbishop of Dublin, expresses very great satisfaction on Hearig of a “ circumstance which cannot fail to z2 356 ANNALS OF so 1804. promote the true knowledge, and salutary influ- ence, of those religious principles which arenow _ held in common by the Churches of Hope Scotland, and Ireland.” t ene a The Bishop of Clonfert, Dr Benasdiia pe 4 serves, that ‘* conformity in doctrine and disci- _ pline with the United Church of England and Ireland, so publicly testified by the Episcopal Church in Scotland, must be to us a source of much congratulation ; ; and the very marked and respectful manner in which the information has — been communicated, has, I at ine made no unacceptable impression.” © Jn respect to myself, with the rbttcidietil respect and truest brotherly affection towards you’ : and the venerable body of which, on this occa sion, you are the worthy and distinguished prolo- — cutor, I have the honour to be,” &c. &c. nies iq The Bishop of Killala, Dr Stock, is rg hank 4 transitory importance. Whoever,” adds he, studied the history, of Scotland at the period | the Revolution in 1688, will see, with deep re gret, how easy it would have been, with due m: eek ae: and Christian temper on the ‘pars tained that country in as close corset ith England in Church-government as in civil.” SS 1804. - SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 857 The letter of the Bishop of Kildare, Dr Lind- _ say, breathes so much the spirit of a Scotchman, that the Annalist trusts his Lordship will pardon him for gratifying the friends of Scottish Episco- _ pacy with the whole of it. LETTER XL. THE BISHOP OF KILDARE TO BISHOP SKINNER. « Dublin, Dec. 28, 1804. « Right Rev. Sir, “« Your letter of the 19th November, much as "it flattered my feelings as your countryman and as a member of a family * formerly in intimate -- connection with'your portion of the Church, gave me, at the same time, some uneasiness; for L was apprehensive that you intended to limit your communication in these parts to his Grace the Lord Primate of all Ireland and myself; thereby addressing each of us separately from the Unit- ed Church of England and Ireland. «* The circular letter, which has since been distributed to the Prelates of this part of the united kingdom, and, as far as I can judge at present, with abundant gratulation, has removed. this uneasiness ; and, with grateful thanks to you, Right Reverend Sir, and to the rest of the Bi- shops and Clergy of the Episcopal Church in Scotland for the early communication of your _ * The family of Balcarras. 358 ANNALS OF 1804. resolutions with which I have been honoured, I beg permission to rejoice in an event which esta- blishes the entire union, and secures the consist- ency of the united Churches of Engin’, Scot- land, and Ireland. ‘** With sentiments of nb most sincere respect — for you, the senior Bishop of our now happily reunited Church in Scotland, I have the baie to remain,” &c. The measure of subscription of the Articles being thus harmoniously accomplished, and most cordially approved by the English and Irish | : hierarchy, one naturally looks for the good effects — prophesied to result from-it; and closely indeed’ did they follow the Laurencekirk Convocation, since not a month elapsed from that date, ‘when an English ordained Clergyman in the city of Edinburgh, whose mental and moral endowments made him an acquisition to any Church, having” completely prepared himself and his flock for this’ important part of Christian duty, addressed the following most agreeable tidings to the Scottish Primus :— LETTER XL. 2 75 REV. DR. SANDFORD TO BISHOP SKINNER. ? * Edinburgh, Noy. 19, 1804. 7. “¢ } consider this as one of the happiest days of 1804... SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 859 my life. I have to day, in presence of the Rev. Mr Walker and the Rev. Mr Adam, subscribed the Articles which unite me and my flock to your venerable Church. Jam exceedingly glad to tell you, that my little paper has been received with the greatest good-will.* Nota dissenting voice have I heard. Those of my subscribers and hear- ers with whom I have conversed, and from whom I have received letters upon the occasion, have, with one voice, approved of our union. I hope every thing is done as you would wish, and that * I may now be considered as one of your Clergy, and as such receive your licence to my charge. I wait with some impatience your acceptance of my subscription. And am,” &c. To this interesting communication the reader will not entertain a doubt, that the return made _ by Bishop Skinner was alike satisfactory as it was speedy ; and that the commencement of Episco- pal union in the Scottish metropolis was matter of general gratulation among all the friends of Ecclesiastical tenets and concord on this side of — the Tweed. Eventful as the year 1804, (now drawing to- wards its close,) had proved to the Episcopacy * For this unanswerable paper, containing the motives which determined the writer’s conduct, and which was drawn up in - order to satisfy his people of the benefits to be derived from an union: with the Scotch Episcopal Church, see Appendix, No. IV. where the Articles of Union will also be found, No. V. 360 ANNALS OF =) . 1804, of Scotland, na occupied, as throughout, the Primus’ thoughts had been with the transactions — of the year, he received no small gratification from the last letter which this year brought him — from England on the subject of union, inasmuch as it spoke a language level to every capacity, and not to be gainsaid by any man who professes him- | self an Episcopalian. The amiable Bishop Porteous, towhom, as Bish- op of London, the British* Colonies, and, at one period, the English ordained Clergy in Scotland, looked with diocesan respect and submission, had, in his letter to Bishop Skinner, of date Novem- © ber 12, 1804, simply expressed himself thus :— ‘Iam. very well pleased to find that you and your brethren have made a declaration of your assent to the Thirty-nine Articles of religion of the Church of England, and beg leave to return: you my thanks for the communication of the measure so expressive of your earnest desire to promote the trueknowledge and salutary influence of those religious principles by which the united Church of England and Ireland is so happily dis- ; ;: j ; _ ; r 5 tinguished.” But in the following letter addres. — j sed to Bishop Skinner by his Lordship’s domes- tic chaplain and near relative, the worthy Pela speaks his sentiments on the subject of Scottish — Episcopal union in a manner as authoritative | ag cir cumstances would permit, a f a Ls i 1804. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 361 LETTER XLII. REV. EDWARD HODGSON TO BISHOP SKINNER. - « Fulham Palace, Dec. 10, 1804. - “TI cannot forbear expressing to you how hap- py I have been made by hearing from the Bishops of London and Lincoln,. that the Scottish Episco- palians have publicly assented to the Thirty-nine ' Articles of our Church. Many happy effects, I trust, will flow from this measure; and first and ' foremost, that which yeu have felt such a laudable anxiety to bring about, from the time I first had - the pleasure of being known to you, viz. the un- ion of the two bodies of Episcopalians resident in Scotland. My good patron shewed me, some few weeks back, a letter which he had written to Sir _ William Forbes of Edinburgh, the principal topic of which was perfectly foreign to this business, but he afterwards mentions and gives his senti- ments fully respecting the union, sentiments so very different from those which, in your quarter, his Lordship has been represented to entertain on the subject, that I requested he would permit me to copy what he said, that I might communicate _ itto you. His Lordship kindly complied, and I - give you the extract as fellows :— “In the mean while, I will say a few words respecting Dr Sandford’s letter which you enclos- ed, and which contains a very concise and able - - 362 ANNALS OF v4 1804 ; statement of the unfortunate difference subsist- ing between the Scottish Episcopal Clergy and : the English Clergy settled in Scotland. Ihave no hesitation in saying, that as the Boathiohitig is nes 2 ‘ops have now made a declaration of their < ¥ to the Thirty-nine Articles of the Church of Eng ng= land, and offer the English Clergy the use of their own Eucharistical Liturgy, there seems to be — no reasonable objection to an union of those two bodies; and I am persuaded that such an union would conduce greatly to the interests of religion in that part of the united kingdom, because it~ would restore what is extremely wanted there, the benefit of Episcopal superintendence,- he benefit of a licensed Clergy,—the. oiitctolanll As rite of Confirmation,—and the consecration of their places of public worship,—which things ar ‘all plainly necessary to constitute and one oa regular Episcopal Church. pect hem a ‘il ‘“‘ The union, therefore, of the English Scottish Episcopal Clergy, appears to me a dee . sirable object. But as it can only be effected by the full and free consent of both parties, as f neither the one nor the other can possibly be ~ forced into it, the only means that can or oug t to be used to bring it about, are argument, suasion, Christian charity, and Christian for ance ; abstaining carefully from all harsh langu and invidious names, which tend only to irri and provoke, and to widen the breach inste 4 healing it.” 49 ew 1805. . SCOTTISH EPISCOFACY. 363 Such are the sentiments of the Bishop of Lon- don, which I think you will be gratified to hear. Bearing in mind the pleasant.manner in which I spent the holidays at Aberdeen, Christmas 1801, I beg to be kindly remembered to all your family; and wishing the Christmas 1804 may be equally joyous, I am,” &c. 1805.] The year 1805 commenced no less auspiciously than the preceding year had con- cluded. The friends of union multiplied every where, and gladdened the hearts of its zealous promoters in England as well as in Scotland. Congratulatory letters were poured in on Bishop Skinner from each side of the Tweed, on the suc- cess of his labours, and on the rapid progress of Ecclesiastical unity and order,now to receive such — additional sanction and support, as made their speedy consummation, in the Scottish metropo- lis, a matter no longer of doubt but of certainty. On the 26th of February 1805, a regular deed was drawn up by the trustees and vestrymen of the English Episcopal Chapel in Edinburgh, ori- gimally founded by the Right Hon. Lord Chief Baron Smith, acknowledging the Episcopal Church in Scotland to be a pure and primitive part of the orthodox church of Christ, and bind- ing the subscribers to pay that spiritual obedi- ence to the Episcopacy of Scotland, which the members of Episcopal Congregations owe to their spiritual superiors, Before, however, submitting 864 ANNALS OF ©) : (1805. this valuable document to the’ reader’s perusal, the Annalist would be wanting PPE de- parted worth, and to the best lay friend w - the Scottish Episcopal Church, (amongst all ‘ad sons’ which she had brought forth,) had fora | century seen, were he to omit noticing a corres- pondence re-opened on the 15th of | Flag 1805, between the late Sir William Forbes, Bart. and the venerable administrator of the ecclesi ia 5 tical law in England, on the subject of the last remaining obstacle in the way of .union, viz. «“ whether English ordained Clergymen in Scot- land, by uniting -vith the Scottish Bishops, rendered themselves incapable of church pre- ferment in England ; or, in the event of holding such preferment at the time of their union, whe ‘ther they endangered its continuance by such < measure 2”? The worthy Baronet, after enteri minutely into some individual cases, which r dered him particularly anxious for a favoural solution of the above queries, concludes his le thus: ‘I owe many apologies for this long il sion, but the very great condescension with w you were pleased to receive my last letter, on important and serious subject, SS me to trespass on your time, as' I am extremely anxious that you should be rightly informed . f the true state of the matter, for I think it \ likely that the new Archbishop may wish toc fer with you on this head. et sud © Indeed I could even wish to presume 0 vid 1805. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 365 step farther on your goodness, by taking the li- berty of asking your advice, in what shape the icy of our Chapel, who have the sole manage- ment of its temporal. coucerns, as well as the no- ‘mination of the Clergymen officiating, might — have the means.of arriving at the knowledge of the sentiments of the new Primate on the mea- sure of union among the Episcopalians in Scot- Jand. We were thinking whether it would be deemed too great presumption on our part, if we were to state to his Grace, ina short memoir, the ‘Situation of the English ordained Clergy in this country, with a view of learning in what light they will be considered by the Church of Eng-~ land on their joining in communion, while they remain in Scotland, with the Scotch Bishops— Saving that obedience which those who do hold livings in Scotland, owe to their English dioce- Sans; and with a reservation of the same obedi- ence, should they afterwards obtain any prefer- ment on the other side of the Tweed, to the holding of which, it is hoped, that such union would. be no bar. May I hope that, when you havea leisure moment, if any such you ever have from your numerous and important avocations, you will honour me with a few words on this in- teresting subject.” _ As seven months elapsed before the eminent. legal authority, to whom these interrogatories Were put, could satisfactorily reply to them, the reader will be at no Joss in perceiving the reason 366 ANNALS OF © . 163 " why the Vestrymen of the Cowgate chapel, ar its junior ‘Clergyman, had piously submitte themselves to the spiritual jurisdiction of tt Scottish Hpiscopate, before the senior Clerg; man, although approving of the measure wit equal cordiality, found himself at liberty to d the same. Hence the Annalist, bound, as he is to pay the most scrupulous attention to date: is obliged to record their respective submission at different periods ; and, first of all, to insert th deed transmitted by the Trustees and Vestryme ot the Cowgate Chapel to the Primus of the Epis copal College in Scotland, as their interim dio cesan,—Bishop Abernethy Drummond having some short time before, resigned the see of Ed burgh for that of Glasgow. hong” “To the Right Reverend Bishop Joun Sine Primus of the Episcopal Church in Scotland. : Rt “ Right Beenie Sir, Mir idl “« We, Sir William Nairne of Datisaceadl Bart. one of the Senators of the College of Justice, and one of the Lords Commissioners of Justiciary,— Alexander Fraser Tytler of W oodhouselee, one of the Senators of the College of _ Justice, —SIE William Forbes of Pitsligo, Bart.—R. E. Phi- lips, Esq. one of the Commissioners of his Ma- jesty’s Customs for Scotland,—John Smyth, E of Balharry,—Robert 1 AERO Writer to” the 1805. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. » $67 _ Signet,—and John Hutton, Superintendent of _ Water for the City of Edinburgh, Trustees and _ Vestrymen of the English Episcopal Chapel in Edinburgh, originally founded by the Right Hon. John Smith, late Lord Chief Baron of his Majes- _ ty’s Court of Exchequer in Scotland, being desi- _ rous of uniting ourselves in communion with the _ venerable remains of theancient Episcopal Church _ of Scotland, of whose Bishops the succession has _ been continued without interruption by you, _ Right Reverend Sir, and your brethren, ever since _ she ceased to be the national Church of Scotland. We therefore do hereby declare for ourselves, that _ we acknowledge the Episcopal Church in Scot- land to be a pure and primitive part of the Or- thodox Church of Christ, of which we are desir- ous of being held to be members. And we, for ourselves, do hereby promise to pay that spirit- ual obedience to you, Right Reverend Sir, and your brethren, which the members of any Chris- tian Congregation owe to their spiritual superiors; saving always the respect which we owe 1o the national Church of this part of the united king- dom as by law established, and whose rights, as far as temporal matters are concerned, we are bound, as good subjects to acknowledge; and re- ‘Serving to ourselves the exclusive use, as long as we shall choose, of the Liturgy or Service-book as ‘used at present in the Church of England. “© We most fervently pray for the preservation _ 6 868) ~ . og ANNALS SOR” and prosperity of the ancient Episc of Scotland. And we remain,” &c.” es (Signed) Wa. Narrnez, _ ~ Avex. Fraser T -Witram Forses RED Puiirs, | _ Joun Smyru, Rosert sJaMinsgy, Joun Hurron, es ae 26th February 1805. sabe ™ sect a The above interesting paper being by Sir William Forbes to Bish companied with a most friendly np Baronet himself, and et ae | more grateful to the Bishop to ‘hear, ‘thant terms in which the deed of submission was f appeared to him appropriate and judiciows. J onthe 7th March 1805, addressed a lette: William in return, of which the i transcript. ! | es - ~~ ‘ LETTER XL BISHOP SKINNER TO SIR vim ART. «< By your ost agieaawe and bli munication now before me, I observe, ' felt satisfaction, the progress that has b in the pious and good work which has‘so long cupied your attention. My mind is also de - impressed with a just sense of the honour de me, by the condescending manner in which - 4805. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 369 have been pleased to express the sentiments en- tertained of my conduct in ‘this affair, by the worthy members of the Vestry of your Chapel to whom I beg leave, by your means, to offer my - very sincere and respectful acknowledgments. “The same returns of gratitude I may take upon me to present in name of all the Bishops and Clergy with whom I am officially connected, sensible as they must be of the great advantage which the Episcopacy of Scotland cannot fail to derive from the countenance of gentlemen of Such distinguished station dnd character. ** The cordial mahner in which these gentle- men havé borne testimony to the purity of the _ Scottish Episcopal Church, and declared their good wishes for its preservation and prosperity; may be expected to produce the happiest effects in exciting the Clergy of that Church to use their utmost endeavours for accomplishing the object of tke pious wishes of yourself and friends. As far as my feeble efforts can be of any use in pro- moting that object, you may depend on their being faithfully employed in whatever way shall be _ thought most likely to render Scottish Episcopa- | cy both permanent and prosperous. * As you give me full liberty to make the best use I can of the valuable paper intrusted to my care; I shall esteem it my duty to do every jus- tice to its good intention, and much good I trust may be expected from it, more indeed than from any thing of the kind which has happened to our A 2a 870 . / ANWALSt6# ION ‘Church since it was reduced to itsuppreddinal tion. Yet who can account for-the force c judice, or say with certainty that good w ways follow even where the best examples the way. he with ve SS mage msi Tam much obliged to you for sending me ; : copy of your excellent letter to Sir William Se which, I would fain hope will have the effect in procuring from the highest at such an opinion on the points submitted to sideration, as will satisfy Mr A——and oth _ the same footing with him, of their perfect safety in uniting, while they reside in Scotland, with ow Church. é one! Garetiregillgg ' © The saving clause towards the end ofiyo it declaration bears a very proper testimony deed to the respect that is due from ¢ all goo subjects to the national ootoleaa temporal rights ought undoubtedly. to be ledged, and are never called in. bee on by tho vet the Episcopal persuasion.; jy} iegp berks “\T again entreat, that you will: dome vour of assuring the gentleman your V we tertain for them, and’ of my fapeeiag Almighty God. for their comfort and | Lé both here and) hereafter; while, with e timent of grateful attachment to yourself, d Sin Ihave the honour to be;”?\&e: ‘i > hia At this. period, there was no junior ¢ » 1805. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 371 _ inthe collegiate charge of the Cowgate Episco- pal Congregation in Edinburgh. In the follow- ‘ing month, however, Bishop Skinner was ap- prized, by his truly zealous ‘correspondent Sir William Forbes, that “the Rev. Robert More- head, an English ordained clergyman, at present _. pastor of the Episcopal Chapel at Leith, having resolved to submit to the spiritual authority of the Scottish Bishops, had been elected by the Vestry of the Cowgate Chapel to be their junior Clergy- man. You will, therefore,’? adds the good Ba- ronet, ‘‘ give directions to Dr Sandford, or to ‘any of your Clergy here, to receive from Mr Morehead asimilar declaration to that which was subscribed by Dr Sandford. I most heartily con- gtatulate both you and myself on this pleasing. event, because, | trust, it will be productive of farther accessions to our Church.” ‘To this agree- able information, it was replied by Bishop Skin- ner, that Sir William’s kind communication com- ing to the Bishop's hand on Easter morning, added greatly to the comforts of that happy day ; that although the Bishop had no opportunity iof hearing any thing farther of Mr Morehead than his settlement at Leith, he had the greatest con- fidence in the choice of such excellent:judges’as the very respectable members of the Cowgate Vestry ; and that he would, with much pleasure, _ write to Dr Sandford on the subject, and request that he would be so good as commune with Mr Morehead in regard to the proper manner of tes- AA S72 - “ANNALS OF» >» 1805, tifying his union with the Scotch Episcopal — Church, by such a declaration as the Dectorhim- self subscribed for that purpose. ning Accordingly, {on the 30th of April 1805, the — following declaration, subjoined in the declarant’s own handwriting to a copy of the Articles of — Union, framed by the Bishops of the Scottish a Episcopal Church, was transmitted by Dr Sand- _ ford to Bishop Skinner :—‘* At Edinburgh, the — 30th day of April 1805, I Robert Morehead, or- dained Deacon by the Lord Bishop of Salisbury, — and Priest by the Lord Bishop of Salisbury, do hereby testify and declare my entire approbation — and acceptance of the foregoing Articlesasterms — of union with the Scottish Episcopal Church, and — oblige myself to comply with and fulfil the same — with all. sincerity and diligence. In testimony whereof, I have written and subscribed thismy acceptance and obligation, to be delivered into . the hands of the Right Reverend John Skinner, — Primus of the Episcopal College, as my diocesan and ecclesiastical superior during the present va= cancy of the diocese of Edinburgh ; before these ~ witnesses, the Rev. Dr Sandford and’ the Rev. | Alexander Allan, both. Clergymen .of the’ diocese, pore called for the purpose. ie ; “ Ror. Monenean.”. 4 rbind te 10h Ever eager to ‘testify the iiappiness which such _ _ tidings imparted, the Primus allowed nota post ~— to. leave Aberdeen, after receipt of the es 4 = 1805. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 3738 without conveying to the very respectable Cler- ' gyman, whose‘signature is here affixed, the sense he entertained of his laudable conduct. LETTER XLIV. ‘ \ r BISHOP SKINNER TO THE REV. ROBERT MOREHEAD. ; «« Aberdeen, May 4, 1805, “‘ J have this day had the pleasure of a letter from Dr Sandford, enclosing your subscription of our Articles of Union, and an attested copy of your letters of orders; both of which I have re- ceived with very great satisfaction, as a testimony of your laudable regard for the maintenance of ecclesiastical unity and order. I have also been informed by Sir William Forbes of your having been elected by the Vestry of the Chapel to which he belongs, to be their junior Clergyman; which election I have no doubt will be highly a- greeable to all the members of our Episcopal Col- lege, as well as to the person who shall be after- ' wards appointed to the particular charge of the diocese of Edinburgh. _. “In the mean time, as respresenting your dio- cesan, and in name of my Right Reverend Col- leagues, I most heartily wish you all success in your ministry, and fervently pray that God may bless your labours to his own glory, and to the _ comfort and edification of the people commit- _ ted to your charge, I commend you most sin- 574 "ANNALS OF © > cerely to the ‘guidance and direction of G holy spirit. And i Bec. lag i ) oe A It was deemed by the Primus, and the E Episec pal College in Scotland at large, not a little prising, that the stanch and zealous -frienc Scottish. Episcop ey, the learned Bishop ley, did not, along with his Right Rever id b br thren of the English Bench, pay the wished or regard to the communication made to him of t he proceedings of the Laurencekirk Convocation. Tie following letter contains an ample apology. for his silence at that period ; and shews that the — interest which he had the goodness to take the measure of Episcopal union remained unin paired. Fe | LETTER XLV BISHOP HORSLEY TO BISHOP SKINI “ York Pings “March 28, Ui I fee to make my apologies to not having sooner acknowledged the sati which I received from your excellent work Primitive Truth and Order, which I read” than once with the greatest pleasures and I tha you very earnestly for so valuable. a present. must account for some apparent neglect in other instances, which, bosinremy has been only. ~ rent. j th . » vi ; ue. rein 1805. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY.- 375. ig «I received, with the gréatest satisfaction, your notification of the union which: has taken place in Edinburgh and elsewhere; a measure which wipes off from the’ English Clergy the im- putation of schism, a misprision of schism at least; and I hope willbe of great advantage to the in- terests of Episcopacy in Scotland, and of the: Christian religion in general. But at the time that I received it, my mind was too much dis- tracted with the distressed situation of my family to write upon any subject.* «¢ Another matter, in which I may seem more unpardonable, is, that I have yet done nothing in the business you comimitted’ to me about the expence of the law-suit. ‘The fact is, that I was ‘out of town when I received the application. My physicians having sent me to the sea-side to re- cover from the effects of a vehement bilious fe- ver, which came upon me in the. spring; and left me indeed for a long time very ill qualified for business. But had I been in perfect health, I felt that nothing ,could be done at that season, while Lwas out of town myself, and all the Bishops dis- persed. «I think some circumstances that have lately happened are more favourable to the application than an earlier period would have been; and when the circumstances of my family permit me to appear again in public, I shall try what can ~* Mrs Horsley was then on her death-bed, and but just a- live, when the good Bishop wrote’the above. —ANNALIST. 376 ANNALS OF 6) T8OBRI be done.’. L Pema my dear. Sir, your affection: : ate brothen's aie BOR Hr foot louie 0? beh aia The nature of the {iat i which Bishop | Horsley alludes, and the consequent application to him, which he treats with such characteristie) benevolence, the reader will best comprehend by being at once put in possession Pearse drawn up by the parties aggrieved, and. laic 4 fore the worthy Bishop of St Asaph and other friends of Scottish Episcopacy, on nee warp Fi . the Tweed. ‘ rv « Your Lordship requires not to be informed, | that there exists in Scotland a body of individual ip which composes the small remnant of what was the Established Church of this part of the unitey ed kingdom before the Revolution in 1688, ar r between which and the Church of Englan(tthetall is a perfect coincidence in doctrine, discipline, ) and worship. Soon after the Revolution, suc » members of the deprived Church as favoured that event, and preserved their attachment to Episcopalian principles, formed themselves, in) several places, into congregations, and inyi ed _ Clergymen from England or Ireland to be the bin pastors, as their attendance on their former pas- tors had become exceedingly Jongerenaal Known political reasons, t ARE ‘* By this means two distinct bodies of I palians were formed in Scotland; the one aaa ee a cit 1805. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. __ 377 sisting of the Congregations of the deprived and » nonjuring Church; the other of the Congrega- tions alluded to, who gave to their places of pub- lic worship the name of English Chapels. Since the deprived Episcopal Church of Scotland ceas- edi to be non-jurant, several of those English Chapels have been re-united to her Communion. A re-union of this nature took place a few years ago between the Scottish and English Chapels in the town of Banff,* with the consent and appro- bation of all parties concerned, one solitary indi- vidual excepted, Captain David Cumming, of his Majesty’s marine service, residing in Banff. “This gentleman contended, that the coali- tion of the two Chapels had been productive of an abandonment of the principles in support of which the English Chapel had been erected ; and, in proof of this allegation, insisted, that the Scot- tish Bishops are no bishops, because they preside over a Church which wants the sanetion of civil establishment ; that the Episcopal Church in Scotland denies the King’s supremacy, because she teaches that the Church of Christ is,’ in its ~ own nature, a society independent on every earth- ly power ; that she retains the Popish doctrines of purgatory and transubstantiation, because, in her Communion-office, she commemorates “the. faithful departed, and prays that the Eucharistic’ elements may become, what the Redeemer called ' them, ‘ his body and his blood,’ in representation * See above, page 242. — 378 ANNALS OF a tas | and in efficacy ; and that she excludes all, exe her own members, from the hope of se because one of her’ Clergy printed some: ox from the Archdeacon of Sarum’s ‘ Guide, the view of evincing the Apostle insti ior on the Episcopal regimen. vt wiappicl tes * When Capi’ Cumming saw, that he c make no impression on the noichoallll : ed chapels, by these strange and unfoundedsasse : tions, he raised a process, in order to | eae Db) y the sentence of the tribunals of justice, that d solution of their union which he despaired aie ac- complishing by any thing which he could urge against it. The cause being brought before the Lord Ordinary of the Court of Session, was é | cided in favour of the members of the united Ch ey pels, the defenders, owing in part to the fri support which it received from the abilitie Robert Dundas, of Arniston,,Esq., then Lord vocate for Scotland,” now Lord Chief Pore his Majesty’s Exchequer. « But although, in this novel and: ¥ unpr dented contest, Captain Cumming’s+ oppo have prevailed, yet has their victory been ed with a great accumulation of expense charges, &c. now forming a sum not less than \ hplitiied pounds Sterling! , his sum, the members of the united Cl) rect to be a load of debt which they are p unable to discharge from their very limite before scarcely adequate to afford a decent — 1805 SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 379). _ tenance to their pastor,—Hence, from your, Lord- _ ships well known attachment, to those, pure aad primitive principles, which distinguish their poor reduced Church in common with that in which your Lordship so ably fills the high station of | a, spiritual father, do the Pastor and managers of the united Chapels in Banff rely on your friendly exertions in procuring them a littie pecuniary aid in their present distressing and) singular case; and they shall ever pray,” &c. - _ No sooner did the circumstances of the worthy Bishop of St Asaph’s family permit him to attend _to the terms of this artless petition, than he actu- ally became a beggar, (and a most successful beg- gar) in their behalf; as will appear from the fol- lowing statement, furnished by himself, and ad- dressed to Bishop Skinner, as Bishop of the dio- cese in which the persecuted Chapel of Banff is situated. 7 LETTER XLVI. BISHOP HORSLEY TO BISHOP SKINNER. a “Palace, St Asaph, Oct. 28, 1805. * J ought, long since, to have acknowledged the kindness of the letters I received from you under my great affliction; and | ought to, have informed you what has been done in the business committed to me. I am ashamed to say, that the $80 «ANNA pHa 1805, complicated misfortunes which have fallen upon! me this summer have quite: broken my spirits, ° and made me indolent and averse to business, in an extreme degree, The paper which I enclose — contains an account of the sums collected by me _ for the benefit of ‘ the United Episcopal Chapels — ‘in Banff,’ the whole (amounting to L.189, 10s.) ’ is placed with Messrs Hammersley and Compa- ny, and stands in their books in the name of * ‘the ‘ United Episcopal Chapels in Banff.’ This L. 189, eas 10s. is in addition to L.61, 15s.* sent by some of ¥ « The Bishop of London hadsent = Lo 10 oO. ¥ Bishop of Durham, - » 440,10. Ons Bishop of Winchester, : = 1010 0 }é Bishop of Worcester, ¢ 7 55. Bishop of Oxford, —S_ = - 5. 0. os] re Bishop of Bangor, = rae “sss 0 0. Bishop of Salisbury, - ote, a Bishop of Gloucester, 1 cat ie a lh, 0 oil Bishop of St. David's, 3 (6 aoe a oi a 1 “ The whole sum collected from the English and Bishops, is therefore L.251 5s., of which 1.189 10s. is at Hammersley’s; and I now send you a letter to those. tlemen, which I think will be a sufficient authority to ¢ pay the money to your order.” The form of a sub paper, which Bishop Horsley presented to his thren, was thus worded :—*“« Subscriptions for onahiin bers of the united English and Scottish Chapels in Ban: fray the charges of the prosecution carried on against them before the Supreme Court with a view to dissolve their uniot as detailed in their address on the subject to the barn Bishop of St. Asaph. 1805. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 381 the Bishops through other hands before my ap- plication, which was retarded by the dismal! cir. : cumstances of my family. _- LT applied to none but Bishape, for I thought that a more general application would be neither . for.your credit nor our own. I shall not think of SUBSCRIBERS. The Archbishop of Canterbury, L.25 0 0 The Lord Primate of Ireland, 20. 0 .0 The Archbishop of Dublin, - - 15 00 The Archbishop of York, - 20 0 O Bishop of Winchester, 2d Sub. «= 1010 0 Bishop of Lincoln, = - - 10 10 0 Bishop of Rochester, “ 3 ob & Bishop of Peterborough, - «~ 50 0 Bishop of Chester, - > 5 5 0 Bishop of Litchfield, - - 10 0 0 Bishop of St. Asaph, = « 10 10 0 Bishop of Chichester, ea 5 5 0 Bishop of Bath and Wales, - 4 5 5 O _ Bishop of Worcester, 2d Sub. - 1010 0 Bishop of Salisbury, 2d Sub. = 1010 0 Bishop of Carlisle, - = 5:50 Bishop of Hereford, sibs yertanr Bishop of Ely, * . e Let 10.100 L.189. 10 0 The amount in all, from English and Irish ‘Aachbishor and Bishops, L.251 5 0 Private individuals, and Clergymen, chiefly in Pagisnd.. 43 0 0 —_ ~ 1.294 5 0 Expences of process L.192,15 5 alae gal nels En agg >I L.270 17.0 mr Man! a Dae cf Balarice’ L.23° 8 o 582) ANNALS OR yg going to London before the middl if so soon. Till that ti ne letters will It will give. me great pleasure to. hea good health and ae ce to w i kindly remembered. I ans your affectionate brother,” &c. _ Such an Be “of truly disinterested esse friendship on the part of a Prelate, whose pi distressés and public avocations were, at that i m= mediate juncture, ie) multifarious, ung uestionab bly merited the heartfelt acknowle igmer er nts of th the parties concerned, and they we speet -dily ¢ on- veyed to the benevolent Bishop of St Asaph Bishop Skinner. ¢ YF ee * | 1 00" rT, aR : aoe “‘ May it please your Lor ashing api ‘* We, the Pastor and Vestrymen, “or M gers, of St Andrew’s Chapel i in ‘Bai beg leave to approach your ‘Lordsh ii that we have received by the han ds ee shop, the Right Rev. John Skinne t Aberé the-sum of L.189, 10s. collected” by your, ship, towards the .relief of this united ) When we stated. our singularly « distressi to your Lordship, we placed great reli your friendly exertions on account of yo you ship’s well known attachment to those pr primitive principles, which distinguish ou ‘reduced church, in common with that in _-your Lordship fills the high station of a biny 1805. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 3883 father. Your Lordship’s exertions, as well as the success of them, have far exceeded our most san- guine expectations ; and, while we must ever ve- nerate a Church, whose Prelates know and exer- cise so well the duty of Christian sympathy, we request your Lordship to accept our most grate- ful thanks, as having been the chief instrument of extricating us from our embarrassments, by means of the munificent donation of your Lord- ship and your brethren of the United Church. The inestimable benefit thus conferred on us, will ever live in the grateful remembrance of those who haye now the honour of addressing your Lordship ; and, in order that the knowledge of it may be handed down to our successors in office, and to the members of this Chapel, for succeeding ages, we have entered on our records the subscriptions obtained by your Lordship,—a particular list of which has been conyeyed to us by the worthy Bishop of this diocese. And if it shall please the Supreme head of the Church, to bless the Chapel with future increase and suc- cess, the members of it, on reference to that re- cord, hereafter will know to whom, after the shock which this Chapel had singly to sustain, (in Consequence of its having taken the lead in pro- Moting Church union), they owe this, the second foundation of their prosperity, ___ * Permit us then to offer our fervent prayers, ‘that your Lordship may be long.preserved an or- hament and a blessing to the Church, as well as shop Horsley’s munificent exertions, from 884 ANNALS or ee a benefactor to all its faithful members, among whom we beg leave Zz. considered, with all mility, and bi sentiments of the highest r Te- spect and gratitude, your Lordship’ i obliged { and devoted humble servants, vp f Ta, (Signed) “ James Minne, Picibiytor,. ty ; r : SrewaRt SourER, JAMES IMLacit, ~ Arcu. Youne, Gro. Imacu, Jas. Rerp, ' Gitserr Banna. . | :Joun Sim, { ALeEx. Wricut, ae Boe. Burp; Witt. Bruce, James Sim, am " Managers.” This most becoming acknowledgment of _ good people in Banff, was transmitted i t Bishop to his Lordship, with the followi i from himself :— hy us ae (ie F +a yo ale } ig t he Ma 7 ‘ LETTER XLVI. she ahs BISHOP SKINNER TO BISHOP | mats i A Pr « My Lord, | BRA da * « Having received from the Pastor and I gers of the Episcopal Chapel in Banff, a let Listes addressed to your Lordship, for the generous arid seasonable donation which ) were the means of procuring for them, I have ne the honour of transmitting the saine to yot Lordship, with the gras assurance of the “ 1805. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 385 sense I must ever entertain of the favour themes by conferred upon myself, as well as upon one of the Congregations with which I am officially con- nected. * It will, I hope, give no offence to your Lord- ship, that the good people whom you have so sin- gularly obliged, have adopted the method which they have taken the liberty to mention, of pre- serving the memory of what they owe to those highly distinguished and venerable Prelates, whose sympathy and kindness have been so hu- manely exercised on this peculiarly distressing occasion. _ “ By no act of that exalted body, . of which your | Lor dship i is so illustrious a member, could the true spirit of Christian charity and condes- cension have been more signally manifested, than in the readiness which they have shewn to pity and supply the necessities of a small, ob- scure, yet very deserving portion of that great _ mystical body to which we all have the happiness to belong. May the United Church of England and Ireland be ever preserved as a pure and prosperous part of that body, and may her go vernors be ‘ a praise in the earth,’ to all genera- tions... roa My son here, who is also your Lordship’s son in the church, begs leave to be remembered to you with the most sincere respect and venera- tion ; and, with my fervent prayers to the God of all consolation, that the blessings and comforts . BB $86 ANNALS OF | of his Spirit may be ever with you, I times feel myself happy i in having the be, my Lord, your Lordship’ s much obli a most faithful serve &e. | ‘oral hi ti During the summer of 1805, a Rev. Gent designating himself Alexander Grant, D. L nister of the English Episcopal come at Dundee,” stept forth as the very cl separation, and ‘published what he v call « An Apology for continuing in the C munion of the Church of England.” © For thus “ appearing publicly i in defence of himself and of of his brethren, officiating i in Scotland in virtue,’ aS he terms it, “ of ordination by English a Bishops,” the learned Doctor assigns the: lo ‘motives: “1. As a Minister of the Church blished in England, however obscure or inc derable I may be, I cannot suffer to pass V contradiction the assertion, that that Church and the same with another, from which I kno differs widely both in principle and i in p 2d, I wish to clear myself and my | brethren fi a charge so dishonourable to our ordet character, as unreasonable obstinacy. < To inform the unlearned part of those wh our ministrations, and especially my own | gation, of the essential difference there is tween the two churches, and guard the the insinuations of those who have of x | so industrious to persuade them that no such ference exists.” ; Q 1805. SCOTTISH “EPISCOPACY. 387 The sequel, however, of this famous apology of Dr Alexander Grant, shewed that the title was a false one; the apology being, not for “ continu- ing inthe Church of England,” but for refusing to join in communion with the Episcopal Church in Scotland. ; Now, that such an apology, nay, all apology. for separation, was, by the Church of England herself, deemed inadmissible, no stronger proof needs be adduced than .the letters contained from page 352 to page 863 of these Annals ; yet a stronger proof does stand adduced in the names subscribed to the Banff subscription paper. The apology of Captain David Cumming for institut- ‘ing a legal suit against the Managers of St An- drews Chapel in the town of Banff was, that, in his estimation, that Chapel, when united to the Scottish Episcopal Church, ceased to be in com- munion with the Church of England, and for the very reasons which Dr Grant adduces. Yet the Church of England herself, by the act and deed of her two Archbishops, and of nearly all her Right Reyerend Prelates, says the contrary, and most liberally affords the means of successfully repelling the attempt made before the Supreme Court of Judicature in Scotland to dissolve the union between the English and Scottish Chapels in the town of Banff, which had been duly con- summated. Nor is this all: The Annalist of Scot- tish Episcopacy trusts, that the reader will have as much pleasure in now perusing, as he has in BB2 388 ANNALS OF 1805. recording the reply piven ‘by the eminent law yer who now presides in the Supreme Ecclesias- tical Court of England, to the queries of the worthy Baronet Sir William Forbes, as already submitted to the reader’s notice ; and which re- ply sets controversy on the Seth 785 at rest. fee ever. ot Ove oe) prin JTL LETTER XLVIIL id sIR WILLIAM SCOTT TO SIR WILLIAM FORBES. ; ; «« Earley Court, Reading, Sept. 8. 1805. . - T ought, in the first place, to apologize to you for not having answered your obliging letter before, and I have no sufficient apology to make. It is no apology to say, that the matter of you letter, though weighty in itself, did not require immediate despatch on my part, and rather in- deed made some delay unavoidable, by desiring me to communicate with the new Archbishop, whenever his numerous avocations and duties would permit his attention to be called to such a subject. May I venture to add, that my o mn time has been most peculiarly engaged this spring by my own official business, which pressed upot me daily, in various shapes, to say nothing of parliamentary attendance, which has not om ly been laborious, but very painful in its nature, ' from the spirit and temper of the session. I have, ~ however, had — contents of your letter eon- 1805. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 889 -stantly in my mind; and coming down here, a- bout three weeks ago, to enjoy alittle retirement, I brought it with me, as one material part of an arrear of business which remained undischarged. ** You may be assured, that the new Archbi- shop feels all the sentiments of affection and re- spect for the Episcopal Church in Scotland, which, you know, his lamented predecessor entertained, and will be ready to express it on all occasions. I should be extremely happy in the opportunity of introducing you to his acquaintance when business calls you to London. You will find him animated with the same spirit. His opinion con- . curs with mine, that a minister of the Church of England can incur no disability in England by _ communicating with the sister Church, if that can be called a sister which, by the late acts of your respectable community, is become almost identically the same. It is quite impossible that any impropriety, either legal or (as far as I may be allowed to judge) theological, can attach to an entire conformity to the Protestant _ Episcopal Church in Scotland, during a Clergy- man’s residence in that country. It is surpris- _ing how such a notion could have found its way _ into the minds of men in your country, asthat the English Bishops aspired to any authority there. All that friendly and kind communication with our Episcopal brethren in Scotland. can give, _ they’ may always command from the English _ Bishops, But authority or jurisdiction in Peru, 390 ANNALS OF = °° 1805. is not more out of their thoughts than in Scot- land. They have all due respect for the Esta- _ blished Church, acknowledge its increasing good offices to the Church of England, and are very : ready to make a common cause against the fana- tical enemies of establishments i in both we ages: Notwithstanding, however, that the ‘contents of the above iter were made known, to Dr Grant of Dundee, by the writer of these Annals, the Doctor presented the whole Bench of Bishops - with copies of his redoubtable apology. The re- plies which he re¢eived, the Doctor carefully con- cealed. But one, viz, the reply made by that sound Churchman, and intrepid friend of Scotch Epis- copacy,—the venerable Bishop of St Asaph, —the 2 writer took special care that the apologist of separation should not conceal, as the following . communication to Bishop Skinner will shew. LETTER XLIX. BISHOP HORSLEY TO BISHOP SKINNER. « St Asaph, Nov. 11, 1805, ‘*T have received a letter from a Dr Alexan- der Grant, who styles himself Minister of ee ie English Episcopal Congregation at Dundee, ac- companying a copy of a printed tract, dissuading — from an union of the English Clergy in Scotland with the Scottish Bishops,’ He tells me, in his — letter, that he has distributed a certain number 1805. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 891 of copies of this tract.gratis among his own con- giegation, and that the rest of the impression will be annexed to a third volume of sermons now in the press. EnclosedjI send you a copy of a let- ter which I despatch by this post, in answer to ‘his addressed to me; of which letter of mine, you. are at liberty to make use, in any way in which it may be useful. I remain, my dear Sir, your af- fectionate brother.” “ St mri Nov. 11, 1805. wad Sir, «It has long been my opinion, and. véry hel known I believe to be my opinion, that the laity in Scotland of the Episcopal persuasion, if they understand the genuine principles of Episcopacy which they profess, ought, in the present state of things, to resort to the ministry of their indige- nous pastors. And the Clergymen, of English or Irish ordination, exercising their functions in Scotland, without uniting with the Scottish Bi- _ shops, are, in my judgment, doing nothing better than keeping alive aschism. I find nothing in your tract to alter my mind upon these points. You . are in a very great mistake in supposing that the ‘ dissenters in England are required to subscribe ‘ any one of our Articles, previous to their cha- * pels being licensed.” * I send a copy of this letter to Bishop Skin, ner at Aberdeen. I am,” &c. Had the reverend apologist of separation been that ardent friend to truth, and to the * 392 ANNALS OF (| 1805. Church of England, which he professed himself’ to be, would not these authorities have swayed him from his purpose of ‘* continuing” in a state of schism, as well as of annexing his tract, on the imaginary differences between the Episcopal Churches of England and Scotland, to his third _ volume of Sermons? But, regardless of the au- thority of the Church in which he obtained his’ orders, his prejudices proved themselves superior : even to Archiepiscopal decision,—that the two — churches were “ no longer sister churches, but al-' — most identically the same;”’ so that he not only per- sisted in rendering his Apology co-existent with — his Sermons, but lived and died in the faith of its — unanswerable validity. The effects of his gross — misrepresentations remain with the little flock, — which, previously to his demise, he forsook in’ Dundee ; for they remain in a state of separa- tion from the Scottish Episcopal Church, and from the ministry of an English Prebendary, to whom, for several years, the charge of the Scotch _ Episcopal Congregation in Dundee has been j R committed, and who, by his talents, has doubled — their numbers. But on the Episcopalians of Leith, _ who had the benefit of the Apologist’s “‘ ghostly _ counsel’, a short period before his death, “like the morning cloud,” that counsel hath passed away ;” in proof of which, these good people have been long since so completely united to the ? Scottish Episcopal Church; that. their Clergy- — man, who is an ornament to his profession, is of 1805. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 393 Scottish ordination. Nor can it fail to give the inquisitive reader further satisfaction on this head, to be informed, that, on receipt of Dr Grant’s letter, accompanying his apology, &c. the Bishop of Rochester, Dr Dampier, knowing that an acquaintance of his own had for many years taken a lively interest in the Episcopal Church of Scotland,. applied to him for informa- tion on the subject of the reverend Dr’s accusa- tions. This gentleman immediately apprized Bishop Skinner of the application, and that he had committed the case to one, who, besides be- ing completely versed in all the points on which the ‘ Apology’ hinged, had the advantage of being sufficiently near the Bishop’s residence to en- able him to hold personal conversation with his Lordship, -and the result justified the propriety of the procedure, ** On calling just now” says he, ‘ on the Bishop of R. at yourdesire, he put Dr Grant’s pamphletin- to my hand, and asked me if I could give him any information on the subject. I told him I could~ give a very short and satisfactory answer to the whole, viz. that, ‘admitting the charges which * the apology contained to be what the Apologist * represented them, every English ordained Cler- * gyman, who joined the communion of the Scot: *tish Episcopal Church, had his option to use_ * the English Eucharistical Liturgy, if he prefer- ‘red it.’ The Bishop said, he thought it a suffi- cient answer; and added, that he observed * Dr —- 894 ANNALS OF. 1805, ‘Grant mixed with his complaint another of a 4 ‘ personal nature, namely, that they (the Scottish — ‘ Episcopalians) were drawing away his Congre- _ ‘ gation from him, which he did not like; though — ‘he concluded his letter, by saying, that he — ' ‘ knew some at least of the Scottish Bishops, (Bi- ‘ shop Skinner in particular,) to be most iy “4 ‘ able men.’” i Happily for the cause of Episcopal et in Scotland, the decisive language of the Primate — and Prelates of the Church of England was not — treated by all its clerical members, exercising ~ the pastoral office in Scotland, with the same nonchalance as it was by Dr Grant. ao LETTER L. en SIR WILLIAM FORBES TO BISHOP SKINNER. __ « Edinburgh, Nov, 16, 1805. «« T have the happiness to inform you, that the letter which I had the honour to receive from — Sir William Scott, has proved completely satis: — factory to Mr Alison, who, I believe, writes to — you himself along with this, respecting the mode ~ of submission to your spiritual authority. To — himself, therefore, I beg leave to refer you o that head. I cannot, however, but congrac t myself on the completion of the union of our — Congregation with the Episcopal the sa Sdotland ; a measure in which I feel the ital ‘1805. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 395 satisfaction. As soon as the necessary form of Mr Alison's subscription is gone through, you can make such use of this circumstance as, in your opinion, may prove most advantageous to our Church. ** It gave me much pleasure, indeed, to hear of the very handsome donations by the Archbishop of Canterbury and Bishops at large, for the use of the Chapel at Banff, the manner of conferring which obligation adds greatly to its value. I shall take an opportunity of expressing to Sir William Scott the sense which you, Right Rev. Sir, and the other friends of Episcopacy in this country, entertain, of this mark of attention on the part of his Grace the Lord Primate, and other Bishops, towards the Episcopal Church in Scotland. And, in the mean time, I am most respectfully and tru- ly yours,” &c. Mr Alison’s letter, as a contrast to the Apolo- gy of “ the Minister of the English Episcopal Congregation at Dundee,” is worthy of a place in these pages, and cannot fail to gratify every Scottish Episcopalian. LETTER LI. THE REV. ARCHIBALD ALISON TO BISHOP SKINNER. - ** Bruntsfield Links, November 16. 1805. “TI flatter myself, that, from the correspon- dence of our invaluable friend, Sir William For- $96 ANWALS OF P9902 | | HBOS. bes, you have been acquainted with the circum- — stances which have hitherto prevented me from accepting those terms of union which the Epis- ~ copal Church in Scotland has so charitably and — so liberally proposed to the Clergy of the Church _ of England officiating 1 in Scotland. I rejoice to i find, that the opinion of the Archbishop of Can- terbury, (as transmitted to Sir William Forbes | ; by Sir William Scott,) now relieves me from those — difficulties, and enables me to give my assent to a union, which is not more consonant to my sense | of duty than to the feelings of my heart. I have, therefore, to request, that you would have that 5 goodness to transmit to me the proper form of | submission for my signature, and to express” whatever else you may wish, to render that sig-~ nature efficient and respectable. a «¢ T must presume still farther to avail mys¢ of this opportunity to testify my isipiden el . found respect for that Church to” which I now solicit to be united; to join my prayers to you! digs that this union may be conducive to np ends which we have all in view ; and to req you, Right Rev. Sir, to accept) imdividue those sentiments of respect and” vee . which I have the honour to Hag stone 108 voi gy ji) o0) Sve After ractdigt of the above most gratifying ¢ munication, Bishop Skinner lost not a momentin © making the wished-for reply; = ; i we’, ‘ ie Od 21 aa 1805. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 397 LETTER LII. BISHOP SKINNER TO THE REY. ARCHIBALD ALISON. «¢ Aberdeen, November 18. 1805. “* The measures which have been lately adopt- ed by the very respectable Vestry of your Cha- pel, for promoting the cause of Episcopal union in this part of the kingdom, could not fail to af- ford the greatest satisfaction to all who have tru- .ly at heart the accomplishment of so desirable an object. Nothing could exceed the zeal and activi- ty with which this happy object has been unremit- tingly pursued by the worthy Baronet, whom you So justly designate ‘our invaluable friend.’ His judicious and seasonable application to Sir William Scott has been the means of procuring from the . venerable Primate at Lambeth an opinion so fa- vourable to the wishes of the real friends of Epis- copacy in Scotland, as can never cease to impress on their minds sentiments of the most profound respect for such a distinguished character. The gratitude excited in our breasts byhisGrace’s con- descension on this occasion, receives no small addi- tion from the-pleasing consideration of its having Temoved the difficulties of your peculiar situation, -and thereby enabled you to follow the dictates of your own good sense and piety, in desiring to be united with what still remains, (in a state, I trust, of primitive purity,) of the old Episcopal Church of this country. 398 ANNALS OF | > 1805. “ In giving effect to that laudable desire, which — your letter before me so fully expresses, I cannot but feel most sincere satisfaction; and, agreeably to. your request, I have the pleasure of sending © you a copy of the articles of union which have — been used on similar occasions, and which either _ Dr Sandford or Mr Morehead will have ‘the 4 goodness, I hope, to transcribe for your subscrip- tion, in the form proposed, and both of them a their names as witnesses toift.. SS e “ This, with an attested copy of ‘your lettets of orders, both as Deacon and Priest, is all the — form that we have thought necessary to be re- q quired in such cases ; and happy shall I be, in re- 4 ceiving these testimonies, of such a reepectallieg , accession to our Clerical body. , Oe «‘ Allow me now, my dear Sir, ‘i offer you _ my hearty thanks for the pious and good wishes with which your letter concludes, expressed in terms so honourable to the Chureh with which I y am connected, and no less friendly to aie as: individual member of its hppa? “* With my fervent prayers to the thot grace, that our God and Redeemer may b and direct you in all things, and: give you» sti unceasing peace and comfort in the step which © you.are now, takings I beg leave pp oe & ~ “s 1 Se a oe —— Q id at » 1806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 899 1805, the Articles of Union with the Scottish Episcopal Church were duly subscribed {before the witnesses above named, by the present senior Clergyman of what has been so long denominated _ the Cowgate * Episcopal Chapel in Edinburgh,— aman of the first rate professional respectability, and whose writings on various subjects have secur- - ed him an exalted place in the republic of letters. Episcopal union being now complete in the city of Edinburgh, (with the exception of a Mr Vincent, who, in the year 1805, was pastor of St George’s Chapelt,) the Primus and his venera- ble colleagues deferred no longer ‘to issue their maidate to the united Scottish and English or- dained Clergy of that diocese, empowering them to elect a Bishop for the vacant see ; the forward- ing of which deed to the Dean of Edinburgh, the present Primus of the Episcopal College, conclud- ed the business of the eventful year 1805. 1806.] In his letter to Sir William Forbes, (of date March 7th 1805, and partly quoted above in page 369 & 370,) Bishop Skinner thus adverts to ‘the object of the mandate now issued. *« There is at present no matter of Ecclesiasti- ‘eal concern which I believe my colleagues as well * This designation, however, exists no longer. The Cow- gate Chapel has been parted with ; and St Paul’s, York Place, is now the cure served by Messrs Alison and Morehead. + Mr V. was succeeded by Mr Shannan, whose union took place at the same time with his settlement in Edinburgh. 400 ANNALS OF 1800. ' : Ba : as myself have more at heart than to see a sound, well informed, and respectable Clergyman at th head of the Diocese of Edinburgh. By our Can ons, the matter must be referred to the 4 of only a negative should an improper oisbelia in their opinion be chosen ; yet I humbly hope, on their part every thing will be done to pr to our Church in Edinburgh a respectable cesan, and to our Episcopal College the accessio of a pious, learned, and dignified member.” In this hope, now that the Clergy were authori- tatively required to elect a Bishop, the Pri was not disappointed. On the contrary, the 1 of January 1806 being the day of election, it with the utmost satisfaction that, on the 17th of that month, Bishop Skinner received int gence from Edinburgh, not merely of the p unanimity with which the choice of ne was directed to their present excellent D ‘but of the sense which the English onde bers of the meeting entertained of the unas views of their Scottish brethren, and of the n- did and generous liberality of their present « duct. For, in the very same packet which brot to Aberdeen the deed of election, was contaimec the ‘i ollowing most interesting paper. « Edinburgh, 15th Jan, 18( At this first meeting of the United Epise Churches in the diocese of Edinburgh, assemblee 1806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 401 for the election of a Bishop, We, the undersign- ed, ministers of the Church of England, desire leave to record the following our unanimous re- ‘solutions :-— ,’ eiotSplsts, That however well we are convinced of the merits and qualifications of the Rev. Gen- tleman who has this day been elected. Bishop of this diocese, we are, at this time, deeply sensible of the candid and generous liberality which has induced the Presbyters of the Church in Scot- land, in the present circumstances, to propose unanimously to concur in the election of a Cler- -gyman of English ordination. And, _ *§ Qd,*That while we consider this measure as a happy omen of the stability of that union of the Episcopal Churches, which has been recommend- ed to us, not only by our own sense of duty, but by the highest authorities in the Church of Eng- Jand, we feel it, at the same time, inctimbent upon us to express, in the most lasting manner in our power, the sense we entertain of the cha- ritable and enliglitened spirit which has animated the members of the Church in Scotland, in this, and in every measure by which that union has been accomplished. (Signed) « Henry Luoyp, D.D. Miniter of Leith *. ARCHIBALD ALtson, L.L.B. Senior Mi« nister of the Cowgate Chapel. Rozpert Moreneap, A.M. Junior Minix ster of the Cowgate Chapel.” G24 * Dr Lloyd, Regius Professor of Hebrew in the University | ce 402 ANNATS OF In addition to this most honourable of fraternal regard, on the paetlie the Mi byters of the diocese of Edinburgh, - grateful to Bishop Skinner’s feelings to: the same date with the above, the foll ter 29 Sir William Forbes, “— less ch: sectea bens devoted. friendaf a nion, - containing evidence the most ample of his ¢ ful concurrence in the Ae SIR WILLIAM FORBES, BART. 0: BI I curr, ‘ Edinburgh, Jan. 15, 1 * With my pith. heart do I congratul as well as myself, on the happy election of a Bishop of Edinburgh, of the most and-exemplary character, to whose | -ons¢ sense of duty, and to whose stea in. what: he believed to be the pence 3 ought to pursue, I do. verily believe. happy union that has taken place ¢ am who are attached to Ent aa n of Pie hak having accepted, for a short period, | of the (formerly English) Episcopal Chapel in Leith, the Bishop of Lincoln for directions in the matter of the Scotch Episcopal Church. His. Lordship’s 2 most explicit. He very strongly recommended him « the union.” The Rev. Mr parma of Glasgow, at an 1806. SCOTTISH EPYSCOPACY. 408 which I cannot doubt willin no long time be- come universal all over Scotland. After the election, I saw a declaration by the clergymen of our chapel on the head, the perusal of which cannot but be very agreeable to you, Right Re- verend Sir, and your brethren of the Scottish Episcopate, as containing a very strong proof, if any such were wanting, that the whole mea- sure of the union, and consequent election, is a matter of duty only, as, indeed, from what other motive but principle could it flow ? [pray God Almighty to grant his blessing on what has been’ done towards the good of his Church, on which may his spirit ever rest’! and commending myself to your prayers, I ever am,” &c.* spectable flock, about the same period, united themselves ; as ‘did the Rev. Mr Fenwick of Perth; though, strange to Bay, his successor in that charge has made no such overture! A circumstance which points out the necessity of the Vestrymen or Managers, if not the Congregation at large, sanctioning the submission of their Clergyman, and their applying for such Episcopal acts as mark: their respect for the office of a Bi- shop ; otherwise union is merely nominal, and ceases on the re- moval of the Clergyman, who, while he did his duty, was at no pains to instruct his people how to do theirs. " * This fetter, and several others written at the same period, the worthy Baronet penned with his left hand, having in a tour’ through the North of Scotland, in summer 1805, met with an accident which rendered his right hand and arm useless for many months. But no personal inconvenience did he put in conipetition with what he conceived to be his duty. O! that ethers would look to and follow his bright example ! cc@ : 404, " “ANNALS OF 9 > 1808. 7 soda’ ily On receiving the above welcome: tid the Bishop-elect’s ete of the u suffrages of his diocesan brethren, + lost no time in procuring his Collee to the promotion of Dr Sandford. Hz the time and place of the constiialaaaaile was duly performed, in presence of a ¢ congregation of Clergy and laity, in Bi chan’s chapel at Dundee, on the 9th of (being Sexagesima Sunday) 1806, by: the | gh Reverend Bishops Skinner, Watson, and Jolly _A most appropriate sermon was preached by # } Rev. James Walker of Edinburgh, from Titu ii. 15.* And, on the pious solemnity be ‘ cluded, the oie with an wie sp" “e « Right Rev. jn my pe beled ‘* Having now finished the part w been called to perform in the sacred this day, anxious as I am to address ‘a to you by way of suitable conclusion, ly find language adequate to my feeli an occasion,—feelings by no means myself, but which, I well know, ar with equal: ardour on the minds of .* On the requisition of the Bishops present, this was published, and has met with merited Hi: all. whose commendatioa could be saroetah to the w thor. - Shee x 1806. SCOTTISH EPISC“PACY. 405 2 ; have all along acted with myself, in the measures which have so happily led to the solemnity, in which we have now been.engaged. “In an humble dependance on the Almigh- ‘ty aid, and merciful acceptance of Him who is * King and Head over-all things to his Church, * God blessed for ever,’ we have been discharg- ing one of the most essential parts of that im- portant trust committed to us in our Epi-copal ‘character; and He who sees the heart, and searches its inmost thoughts, knows with what sincerity of intention, with what ardent zeal for the glory of his name and the good of his church, we have united our weak, imperfect, but most fervent desires, and willing endeavours, for the ‘accomplishment of those pious and blessed pur- poses. Relying for the success of all our labours on our divine Master’s promise to his Apostles, * to be with them to the very end of the world,’ _ we, having received in due succession, of their ‘ministry, have been encouraged to do what a wise and good Providence has put it in our power to do, for continuing the same apostolical succes- sion in that’small, and, for a long time, depress- ed portion of Christ’s Church with which we are ~#more immediately connected. Under all the ‘stages of its depression, and through all the vari- ‘ous difficulties which it has had to encounter, _ the Episcopal succession has, blessed be God! ‘been duly and regularly preserved ; by which “means, our little Zion has been supported under 406 - ANNALS OF ; 1606." its distinguishing Chianaebiay. as the venerable re mains of the old Episcopal and once Established — Church of Scotland. Hence, when so Episcopal order have reached almost ft of old age, and others are consi ‘ in years, or not so strong in bodily consti as might be wished, it became highly exy to give the Episcopal College in Scotland tional strength, ‘more especially when, a present emergency, an opening appeared : admission of a new member, whose ap ment, besides requiring on our TT spectful attention, had the strongest ¢ our serious consideration. This, I have no« will readily be acknowledged senreney been case of the diocese of Edinburgh since tl most respectable accession to our commur both of Clergy and laity in that city. Con ed still as the capital, or most conspicu in North Britain, some estimate may be of the general state of Episcopacy th this part of the united kingdom,’ from tion, rank, or character of the al Edinburgh who profess to be of the persuasion. And of the Clergy at large be ing to our Church, it is not to be - doubtec strangers, particularly such a from the southern part of the island, v _ to judge from what they see or hear of th e gy resident in the Scottish metropolis: w profession of Episcopacy, . necessaily i 1806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 407 connection with and subordination toa Bishop— he, who in that character presides among Clergy so. respectable, as a pastoral charge in the chief - city of Scotland announces, ought himself to be a person highly respected and known, by all whom it may concern, to possess the qualifications re- quisite for such a dignified and important sta- tion. . _ “© With what sincerity of heart, therefore, may we hail the solemnity of this day, as affording, on all and each of these accounts, ample cause of congratulation ;—congratulation offered, first of all, to you my beloved brother in Christ, as the principal instrument in that good work which God has this day called us to perform ; and con- _ gratulation to that particular body of Clergy whom you are henceforth to take under your Episcopal charge; and whore here most properly represented by the Reverend Presbyter, whose discourse from the pulpit, prepared at your de- sire, we have listened to with all the satisfaction which a subject so aptly chosen could impart, and with all the delight which the judicious, clear, and pertinent manne in which it was handled could excite. Nor can i refrain, my Right Re- yerend colleagues, from extending my congratu- lations to you, on the acquisition to our sacred order of one so worthy of the office to which you have assisted in promoting him, and so just- ly entitled to the best thanks, the warmest appro- bation, the most cordial support, that we can 4.08 _ ANNALS OF TO8e : give him in return for his giving hi work of our ministr ry and veel eres thus nae our ibe nnilotalid th and agreeing to co-operate with’ us, a ever disposed to co-operate with each vie Ws its best and truest interests. _ , og « Nay, I would congrats ; Clergy, (eiiriacbiens as “Emap. ell ed to them represented, by the respectable *b Clergy and people now before i sah! I trust, it will es found anspicious; being t first of the kind which our Church has witness since deprived of the benefit of eivil « ; ment, and therefore, I hope, to be cc a pretences of i increasing union and. faith. by using the same Caen ing the same articles. of religion ynit: is» adhering, as far as circumstances will p Pp the same form of government and dis _ which, as a pure Protestant. Episcopa the United Church of England and -1: adorned, that we can hope or pray to be - 1806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 409 with that Church. And, as in these respects ‘the established Church of England and Ireland deigns to own us as a sister church, it is incum- _ bent on me to acknowledge, that none of her ‘ sons have contributed more sincerely and effec- tually to bring about this happy state of harmony and concord than the beloved brother whom we this day constitute a Bishop of the Scottish, as he had formerly been a Deacon and Priest of the English Church. “To his unwearied endeavours for perfecting the good work of true ecclesiastical union, as far as we of this Church are concerned, I myself could bear the most ample testimony, were it pro- per to mention or to make any appeal to the cor- respondence which, in consequence of my office, T have had the honour to maintain on this inter- esting subject, and with no man more to my heartfelt satisfaction than with Dr Sandford. Yet small aud inconsiderable is the weight of my evi- dence in his favour, compared with that of a gen- tleman, who, residing in the same city, has long been his intimate friend and acquaintance, and ; who, were I at liberty to name him, would be ac- knowledged by all who now hear me, to be most worthy of our confidence and regard. By this distinguished character, a letter was addressed to me on the very day of Dr Sandford’s election to the office with which he has now been duly in- vested; from which letter I crave permission to read the following short but comprehensive para- 410 ANNALS OF 1806, graph: ‘ With my whole heart do I congratul e ‘you, as well as myself, on the happ; ; ‘this day of a Bishop of Edinburgh, of the « ‘ primitive and exemplary character, to * conscientious sense of duty, and to whose s ¢ perseverance in what he believed do be the * duct he ought to pursue, I do verily be ‘owe the happy union that has “taken * amongst all those who are attached to E ‘ pal principles, and which, I cannot doubt, ‘in no long time, become universal all over ot- * land.’ ‘With such testimony, and from he S heart and hand that gave it, I may yee feeble attempt that has been made to assign the cause of those unusual congratulations have accompanied, and ought to accompan happy occasion of our present meeting. having thus far discharged the duty, wh thing but the exigencies of a Church so ported as ours could have devolved on me, yet take the liberty of adding a few brie on the nature and design of that sac which has this day been consigned into tb of our now Right Reverend brother, w wi whatjhas been already said, and Beats n speak from upwards of twenty years ¢ will not, I humbly hope, take amiss ihe I am about to use, or ascribe my pre any other motive than a heal good of Scottish Episcopacy, and for the inereas ing credit and character of those who are intrust- ed with its support. . / 1806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 4)1 © The trust which has now, my dear Sir, been committed to you by the imposition of our hands, is, you are well aware, termed in the admirable office. of Consecration, ‘ the office and work of a * Bishop m the Church of God.’ The former of these terms evidently points to that official autho- rity which can be conveyed only by a valid com- mission ; while the latter term shews, that the ex- ercise of that authority partakes of the nature of a work or labour, such as must be considered wholly incompatible with the indulgence of sloth orindolence. ‘Thus the Church has taken special care to put the newly consecrated Bishop in re- membrance, that, according to St Paul’s advice to Timothy, he ought to ‘stir up,’ in other words, to exercise and keep in motion and activity, the grace, the xapue, or gift of authority, confer- red on him by the solemn imposition of authoriz- ed hands ;—that is, not to allow the power, the ability of being useful, which he has received, to sleep or slumber, but to keep it awake by con- stant exertion, by every suitable effort of profes- sional zeal and diligence. And if, by such un: wearied zeal, and attention to the duties of his sacred function, the man of God should at last be rendered incapable of labour ; should he be worn out, as it were, in the service of his heavenly Master, let him console himself with the language of a pious Prelate of the Church of England, who hesitated not to say, that, in such a service, “it was better to wear out, than to rust out.’ 1806. HORIG «« But, in discharging the office and Moroes of a 4 Bishop in God’s Church, the ‘manner ir the office is to be duly exercised, and ineat by which we may hope to render the wor cessful, ought also to be carefully attended tc they are pointed out for our direction, * fir the Apostle, and after him by the Church, i words which immediately follow those that 1 just quoted: ‘ For God hath not given us ™ —— of fear, but of —— of wm and 6 ness.? tho 4 «* Another Apostle, you know, tells us, f 1 th: ‘ every goon gift, and every perfect ‘gift is ‘above ;’ but such is not * the spirit | of f that cowardly, timid, time-serving dispositic on ‘giving way to which, even those who serve at’ altar of God may be tempted to store ke 0° | world, and to popular opinion, rather — from a steady adherence to truth and r ness, forgetting that, in all such cases, the ‘ ship of the world is enmity with God? — never be said, that any Minister, much m Bishop of our Church, has been peace Wl his duty, so possessed and inthe rit of worldly fear, as to turn his be On standard of heaven, and fly from ‘ bie f ‘of faith’ Not to combat this spirit, whic = | can proceed from him who came into the that he might overcome the world, and k in subjection, must be a lasting reproachit * * See the SF cece mr spesae in the a ‘of Comm: Hh Iie 412 _ ANNALS OF 1806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY: 413 Gf justly laid to their charge,) who have the ho- nour to serve more immediately under their great Captain’s banner, and to whom, we are assured, he is ready to give ‘ the spirit of power,’—of power to resist the enemy, of power to deny ourselves, as well as power to instruct and admo- nish those committed to our charge. ** This inward, spiritual, and, (if I may be al- _Jowed the expression,) ecclesiastical power, we humbly trust is, notwithstanding all the outward worldly deprivations which our Church has suf: fered, still continued with us. And were those who adhere to our communion and fellowship always impressed, as they ought to be, with a just sense of our possessing this precious powerful gift of ~ God, we should have no cause to regret the want of any of those powers and privileges derived from the state which are held in such high esti- mation here below ; and yet are, in reality, no farther valuable than as the means of advancing more successfully the honour of God, and _pro- moting the true Christian edification of his faith. ful people. It is for effecting this blessed pur- pose, as far as flesh and blood can effect it, that God has also given us ‘ the spirit of love;’ be- cause the exercise of power ought always to be tempered with loye,—the love of God shed a- broad in the heart, and thence expanding its re- freshing fruits of love to man for God’s sake. For thus, and thus only it is, that, in our cir- cumstances, we can expect to enjoy the approba- 414 ' ANNALS (¢ allel tion and aupbor of those who adhere 0 our mie nistry, and hope to ¢ be highly esteem my ‘in love for our work’s sake” Ltt ag ‘So small, in fact, is our power as to any worldly considerations, that it is’ to the > Ic our people, their love of our puinteipliss 1 faction in our conduct, that we must loo wholescme. effects of our spiritual auth ‘the power that worketh in us to the edif ‘ the Church in love.’ Nor shalk the gifts © Spirit of power and of love’ be ever effectual in promoting the great purpe which they are bestowed, provided that we hz added to them, in terms of the Apostle’s deel ration, ‘ the spirit of soberness,’ that is, a sob sound, and well regulated mind; a _ rit whie as it permits not the mind of the:possessor to! hardened by unrelenting power, so does i it from being too much. weakened by : indulgent love. The:man: of God, who soberly of himself, as every man is’ " think, will be equally preserved fro exercise of his power, as: freliipilie ity expressions of his love. To the former'ou ations in life hold out, indeed; few tempt So far are we from. possessing prin can proudly exercise, that-we are daily'e _ to have our authority oe as it is; in which’case it becomes matte ous consideration; whether it may not of of be more prudent to wave: bi 1806, SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. Als position of authority, than to run the risque of exposing it to scorn and contempt. __ “‘ Where the balance hangs even between two josite claims, it is not easy to decideinto which Seale the preponderating weight ought to be thrown ; and this, I have no hesitation injsaying, constitutes the chief difficulty, I might have cal- Ted it the chief discouragement, with which a Bishop, a governor, in a Church like ours, has to Struggle; and for which, therefore, he should en- ‘deavour to be, as much as he can, prepared. In those national Churches, which are not only esta- blished by law, but actually incorporated with the _ State, where the Episcopal character is dignified with splendid titles, and supported by liberal en- dowments, nay, fortified, at all points, with can- ons and statutes, civil and ecclesiastical; there the Bishop’s authority is perfectly secure, for there every infringement of it, every resistance of the legal rights of the Church, brings down upon the guilty head some punishment or other, suited.to the nature of the offence. _ But different, indeed, becomes the case where the same Church, (in all things essential to the constitution of the Church) is reduced to the situation in which this Church has, for more than 2 century, been placed ; divested of all support from the civil power, and thus brought back to the purely primitive footing, on which the Church of Christ was originally established. There it is that the. Bishop’s authority takes hold of the con- 416 * aNWATS OF! > 0>3— science orily, having no more worl worldly influence to support nar , and does, fall to the share of sty man. In these circumstances, whic! ly those which we experience, i hopes of preserving a true, regule piscopacy, worthy of these ven distinction, it must be by strei hands of those whose office it is t Episcopal succession, and by ho encouragement as may indueem character and attainments to undertake suc weighty charges: > (Line (os «© Canonical obedience, as we'term it, ‘s in the opinion of many, to be a en of dub bef fl and, at best, undefined signification, a and wi ways afford matter of dispute, peer i ~ letter of the canon is not ni h dary of a Clergyman’s duty; b not to advance on any occasion whe a constrained, such a formal shew o may be thought sufficient where the la state interpose their aid, if necessary, a there may be other inferior motives than ry of God and the good of souls to it to desire as well as accept ‘ the office ‘shop.’ But as there is nothing’ of t be met with in the Episcopal € Chureh of th Ur ‘neither the possession nor the peat. Bos great emolument or advantage in this»wo id ‘inference, I think, is ee and chou ri 13806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY, ANY not possibly escape our notice, that, in this coun: try, the only way in which the Episcopal charac: ter can be rightfully maintained and supported in the exercise of that authority which is abso= lutely necessary to usefulness, is, by securing to it the filial confidence, the affectionate regard of those, both Clergy and laity, who profess to’ ‘be of the Episcopal communion, and who, in conse: quence of that profession, believe the Bishop to be an essential part of every pure, apostolical, { and rightly constituted Church.’ $ __. * Far be it from me’ thus to speak from ‘the unworthy desire of magnifying my office, beyond that which is due to it. I have not so learned Christ. Conscious though I be, that, from many infirmities, the Episcopal character daily suffers ‘reproach in my own person, duty requires me to say, that*it isa character which cannot fail to at= tract respect, bad as the world is, in proportion to the fidelity with which its duties are discharged. And mankind are convinced, that as no sinister object should lead to the desire of it, so every pre- paration should be made for sustaining it with be: coming fortitude and zeal. Of such prepafation on your part, my beloved brother, we have been furnished with the most satisfactory evidence, and ‘have, therefore, solid ground to hope, that, in faithfully discharging the duties of your sacred - _ office, you will thereby secure to yourself the obedience and veneration of those who are im- mediately under your charge, and ensure to the | DD _ ble endeavours of his servants here below, Sree ae: ed at ¥ “his people! May he correct wi ing presence !’’ 418 SUED «: ANNALS ae Episcopal Church in Scotland sue | spect, credit, and advantage, a8 th be frie that venerable Society will naturally expec one of your education, character ments condescending to hold s ed and important station within its _ * For the comfort and edification, th of our little Zion, let our united efforts a J fervent prayers be ever sincerely offered Throne of Grace, there to be presented fe ceptance by the Great High Priest of our: sion, the Shepherd,and Bishop of f souls. that he may now look down in mercy, fre right hand of the Majesty on High, on t advancement of his glory and. the salve at atever and supply whatever is deficient , in ou sincere, though imperfect services 5 tually bless and sanctify the- work of | ; try, that the Church in which we are to serve, and the souls for whom we to watch, may enjoy all the comforts ' and peace in this world, and, in th come, all the blessings of his glorious si It having been recommended to tl by the Sa 2 Bishop of St Asaph, t toc cate “e the Prelates of the Church are 1806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 419 shea to the Scottish Episcopate of one of the English ordained Clergymen in charge of a con- Sregation in Scotland, Bishop Skinner addressed the following circular letter to the Archbishops and Bitaps of the English Church, and to the Archbishops of Armagh and Dublin, in Ireland. LETTER. LIV: “ Aberdeen, Match 16, 1806. & «Sty Lord Archbishop; * The exalted station which your Grace sd worthily holds in the united Church of England and Ireland gives me ground to hope, that you will not be offended at ihe freedom which I now use, in laying before your Gtace a very brief ac- ' Count of thie state of Episcopacy, and the pro- gress of what may be termed Episcopal union, iti this part of the united kingdom. The Congrega- tions which compose all that remains of the old €stablished Church of Scotland, are at present about sixty in number, and are supplied by fifty Clergymen ordained by the Scottish Bishop Py. Tew of these congregations being at this time va- eant, either by the recent death of their former Pastors, or through want of ability to make suffi- cient provision Ee supporting the pastoral cha- racter in a suitable and decent manner, A few years ago there were about twenty-four congre- gations in Scotland in a state of separation from the Scottish Episcopal Church, and supplied by DD 3 420 ANNALS OF ™ | Clergymen of English or Irish outitidnsiee no other Episcopal: connection than what their 0 dination, and the use of the English Liturgy ev ‘ forded. Thirteen of these cot ngregatio i Ps late joined the communion of "hes “Mésetiel Epis- ri copal Church, sensible of the ela sta i ia which, as Episcopalians, their being in communion he with no Bishop placed. them, viz. ‘Two in the « v of Edinburgh, and one in each of the follow places Lah ae Kelso, Glasgow, Stirling, Pert Arbroath, Stonehaven, Cruden, Peterhead, B and Elgin. Of the other eleven Episcopz re gregations still in a state of separation, there is one in Edinburgh, Musselburgh, Haddingto Dundee, Dunkeld, Brechin, Montrose, Aber a (two clergy,) Old Deer, Ayr, and Dumfries.* « On the whole, it appears that iced Cle gymen, ordained by English or Irish E now form a part of the ministry of the S Episcopal Church ; and it may be hoped th other eleven will, sooner or later, see 1 # In 1918, the Congregations contin in a state 5 ration are reduced to five only of the above list, viz. Dunt Brechin, Montrose, Aberdeen, and Old Deer. Dunkeld is tinct.—Kelso and Perth having changed their Cle gy, are re turned to a state of disunion ; and, since the death of L ee c ter. there has been no Episcopal Clergyman in’ the | Ayr. St George's Chapel in Edinburgh has long been ws and Musselburgh, Haddington, and Dumfries for some ti True “the great body of the constituent members of ne CON gregation of St Paul's Chapel, Aberdeen,” have g lic toknow that they « disapprove of the measure of wr 4 1806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 421 ~ priety of adopting the same salutary measure. - As an encouragement to this we have lately, my Lord, had the happiness of making a very respec- table addition to the number of our Bishops, by the consecration of Dr Sandford, of Christ Church College, Oxford, an English Clergyman in the city of Edinburgh, of most exemplary character, and who, I trust, will prove a blessing and an or- nament to our Church. ** I beg leave to take this opportunity of pre- senting my grateful thanks for your Grace’s kind benefaction to the Episcopal chapel in Banff, as belonging to thediocese with which I am officially connected ; and requesting forgiveness of the li- berty which J have taken in thus addressing your Lordship, and humbly offering up my fervent prayers to Almighty God for ike prosperity of the united Church of England and Ireland, I have the honour to be, with ie highest respect and veneration,” &c. . In Bishop Horsley’s reply to the mots as ad- dressed to him, dated a few weeks after receipt of it, he expresses the “ highest satisfaction at the progress of union in Scotland.” with the Scottish Episcopal Church, being firmly resolved to continue attached to the Church of England as formerly.” But as no one can read these Annals and not see that the Church of England recognises no such attachment, unless in a state of union with her sister Church in Scetland, the Anna- list doubts not, as their Clergy are friendly to the measure, but that, in a little time, all the Episcopalians in Aberdeen ‘shall be one fold under one shepherd. Age ANNALS OR) m4 ‘ole Goda, ri LETTER LVi dana , th eet | he BISHOP Boni TO BISHOP § | anal $¢ I: am ‘penmaded that nothing can t for the interest of religion in this island, —— thing more for the credit of both parties, a ticularly of the Clergy of English, -and Irish. nation ; and I have perhaps some personal faction in finding the opinion which I gave 1 years since to our worthy friend, Bishop A _nethy Drummond, confirmed by this event, “th ‘ the business of union would certainly do itself ‘ if he was not too much in a hurry to drive: ‘ on. Nothing can give me greater satis than that my son, while in a state of separ from me, should be thought worthy to hay care of one of your congregations commi him. The employment will be respectabl the profit should be small; and I am ¢ that he would himself sirehet employment out any profit, to a state of absolute ina It would be a great consolation to me, i could I think that God, in his mercy, had Ne him th > humble instrument in the furtheran so grea t and good a work as that of heal unseemly divisions bite ‘the I ea Scotland.” ts thoes need seid vid 51g 74 ie “As: a farther specimen of bn ee fav 1 » i 1806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 493 reception which Bishop Skinner’s communica- tion met with in-England, the replies received from the excellent Bishop of London, Dr Por- teous, and the venerable Dr Madan, Bishop of Peterborough, are a!so worthy of a place in these Annals. LETTER LVI. BISHOP PORTEOUS TO BISHOP SKINNER. Ks «© London, March 17, 1806, *« Right Reverend Sir, ** Having always been a friend to the. union of the English and Scottish Episcopal Clergy in Scotland, it gives me pleasure to-find that it has of late made so great a progress. I long since told my friend, Sir William Forbes, that, by de- grees, with a little patience and forbearanee, and mild and gentle persuasion, it would assuredly be brought about. Dr Sandford is certainly a great acquisition to your Church; and there ap- pears to me little doubt, but that, with such an accession, your object will in due time be com- pletely accomplished. I am,” &c. LETTE R LVI, as ree: MADAN“TO BISHOP SKINNER, “« Palace, Peterborough, March. 19, prs. ““ Right Pe eerend Sir, " Please to accept my earliest and Warthest 424 ANNALS OB 55 thanks for your kind communication ¢ progress of Episcopal union in’ Séotlandivit rejoice.and comfort the heart’ of every since friend to the Christian cause. »I:make’no doubt but that this has been, in a material degree, ow. ing to your own great and pious exertions, fc which God will bless you in his good times cordially do I unite with you in fervent | praye to Almighty God for the prosperity of the unit ed Church of England and Ireland ; 5 and, | let me also add, for the: still further progress a and pro perity of Episcopal union in your part of Gi " Britain. I have the ‘honour to. be, with muc true! sh and rrigghare ag tere mo ’ The pte of Salisbury, Dr ae fully into the measure of the union; and shop Skinner, that ‘ even had he: eer ab er to have answered his letter, ’ he tl dent to wait till he could have aco the Archbishop of Canterbury, ‘to whon -he) 1 paid” a visit yesterday (May : beth. “He expressed himself with the Sat meé 1 ly sentiments which I. an "ex the Episcopal Church in Scotland, _and- that the Clergymen who officiate in your p of the island, and who have been ordained in’ ng land, would submit to your jurisdiction,* pa ‘To strengthen, if possible, the e Archbishop! y's inion, the Annalist conceives “that i it is a ity 1806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 425 a step, which he was glad so many had already taken, and which he thought would be farther assisted by the consecration of Dr Sandford.” __ The letter containing this valuable informa- tion, the worthy Prelate (himself a native of Scot- land) concludes in these very friendly’ terms:— *T hope no more young men will be sent from England to serve, as ministers, to your chapels ; but if any should be invited, and induced to go to Scotland, I make no doubt. but they will be advised by any of our Bench, who may know of their intentions, not to refuse acknowledging the jurisdiction of our brethren the Scottish Bishops.” As, among the last letters, if not the very last letter, which Bishop Skinner had the honour of receiving from the indefatigable friend-of Scot- tish Episeopacy, the late Sir William Forbes of Pitsligo, the Annalist is induced. to gratify the ” to the outstanding Clergy of English ordination in Scotland, to apprise them, that were any of them to be presented to a living or livings in England, he would positively be refused institution to the charge or charges, without a testimonial — from two Clergymen in full communion with the Bishap in | _ Scotland, in whose diocese he may have resided for the last three years, and that testimonial counter-signed by the Bi- shop himself. The case actually happened, when Mr D. late of St Paul’s chapel, Aberdeen, received presentation to the living which he now holds in the diocese of York. ‘That gen- tleman; though he never united with Bishop Skinner, was ob- Jiged to apply to that Prelate for a testimonial, who, although the applicant's conduct was the more inexcusable, in that he had been baptized and educated in the Scotch Episcopal Church, readily granted the testimonial in the form required. a a 426 Sys) YN AIS GRO 18 reader with the following. It contains an tive to union which must go’to th . heart every parent or guardian, professing himself, Episcopalian, and prompt him, for his,offspri _ sake, (if from no ‘other motive,) tomain 1 late Episcopal union, should he bel h ol ou to enjoy it, or, should the case he of ise, “seek. diipony till he-find it.” am HRT Vt | LETTER LVU. lt ‘ . 1 phew “e§ + SIR WILLIAM FORBES, BART. aso sKINN “Itisa disusidersilels time sinouy honour of your very obliging letter, too long delayed to answer. Latte ‘ have purposely let it alone, in tl - of confirmation, which Bishop Sandford had ¢ notice that he intended to hold in our Char Cowgate) this day sennight, and hich I - to be able to tell you [ had witnessed. doubt been informed by some ne you pondents here that it took place acc and, I inust say, 1 never was present | solemn, a more agreeable, or a more | service. It could not but be very e every seriously disposed person, to's pel, which, I betieve, is the largest 1 in thea try, filled wit a numerous con ngregation upper ranks # life, and dua of a ah 1806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 427 young persons confirmed, who not only com- ported themselves with the utmost decorum, but seemed, as well as many of their parents, to be very much affected with the ceremony, and who, I hope, shall be the better for it to the end of their lives: Three of my own young people were of the number ; the elder part of my family hay- ing been confirmed by the Bishop of Man, when he passed through Edinburgh a good many years ‘ago. But, hereafter, thank God, we shall have no need of foreign aid ! Le ** Having occasion now and then to exchange a letter with the Bishop of London, on the sub- ject of the life of Dr Beattie, on which Iam now employed, and in which he is kind enough ta take some interest, I lately, in writing to the good Bishop, introduced the subject of Dr Sand- ford’s consecration. What he says in-answer to that part of my letter, is short, but very satisfac- tory. ‘I congratulate you on the union of the - *Scoteh and English Episcopal clergy. It wilt ‘ tend to promote harmony. and concord, and the general interests of religion,’ ** | thank you for your kind i inquiry about me arm; I am now able to use it in writing, as you see, which is -a great comfort to me. I remain, with much, respect, regard, and esteem, Beek Rey. and Dear Sir, &c.” : Nor did this great and good man’s interest im the cause of Scottish, Episcopacy expend it- é 228 ANNALS OF 99 self in words only. It was nw paeendeDis s ch har acter to ‘sacrifice unto the Lord GEN cost him nothing.’ No sooner was it ‘st to him by one, nearly allied to his amiab by marriage, that an attempt ought to be e te raise a fund for making some small addition t the incomes of the Bishops’ in Scotland; : ind f relieving the’ wants of the ‘most’ neces of their clergy, than Sir William’ Forbes er . tered, with heart and hand, on ‘the beneficen scheme; giving no less a sum, from ‘Minna ; private funds, than L.400.. In order, the mot effectually to secure success to * this wor. and labour of love,’ a ** Memoir” was draw up in 1806, “ respecting the present stat of the Episcopal Church in Scotland, and respec fully submitted to the consideration of the Nt bility and Gentry of that Communion.” Thi endearing monument of zeal and sincerity in Christian profession, on the part of the Institt tors of the Episcopal fund in Scotland, the An nalist is proud to record, ‘ in fuluram rei memon am.’ * While deeming the following accou the pious scheme, extracted from the Honourabl Mr Justice Park’s valuable “* Memoirs of Wi iam Stevens, Esq.”, more calculated to excite the terest of his vender at large, and to call foithth contributions of the wealthy and benevolent, th thai any statement which he could give, the Annalis ardently solicits the public attention to it. sss — ** IT have been the more diffuse, in- sada ace * See Appendix No. VI. q 1806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 429 count,” (the account of the progress of union a- mong Scottish Episcopalians,) ‘‘ because it must be a matter of great curiosity to the student in Ecclesiastical History ; because Mr Stevens was continually consulted upon tke measures pro- per to be adopted. (and, he was laborious and in- defatigable in his consideration and correspon- dence on the subject ;) and, because-this very un- ion led to still further exertions of this good man’s benevolence, both in his personal labours and pe- euniary bounty, for the comfort and happiness of the members of that body. . |. Delightful as it was to all good men, who feel how joyful itis for brethren to dwell together in unity, to behold such a schism so nearly healed ; yet it) was matter of great lamentation to the laity to, see their Bishops. and Pastors, who are not excelled by any, clergy in piety and learning, and exemplary behaviour, unable to support that de- cent rank in society to which they are so well entitled, and which is so necessary to give weight to their characters, and effect to their public mi- nistrations. Inasmuch, therefore, as all income arising from the state was cut down at the Revo- lution, these reverend persons, Bishops as well as. Priests, had nothing to rely on but the emolu- ments arising from their Congregations, which were often so limited in number, and in such nar- _ row circumstances, that the stipends of many of these pious and exemplary men did not exceed the wages of acommon day-labourer. It could 480 Seer ctr. a not, therefore, but be matter‘of rn egret to well disposed Christian, indéed | to every fe heart, to seé those who had had a al-ed ‘tion, and who filled the dlistitigutataiagt (whatever the worldlitig may ee dors of their blessed master, with ‘such pitifi comes. 008 O10 (gnats » © Tt was also a incunitiisill wortlyof emer brance, that not 4 complaint of the n of their pecuniary meatis ever edcapie lips of these excellent men; but they pro through evil report and good report, i and thifst, faithfully and contentedly disc all the duties of their sacred calling. It s therefore, upon the removal of the pe and upon this union” (the union in Edi ‘being effected, that to make some impr in their worldly circumstances was an object we deserving of attention. It therefore o¢curred't some valuable members of the Episcopal sion at Edinburgh, in the foremost rank of whot ‘stood the late great, because the good, Sir W liam Forbes, to form a fund for making < rate addition to the incomes of all the and most necessitous of the inferior Cler, * « This subscription was to be entirely of a pri It included no application to Government, nor an slightest connection between the Episcopal Church Jand and the State. With regard to the Retablighaty terian Church, its most conspicuous members are wel to be men of most enlightened minds, who knew toot therits of the Episcopal Clergy, and their obscurity also, witl 1306. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 438i _ Accordingly, the Duke and Duchess of Buc- eleugh, and Sir William Forbes, set the subscrip- tion on foot in Scotland, by large contributions ; and the latter being about to be removed, for the reward of his virtues, to a better world, added, to his original subscription of L.200, a legacy of 1.200 more. No sooner was this most laudable plan commenced in that country to which it more particularly applied, than the friends of Episcopacy in England, desirous to do every thing in their power to forward the pious designs of those in Scotland, in favour of this long de- pressed, though pure portion of the Christian Church, immediately formed themselves into a Committee, in order to collect subscriptions, to suggest plans, and, in short, to co-operate with the Scottish Managers, in every way in which their services, for so good a cause, might be re- quired. This Committee originally consisted of James Allan Park, Esq. the Chairman; the very Rey. Gerard Andrews, Dean of Canterbury; the » Rev. Dr Gaskin; William Stevens, Esq.; the Rev. Robert Hodgson, Rector of St George’s, Hanover Square ; John Bowdler, Esq. of Hayes ; and John Richardson, Esq. And it will be ob- eut power or influence, to entertain any jealousy of them. In- deed, it is’but justice to say, that upon occasion of this sub: scription being set on foot, as well as of the application to Par: Mament forrelicf to those of the Episcopal persuasion, the most ready consent to, and approbation of both measures, were afforded by some of the most eminent members of the establishment in Scotiand.” 432 > ANNALS COR > . served, that of them, three were of the mittee for procuring the repeal of the: tutes. This Committee, jointly and ing were most anxiously sedulous in th I this voluntary trust; and Mr Stevens hi ums indefatigable. in endeavouring, to pre scriptions. But. that he might ot bec se to attempt at influencing ieigataliaadl rhat I _ had no intention of doing himself, his 5 — ew ready and open, as usual, upon be yi and he was himself the first 1.100; and he had before his. ' pened in two or, three months. after that William Forbes, of whom and Mr Steven apieke be said, * they were lovely in hi “and in their deaths were not le d ivic : é satisfaction of seeing that. acti york, of faith this labour of Chuiation banat el ing witha degree. of encouré geme ant W its importance in sige of li hum pola HY a Tae OP ait Mis Notwithstanding all thee both, countries, and notwiths many of the dignified Clergymen.in E ef the laity, yet the funds have only enabled £ collect L.100 per annum to the rela 1.60 per annum to the Primus, and” f Bishops; L.15 toa very few, and I the inferior Clergy.” Such .was-the: andl Memoirs of Mr Stevens were pre wieiatail in 1817.—Annalist...0 < | “a *« But the Committees in both countries do 1 zeul and ardour. They attribute much of the back } venta 4 1806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 433 © ' Bishop Skinner having, in the month of Au- ‘gust this year, met his Clergy in regular Diocesan ‘Synod, and having delivered a Charge to them in — the usual manner, he had the satisfaction to find that the subject of the charge was considered by his Clergy, as so peculiarly suited to the then state of the Episcopal Church in Scotland, that they animously requested him to publish it. to subscribe which they discover, to the situation of the Scot- tish Episcopal Clergy not being known, and if known, not un- derstood ; and, to the very quiet and unobtrusive manner in which the subscription has been, and must be, carried on. They still trust and earnestly hope, that the great, the rich, ‘and the virtuous part of the community, will enable them to do much more for those who stand in so near a relation to the Founder of our holy faith; and they rely confidently, at ‘Teast that all those who stand in the same relation to him in the Church of England, and who have the means, will recol- lect, that though the outward splendour and territorial pos- - “sessions of Scottish Episcopacy are no more, yet in soundness aes rine, in solidity of learning, and in innocence of life, er Clergy are still a burning and shining light, amidst a crooked and perverse generation; and although, by the sure word of prophecy, the gates of hell shall not prevail against the Church of God, yet, in the inscrutable dispensations of Providence, it may hereafter be asked, « where is the Church “sof England? as we now say, ‘ where is the Episcopal * Church of Scotland?’ Let them consider these things and act accordingly.—See a Sermon of Bishop Horsley.” . : Another edition of the interesting Memoirs from which this- extract is taken, being called for in 1815, the benevolent au thor, after paying every expense of printing, publishing’ "&c. gave the whole produce of the sale to the fund for which he pleads so irresistibly. ’ ; EE 484 en a a abandoned the use of the Enc ae the very act of toleration, the ee rst -daine The fact was, that. the Aisa suspect that there wv were, amon of Scottish ordination, ators was to be considered as. Cler ry ii of England, and who, =. the the Scottish Church, were Teady so to other reason “but that it. was therefore giving a brief histor union in Edinburgh, of the conseci new Bishop of that diocese, sad th reasons (were there no other,) copal Clergymen adhering to ‘the: ny venerable badge of distinction, sO well this part of the kingdom, . under the ite : of | Scottish Communion Office,” the author of charge sums up his subject in these w words; 4 it a among us are expressly “ean taking any benefice, curacy, or tion within the Church of established; they are therefore, to al purposes, to be considered § sol Scotch Episcopal Clergy. Assum ance of another character, nd as. ordained in England, by a stric all the forms prescribed “by the Eng éan’serve only to ) expose them to. ridi ul fecting to disown the Church tow perly belong, and shewing themselves, a aeiiihed of their connection with it.” 7 ie I ; y - “7806. _ SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. +5 ‘ean be said of that silly affectation, which, if al- - Towed to prevail in the minds of our Clergy, ‘might tempt them to relinquish the use of our truly primitive Communion Office,—for no other . reason but because it is Scotch, and has been found fault with by some, who either know no- . ‘thing about it, or are evidently prejudiced against it. Itis with extreme reluctance that I have touched on this unpleasant subject; but compelled, as I feel myself, by a sense of duty, thus to ‘state my. opinion to the Clergy with whom I am more immediately connected, it is in the pleasing hope that all of them, whether of Scotch or English or- ‘dination, will see the propriety of not abandoning any religious rite or practice, on such light grounds as mere levity of principle, or a mean compliance with the fashionable taste of the times.” '~ Besides the Clergy of the diocese of Aberdeen, _ to whom the charge was officially addressed, it chanced that three members of the Episcopal Col- lege were Bishop Skinner’s auditors on that occa- sion,—Bishop Macfarlane of Ross, Bishop Watson of Dunkeld, and Bishop Jolly of Moray. These Prelates being in Aberdeen, in consequence of the Triennial General Meeting of the members of the Scotch Episcopal Friendly Society, the charge ‘may be considered as speaking the sentiments of a majority of the Scottish Prelates ; inasmuch as Bishop Skinner announces in the printed preface, that * his three Right Reverend colleagues, whe : EE2 436 ANNALS OF Oo 1806, were present at the delivery of it, had-thetgoods ness to express their approbation of it in the warmest terms of brotherly kindness.” | FA. ‘ This eventful year, (1806, ) however, now drat ‘i ing towards its close, was not permitted thy ie y away, without its full share of calamity me filice tion. Were the reader asked, to what pu characters on either side of the Tweed thes rte tish Episcopalian considered himself to be mo a indebted ? the answer, without hesitation, oul ld be,—‘‘ to the Right Rev. Samuel Horsley, sal of St Asaph, in England,—and to | William Forbes of ‘Pitsligo, Bart. in Scotle Yet, to the deep regret’ of every friend of 't and virtué, and ‘to the grief inexpreible off Bishops, the Clergy, and: lay. members “¢ Episcopal Church in Scotland, both of th trious men were snatched away by death f sublunary world, ere the year 1806" hal Pa itsend. The venerable pastor of Longside; ‘in his 86th year, endeavoured; in’ verses, to give vent to the sorrow. the breasts of himself, his aa brethren, onthe mournful tidings reaching ears. Of Bishop Horsley, he oc pli earned fame in language too indélibly’€ on every Scottish Episcopalian’ s er ‘wo gotten :— Kon, 1,30 ’ “ Cambria mesta, dole tantum tibi lumen’ used a t 5 | o Patronum ablatum, Scotia mesta, dole! ~ Te Te . Dum colitur pietas, et amor diyinus honesti, > j on 1806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 437 _ Dum retinet primam Scotia nostra fidem, Presulis Horse famamque, et juris amorem, _. Semper honorabit Scotica turma Patrum *.” Equally just and impressive, the verses on Sir William Forbes, will ever be had in equal regard. They were transmitted to the heir of his virtues, as well as of his title and fortune, by Bishop Skin- ner, in the following artless and affecting note. | a. ~ ete LETTER LIX. BISHOP SKINNER TO SIR WILLIAM FORBES, BART. i «¢ Aberdeen, Dec. 9. 1806. _ ‘* Having already taken the liberty of present- ing to you, with much sincerity, my heartfelt condolence and sympathy on a late mournful event, I again presume to trouble you with a - small testimony of respect from an aged friend of ‘mine, who, like many others, feels deeply on the present occasion. The person to whom I allude having long been an ardent admirer of the cha- racter of your late worthy father, has attempted to do justice to it in a few Latin verses, which I now enclose.. May I hope that you will not be offended at the freedom which I have used in thus laying before you a small specimen of my father’s genius, now in his 86th year, and still holding the charge of the Episcopal congrega- tion in Longside, to which he was appointed six- ty-four years ago. : : _ * Skinner's Theological Works, Vol. III, p. 86. 438 - | ANNALS.OF) ** Requesting your acceptance of wishes for the blessing of heaven, PI fort on earth to you and your family, I honour to be, with the highest ‘abba als gard, 7. ce. ; ‘af th ty The verses themselves, strictly speak foreign to the Annalist’ s purpose, but that der’s heart must be of a nature foreign to heart ofa Scotchman, who can be pated at th ne introduction here. yF7ag ed?.s Ti IN OBITUM GULIELMI FORBES, ae ae ‘Sc A BARONETTI DE PITSLIGO. Be Dum gacrata pius acre super ossa Merori ignoscas, lector amice, meo : 2 Ne tibi displiceat talem, quod ploret, a Merente populo masta camenavirum! Charus eras meritoque mihi, Glial lat Propter et exemplum semper ama Te constans, inter cives terrena Ornabat pure Relligionis amor. _ ict Pr Te sensit gaudens Ecclesia nostra be benignun _ Laudat et auxilii pignora larga tui!” Tu regi et legi, patrizeque Deoque fidelis, Absque dolo simplex, pi aa i us. Munificus, prudens, tu semper ¢ Divitibus monitor, pespepegia Talem te genuisse virum, Caledonia, ae Tali da lacrymas nune spoliata Virol ’ Ta, quoque, surgentis plebs grata "et prospera vi Patronum extinctum dipetaiteesor 0 “ sds iahe Te aes F 's Ped be | ery! Fight Fig _ * Onhis estate of Pitsligo the late Sir Wiliam Fo rbes blished a village ; from respect to the state, and th y ag an 1806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 489 At tu, qui tantis suecedis laudibus Heres, Arvaque nune proprio jure paterna tenes, _ Vive diu, multos felix et letus in annos, Par fama et meritis, par pietate Patri.” The last letter in the hand writing -of Bishop Horsley which reached Scotland (letters, it may be, to his own son excepted,) dated June 17, 1806, was addressed to the Rev. Mr Skinner of Forfar, and contained the following grateful in- telligence, that, ‘* with respect to the compara- tive merit of the two communion offices for Eng- land and Scotland, he (the Bishop) had no scruple in declaring that he thought the Scottish office more conformable to the primitive models, and in his private judgment more edifying than the Eng- lish office now in use, insomuch that, if he (Bi- _ shop Horsley) were at liberty to follow his own _ private judgment, he wee himself use the Scot- tish office in preference.’ The last act of Sir William Forbes’ s pen was equally characteristic of his deep rooted regard for the prosperity of that Church whose distin- guishmg ornament is her Eucharistic service. ‘I have scarcely courage,” Bishop Sandford tells Bishop Skinner, in his letter announcing Sir Wil- liam’ s death, <‘ I have scarcely courage to speak of the established veliions he founded a Chapel of Ease, which he liberally endowed :—from respect to the Chureh of which he was a member, he, at the same time, erected an Episcopat brn the Clerg syman ef which he amply provided fer, + c months hence, a new edition of the ne 440 Ly) ANNALS: ORserwoste of the loss which we. haveol uffe loss never to be. repaired, | vi che cannot ' motion, think of the valuable man. who has taken from us, and revolve, ‘ny mind 1 solemn interview I had with imy,\2 kt excellent Sir, ‘that. you will, join me in : tation for ourselves, for, in this ease, ine re only for ourselves that wg ah Ay dont know whether I told Mr John Skinner, th last time this, good. man. signed bis name w we * paper. in the seryice of our humble Churcl The paper bore an additional donation a to ‘the Scottish Episcopal Fund; for hid _the pious .donor’s soul be: rewarded a hi fold in ‘the day of the Lord Jesus! _. ft. ig Although, as already noticed, the Charge del vered by Bishop Skinner to. bis.(claieen, in th month of August 1806, was deemed by-all, 9 heard it, Prelates as well as Priests, so peculis seasonable. as. to be printed iat, hein and express desire; yet, in the southerr of the Church, no small alarm. wang Ci ter to Dr Grant, (see p. 391 shaven 1 thought proper to append, in form of a _ page 26 of his Charge. “A Clergyman | t th diocese of Dunkeld intends to publish, in few 1806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. \ 441° in that office, and shewn'to accord, in every re- spect, with the doctrine of the united Church of England and Ireland ; containing also a complete illustration of the whole office, after the manner -of Wheatley, Shepherd, &c. and a collation of all the communion offices that have been used in Great Britain since the Reformation, as drawn up by the then Lord Bishop of St Davids, now of St Asaph.” ae See To those who were not aware that the author's | design was to obviate controversy, and to prevent, in all time coming, men of. equal ignorance and prejudice with Dr Alexander Grant, from belying the principles and practices of Scotch Episcopa- lians, this alarm was by no means unnatural. _ They dreaded the recurrence of the sarte divi- - ‘sions, the same party spirit, which, at an early period after the Revolution, disgraced, in its agi-- tation of the same subject, the Scotch Episcopal Church. And they were afraid lest any thing should drop from the illustrator’s ‘pen, which should even but insinuate that the sacrament of © the Lord’s Supper was not duly administered by the office for the holy communion, aécording to the present use of the Church of England *. No * The Annalist is aware, that one very formidable objection to union among the Episcopalians in Scotland has been foun- ded on the permission granted to the English ordained Cler- gymen, to retain the use of the English Eucharistical service ; by which, say:the objectors, two forms or Liturgies are permit- * ted in-one Church ;«so that division stil] prevails, To this ob- A # 442 0) ANAS OR TOO" sooner was Bishop Skinner apprised alarms, than, in a letter to the Bishop’ burgh, he proceeded thus to justify th ) ing, and the intimation’ of ‘it, as ann poh omg pre ie ee Hat ae eke «india 9 ian "een ae ihe e eae “LETTER LX,” Piggies Te 7 3 i frees ‘een itn ont } o _ - BISHOP SKINNER. 70. piace DFORD. . ‘ re te ee (Y ‘ah THY! Lae i: | “ ted . “« T must now, in ‘compliance with you have expressed to that purpose, take jection it has been briefly, yet ee 1s) not see why the slight variations in the Scottish offices for the holy Communion should occasion: unity b between such members of the Church mt either one or'the other ; or, why the use of either not safely be left to the discretion of ‘the Goat the English Communion office, the Church h 1 cretion of the officiating Clergyman, the choice of 1 rent prayers for the King, two Pert on: nd ty in the Post-communion ; besides a sim parts of her ritual. Suppose, then, that the E in Scotland were to think fit to print both € ‘English Communion offices ia her Book of Com and to prefix a Rubric, authorizing the Minissetth' hy: at his discretion,-what harm or inconvenience wouk Indeed, allowing, (what the Church of SeRTVACcontends for,) that “ every national right to frame its own ritual,” such a conces tish Bishops have granted to the English ordair hl t ‘their Congregations, does mueh credit ta chase vid and moderate disposition. 9) at sea 1806. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 448 ‘notice of the principal subject of your former letter, to which I will frankly own I did not in- tend to make a reply so soon,—being unwilling to give you needless trouble in regard to a- mat-— ter about which, I am sorry to say, we are not likely to agree in opinion; although the differ- ence of sentiment, I am sure, proceeds from the best of motives, and ought not therefore to inter- rupt our friendly correspondence. «The officious, and, as you seem to think, alarming note at page 26, of my lately printed Charge, has excited fears or apprehensions on your part, which, had they in any shape occurred to me, would have made me sooner have put my hand into the fire than write such a note, or encourage the propo- ‘sal to which it alludes, : : ~ “For the last twenty years of mylife, I have had occasion to take an active part in all the public Measures which have had for. their object: the quiet, credit, and support of the Scottish Epis: copal Church ; and, as far as I am able to judge, from comparing the present staté of this Church with what it was at the commencement of the period I have mentioned, I cannot find that it has been in the least injured, but rather considerably benefited, by the steps which have been taken to promote its peace, and, at the same time, preserve ‘its purity. : “ It ishard, then, that I should now be suspect- ed of giving any countenance to imprudent and precipitate measures, when arrived at a time of 444 .. ANNALS (OF Poca. life which. generally cures sinichindollie to be too forward or rash in their’ aes though thus, I trust, happily guarded ag: folly of exposing our poor. unprote: _to-any danger that may began with our xiieesion and our ih gs ly -impressed'upon my mind such airm wv regard to.those principles, as will not all shrink from what duty prescribes, pate : public avowal, both of the doctrine ate oyact a - by which our Church: has: been hitherto-d isti guished, in the most essential and important pa of her liturgical service. It is for Mek mo necessary to stand forward, either personally. by my nearest connections, in. pinbcnige 00s peculiar to the Scotch Episcopacy,. becaus i some of the measures in which I have be | eipally concerned, such as that which te at Laurencekirk in Ciutolidn see Ju , in. February last, it has been: ‘inferred, that In disposed, with the tacit consent of mnyientiong to let matters go on in sucha wayas might g ally remove every vestige of our Seottish isin and make us appear asa ‘fan cheanbofld ‘hat. America and the West Indies, from the Engli Church. Among those, who still retain, anya tachment to us, as the remains of a distinet at National Church, I know it is insinuated, ‘itl since Bishop Skinner has been its senior E ishe “things have begun to assume a different: * pearance ; and, by so zealously promotingw io 1806. | SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. AS “with the English clergy in this country, and “even procuring one of his sons to be educated *and-ordained in England, and then settled.as-his © own assistant, it would look as if he were inclin- - ©ed to obliterate every mark of distinction, and ‘make us forget that we have any thing of our | © own that belongs to a Church, Bishops, Clergy, * or sacred offices, but that we must. get all from * England !’ © In-short, my dear-Sir, I am so sbonaishie | eonvinced of the propriety of what is intended, and which I hope. will be executed in the most inoffensive, and unexceptionable manner, that un- less‘all my other colleagues as well.as yourself put a direct negative on the proposal, which, as far as [have yet learned, is by no means their intention; I shall certainly consider it as my duty) to give every assistance in my power to a design so lau-~ dable in itself, and. so likely, as I see. it, to do. good instead of evil; good to. those whose good. is most desirable, and evil only in their eyes who are disposed to speak evil of the way of truth. . From the plain, the honest, and free manner, in which I have now delivered my sentiments on this, to me most interesting subject, you will see, that Iam far from being displeased at the free- dom with which you have treated it in your let ters both tomy son and me; I rather feel,my-. self much obliged to you for giving me an oppor- tunity of stating my opinion in return) with e- qual plainness, but with the most sincere and 546 ANNALS GRO 1807. humble deference. Your local’ situation and’ mine are so different in many ‘respects,’ * hat it is r no wonder if we view, in different lights, many of the things by which we are immediately affected. G But it shall’ever be my study to conciliat your esteem and good opinion, which, on your patt, lam ‘sure, will never be ‘withholden! while you | believe me acting to the best of my’ juden ett { and in the way that my conscience directs,” &e. &ew. © (ther) root Gera 5 io a oy a Oa - 1807.] The removal, ‘during ‘the preced year, of such men and such friends as Bish Horsley and Sir William Forbes was, to Bisho Skinner; and the cause nearest his heart, —a loss which could only be surpassed by the bodil ft s. solution of three other individuals on earth » ViZ the wife of his bosom; the intrepid cham pion 0 Scottish Episcopacy, as Bishop Skinner’s reve eC father may well: be termed; and the Tate Wil! liam Stevens, Esq. treasurer to Queén A ine" _ Bounty ; aman who, from the hour in whicl hi first heard of an Episcopal Church in Scotland, viz. the period of Bishop Seabury’s consecra ion, had exerted every faculty of his mind to promote her interests, and every disposition of his bene- volent heart to befriend her senior Bishop 4 id his family. Yet, during the year 1807, did All-wise Disposer of events see fit to remove from’ this: militant. state these worthies, and thé s cot. tish Primus’ dearest relatives and friends/2ftiends % u = ci 1807. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. ' 449 * by whose removal, so very sensibly were his feel- ings wounded, that although, in every part: of _ duty, the Bishop’s outward. exertions were the | BeBuand « the spirit of the man’ appeared *to | * sustain his infirmities,’ yet his inward thoughts, and s state of dejection at his vacant hours, shew= d that « a wounded spirit’ was more than even he £ bear.’ e » For. al account of Mr Scttone:, whb, of the — three lamented friends, was the first summoned _ from this earthly stage, the reader is referred to a emoir of his life, drawn up by his bosom friend, . Hon. Mr Justice Park, than which modern - Biography is not likely soon to furnish any thing m 101 interesting, whether we have an eye to the “matter or the manner. _ The last letter which this excellent man wrote ) Bishop Skinner, dated 14th May 1806, is here submitted to the reader’s notice as a proof of his Seprresied zeal in doing good, as well as afford a specimen of the extreme humility and self- t with which all his extensive chari- were performed, Se LETTER LXL f? WILLIAM STEVENS, ESQ. TO BISHOP SKINNER. — ant , x Jas i «< London, Mei 14+. 1806. - am di wrote to you sometime since, after a shame-- fal neglect of a letter received from you; and I _ 448 ANNALS OF — mentioned, that as the time drev ting an annual contribution se I teliof of the poor Episcopal Clergy in } their Widows and Orphans, it was p might once more be the instrument for pose, which [ had much doubted when before ; and I now write to authorize y draw on me for the same sum as last year.” | of which he himself contributed: L.10, 10s i “You are very good to interest yot much in my-favour, which is more than I c I have no pretensions to the usefulness yc of, being at best a most unprofitable serv feel no satisfaction in the recollection of t and consequently no great comfort. in | pect of the future. In short, I seem n to live, nor fit to die. - My friends have | son to fear my removal out of sight. not be missed, go when I will. The vy will soon be filled up, and, it is to be ho ter supplied, as it cannot easily be w “Your account of your triennial summer is very pleasing, I don’t \ you had some times warm work of it, wl orc bably was increased, and the fatigue of it als by your being obliged to use expedition. You Sees not having the same means 6 m vA attention to expense necessary; this is a | y: and we have only to pray for better time your Church is poor, you have the comfi reflection that-it is pure, and pethaps it the less pure for being poor. $/ —=—* ~ 3 a 1807. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. — 449 a “Tam obliged to you for mentioning your vi- sit to your good old father. I am glad to think, that his mental faculties should be so strong in his 86th year, and that he should be passing away the evening of his days with so much Christian. tranquillity and cheerfulness. I have had the satisfaction to hear of you at different times from different quarters, and I am now in possession of your last letter to Mr Bowdler, which he put in- to my hands the other day at Nobody’s club, where nineteen members assembled, and passed an agreeable day.* o£ Igoe comfortable to. see. your ecclesiastical Matters going on so favourably, and I congratu- late you on the accession of Dr Sandford to your venerable bench. I think you may be succeed- ing, if not so well as you could wish, at least-as well as you could expect; and I flatter myself, you, ‘in no long time, may look for an entire end being put to your schism. It is pleasing to think that Dr Grant's business is settled without his doing any serious mischief. [I dont know that I have any thing to communicate in the literary way, or oe Tt occurred to the gentlemen who were the chief associ- ates) of Mr) Stevens, “ to institute,” says his biographer, “a clubin h honour of their revered and much admired friend, which should be denominated Nozopy's Club, in conformity to the name which his humility had induced him to assume, when he collected his various pamphlets into a volume. He entitled them "Ovdars"Egye,i. e.the Works of Nobody ; and, by the appel-' “lation of Nobody, he was ever after known among his fend. Bi fe FF 450. - ANNALS OF | that I have any thing farther to say, than that, relying on your prayers, I am what you are no’ stranger to, with cordial regards to all the mem- bers of your family, known and unknoy obliged and faithful ier: at eae T ie, nell ‘inal a This sitaghialianas man, whether we re in as a private Christian or as a learibdiidha as a citizen of London, or as having his ze his citizenship in heaven, ‘had: mCP that his death might not.be lingering. And ss knew him were assured, that however s might be, with him it could not be na vee his biographer rightly presumes to true meaning of the word “ sudden,” as a to death, in a petition of the Litany. © | _ uncommonly affecting, and, as the Annalist ec siders it, ‘ good to the use of edifying,” ; th account of Mr Stevens’ demise, given in his 1 nourable friend’s Memoir of him, that he to be pardoned for inserting it in Lae A that Episcopacy, to the support of w expense of thought and bodily lle “thi lent man was, in one way or other, a contributor of many hundred pounds. — “ On Friday the 6th of February 18 Stevens spent the whole morning at home, ly in company with his friend, Mr Bowd! says, that his conversation was animated, | and very much like what it ever was friend he so tenderly loved, and whose sentin a (oO 4 1807. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY, 452 Were so much in unison with his own. These two friends were to dine together, at Mr Rich- ardson’s, King’s-road. His coachman, who had always been remarkable for his punctuality, and had frequently received the commendations of his master on that account, was, on this day, happily and providentially, a great deal after his time; and Mr Stevens had put on his great-coat, in order to be ready ; but, just ashe was step- ping into his carriage, he was seized with a pain in his chest: Mr Bowdler asked the cause of his sudden emotion,—he answered calmly, ‘N othing but death.’ | (th Ae * He was attended immediately by two phy- sicians, and he was bled; and, though restless at times, he, upon the whole, slept quietly. Mr Bowdler, who never quitted him till a late hour, relates an anecdote which proves, that the same religious spirit, and the same ready obedience to God’s will, which pervaded every thought, word, and action, from his earliest youth, con- tinued to operate upon him even to the latest moment of his existence. After the stroke of death above - mentioned, feeling (I suppose,) that he was’ dying, he refused the medicines which the physicians had prescribed ; and I,” says Mr Bowdler, ‘* was desired to prevail upon him to take them, which I did with the usu- al argument, —< but do it to oblige me;? but in vain, for he still refused. At last I was going to to say, * It is your duty to God,. to do what you * can to preserve your life.’ But when I had ut« FF2 452 -_)) ANNALS PORT ROSE = ; “yso7. + hes SD Rie 2 q tered only the six first saponin he seized the cup, — and drank it to the dregs; and, jaying hold ef my hand,”’ adds “Mr Bowdler, ' “© said, bahia ‘earnestness several times, ‘ my dear fr ie an y « dear friend !’ as if wishing to express, ma his affectionate regard to this exeelinaye > duty to God at that ambudents sahseblid exc Liturgy, in most impassioned language, in the rial service, ieee? 2 us to bar Sat ipa death; to fall Foal him, :110 9s 1D he “Not long before he aie Mr nee asked him, “after he waked from a calm sle whether he should repeat a prayer; the d Christian assented. Mr Bowdler repeated Collect, from the order for the visitation of. sick, beginning with these words: ‘OL ord . down from heaven,’ &c. ;—when: heh ‘ give him comfort and sure’ confidence in Mr Stevens said very calmly and distinctl ‘ Amen.’ But as he did not repeat it at the ‘of the Collect, it is presumed his mind vas hausted. When the clock struck three it morning, he said to the servant, ‘.My- to what they would call ‘ complete conform with the Church of England; enn aie ze points, as to which many of the most soun serious divines of that Church would hay happy in the liberty which we enjoy, ie 12 = ritual perfectly agreeable to the pores of the primitive Church. “ Yet a privilege so happily pred <~J 1807. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY: 459 ainidet all our deprivations, there are amongst us those who would tamely renounce, for the sake of affecting a silly imitation, not of the purity and excellence, but of what may be considered the faults and defects of the English Ecclesias- - tical system, because that system happens to bé supported, and all its imperfections covered, by a strong legal establishment. But as this is not the means by which we can hope to see our perma- nence secured to our poor unprotected Church, the consequence is obvious, that if we are to be subjected to all the restraints imposed by civil establishment, without enjoying any of its bene- fits, and must neither act, nor write, nor speak, but in the way that the state is pleased to permit the established Bishops and Clergy of England to do, it will soon be all over with any thing like an Episcopal Church in Scotland, and the gene- fation that succeeds its present members will be astonished to perceive, that hardly a vestige re- mains of what they may have heard was the faith of their forefathers. _ * This is the only fear which at present lies heavy on my dejected mind; not the fear of tting our temporal interest, or losing the couu- ance of this or of the other great man, be he Peer or Prelate; but the fear of offending our great Master in heaven, by sacrificing any Bsa of . which we are constrained to allow is * Ged’s ‘ truth,’ to our little worldly schemes, and of thus losing the favour and protection of Him, who is * King and head over all things to his Church.’ 460 ANNALS AG tape ‘It was under the force of ‘that I last year addressed the cese, in terms which were, and sanctioned by the Bishops: and at whose desire my son unde work, which I then. thought it my nounce to the public ; and whieh ] lam to patronise by every means in my ) it only for the sake of maintaining 1 tency which. my character and station necessary to render my office any way Se the Church with which I am officially cor ** On this account, and for vindicating | b my son and myself, iw particular, as well Church in‘general to which we belong, i doing an act of justice to all concerned to] work speak for itself, at least in this p: land, where a due regard to my chai of some consequence to the credit of Episcopate. _To press this mode. of is also the more incumbent on my one-half of the work, if not more, thrown off from the press before was made of those objections which ed so formidable to some minds ; _ | stopped its publication, by arr esting ‘th e pl progress, would have implied, that ub matter was little short of treason, or som that deserved to be checked at any expens the same time you may rest assured, tl (your and Mr bined set approbation, no : Bi Re SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 461 n of the work shall take place in Figland. And i L hope, that neither you nor he will be offend- t the liberty I have taken in sending you and a copy of it, that, being able Gilg: and can- to judge for yourselves, you may the more repel the false and invidious prejudgment of oth This, I am sure, you will be ready to do, “with that kind and disinterested friendship which | Ihave so happily experienced from you both, on many occasions. And I remain, dear Sir, inal sincerity of affection,” &c. Xe. wy he stipulation here entered into was, on Bi- shop Skinner’s part, strictly observed. His son’s little work, which the Bishops who attended Dr Sandford’s consecration, having spent two days with Mr Skinner in Forfar, ries him to under- ey _ as the best mode of answering thé cavils of Grant, was never advertised fe. sale south of Tay. In fact, as neither emolument nor fame as the object of the illustrator of the Scottish sae’ his only disappointment was, the antidote was not permitted to attend on = The purpose of Dr Grant's apology * in a country an Church of England esses to have no > Communion, but what the 462. ANNALS OF 5 - 1807. and the same. The Doctor knew better; there was an ** sepia difference between them; and this essential difference he asserts, as proven, by a reference to the Scottish Communion office. — Thai sole purpose of Mr Skinner’s” publication was to refute this daring calumny, and shew, by an illustration of that office, after the manner of © Wheatley, Shepherd, and other learned ritual. ists, that “* although the Episcopal Church in Scotland agrees with the first compilers. of the” reformed Liturgy of the Church of England, and has, in proof of that agreement, taken the Liturgy of Edward the VI. as a model in fram=~ ing her Communion office,” (as did the Right | Heucacell Prelates of the English Church, to whom his: Majesty King Charles I. intrusted the compiling of the Book of Common | Prayer for Scotland at large, and as the American Bi. shops did when they compiled the Liturgy used — in their Church,) yet, that still the doctrine of the two Churches is essentially the same, i inas- much as. the present Church of England, in — complete contradiction of Dr Grant’s assevera-_ tions, affirms, that she “ is fully persuaded. ir i her judgment, and here professes it to the world, © ‘that the Book” of Common <— Cad there- blished by law, dies not contain in it auyihidl i contrary to the word-of God, or to sownd doc- — trine, or which a godly man may not, with & (1807. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 463 good conscience, use and submit unto, or which \ is not fairly defensible against any that shall op-> pose the same, *”’ &c. __. This ‘ fair defence’ was the task which his ec- clesiastical superiors assigned to Mr Skinner; and neither they nor the defender himself ever con- templated any objections to the work as likely to impede the measure of union, or to offend, in the most distant way, the Clergy of English or- dination who had united with the Scottish Epis- copal Church. Nay, to use Bishop Skinner's words in a letter to Bishop Sandford, of date 26th August 1807, “‘ They naturally thought that a more suitable mark of respect could hard- ly be paid, than by shewing, in this public man- ner, that the pastors of those congregations in Scotland, who, though they professed themselves Episcopalians, were not hitherto Scottish Epis- copalians, had, in uniting themselves to the Scot- tish Episcopate, not departed in the least from the principles of the Church to'which they ori- gimally belonged ; since, even the Scottish Com- munion office, though differing somewhat in its . form and order from that to which they had * See Preface to the Book of Common Prayer of the Church of England; in direct opposition to which, the man. who apo- logized for continuing in her Communion, declares, that there are ‘things i in the first reformed Liturgy of England, “ which are not conformable to the principles of the Church of Eng+ land” now a-days. ** Nor am I acquainted with se authority that ought to make me adopt them.”—Apology, p. 6. AG% ANNALS ORY ro S as been accustomed, yet contains noting that is contrary to, or dissonant from that which is re ly the doctrine of the established office for holy Communion in the Church ‘of the Scottish office only expressing in m direct, and appropriate terms, that doctrine the other leaves to be gathered and inferred { the genéral sense and a of the En ritual.” O comedeye aed tod '.. No one who hae. perused tli Tisdediliushi 8, has pronounced the author’s success to be c : - plete, “in fairly defending the pees gege Church - against any that have opposed, or sh hereafter oppose the same*.” > “vt . “It has convinced me,” said one every ¥ competent to decide on the merits of the und taking, “ and, I dare say, will convince.ev er _ unprejudiced mind, that there is no doctrin the Scottish Episcopal Church thats is fectly agreeable to the doctrine of the Ci England ; and, if the Clergy of th ! at liberty to choose, many of iil would, pr ‘bably prefer, as I should do, the office fe holy Communion adopted * Scotland, to t 2 > re used in Englandt.” a rig ae ois Get ‘Sa © ee f “* See the Antijacobin Review for Shiai sen iL ample extracts from the work are given. + Bishop Horsley, (as has been already’ noted, ped tated not to express this opinion: “ “Were [at ese: low my own private judgment, I would myself use th __ tish office in preference (to the English.) - The alte 1807. - SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY; 465 In fact, let his prejudices and predilections be what they may, no person ever attempted to call in question any part of the contents of the little volume ; it was simply objected, that “ the time was peculiarly unpropitious for such a publica- tion.” And, to this objection, Bishop Skinner naturally enough replied :-— _ “If the present time be peculiarly unpropi- tious for the publication in question, is there any ground to hope that this peculiarity will soon cease, and a more propitious time be found ? Shall we be able to shew the truth of our Eucha- Tistic doctrine in a more favourable view when it has been totally lost sight of, or when men’s minds have been completely blinded against it? Will the ignorance that now prevails, in regard to the ‘true nature of our altai-service, be combated with More success when it has been allowed time to increase in strength, and to derive support from long continuance? Or, will a captious humour, or unreasonable prejudice, be as easily set aside by giving it full scope to work its way, as when -itsprogress is checked, by shewing that there which were made in the Communion service, as it stood in the first book of Edward VI. were, in my opinion, much for the Worse ; nevertheless, I think our present office very good; our form of Consecration of the Elements is sufficient; I mean; that the elements are consecrated by it, and made the body and blood of Christ, in the sense in which our Lord _ himself said the bread and wine were his body and blood.” . See the letter at large, in « Illustration,” &c. p. 157. GG ‘ sa 466° wes Om iam g was néver any cause for its beng ined even stiffered to arise Ignorance was never y¥« expelled but by means of instruction ; nor even the silliest prejudice die away, whi are taken to keep it alive, by allowing onl side of the question to appeary: ee shucting th other carefully out of sight. TAWA TN © Reflecting on all these oan of ind efice about matters, which we, of the purely y tive Scottish Church, aré led to regard ai is of vel y great importance, it is no wonder if, with concern, we see ground to suspect that the] wt ne i: ples now entertained by many professing to be the Church of England, are very « diffe from what are really the principles of | that Churel ae established at the Reformation from Pope What else can be said of such a writer as L of Dundee, and many others, equally ignorant of of disaffected to, the real doctrine of the Chure in which they received their orders?” iewing such conduét in its proper light,’ we « the necessity of applying, as a ‘quan the apostolical precept, ‘ to be instant : and out of season;” nor are we aware mistake in such application, by considerin, season to be the most proper for enfore regard due to any important truth ‘of when it is evidently exposed to the . being gradually overlooked and diste « But I have done, and shall never ti y friends with a word more on this delicate and di je bs g % ee x 1807. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY, 467 tressing subject. It is an honour much greater than any which I had ever a right to expect, that, in this instance, I have been enabled to bear my testimony to ‘‘the truth as it is in Jesus,” and to the mode of worship by which I believe that truth to be most clearly exhibited at the Christian altar ; and not I only, but every man who understands a- right the Eucharistical doctrine set forth in Holy Scripture, and professed by the soundest Divines of the English Church *.” * As, in the year 1811, it was canonically enacted in full Ecclesiastical Synod, that «the Scotch Communion Office, having been justly considered, is still to be considered, as the authorized service of the Scotch Episcopal Church,” in the administration of the holy sacrament of the Lord’s Supper,” {see canon xy.); to which enactment four Clergymen of the Church of England and Ireland, resident in Scotland, and men of established professional learning and reputation, were par- ties,—it is not, he trusts, too much forthe Annalist to hope, that the «< Tilustration” of that office, as drawn up by him in 1807, may now meet with the wished-for attention from all ' who profess themselves Scottish Episcopalians. _, Doubtless, inguiry into a subject of such vital importance - to have required canonical enactment, is the duty of every one, whether Clergyman or Layman, who believes the Epis- ‘copacy of Scotland to be a true and valid Episcopacy ; inas- ‘much as, though permission to use the English Eucharistical ‘Service be most properly granted to such Clergy and their Congregations as, before uniting themselves to the Scottish Episcopate, had adopted that form of administering the Lord’s “Supper, yet is this permission granted in the full belief that the unity of the Spirit is still held in the bond of peace ; and ‘that the great commemoratory oblation by which the death of _ Christ is, under the Gospel, equally ‘“ shewn forth till he - 6G2 468 ANNALS OF 1808. — 1808.] During the year 1808, the o sufficient importance to be ee er’s notice, are, the death of the Right than Watson, Bishopjof Dunkeld; the appo of a successor to him in the person of the p Bishop, the Right Rev. Patrick Torry of J head; and the elevation of the Right George Gleig, L.L.D. of Stirling, to the Brechin, in virtue of the res iets ie of 1 E Strachan of Dundee, whose’ advanced ‘age, consequent infirmities, unfitted him for the cha of that diocese. 1 AS SER SAE Although cut off in the prime of life, (an. etc 47.) yet Be Bishop Watson’s death proceed 1 as complete prostration of strength, and a as m from bodily imbecility, as if he had reached ‘th period of human life when all is labour and : row! The Bishop was a native of Banffsh 2, and, like most of his contemporaries « of the d: cese of Aberdeén, had been trained to th nistry of the. Scotch Episcopal Church, by venerable pastor of Longside, the fath his friend and patron Bishop Skinner. — ‘His sical and theological acquirements did | to his master, and shewed that he himself. diligent and successful student. rig come,” as it was Sorechicon under the law ; th t this under its approved symbols of bread and wine, is still p ed unto God, and afterwards partaken of by the humble devout Communicant. 1 4 The work may be had of the Enblicher of these Annals. = 1808. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 469 to the Episcopate in earlier life than usual, this excellent man’s deportment was marked by some- thing so decorous in society, and by a mien, a voice, and manner so attractive in the immediate discharge of his sacred office, as to command the respect of all who knew him, or who witness- _ed the performance of his official duties ; and, as he lived universally esteemed, he died universally regretted. In the year 1791, Mz Watson was translat- ed from the charge of the Scottish Episcopal _ Congregation in the town of Banff, to that in the village of Laurencekirk, Kincardineshire, on the nomination of Lord Gardenston, who, though bred a Presbyterian, (as he told Lord Chancellor Thurlow,*) was pleased, from the high sense which he entertained of the characters of Scot- tish Episcopalian Clergymen in general, to en- dow, in his village of Laurencekirk, a living for a: _aClergyman of the Episcopal communion, of which Mr Watson was the first incumbent. Whe- ‘ther his Lordship bethought himself, with the poet, that a village-preacher must be “ passing Tich with forty pounds a-year,” the Annalist knoweth not ; but so it was, that this was the pre- cise sum sid he allotted as the amount of his village-preacher’ S money-stipend. But the addi- tional items of forty bolls of oatmeal, -acomfort- . able parsonage-house, with a garden, and three _ acres of the best land in the vicinity of the vil- * See his letter to the Chancellor, above, page 147. 4 0 ‘ aN, : 2 ; a a7 ANNALS OF ‘1808. lage,—these items were considered as sufi make a Scottish Bishop ‘ passing rich,’ an cient to make a new proprietor hazard ana at law for their reduction. Thus it happ that the worthy Bishop had to encounter, a very time of his lamented dissolution, a keen! agitated question before the Court of Sessior whether or not Lord Gardenston’s deed o dowment was so technically and legally co as to constitute the stipend, &c. of the Sco Episcopal Clergyman, a permanent burden « ) estate of Johnston, in the county of Kincardi ‘It chanced, that on the death of the vener Lord of the Manor, his heir sold those lands which the village of Laurencekirk forms ¢ ‘The purchaser italy stopped the good Bish Watson’s stipend and allowances, becai would not grant receipts, bearing dante ments made by him, were in no- 0 be dered as precluding the proprietor of of Johnston from chdlencug # 3 (Bishop Watson’s) successor. He ter being brought in due ese nA, preme Court, Lord Gardenston’s deed of {ual endowment was confirmed ; and, all the Bishop lived not to see the issue, the rencekirk ‘ village-preacher’s’ forty pounds annum, &c. were declared to be as valid at ing as the donor intended, and as theds land could make them. — a - Bishop Watson being the youngest YRO8. SCOTTISH BEPISCOPACY. 471 Episcopal College, his colleagues, two of whom at the time of his death had far passed their 80th “year, were most anxious to have the vacant see filled up with all convenient speed. As soon, therefore, as respect. for their deceased brother admitted of a mandate being issued for the elec- tion of a successor, the Clergy of Dunkeld, thus canonically empowered, met at the village of Alyth, in Perthshire, for that purpose. Two ‘Clergymen were put in nomination, when the senior in office:as well.as in years, the Rey. Dr _ Gleig, on being apprized of the intention of his friends in the didcese to vote for him, recom- - mended'to them to make the election unanimous - in favour of his brother-presbyter, the Rev. Pa- _ trick Torry ; who being elected accordingly, and. approved by the Episcopal College, was, on the 12th October 1808, consecrated at Aberdeen by the Bishops Skinner, Macfarlane, and Jolly, and ‘canonically appointed to fill the vacant see. » Equally eager, as their brethren in the neigh- _ bouring diocese, to have the Episcopal succession still farther strengthened, the Clergy of the dio- _eese of Brechin, in consequence of the, superan- nuated state of their Ordinary, having applied for a mandate to elect a successor to Bishop Strachan, had this application granted: When, having met at Montrose, on the 27th September » 1808, they unanimously tendered their suftrages _ to the Rev. Dr Gleig of Stirling, and intimated _ the same to the Primus in the usual foom. On 472 9) AINNALSUOF O55 1808; receipt of the intimation, Bishop Ski aner addre: ed the following note to the person on who: Clergy of the digngael of Brechin had fix fixed the choice,

|) Sey _ Lea 4 ™ 1808. . SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY, 475 » “ Having this favourable opportunity of com- maunicating our sentiments to each other, and a& ter fully discussing the subject of our delibera- tions, Mr Torry, animated by the same spirit which pervaded all our proceedings, gave in to us the following declaration, written and sub» scribed by himself, viz.— » “¢1, the undersigned, do hereby voluntarily, ' Sander animo, declare, being now about to be * promoted, by the mercy of God, toa seat in the ‘ Episcopal College of the Church of Scotland, ‘that, when promoted to the Episcepate, I will “co-operate with my colleagues .in supporting a * steady adherence to the truths and doctrines, by _ ‘which our Church has been so happily distin- * guished, and particularly to the doctrine of the _ £ Holy Eucharist, as laid down in our excellent ‘Communion office ; the use of which I will ° “strenuously recommend, by my own practice, _ ‘and by every other means in my power. In tes: ‘ timony whereof, I have signed this declaration, _ fat Aberdeen, on the 12th day of October, in “the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hun- ‘dred and eight, -as witness my hand.—Par, *Torry” _ “ Having now such a plain rule before us, and so. satisfactory a precedent for our future. pro- ceedings, I am determined, with God’s help,’ to abide by it,,in any future promotion, at least of a Scottish ordained Presbyter, that may take place in our church.. If you, then,- can sincere- ‘ 5 7 476 ANNALS OF | ly and conscientiously emit a dec! le ratio from the now Bishegi of Dunkeld, me ay Tey assured, that I belong to no party, be it ever powerful, ‘tat would stand in the way y of honestly how auch you wit be ‘tae a my support on the preset an A bin my weak support, ‘(for hear at Best, ipa shall never be wanting to him who does w can to support the cause, through all its par what I believe to be true Christianity. <7" _ Wishing, as I do wish, to shew myself a times, Rev. Sir, your affectionate Brother, G skh faithful mn servant,’ &e. 9° yt a mE ‘Or Heats ; To this. interesting communication fro senior Bishop and Primus of the Scottish C the following most satisfactory repl course of Poste bor arp from Stirling : pret * Ont hr ieee Sly ‘LETTER LXVI_ sas iy REV. DR GLEIG TO sisnor seamen, tan on “ irStinlingsy October 17 5. * Your letter of the 18th was put into my han yesterday as I was stepping out of my go to chapel. I have read it again and great attention, and, surely, I may add, wi 1808, SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 477 siderable pleasure ; for the condition which you propose binds me to nothing but what I have uniformly practised ever since I was a Clergy- man, and what I should be strongly inclined to practise were my excellent Diocesan to: forbid me to do so; for 1am as much attached to the Scottish Communion- office as you, Right Rev. Sir, can be, and, I have reason to think, on the very same principles. Let me, however, do justice to Bishop Sandford, and to all my other friends, who have wished for my promotion to the Epis- copal Bench, on the present occasion. I am, in- deed, the only Clergyman within the diocese of Edinburgh who administers the Lord’s Supper by the Scottish Communion office ; but I am not the only one who perceives its superiority over the English form; for that is perceived by the Bishop himself, who, had he “been able te come to Stirling this autumn, would have admitted, in my Chapel, a young man into Deacons’ orders, and there made use of our form. Nay, to my certain knowledge, he expressed his disapproba- tion of the conduct of one Clergyman, who some time ago laid aside the use of the Scottish for the English form and was really grieved that any man should have done so, without necessity, who was under his jurisdiction. ber ain, therefore, perfectly ready to subscribe, and deliver to you a declaration, similar to that which has been delivered to you by Bishop Tor- Ty, and to do so whether I am promoted to the 478 ANNALS urtrow® pepe! Episcopal Bench or not; but, I trust, t be left at liberty to recommend the offi means in my power, which appear to | judgment best adapted to the end i Controversy does not appear to me well a to this end, unless it be managed with « _ licacy indeed ; but I have found no di reconciling, by private conversation, all ~ who have joined my Congregation, whethé England or from schismatieal con Scotland, to the use of the Scottish < even to make them see the preference of their own. My Congregation is at least do since I came to Stirling ; and there is not. were born in England. The same n had so penis an peetieet on them bt Ww: to the tempers of my bier ers; b _versy I will never directly ome abet courage it in others. #0 Bue ohm With real regard, I am, ie a ry dutiful Son,” Bcesk! 1h it a inet hy lh 1c Dak® Hips aan) This letter being deemed satisfactory, Su Sund the 30th of October was fixed for the 1 St Andrew's Chapel, Aberdeen, for the consecration, when the office was duly per erfo ed by the Bishops Skinner, Jolly, and ‘Tf orry. yo Ir Bs 1809-10. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 4:79 consecration sermon having been preached by the Rev. Heneage Horsley, M.A. Prebendary of St Asaph, &c. &c. who, with a zeal in the cause of Scottish Episcopacy, inherited from his excel- lent father, ‘‘ sought” (to use his own words in a letter to the Bishop-elect of Brechin) “ this hap- py opportunity of delivering the sentiments of - Bishop Horsiey, (by the mouth of his son,) re- gatding the nature of the Episcopal functions, _ and.of the conduct of those Clergy who, though Episcopally ordained, choose to officiate in con- tempt of the Episcopal authority.” * 1809 and 1810.]| With the exception of the deaths of Bishops Abernethy Drummond and Strachan, which took place within six months of each other, (the former on the 27th of August 1809, the latter on the 28th of January 1810,) and of a loyal address from the Scottish Episcopate, on his Majesty’s having attained the 50th year of his reign, neither of these years was produc- tive of any ecclesiastical event likely to excite the reader’s interest. » Bishop Abernethy was descended bata the fa- mily of Abernethy of Saltoun, in Banffshire; Bi- shop Strachan from that of Strachan of Thorn- ton, in Kincardineshire, now represented by the gallant Admiral Sir Richard Strachan; and, hav- ing ppant their lives in the strictest amity and . h ie _At the request of the College of Bishops, this sermon was printed. 40 ANNALS OF friendship, i in thelr deaths they were ed. They were ‘elevated to theE same day, the 26th of colle as Bishop coadjutor to the a ; bu was Bishop Abernethy Drumm none elec see of Edinburgh, where he! je his | charge, an event which speedil ly took ple his consecration, than Bishop Strachan appointed to the see of Brechi ae Scottish Episcopal Congr egation pf a most respectable part. ot ¥ Bishop Abernethy: having married ats eae res of Hawthornden, in the vicinity of Edinb had, in consequence of” that CONNEC the sit name of Drummond attached pas Baie ] only child, a iia as well eo ae! me wind of the one was yet pr a fan ume to the useful adaptation. of that” time, place, and circumstances ; dresses, whether from the press on A rom. the pit, failed, for the most part, to produ fects which the good, the zealous, : and th volent Bishop Abernethy Drummond | h unifor mly wished them to produce. | eg ue : As if conscious of inferior talent and acq ments, though equally well affected to ‘the of Scottish Episcopacy with his beloved * See note to p. 68, above. 1809-10. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 481 the Bishop of Edinburgh, Bishop Strachan look- ed for success in his ministry and Episcopate to a respectable exterior, and to the winning arts _ of affability, courtesy, and gentlemanly address. Thus, notwithstanding their long protracted in- timacy and friendship, these Scottish Prelates may be said to have had nought in common but their profession, and the time allotted here be- low for the exercise of it. And as, ere that time expired, the exigencies of the Church had re- quired their platézs to be filled by men in the vigour of life, these good men, having set their house in order, had nought to do but sing their “nunc dimittis,’’ and ‘* depart in peace.” “In obedience to an order of his Majesty's Most ~ Honourable Privy Council, issued on the 27th of September 1809, the Bishops and Clergy of the Episcopal Communion in Scotland having, on the day appointed, offered up their public Prayers and thanksgiving to Almighty God for | € protection afforded the King’s Most Sacred Majesty, during a long and arduous reign, also thought it their indispensable duty to approach the throne with an address of heartfelt loyalty and congratulation on the uncommon event of his Majesty’s entering on the 50th vear of his auspicious reign! This address they had the ho- nour of transmitting to the Earl of Liverpool, at that time one of his Majesty’s principal Secreta- Ties of State, who being just succeeded in the home department by the Right Honourable Ri- HH ~s - munion, protected and allowed by an act» chard Ryder, the address, was _ by him duly pe _sented, and received in the most. gracio the Clergy of the Episcopal Comennsion di ed: “ It is this day ordered by the Lords ofhi every Minister and Preacher, as well of tk _blished Church in that part of the united ki King’s Majesty during a long and arduous ig 482 (ANNALS OR 55 - sal809-10. Ifthe Annalist mistakes not, the order of | oC u a cil above noticed was the Gceticoahiolsban the form, which has since been used in ¢ up all similar orders, viz. that. of disting Jand by name, whereas all other di the national establishment are peabdinen Majesty’s: Most Hoooueshl—s ae ae called Scotland, as that of the Episcopal re mn sed in the 10th year of her late Majesty Que Anne, cap. 7. entitled.an Act to prevent 1€ disturbing of those of the Episcopal Communion &c. &c. do, at some time, during the exere ‘Divine Service in such. respective Ch Congregation, or Assembly, on the Sut ensuing the 25th day of October next, being day on which his Majesty began his ha ppy reigt put up their prayers and thanksgiving to Al mighty God, for the protection < _ Although, as alaiaill remarked, the ye --and.1810,-were unproductive of any other: = - particularly interesting to the cause of Scot Is Episcopacy, the union, (it may be,) of the Re . William Smith of Musselburgh and his most 1809-10. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 488 ‘spectable flock excepted; yet does the corres- pondence during the latter end of those years, as found among Bishop Skinner’s papers, point out ‘the causes which induced the Primus and his _ colleagues to hold the Ecclesiastical Synod at A- ~berdeen in the year 1811, for framing and enact- ang the code of Canons which now form the rule _ of discipline in the Scottish Episcopal Church. _ Itis well known that the introduction of the. ~ English book of Common Prayer into Scotland took place, at no earlier period than the reign of ', Queen Anne; and that its introduction was ac- »quiesced in from the facility with which the book was procured by the people, whereas the Scottish Prayer Book, from the ravages commit- ted on it, and from its having been suppressed by legal authority in 1637, had, in a manner; be- _-€ome.extinct. From the period of its introduc- tion, however, most of the Bishops and Clergy in Scotland had been in the use of hot unfre- - quent verbal alterations in reading the English Service. And for the continuation of such al- _ terations, no man could have been a more zea- ~ Tous stickler than was Bishop Skinner ; he hav- “ing had not only the example and sanction of his _ Owni venerable father, in framing his opinion as ' well as practice, but the example of the Bishops, ' Alexander and Gerard,—-men for whom he ever entertained the greatest filial reverence. It happened that Bishop Gleig, in the course ef his primary visitation of the diocese of Bre- , HH2 484 - "ANNALS OF 1809-10. chin, in the month of August 1809, ey his Clergy at Stonehaven, and delivered ¥ -a charge, which the whole Clergy uP hear as well as the parties to whom it addressed, requested the Bishop to Poni all convenient speed. The charge we ) accordingly, and, although, as Ww shewn, it elicited some sharp ren the time, not merely between the I rim Episcopal College and the author of the but between the former and the writer of Annals ; yet did the issue prove the justn the following portrait of the late bai by a Clergyman, who, having had much ing and important correspondence w with him, could well estimate his character, and app ciate his conduct. wi, a «The late Primus,” writes the eye Walker, “ was considered by yu ho prejudiced against, and did not kno narrow-minded, harsh, and. bigoted. tify distinctly, and I feel great ple re in. fying, that in all my. intercourse wi him; (t we often differed very materially i in opin ion, prejudices were very unjust 5 5 and that he s fu entitled, by a reference to the great facts « his: administration, (while I was best acquainted wit him, ) to the reputation of a good and candic id man who was willing to yield, for the sake of peac and union, many par ticular views, whic i “' - might have retained without reproach, ine 1809-10. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 485 © not remind you” (the Annalist) ‘ of the very im-- portant Synod ‘held at Aberdeen in 1811, of which you were a member. I recollect that pe- riod with sérious satisfaction, and I know that _ your father’s conduct on that occasion made a ‘deep impression on those Clergy who previously knew him very partially and only by hearsay. His kind and easy hospitality as our landlord ; the ability and accuracy with which he prepared the matter of our deliberations ; his impartial conduct as President of our assembly ; and the readiness with which he yielded those points, which we, from the south, thought most necessa- ry for general conciliation,—stand strongly in my recollection, and are certainly worthy of special consideration in the estimate of your father’s character.” : ~ When the reader has perused the following correspondence, and afterwards remarks, with the Author of the letter, of which the above is an extract, how quietly and becomingly Bishop Skinner, for the sake of peace and union, yielded those * particular views which he might have re- tained without reproach,” not only will the cor-— rectness of Mr Walker’s portrait of him be ac- knowledged, but the Annalist is convinced that every sound and serious Scotch Episcopalian will join him, in fervently praying, that the suc- cessors of the late senior Bishop and Primus, to the end of time, may in this respect take him for their example. Doris. 7 ‘+ die LED TER, | kal _ BISHOP. SKINNER TO BISHOP oP GLEIG, « Aberdeen, Jan, 8. 1810, © Thope you will have the goodness 'te my weakness, in wishing that sore of | marks contained in your Charge, though pe proper enough for being laid» before your in private, had yet been withheld from pub lic eye; which, in many instances, is but te ready to view us in an’ unfavourable light: _ * Of these our enemies, some will not be s sort ta hear, ‘that our Church has been more ft ae ‘once brought to the brink of er ‘spirit fermenting among her ministers; %an ‘ what has happened may happen again.’ -“ Other parts of the charge seem to have framed with.a particular view to its % on the south side of the Tweed, as‘int entire conformity, in every the minut to the English Rubrics. Such is the & given in p. 17, that our Primus, when I London, &c. * solemnly assured his fr ‘ we adhere strictly to the English fort ‘ thing, except the administration “of th « Supper.’ Now, the only assurance le which could be so interpreted, perwrce- / my name, at Bishop Horsley’s desire, t¢ t ‘had prepared as a preface to his ome n of t Communion Offices, &e. wherein’ it is menti 1810. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 487: ed, that the Liturgy now in use among the Scotch Episcopalians is precisely the same with the pre- , ‘sent Common Prayer-book of the Established Church of England, except in the Communion office. _ © This paper, I told the Bishop, I might very safely sign, as we certainly had no other didi im use among us, for our daily service, but the English Prayer-book, although there were seve- ral instances in which we did not, and could not, with propriety, adhere strictly to the English ru- brics, or to the ipsissima verba of all the offices ; and I mentioned particularly our using the term pastors instead of curates, and some other such like little variations. Of every thing of this kind, however, you seem wholly to disapprove, and _ therefore wish your Clergy te make use of all the English offices, without additions, diminutions, or improvements of any kind; where, by putting the word ‘ improvements’? in aaa you would appear to lay us under restrictions, to. which, [ believe, no Church situated as ours is, was ever ean Of my sentiments on ice subject I bein ever yet seen any cause to be ashamed, and therefore have felt no desire to conceal them. _ Asa:proof of this, E also published a Charge a few years ago (1806), plainly intimating my. opi- _ nion of these matters, and now take the liberty _of sending you a copy of it; not with any view of bringing you over to my way of thinking, but ae _ ANNALSOF >. merely:'to shew you what my th therefore what my regret coma so strong a tendency to bind us down to. as ish resemblance of theli@hiech of ngland in but one point, where we can never hope pe NINE splendour of her e ment Ai) hr Cs ges smi ‘¥§ Be so: ine as accept ‘the sinceri intentions as some apology for the warmth of mj expressions; and, whatever ereeninnsse » he hints which I have suggested, be assured. of the cordial warmth with which Teshlede ceca ae a &c. pl Ligm ta aeabentayhys ik OF eS EER TOU Oe eS Soeikown: Ly os snaiiein ee bas cae LER: eee ep _ BISHOP GLEIG To BISHOP ea niominl hy hive pws fidionst Stirling, J 7 15, 181 whic oI received your letter of na thi together with your Charge, &c.1 * — eae _ There’ was not the smallest occasion f logy for your remarks on: ony Charge. i “make as many on yours, and support : haps with as cogent reasons; but: ld deprecat every thing like cieieeveyn : as Johnson somewhere observes, tho find men friends seldom leaves the: do think it of —— not so mt 4% tosbReee 1810. SCOTTISH: EPISCOPACY. 489 motives which guided me in the few points on which you remark, and then drop the subject for ever. Iadmit that the words, to the ‘-brink of ‘ ruin’ are strong ; and Iwish that they had been dess.so; but I really cannot admit that the whole of what is said on the baleful effects of party spirit, beginning (p. 28.) with the words, « I can- ‘not, however, dismiss you now,’ and ending, (p. $1.) with, ‘the officious counsels of any stranger,” ean lessen us in the estimation either of friends or foes. «There never was a Church since the days of the Apostles, and never will be till the mille. nium, totally free from party spirit; and, te have held up ours as perfect in that respect, would, I apprehend, have both exposed her and her panegyrist to contempt and ridicule. I might, _ indeed, have omitted the subject altogether ; but, in that case, the Charge would have wanted that which, not in my opinion only, but in the opini- on of much abler and less partial judges, is by _ far the most valuable thing in it. At your sug- gestion I struck out or changed that clause in _ the manuscript which menisiied ‘ a party spirit * fomenting among us just now ;’ a clause, by the way, for which your son thanked me, even with tears in his eyes, and squeezed my hand in a manner that indicated gratitude which I can ne- - forget*. You are so completely mistaken “ “The Annalist heard this excellent Charge delivered at Ste and not only cordially thanked the author, but 4.90 % ANNALS a when you suppose, that any Pant of the ‘was framed with a view to its: appes ‘on the _ south side of the Tweed, that I assure-you t a ¢ is not in England a copy for sale. I transmit eight copies to England,—one ‘tothe shop, one to the Bishop of London, < e to the Vicechancellor of Oxford, the remainc der t private friends ; and besides these, I do ‘not b lieve that there is a:copy to. waren south side of the Tweed. The s1 been even published. Printed ena wiaeleil the request of the Clergy, but nota copy mor re was thrown off than was necessary per expense of printing ; and all these copies, € cept the few presents that I made, have been; I hope, sold by my friends. That I am desirous to enforce, in the diocese of Brechin, unifo: in reading the service of the cionehae most true; but that. desire » proceeds fe particular partiality to the Church of J id or froma vain hope to equal her in any hing but piety and sound principles ; and I beg’ to be assured, that though I hope to ‘giv time to time such instructions to the Ch der my inspection, as to my own unbié ment rene qn or see I will iy ce ee ‘ee idiot the Kihei of the diocese of Brechin request ing Bishop Gleig to publish. it. Party spirit in 2 D odious, i in a Clergyman it is sinful ; hence, throug! life of 28 years, it has been most diudiduly guarde by the person who is thus compelled to speak of hims _larre 1810. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 491. interfere with the Clergy of other dioceses, far: less attempt ‘to lay my colleagues under re- * strictions.’ * Tam perfectly convinced in my own ited and have-been so these thirty years, that nothing has done so much injury to our Church as the: useless alterations which are made by many of the Clergy in the daily service; but you seem to be of a different opinion, and have undoubtedly the same.right to regulate your conduct by your conviction, that I have to regulate my conduct by mine. Were these alterations the same in every Chapel, or were they made upon any prin-: eiple that could regulate the conduct of a stran- ger when occasionally doing the duty of his bro- ther, something, (I certainly think not much,) might be said for them; but as every man in my diocese varied the form according to his own judgment or caprice, I found. that I could not officiate for some of my own Clergy, without: either shewing the people that he and I think differently of our forms of prayer, or taking a lesson from him how to read, before going in the morning into the Chapel! To sucha length was this (to me most unaccountable) rage for inniovas tion carried in some of the Chapels of the diocese, that I was assured that the very communion ser- vice was interpolated with long, prayers, which, from the specimens of them, repeated by different - people to me, surely were unworthy of a place in that solemn, service ; and to put a stop to such 492 ANNALS OF 0 an absurd and pernicious practice, I wrote, on ny coming from my consecration; the letter which I now enclose to you, and which, ‘I trust, has pros _ duced the desired effect. 9) (9) - © There was no mention made in the original charge, of these innovations, but a bare re to the pastoral letter, if I may so’ call it 5 but the Clergy so earnestly requested the publication of the letter, together with the charge, iad Sh ree to incorporate the one with the other. Had I thought that your sentiments on this cole z a different from mine, om that your declar prefixed to: Bishop Horsley’s collation of Communion Offices, could admit of any oti er sense than that in which I understood it, I cer tainly would not have introduced your nam oy either into’ the Letter or into the Charge 5 be t your own candour will admit that my mistal lake was natural, when you look to the preface, ‘which you declare, ‘ that the Liturgy now rie se ‘among the Scotch Episcopalians, ‘is precise ‘the same with the present Common’ I | ‘book,’ &c. And I'am sure that the same dour will induce you to forgive an offence s¢ perfectly unintentional, —I ue almost said sO unavoidable. i, “You and I have often pleaded the cause of catholic unity, and I hope we shall both de again; but I do not see how we can do it any effect, among the people at large, if we I know not what kind of patriotism, in of 1810. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 498 tion to uniformity in prayer, or even uniformity of dress.. The people at large make not nice dis- tinctions ; and I see not why we may not adopt the daily service of the English Church verbatim, and even. the decent habits of her Clergy, to shew the people that we are in full communion with her; as well as St Paul circumcised Ti- mothy, and purified himself in the temple, to shew that he was in full communion with the ehurch at Jerusalem. | “These, however, are only my sentiments, _ and I have no desire to impose them on any _ other person. I have stated them at some length to you, because I should be sorry to lose your good opinion; though I must lose it, if you in- sist, as I am sure you will never do, on my adopt- ing all your opinions, and being guided in every ‘thing by your example. Our responsibility is awful; indeed, so awful, that 1 have sometimes deeply repented that I took it upon me; but as: I- have taken it on me, my conduct must be direct- ed by what appears to myself right and expe- dient, for by that I shall be judged. With best: wishes to, &c. I am with true respect, Right: Reverend and dear Sir, your affectionate bro- ther,”. &c. - _ To this admirable letter the Primus made no direct reply ; but having alluded to the contents of it in his correspondence with his son at Forfar, whom he ever treated with all the confidence, all “the charities of father, son, and brother,” he 4O4 . ANNALS OF 00) — (the Annalist) from a conviction’ that “the for liturgical uniformity, displayed: bys 2 Gleig, was ‘a» zeal according to knowle ge, -was induced to address’ his revered faery terms of filial, as well as of friendly ear: such as he is meen to caer to the: perusal: | 4 hos Leiba . The Annalist is aware, that: Nl as usal, may deem the following sssnianananeel L at presumptuous, even in a son to write to o i ther, much more-in a humble Presbyter to ite to the senior Bishop and, Primus of his: Che ul rch will deem it tenfold more arrogant and presut tuous to introduce it here. But mindful of blessed Master’s declaration, ‘‘ He that ‘love’ mht 8 or mother more than me, is not worthy e,” the Annalist is eager to prove, that he is ae man, as well as to shew that bieoniy isn one continued eulogium on the adiministrati Bishop Skinner, who, being a man of like pa sions, like infirmities with others, was li error; though, as the sequel shews, not so pe naciously obstinate as. those who persist in th errors, to the Very last. ewe Via on | oan LETTER LXIX. eet od ie ka * REV. JOHN SKINNER TO BISHOP SKINNER. ; « Inchgarth, Feb: 6. 181¢ us 8 de subject of your late correspon with the Bishop of Brechin, 1 would fain say 41810. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. © 405 words, although ignorant of the precise terms in which that correspondence is couched. You will see from the conclusion of Bishop Gleig’s letter to me, that he alludes to some charge brought against dim, (but whether from your quarter or not, I cannot say,) of his wishing to push himself before his colleagues. Pity it were that you and he, -who are both disposed to act, and not to sleep at your posts, should not act cordially and in unison. “ With an.eye to this, you will forgive me for _ saying, that neither of you, in my humble opi- nion, ought to touch on those little incidental te- pics of debate, or modes of diocesan. arrange- ment, to which the different habits and predilec- ‘tions of your respective lives may have attached you. For lam clear, that on, the general principle of ecclesiastical rule and discipline, you are a- gteed. His attachment to the ipsissima verba of _ the Liturgy, proceeds, as does both your attach- ment and mine to Liturgical forms in: general, drom the decency, the order, and unanimity which it ensures to public devotion; and, believe me, if power be given to) a Bishop to deviate, there is no security but that, some day or other; _the same power will be claimed by a Priest and a Deacon. Have not complaints been made to you by some of your own Clergy on this very score? You, therefore, my dearest father, (I write from the most heartfelt conviction that I write the _ words ‘ of truth and soberness,’ at the reading .of which, 1 trust, you will not be offended, ) you, 496 ANNALS OF therefore, my dearest father, ought not { for these improvements, as you suppose which, from time immemorial, you have eustomed ; since, admitting that you sh day be able to convince others that they ar provements, (of which I for one dpenaiz,): Ly they by no means of consequence sufficie authorize us to find fault, much less to with other churchmen because they neither d adopt, nordo approveofthem. ham ‘«< The supreme wish of my heart is, to see the authority of our own Church bearing nie in eyery thought, word, and deed, which, in ow clerical characters, we breathe, or utter, or pe r- form! Hence would I gladly submit to. the de cision of a Synod,'a General Convention, f for settling these important points, and every he branch of ecclesiastical discipline, although th decision of that Synod or Convention did not, i every respect, accord with my private opinion or public practice. The errors of my superiors those who are over me in the Lord, will, be imputed to me, whose duty is implicit dience. Even General Councils have erred | it would require another Athanasius to arise and convince me, that the orders of a General Cour cil of the Church, of which I am a member, not binding on me, in like manner as the of the British Parliament are seid on me, z t British subject. en ‘* The liberty: of either asin or ‘hiakiog fi free . ; i810. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 497 in my profession as a Clergyman’ is a liberty For which I shall never contend, being satisfied, that private judgment,’ in both Clergy and laity, has done more mischief in the Christian World, ‘and therefore in the Christian Church, than any other invention of the great enemy of souls. For- give me, my beloved father, for saying, that you do not apply your wonted powers of just discrimi- nation and candid investigation to the pica under discussion. . «< The Episcopal Church in Scotland is either, like all other Episcopal Churches, attached, by undeviating principle, to the use of'a Liturgy, or shéisnot. To ensure the regular use of a Litur- , no Church has ever yet been able, but by lay- ing down rules to that effect, known by the name of Rubrics. It is not enough for me to know, Hachithérté thé Chiiteh'to-which’ 1 bélong* has “received No injury, by having a certain tacit, though undefined right of private judgment vest- ed in her Bishops and Clergy,—a right of deviat- ing from the English Book of Common Prayer, the only Liturgy now in daily use among us. An- the ritatively admit and sanction this right, and li- _turgical syeastyisnap’ E with all ecclesiastical ‘ de- “cency and order,” may, for aught we know, be ‘subverted ina moment. We are commanded, - Apostolical canon, * All to speak the same thing “all tobe of the same mind,’ &c. But how, as a body, is the Church to comply with these injunc- tions, if not by express liturgical forms, and Ru- brics, no less express, to enforce the use of them? - Ir 498 ANNALSIOPS oo — 1810. « Were IL placed in sucha responsible situa | tion as that of a Bishop in the Church — of «God impressed as. I am with the imperious necessity of having Liturgical uniformity, Clerical vest ments, Synodical meetings, Dicesssny haan 7 &c. regulated beyond all after risk of neglect or deviation, I would not rest until an ecclesiastical Synod or Convocation should be holden for th 2 purpose of canonically settling all these points o; Church discipline. It would never enter into m head to anticipate, much less to prejudge the part my Colleagues might take on such occasion. Neither would I be kept back from urging such a measure, because I had reason to dread t my own particular sentiments on such interest ing topics of discussion might not be adopt ed, nor such rubrics, such canons framed, as embraced my private practice. <‘ St Paul, after his conversion, was as hostile to strict uniformity and compliance with the dis pline of the Church of Jerusalem, as any one @ our Communion can be to strict uniformity anc compliance with the Rubrics and Ritual of the Church of England. Yet, when the Apostle of ~ the Gentiles found, that the.sentiments of Jame: and the Eldets were not to be altered or brow; to suit his own sentiments, he hesitated not comply with their requisition, although they had no power to enforce compliance, merely for the Church’s sake. What the majority of the Epis- a College, in Bynod assembled, a find eX 1810. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 499 pedient to enact, ought therefore to constitute the rule of conduct, for the minority, as well as for one and all of the inferior Clergy ; for,- un- less it can be pleaded that a Clergyman once made a Bishop, in our Church, is exempted from all authority but that of the great Bishop of Souls, (which would make the Scottish Epis- _‘copal Church anomalous as a Church,) the ma- jority of the Bishops have a right to expect com- pliance with their decisions by those of their own order, in like manner as by the other two orders of Ecclesiastics. This alone constitutes the metropolitical au- thority for which I plead, and to which I am so very desirous of submitting the present lament- able dilemma in which we seem to be involved ; not only with respect to Liturgical uniformity, but to Clerical vestments, &c. In my subordi- Mate situation, I can only lament that things should be so undefined as they at present are. DT have no means of remedy within’ my reach ; ‘you, my dear Sir, certainly have. You can bring the matter to an immediate issue. “You can as. semble the parties who have the power of deci- ‘sion; and may now see, from the explanation given, what my meaning was when I used the terms ‘ stickle for your own private improve- ments,’ viz. that should: the majority of your ‘colleagues, regularly met in Synod or Convoca- tion, decide against the slight deviations which you are in the habit of practising, I (were I in : 112 a 500 . ANNALS OF °°" 810, your situation, ) should not. hesitate one’ moment ‘in abandoning my practice, and conforming’ in all things to Synodical decision’) © 4) - “ Having thus explained myself, as you desir- ed, I have done with the subject. Never shall Tre. cur to it, unless at your own solicitation. The more I read, the more I reflect on Christian unity and i order, the more’ I must. deprecate’ every thing - é having but the semblance of division. —Give'me — what the great High Priest of our profeeaia 4 prayed for, on the very eve of sacrificing his pre- _ cious body and blood in our behalf, and I would — ‘ give the whole body of my own private opinions | 2 ‘ tobe burned.’ The ambassador for Christ, in the — sacs of his embassy, ought, like the ambas- — sadors of earthly sovereigns, implicitly to ber to his instructions, and not to rest until every part of his duty were so defined to him, ‘that, like the soldier in the day of: battle, he had = ' to obey. Hr OS} ie “ But I’hear you say, with these principles of implicit submission you would néed to be aware — of the soundness of their creed to whom the labour of thinking for you was committed: faa questionably I vical} and, for this very reason it is, that, in all matters of professional. a discipline, I should wish to confide in no im Ne dual superior. The King of Great’ relia no will of his own ; reali ought any individual — Bishop i in the Chareh of Christ! The King mast, | in all things, conduct himself by the Tavs) whieh 1810. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 501 the great. Council of the Nation is called toge- ther for the purpose of framing and promulgat- _ ing. In like manner, would I have the great Council of the Church to which I belois, to - frame articles of faith and canons of discipline, so explicit and precise, that being henceforth reliev- ed from all private responsibility, all individual doubting and distrust, mine might indeed be- _ come the ‘ Post of honour,’ inasmuch as I should then have only to shew how fearlessly, how intre- _ pidly, I could maintain the charge assigned me. _ “ Nay, as we are now situated, without some such public and authoritative enactments, how shall the people of our Communion ever know what is permitted to be inserted in the daily ser- vice of the Church, and what is not permitted ! They have at present no means of ascertaining the lengths to which a private Clergyman, or even the Bishop himself, may go in, deviating from the printed forms before them. Hence the state of uncertainty in which, on this very point, both the Laity and Clergy themselves are ~ left, is to me lamentable ; and what is more, most inconsistent with our professions of strict attachment to set forms of prayer. ‘ Should you, however, continue to hold a dif- ferent opinion from that which I have now at such. ‘length imparted as my opinion, the deference which I owe to your judgment shall, at all times, prevent me from proclaiming to others our con- trariety of sentiment, and from attaching myself to \ 502 : ANNALS (OFT 09% 1810, j any party or individual who themselves or himself in sowed si _No!. if I cannot see things exactly as my father sees them, he will a forgive me ; but I cannot hope for his forgiv were I ever to act in direct. sie ies 8 2 hos to one, who has ever been: more than avfat both to me and mine. = ber wie ' ** With filial love and duty, the most ‘sinc eT é and hear tfelt, believe me to be,” &e, Seeehisashy ive + ohiweiend ty, am LETTER. secs equerrrih it j Otay %% w- ‘ 1S HOTS ) . « ‘Berryhatky February 24, 1810. ** With respect, my dear John, to the contents of your long and elaborate epistle of the 6th i a stant, and tothe Ecclesiastical Synod, or Conv tion which it is your wish to see assembled the purpose of establishing a general rule o: duct, for all and sundry within the pale ot Church, it would not be by a’ majority of that any such code of discipline would be’ decided, but by a majority of what would be: ce IEA termed, ‘ the most respectable. »* acknowledged talents”) ~* Its of no consequence to me whet advocate the cause of conformity with the lish Rubrics, merely because ' Pee or not; because 1 am as certain a as I car r ‘ ‘ 1810. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 508 any fact supported by experience and observa- tion, that to adhere to such conformity, if strict- ly enjoined, (and, without the utmost rigour of _ strictness, it avails nought to your plan,) would; in many instances, be absolutely impossible, and, in some cases would be perfectly absurd and ri- diculous. I am well aware, and happy in the knowledge of the fact, that, (as you observe,) the Episcopal Church in Scotland is attached,— uualterably attached, toa Liturgy. Yet, not as essential to the being of such a Church, for, even _ when established by Jaw, she had no formal Li- turgy, and, since she lost her establishment, has never been able to appoint any other than a dis- cretionary use of the English Liturgy, in which the Clergy of every diocese must be supposed to, act by the authority of their respective Bishops, which, you know, was the case in the primitive Church, when, in the same state as that in which our Church now stands, destitute of every thing _ like civil establishment. The Clergy are now, as they then were, accountable to their several Bi- shops, as every Bishop among us is accountable to our Episcopal College, for his preserving the analogy of faith. _ There may be a zeal without prudence, as well as without knowledge; and in either casc, more harm than good must follow. If people will not look forward to probable and almost certain consequences, however strongly their zeal may operate, there is evidently a want: of judgment 504. ANNALS OF = >> 1810. : a and foresight in being guided by it, and'such, : doubt not, would be the character of yours. sicas | ‘“* As to the case which you quote to me, i : would have been strange if St Paul had not com. plied with what was recommended by St Ja and his Clergy, when they could say, (as is clear from one part of the Faeries asso °») if ‘ seemed good to the Holy Ghost’ ps heyr 1 do so. And could the majority of our ‘a cae tion say so, with equal truth, who could dub bt ' the obligation lying on the rest of the members - to comply with what, was thus ‘divinely appo ints ed! But as, in our case, it would be difficult to persuade either side of the house that the otl er had a divine right to enforce its decision, even though the majority, the consaipiakipaidaeaaua flagrant rupture, instead: of a closer union ; _ increase of division instead of putting an in e} it. ai etittas rH jae ** But be is always the way with visionary formers to act from their opinion of what kind ought to be, and not from what they are. I must, therefore, decline all scot | sion of this subject, unless it come from a quarter. You have a Bishop of your own, wi I hope, to hear, and capable to judge of. you have to say on the subject; and you w need tobe cautious in appealing | to me, as in my official capacity, ‘ to bring the matte ‘ issue,’ lest you thereby confirma pone haps already excited, that another is, in ~- 1811. SCOTTISH *"EPISCOPACY. _ 805 senior Prelate, and that I am only the late vener- able Scottish Primus,—Bishop Skinner!, With my blessing, however, I am, and always will be, your most affectionate,” &c. 1811.) Although, at the time of its being Written, this letter evidently shews Bishop Skin- ner to have been averse to the measure of an Ec- _ elesiastical Synod, as the mode best calculated for _ settling the point at issue in the above correspon- dence, as well as every other branch of disci- pline and uniformity in the Scottish Episcopal Church, twelve months had scarcely elapsed before his mind, ever devoted to the interests of that Church, began to view the measure in a more favourable light. Hence, having first broach- ed the subject to the senior members of the Epis- copal College, and obtained their hearty concur- rence, he was induced thus to notice to Bishop Sandford the want of'a regular system of canoni- cal discipline, in that’ portion of the Church of coments in which they mutually served. al ‘LETTER LXXL Gr : _ BISHOP SKINNER TO BISHOP SANDFORD. MibieR AT } “Aberdeen, Feb. 22. 1811. buts ‘MDestitnte of all support from the State, and unaided by any civil sanction in the exercise of its spiritual authority, the Scottish Episcopate 506 ANNALS OF > 1811. must, under God, depend entirély for its preser-- _ vation and purity on the maintenance of the Apo- stolical rule, ‘ Let’all things be done decently; ‘ and in order;’ and on those primitive principles; which, in its earliest infancy, gave growth and — vigour to the Christian cause. During those tur> bulent periods of our national history, in which — our ecclesiastical rulers were alternately agitated, — with the hopes of gaining, or the fears of losing — the support of civil establishment, we need not — wonder that little was done in the way of form: — ing any thing like a regular system of a discipline. 3 «¢ At an early period of the reign of Charles He an attempt was made to give the Church of Scot« land a set of canons and constitutions, similar to those which had been drawn up and sanctioned in the preceding reign, for the Church of Eng; — land. But that feeble attempt, as well as the in+ troduction of a Liturgy, was completely frustrat= — ed by the disastrous fate of Charles; and ever the restoration of his son did not much mend the matter; as, during the whole of his reign, and the short period of his brother’s, the attention of the Government seems to have been wholly ta- ken up with making provision for the outward peace of the kingdom, rather than for the inter= 3 nal order and unity of the Church. “ot optima “ At last, the Revolution gave a final blow to — the legal established Episcopacy of Scotland; — and, for several years after. that unfortunate era, — 1811. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 507 our Bishops had enough to do in keeping up a pure Episcopal succession, till it should be seen what, in the course of Providence, might be far- ther effected towards the preservation, though not of an established, yet of a purely primitive Church, in this part of the united kingdom. For this purpose a few canons were drawn up and sanctioned in 1943; which, though very well cal- eulated to answer the purposes for which they were intended, are yet far from exhibiting any thing like a complete code of ecclesiastical disci: pline, even for our small society. “ The English canons are, in general, inappli- cable to our situation, and of the whole (141 in number) there are not above four or five that could, even with some alterations, be adopted and enforced among us. It is surely time, there- fore, now that we are fully tolerated, but with- out the smallest prospect of ever being more than tolerated, that we should turn our attention to _ the means which Providence has put in our power _ of making the best of our situation, and render- _ ing it as conducive as we possibly can, to the _ great and good design for which our Church has _ been so happily preseryed,—so signally_ support ed,—even the glory of its Almighty Protector, and the comfort and edification of his faithful people.” * * 4 98 * _ + Bishop Sandford, in common with the other members of the Episcopal College, having signi- 508 _ ANNALS OF ail rd fied his cordial assent to the Prisai s -suge estion, it remained only to fix the time anda most proper: for holding an Bae EE O: yn and enacting such a code of discipline fo future regimen of the Scottish Episcopal Ch as the Syivaal should, in its wisdom, frame approve. The city of Aberdeen being ultim - fixed on as the most convenient place of me and the 19th day of June as the most eligible ‘time, the College of Bishops had still to leter- mine who should compose the Synod,—the wh body of Episcopal Clergy in Scotland, or only vie delegated part ? For obvious reasons, the Bishe s decided in favour of a delegation ; when, of date March 29, 1811, the following summons was is sued by the Primus to the Clergy of his dioce: and addressed to their Dean, the: aeeene _ Sangster, Lonmay, Aberdeenshire:-— 4 ba tf Shomer eal LETTER EXXE yaa nate (cincuLan.) RES. ai «“ Rev. and dear Sir, # “The Episcopal Chur ch in Scotland h long felt the want of a proper system of cal regulations, suited to its peculiar ‘si the College of Bishops, anxious to get fect supplied, have resolved, through G sistance, to hold a general Ecclesiastical for that purpose, in the city of Aberdeen, on Wednesday the 19th day of June next. The Sy- 1811. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 509 nod is to'consist of all the Bishops and Deans of their respective dioceses, with an additional re- presentative of the Clergy from each of the said dioceses which contains more than four presby- ters; such representative being elected by the Clergy, and their election approved by the Bishop of the diocese. . . You are therefore hereby directed to call a _ meeting of the Clergy of this diocese, as soon as it can conveniently be holden after Easter, for the purpose of electing af additional delegate, who, with yourself as Dean, may duly attend, and represent the said Clergy in the Synod ;— having previously received from them such in- " structions to that effect, as they may think suitable to this very important and solemn occasion. When the meeting is over, you will intimate the _fesult of it to me; and any farther information which you may wish to receive on the subject, I shall be ready to give. Meantime commending you and your brethren most sincerely to the di- vine direction, I ever am, &c. 5 Joun Sxinven.” On the day appointed for the Synod, Bishop “Skinner had the satisfaction of meeting all his Episcopal brethren, together with the Deans of Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Brechin, and Dunkeld (those of Ross and Moray being prevented by in- disposition) ; and, as delegates from their respec- _ tive dioceses, the Rev. Archibald Alison of Edin- 510 - ANNALS OF _— burgh, from the diocese) of Edinburgh,—the Rev. John Cruickshank of Turriff, Seeatesiteiliaa lh cese of Aberdeen,—the Rev. Heneage Horsley of Dundee, from the diocese of Brechin,—and — the Rev. John Skinner of Fortes indeag the dio. cese of Dunkeld. Jo 9 ba a Having taken the chair ex officio. as Primus, Bishop Skinner, after solemn prayer to God, that ‘«‘ he would be graciously pleased to sanctify, with his blessing, the work for which his commissioned servants were now assémbled in his holy present and that he would make his unerring word guide of all their proceedings, and the gracio influence of his enlightening Spirit their neve failing source of support and direction,”-—thus addressed his Right Benes e J *¢ My Right Reverend Brethren,—Having‘ your consent and approbation fulfilled my duty in calling this venerable assembly for the imp: ort. ant purpose now to come under our devout cons sideration, I must beg leave to observe, th there is only one member of the Scottish Ep pate now alive *, who had a vote in electing me te the office of Primus, if you have any einer: e sire to appoint another of your College to that of- fice, and will have the goodness to intimate lat wish, I am both ready and willing to resign the station which, unworthily indeed, but. to the b ast of my poor ability, I have held for so long a p e i) ee a 7 1 > 5 * Bishop Macfarlane. ‘Sti. SCOTTISH EPISCOFACY. 511 riod. 1 therefore, in all humility, wait your an- swer to this my proffered resignation.” . The Bishops having, with one voice, assured Bishop Skinner that they cordially approved of him as the Primus of their venerable College, and had no wish or desire to place any other member of that body in the office, which he had long filled so honourably to himself, and so use- . fully to the Church at large ; he went on to say,— “* Bemg therefore continued in the office, of which you haye in such flattering terms been pleased to decline the acceptance of my tendered resignation, 1 have now a most solemn duty to perform: ‘In the name of the Holy and Undi- ‘vided Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,’ I declare this Ecclesiastical Assembly, which has been duly constituted and sanctified by solemn prayer, to be a regular National Synod of the Episcopal Church in Scotland, called for the pur- pose of establishing a Code of Canonical Regula- tions, suited to the peculiar situation of this Church ; and such as, by the blessing of God, may tend to preserve, within its venerable pale, | all the good effects of apostolical order, and of sound and salutary discipline. To which end, may He, who is King and Head over all things to his Church, be graciously pleased so. to unite our hearts, direct our thoughts, and sanctify and bless our deliberations, “ to the use of edifying,’ that, by promoting, as much as in us lies, the Peace, the order, and the unity of tlie Episcopal 519 /.) ANNALS: li . Church in this: land, we may be the hu: struments of advancing’ the honour: ¢ deemer’s name and his word, senate giving ‘ Glory to the Father, to the § * the Holy Ghost ; as it was in ‘the be og ‘now, and ever shall. nbs world’ without | ¢ Amen.” © Ve men: r The Coinniiasieus of the several Deans at Delegates being strictly examined, the Pri m thus madrented himself tothem: ‘ ‘My Reveren e brethren,—the Presbyters gf the Church, he present,—you are, I trust, well aware, that h Bishops being the proper administrators of i ‘discipline of the Church, are to be considered as the constituent members of every Rex htiae ca Synod ; but the Deans of the several district those other Presbyters of the Church wh ho ha been duly elected to represent their diocesan k D1 thren on this occasion, and who in that ¢: have been invited to take their place in tl nod, are to have the privilege assigned to ‘by former canons, and by the practice « Church ; that is, they are to be allowed ‘son and to debate, to propose and to gi opinions freely, on all those matters 0! ‘and canonical regulation, now to come under: consideration, though not to give any such de sive voice as Bishops “ have a nightie nounce.: . ete. he ae Solin the exercise of this NESE whiel 1811, SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 513 the practice of the Church in the purest ages, ‘empowered to concede to you, if, during the dis- cussion of the several points of order and discipline on which you are met to deliberate, you shall feel desirous of permission to agitate any question by yourselves, I have to inform you, that another apartment is already allotted for this purpose, to which you are at liberty to retire as often as you may judge proper. And, if you deem it more like- ly to expedite our business, that the result of your deliberations be delivered to us by a chairman or prolocutor, you have only to make choice of one of your number to act in that capa- city; when you may be assured, that we shall not only listen to his reports with the utmost at- tention, but be happy in giving our sanction to every proposition of yours, which (as far as we may be able to judge) shall have for its object the true Christian edification of the people com- Mitted to our charge,—an object only to be ef- fected, in my humble estimation, by a steady ad- hherence to those good and approved principles, by which our humble Church has been hitherto 8o happily distinguished. ' “ Regarding these sound and orthodox princi- ples, as the source of that purely spiritual autho- tity, which the Episcopal Church in Scotland pos- Sesses for regulating its internal order and econo- my, and without the most distant approach to any interference with the external polity, whether civil or ecclesiastical, of our country, it will, I KK 514 ANNALS OF 1811. i presume, be judged necessary to’ introdtice proposed Code of Canonical Regulations, b thing in the way of preamble,—pointing original constitution of the Christian Ch whietiey, as the stream from the fountain, will turally flow all, those legitimate prchereal pure apostolical regimen and order, over w it is our duty to rath and which it become: as much as in us Apa strictly to guet and n Seat pee 1 calghievotalt Og “In consequence of the esiseltale corresp on dence which I have been officially called upon te hold with my brethren of the Episcopate pe h subject, I have endeavoured to sketeh out ‘ ( a preamble as appeared to me to be expres alike of their sentiments as of my own. " hi sketch I shall, with your permission, nov the liberty of reading to the Synod in and afterwards, if thought necessary, by paragraph, in order that you may b ter judges, not only of the matter intro¢ but of the manner in which it is introduced thus have an opportunity of proposing w Y alterations and amendments ea deemed pre esas , wiht i The preamble being read in vas ‘ade ( of the second order ‘withdrew to the ch provided for them, where they se bist: lowing minute :— “At Aberdeen, this 19th day of June 1811. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 51d years, the Deans and Representatives ‘of the se- veral dioceses of the Episcopal Church in Scot- land having met in a separate chamber, by the authority of the Right Reverend the Bishops of _ the said Church, did then and there unanimous- ly elect the Very Reverend James Walker, Dean of the diocese of Edinburgh, as their prolocutor, and the Reverend William Skinner of Aberdeen, as their clerk. « Before the Deans and Representatives retir- ed to their separate chamber, they heard the Pri- mus deliberately read the introduction or pre- amble, proposed for the Code of Ecclesiastical Laws, to be determined upon and enacted in the present Synod of the Scottish Episcopal Church ; of the general tenor of which they instruct i prolocutor to state to the chamber of Bishops, that they do unanimously approve.” » In this systematic and business-like manner, _ were the Canons of the Scottish Episcopal Church framed and enacted. The members of the se- cond chamber regularly took their seats in the chamber. of the Bishops, when a canon was e¢i- ther passed into a law, or proposed to be so pass- ed, In the latter case, their clerk being duly fur- nished with a copy of the proposed canon, the ) Deans and other Representatives of the Priest- hood repaired to their own chamber, and having passed their judgment upon the language as mal as on the subject-matter of it, instructed their prolocutor to state their sentiments to the cham- KK2 516 “ANNALS OF P09% bad sree Aa; ah ai t ber of Bishops, who invariably rec ments with the most. respectful: atte sntion hesitated not to acknowledge themselve indebted to the sound knowledge and di with which amendments were frequently s ed, not only i in the terms, but in the ema - of tk several canons. Nor can the Annalist folded from. ret the tribute of heart-felt gratitude with. the Synod in general, and the members of th cond chamber in particular, evinced their of the distinguished services rendotell the tish Episcopal Church on this occasion, | Prebendaries of Sarum and St Asaph, the Messrs Alison and Horsley, who not only cepted of the commission of delegates fron dioceses of Edinburgh and Brechin, bu shewed a zeal and ardour in supporting the rests of the humble Episcopacy of Scotlan surpassed by any member of the Episcopate i In proof of this, it deserves to be noticed, they were actually the framers of the 15th $ tish Canon ; in which, although permission berally granted “to retain the use of the Er Communion Office in all Congregations v where the said Office had been previously in use, ‘th Scottish Office is considered as the auth service of the Episcopal Church in the ad stration of the Sacrament of the Lord’s S and ‘* to be used in all consecrations of Bie shops ;”? every Bishop, ‘ when consecrated, gi -isii. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 517 ing his full assent to it, as being sound in itself, _and of primary authority in Scotland ;” and _ binding himself ** not to permit its being laid a- side, where now used, but by authority of the College of Bishops.” * For two complete days were the members of this _ important Synod occupied in the business of it; while, being desirous that a measure of so much _ importance as a new code of discipline for the Scottish Episcopal Church, should be respectfully communicated to the Archbishops and Bishops of the united Church of England and Ireland, the Pri- mus was requested to make this dutiful communi- _ eation with all convenient speed, after the dissolu- ~ tion of the Synod, and the printing of the Canons. -~ Of date early in September 1811, Bishop Skin- ner therefore presented the whole English and Trish hierarchy with a copy of “ the Code of Ca- _ nons for the Episcopal Church in Scotland,” ac- . companied with the following:— bie t too. LETTER LXXUl me: (CIRCULAR. ) . f - Aberdeen, Sept. 4, 1811. i Lord, _.“* The Episcopal Church in Scotland having i * See the whole Code of Canons in the Appendix, No. VII. and Canon 16. in particular, by which all alterations and inser- ‘tions in the Morning and Evening Service of the Church are, “prohibited, and a strict adherence to the words ef the English “Liturgy enjoined. . 518 ANNALS OF long felt the want of a piaper oft . cal "Repiilations suited to its pecu liar an Ecclesiastical Synod, for suppl ying fect, was lately holden in this city. Caras «The Synod consisted of the six Bi shops a proper number of Representatives of rior Clergy ; who, having directed om Canons to be printed, were anxious: also measute of such importance to the good and discipline of our small yr : communicated, in the most respec 2 the Archbishops and Bishops of theu ae Chi of England andTreland. 2 oad *‘ Being, in my official character, heefited sd make this dutiful communication, I do it the more satisfaction, in that | Thumbl Rin De venerable Prelates will find nothing’ nical Regulations, (of which a copy is “ transmitted to your Lordship,) but what, - blessing of God, shall tend to suppo rt the tem of religious faith and ecclesiastical Te cand order, by which we desire to be cons “as in the strictest communion with that guished branch of the Apostolical ‘successio from which Scotland. has derived i ee a primitive Episcopacy. _ © Offering up my fervent prayers ye ‘ every blessing, spiritual and temporal, to th ed Church in which your Lordship’ holds a dignified station, I have the honour to . be Beane respect and veneration, my Lord, yo 1811. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 519 Lordship’s most obedient and devoted humble Servant,” &c. The Prelates who honoured the Scottish Pri- mus with a reply to the above communication, were the Bishops of Sarum, of Peterborough, of Carlisle, of Sodor and Man, of Cork and Ross, of Leighlin and Ferns, and of Cloyne. Their letters breathe the most fervent regard for the Scotch Episcopal Church, and individually speak the sentiments of the good Bishop of Cloyne, Dr Bennet, who, after thanking Bishop Skinner and his Right Reverend Brethren for the Canons of their national church, adds, “I have always highly esteemed the Christian piety and honour- able independence of the Episcopal Church in Scotland, and earnestly pray, that, under the guidance of her excellent Prelates, she may con- tinue that purity of doctrine, for which she has been so long, and deservedly celebrated.” ‘The above necessary and important work of . framing, enacting, and promulgating a Code of Ca» nons for the Episcopal Church in Scotland, being accomplished, and pastors and people happily fur- _nished with articles of faith, and rules of disci- pline accordant in every respect with Scriptural - authority and primitive usage, Bishop Skinner’s anxious mind enjoyed a solace} a relief, and satis- - factiot’ which the world can neither give nor take away ; but of which those only are capable of partaking, the supreme desire of whose heart it is to do God and his Church service, and who, 520 - ANNALS OR: 1. ¢ like the late Scottish Primus, havir life endeavoured to make fall proof of nistry, are permitted to feel, ‘that He w ‘Head over all things to his’ Chute, fas pi pered the work of their hands upon them,—nay, that God has prospered their oe p When the office of Primus Scotize Episcop was conferred upon Bishop Skinner, in year, he had every thing to encounter v ‘could render the situation irksome; anid: thi e ¢ ‘ties of it arduous. Did he look to his ve ‘colleagues in the Scottish Episcopate ? himself, with one exception *, surrounded ‘men much his superiors in years, and who,'| avowedly tenacious of : their own opinion ‘most points of ecclesiastical and political ‘ance, were not likely to be swayed by! ‘brought to support and sanction his measu Did he cast an eye to the Clergy of the I copal Church in Scotland? He tall “men justly commendable for their passive ‘for their inoffensive and exemplary deal “ment, and for their meek endurance of a “poverty,” neglect, and not unfrequent se ‘men, with very few exceptions, ile ex ‘other art but the art of suffering for co sake, and therefore unfit to contribute> t rescue of themselves and of the Chureli in ¥ ‘they served,—from the pains and penalties of la and from the obloquy which attendéd them. ‘{ ¥2 ats * Bishop Macfarlane of Ross. is: >. 1811. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 521 - did the Bishop direct his view ‘to the laity of _ the Episcopal communion in Scotland? He saw considerations of state policy constraining the lass of landed proprietors, whether Peers- or Commoners, and nearly all of the Episcopal per- suasion in public stations, to turn their backs upon the altar of their native church, that they might _ Support the throne of their native land. He saw many of the youth of both sexes ashamed of being seen in the place of worship, nick named the ** Nonjurant Meeting-house,” and frequented only by their pious grandmothers; and, in the southern districts of Scotland, more especially, he saw the labouring class of Episcopalians tast withdrawing themselves from the Church of their fathers, by reason of their ignorance of any other distinction but the hitherto ostensible distinc. tion of non-submission to the. House of Bruns- | These were prospects appalling enough to the eye of any single individual, let his rank, his-in- fluence, and. his talents, have been what. they may; and therefore, more than enough ‘to appal ‘aman in Bishop Skinner's sphere. of life, who tanked no higher than a non-juring Clergyman, whose influence extended no farther than the walls of his own humble dwelling, and whose ta- Tents, such as they were, had hitherto been whol- Jy devoted to professional study and professional duty. But appalled as he was at the prespects before him, the Bishop justly considered, that if 522 ANNALS OF *5> no attempt at relief was made, exti formerly established Church of Scotl: its regular Episcopacy, was ine vikalluaih st therefore, as were his personal powers ar tensions, no time was to be ann and he re accordingly. — meer rt a ; _ Happily for himself and the Church at large Bishop Skinner, during no less a period twenty-six years of his Episcopate, was | with the powerful support, counsel, was lvi of his revered father ;—a man, who, al oh b lot was cast in one of the rneanyebtieate aha rt the British empire, was possessed of le which would have done credit to. sas n the Church of God ; of professional acqui equal, if not superior, to any cumbeeaacanall tish Episcopalian ; and, of such other mental sources as at once enabled him to baffle 2 feat every attempt made to counteract the sures deemed necessary by his son and h for the speedy relief of the sadly depressed copacy of Scotland. In proof of which, Mrs readily outargued the argumentative,—o the tribe of witlings,—and failed not to ¢ those in the knowledge of ecclesiastical : who buckled on the armour of the primitive ] thers, whether for the purpose of assault defence. In short, the fact is well known Scotland, and his son, the Bishop, never ¢ ed to conceal it, that in all his measures iC Church’s relief and prosperity, (the late i - i315 SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 528 ant Synod excepted,) he was, under God, more indebted to the head, the heart, and the hand of his own father, the venerable Pastor of Longside, Aberdeenshire, than to any other fellow-labour- . er in his great Master’s vineyard. ; The measure of giving a valid Protestant Epis- copacy to the State of Connecticut in North A- Merica, which has been already shewn to have tescued the Bishops and Clergy of the Church in Scotland from a state of oblivion, resembling that of the grave, was no sooner proposed to Bi- shop Skinner, and the proposal communicated to his father, than the good man became its zea- Tous advocate and supporter. The Bishops ‘Kilgour and Petrie, (men of the greatest pri- vate worth, but alike timid in disposition, as at ‘that period they had become infirm in body,) he ‘Stimulated to compliance by arguments which eventually proved irresistible, while his own son, who would modestly have declined the active part which he was constrained to take, he en- ‘couraged to the work with a zeal equally ardent, but more according to knowledge, than the zeal ‘exhibited by the patrons of modern Christian lissions, who unfortunately, in their ardour to “propagate the ‘ Apostles’ doctrine’ in foreign parts, forget the necessity of conjoining with it * the Apostles’ fellowship,’ notwithstanding that a Stedfast continuance in both is as much the duty of the disciples of Jesus now, as it was eigh- teen hundred years ago. : 5o4 . ANNALS*OF) > 1811. From the date of Bishop Seabury’s — tion, to the present time, it: has been the pose and wish of the Annalist. to shew t friends of Scottish Episcopacy, and to the F lic at large, not only every thing that ‘by the late venerable Primus, but almos ' thing that was penned by him in ‘the ‘h behalf. With the eer the views, the ‘so far as they were uiidiscowencdaih -ner, the Annalist has studiously cigiea fe ? cern. He writes the Annals of Bishop Ski ae Episcopate and administration solely ; : and s shou Gt unfortunately happen that he has not w tte them inoffensively, (although offence was. all his thoughts,) he has the satisfaction to. -and to know that he has written them ¢ tiously and faithfully as they preedeny selves. ¥ Doubtless, discussions are introduced, ‘i had Bishop Skinner’s son not considered hi ‘bound to act a strictly candid and conscient part, might have been omitted. But * Tree implying a faithful detail of th torical occurrences. and transactions ‘of, ee ticular year, and the care and accurat which the late Primus of the Scottish © annually treasured up his correspondence ¢ clesiastical subjects, as well as every other siastical document, shewing, that he at wished them to be preserved ; s—his son. cand exe 1811-16. SCOTTISH’ EPISCOPACY. 525 cutor, whose duty it becomes to transmit that correspondence and those documents to_posteri- ty, might well have dreaded detection had he, when he undertook the present work; wilfully or timidly concealed any discussion in which he found ' written evidence of his father’s heartfelt interest 5 or, had he garbled and mutilated documents to which Bishop Skinner was known to attach im- portance, in order to suit the views, the predilec- tions, and the opinions of other men. In the words, therefore, of the excellent bio- grapher of Bishop Horne, the biographer of Bi- shop Skinner is proud to say: “ I have brought this good man to his end, through the labours and studies of his life, in all which his example may be attended with some happy effect on those who shall make themselves acquainted with his history. In writing it, I have not permitted my- Self to consider what suppressions or alterations ‘would have rendered it more agreeable to some people, into whose hands it may fall. As truth will generally succeed best in the end, I have made the story such as I found it: I have con- cealed nothing out of fear,—I have added no- thing out of malice, and must now commit what I have written to that variety of judgment which all my other writings have met with.” 1811-16.] From the year1811 to the year 1816, when Bishop Skinner was suddenly cut off by death, no Ecclesiastical event took placein the Scot- 526 ANNALS OF | wet a tish Episcopal Church of interest oe here recorded. And, with respect to Pi 1 events, it seems only proper to’ remark, ¢ part of the British public hailed, with ' delight, the success of the Peninsular w the final overthrow of Napoleon Bonaparte and his dynasty, than did the Episcopalians in Sc : land, Bishops, Clergy, and Laity ; of vr failed not to give the most convincing di omer strations. ‘The very last act of Bishop Sk administration as Primus or President off piscopal College in Scotland, was the forw: a Congratulatory Address to the Prince R on the marriage of his ever-to-be-lamented d ter with the amiable Leopold of Saxe Cobourg which Address the Bishop, with his own han put in the post-office the morning preceding hi dissolution,—little aware of what a day was bring forth to himself, or that in fifteen sho months the nation’s ecstatic joys should be tu _ed to ‘ lamentation, and mourning, and wo e,” al that the language of gratulation on the belove Princess’s nuptials should be changed into ai dresses of condolence, grief, and UE tale atm on her untimely demise,—sympathetie, he heartfe and unfeigned! O, happy for man is his j a rance of futurity! Were it otherwise, - tures of the rack would be preferable to the m - tal tortures, which he would be often doo ne te endure! i _ And now, the Annalist, having brought iv , As aa yY ‘i 5 ‘ 1811-16. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. 527 bours to a close, cannot, he conceives, do the cause of Scottish Episcopacy more substantial justice than by presenting his readers with a portrait of it, as drawn by two distinguished members of the University of Oxford; the one of whom did fill for many years, most worthily, while the other is now filling, with corresponding celebrity, the President’s chair of Magdalene College. - In the mteresting Memoirs of Bishop Horne, it is recorded, that ‘* A Clergyman of Scotland, who had received English ordination, applied to the Bishop, wishing to be considered as under the jurisdiction of some English Prelate,—that is, in effect, to be independent of the Bishops of Scotland in their own country: but he gave no countenance to the proposal, and advised the person who made it quietly to acknowledge the Bishop of the diocese in which he lived, who, he knew, would be ready to receive him into com- munion, and require nothing of him but what was necessary to maintain the order and unity of a Christian Church ; assuring him, at the same time, that if he were a private Clergyman himself, he should be glad to be under the au- thority of such a Bishop.” - And in proof of the sincerity with which the advice was given, the good Bishop’s learned bio- grapher, Mr Jones, further states, that “ from the present circumstances of its primitive ortho- doxy, piety, poverty, and depressed state, he, (Bishop Horne,) had such an opinion of the ¢ he 528 ANNALS OF* 5 >>>: Scottish Episcopal Church, ‘as to think nat: if the great Apostle of the Gentiles were u ‘upon earth, and it were ee to his choic 2 wit cate, the preference would probably oy the Episcopalians of Scotland, as most, t the people he had been used to.*”” In the year 1814, the learned and vener Routh, President of Magdalene College, ed his learned work, “ Reliquiz § torum fere jam perditorum, secundi ter euli pacians que supersunt. ees tiquiores.” Which interesting cision s inscribed :— ae “‘ PATRIBUS IN CHRISTO ADM REVERENDIS, ths is VIRISQUE OPTIMIS AC VENERABILIBUS, EPISCOPIS ET PRESBYTERIS __ ECCLESLE SCOTICE EPISCOPALIS, DOCTIs, PIIS, ORTHODOXIS, Ale Martinus JosEPuus Rovra- BoE, PATERNITATI DIGNATIONIQUE Secuer ic D. DD gk se Nor does the learned author omit 1 for singling out the Bishops and Cle Scottish Episcopal Church, personally 1 to him, as the objects of such veneratior gard. To the above inscription, and in Lati ir te ® See Jones’ Life of Bishop Hindi) p. 151. of “ H \ af 1811-16. SCOTTISH EPISCOPACY. §29. most classical purity, an address is annexed, in which he tells them, that, ‘ enjoying, as they do _ enjoy, the praise of maintaining the manners of Christian antiquity, joined to the Catholic faith and to the discipline of the Apostles, he, the Au-- _thor did, on this account, present them with “ Aurea hee primorum seculorum’ scripta,” literally, ‘these golden written productions of the _ first ages ;” that, ‘ though fragments merely, and picked up from a general shipwreck, the memo- tials only of what the Church was in her then humble and depressed state; he yet considers them the more fit to be presented to those whose lot it is to be placed even in less prosperous cir- ‘cumstances than was the primitive Church itself ;’ —that ‘ though he laments to see the Scottish Bish- ops and Clergy deprived of civil establishment, of secular dignities and honours; this deprivation in his opinion affords not subject of regret equal to that which afflicts the mind versed in Christian antiquity, when it beholds a peopie of such re- nown as the people of Scotland, and withal so justly famed for the respect which they shew to religion, torn from their pristine hierarchy, and placed in a state of schism from Episcopal Com: munion ;’ that still, ‘itis to himself matter of joy unspeakable, to have it in his power to congra- ‘tulate his Episcopal brethren in Scotland on Possessing the privilege (which of right belongs ‘to all mankind, the privilege) of exercising their ministry in peace ; which privilege, (he adds) as it : LL - Age PR VG 8 7 ee. “a ; vernal $x) ruweda ‘ The Author’s distance from the press, an tid emg ee o any of the proof sheets, will, he humbly hopes, peng ps ale graphical errors, as well as for errors in punctuation, &e. not now take upon him to correct, the most manmane ic: coh 1 ed in the following list of O28 Qbbeeaaedd ttt ae ERRATA4 CO1Q(08In Sti ga 4) Page 3 ‘ine 12, for‘ 1760,’ read ‘1768” tao! behets Me 2 16, — ‘a’ burying-place, for? 65, line 12, — aaah incon? ee 71; 22, — ‘ consecrate, r. ‘ consecrati.’ : Cy ee § — ‘nobleman,’ 3 ‘noble men.’ 2 x0 Bt —7, —‘ago, r.- prior Lib gdh» ipt of the above.’ } 22, . —‘co \ " ae ppendix, ‘ No. J.’ r. het = vy 269, line 21, for very good,’ r. ee a 281, for‘ William Strachan,” x.‘ John Strachan. : 296, line 17, for ‘ owr’ r. * one.’ 502, last line, for ‘ citizen,’ r. ‘ citizens.’ 320, last line but one, for ° holy, zr ‘truly? ’ 2 ~ 325, line 23, for ‘ communicate,’ r. ‘consummate? ' a 333, 13, dele * io.’ j 339,_—9, for forth, r. ‘ fast. 544, —— 25, citer ie faa a _ 359, cre — ‘tenets, r. ‘ unity?” ! 375, 5, —‘a’ misprision, Tr. ‘or . 424, last line, dele ‘ in.’ : : ; 468, first line, for ‘ event, r.‘ events? } iw el ~ 472,——8, for ‘some,’ r. ‘ seven.’ ig» 496, ——16,—‘a, r,‘0r °- ' ; Tine cae Kiba. Ayaan’? yt) "ag eo ied ’ pt met art’ Oda 4% : y 4 5 “ ; A ‘ r f “Fe 3. A. es AGKISGK Lo eKMEE RD. eile fe Et tiy 4 y inks aga. . %, Ret Seip > nid bea jai pl sip stbnciiods eee 2 Polar acer ae Well .2:2 arothabnuns De Forte tot, ae Late 5@ Alors Loui iqn sd fo Lathagee Jan ud) 42900 OF Uri cera siete) , rUsp = Fa i oe se ts Sore SS: b: + iy bie . hy ; i we py vue oan Ry, uty et ey De ae a) ‘ aio Sees hoes x Pas ead wey , gait RE ont ce ee yn" aR ag oe € i ‘aes eee. nee > ek, Bh cs cies iy ah Si D i) ? mg. at lal Be eae eras iin READ UBhadi pth atthe nS ed f , - * Py: oes oe ~. : ‘ % ~ ah M “4 Mat ee ees 5 + opt = ee a » " Pe, , ~ cd as te ee") = ; : . 2 « s, = , - : = ~ Ys : ¥ = ; . CONTENTS OF APPENDIX. - ' ' Ee tir ; y . i | mY tN , = == L. ; 1% 4 i ‘ ee a ws Py Soo 2 , we! ane L.—List of Bishops of the Episcopal’ Church in Scotland Srom the year 1705 to the year 1818, Pie aan Page 533 Il.—Proposed Preamble to the Thirty-nine Articles when subscribed at Laurencekirk,. water See Ne ... Sa II— Bishop Jolly's Address to the comet. if 20 3a IV. —Bishop ‘Sandford’s Address to his Con bits i, ono Leng Loic with the Scottish sh Episcopal Churehy aes « 8A Vedat of Union, tee ciate Ge. pore in wis si 55 VI.—Memoir relative to the Scottish Fivpal Fand, Poel VIL.— Code of Canons of the Episcopal. Church im Se VIN. — Address, i in Latin, by the Reo. John sta sa WH yal Res epee! shar ‘ohis Brethren of We Dis ef Are. ik f | redo ll has wig WHE fiyhanacwa Bod 2 + sty sap YONI i bon Wo) of a “ean hs tis f Lack ¥ ol, OE Re od s wg Sees TW ata Ih all . ae Ap. qc aveatat qe ad ‘ uhh ’ in et a od ate Ad gull ig % Meatrony am heloy anomie Rag ya APPENDIX. No. I. List of Bisuors of the Episcopal Church in Scotiand from the year 1705 to the year 1818. Tue following List of Consecrations, with their dates, and the names of the Consecrators, as extracted from their Ecclesiasti- cal Register, will give a clear and distinct view of the Episco- pal succession in Scotland since the Revolution, as far as the present Bishops are concerned. January 25, 1705.—Mr Joun Sacer, formerly one of the Ministers of Glasgow, and Mr Joun Futiarron, formerly Minister of Paisley, were consecrated at Edinburgh, by John Paterson, Archbishop of Glasgow, Alexander Rose, Bishop of Edinburgh, and Robert Douglas, Bishop of Dunblane.* _ Bishop Sage died in 1711.—Bishop Fullartonsucceedcd Bishop Rose, as Bishop of Edinburgh, in 1720, and aied in 1727. April 28, 1709.—Mr Joun Fatconar, minister at Cairnbee, and Mr Henry Curisrie, minister at Kinross, were consecrat- _ *® Archbishop Paterson, Bishop Rose, and Bishop Douglas, with the other Bishops of Scotland, were deprived at the Revolution by the Civil Power, be- fause Episcopacy had been voted an insupportable grievance by the Scottish Convention, - _ had been long in Priest’s orders, and resided mostly in Le 534 APPENDIX. : 4 ed at Dunuee, by Bishop Rose of Edinburgh, Bishop Douglas of Dunblane, and Bishop Sage——Bishop Christie died in V'718 and Bishop Falconar in 1723. ; en > August 25, 1711.—The Hon. Ancatpatp CampsELt, who don, was consecrated at Dundee, by Bishop Rose of Ed burgh, Bishop Douglas of Dunblane, and Bishop Falconar. He was elected Bishop of Aberdeen in 1721, which charge he } e signed in 1724—and died June 16, 1744. eM February 24, 1712.—Mr James GappERaR, formerly nister at Kilmaurs, was consecrated at London by E Hickes, * Bishop Falconar, and Bishop Campbell. He v S ap- pointed Bishop. of Aberdeen in 1724, and died in February 1733. EE NESS SO October 22, 1718.—Mr Artuur Mitrar, formerly Minist at Inveresk, and Mr Wixusam Irvine, formerly Minis er ¢ Kirkmichael in Carrick, were consecrated at Edinburgh Bishop Rose of Edinburgh, Bishop Fullarton, and Bishop conar. Bishop Irvine died November 9, 1725. Bishop succeded Bishop Fullarton as Bishop of | Edinburgh, ‘a1 d mus,+ and died October 9, 1727. ©. hiiicitetcnliads. After the death of Bishop Rose of Edinburgh, which hap- pened March 20,1720, 5° “a ‘ ar SRE RE bh ay . wy : o» se aed * Dr George Hickes, formerly Dean of Worceste was conse: Bishop of Peterborough’s Chapel, in the parish of Enfield, February by Dr William Lloyd, Bishop of Norwich; Dr Francis Turner, Bishop and Dr Thomas White, Bishop of Peterborough. » Dr. Lloyd; Dr'T Dr White, were three of the English Bishops who were deprived volution, by the civil power, for not swearing allegiance to Wi were also three of the seven Bishops who had been sent to James II, for refusing to order an illegal proclamation to be > ead -£ESES. bl iy a " } Anciently, no Bishop in Scotland had the title of Archbis them had a precedency, under the title of Primus Scotia Enis sequence of tie Revolution, after the death of Bishop Rose of Edi Scottish Bishops reassumed the old form, one of theni being electe with power of convocating and presiding, according to their can Poa * APPENDIX. ‘i: Se - October 17, 1722.—Mr Anprew Cant, formerly one of the Ministers of Edinburgh, and Mr Davin Frersairn, formerly Minister of Dunning, were consecrated at Edinburgh, by Bi- shop Fullarton, Primus, Bishop Millar, and Bishop Irvine. Bé- shop Cant died in 1728. . Bishop Freebajirn was elected Primus in 1731, afterwards Bishop of Edinburgh, and died in 1739. dune 4, 1727.—Dr Tuomas Rarrray, of Craighall, was consecrated at Edinburgh by Bishop Gadderar, Bishop Millar, , and Bishop Cant. He was appointed Bishop of Dunkeld, suc- ceeded Bishop Freebairn as Primus, and died May 12, 1743. June 18, 1727.--Mr Witi1am Dunzan, formerly Minister*: at.Cruden, and Mr Rozerr Kerrn, Presbyter in Edinburgh, were consecrated at Edinburgh, by Bishop Gadderar, Bishop Millar, and Bishop Rattray. Bishop Dunbar was first appoint- ed Bishop of Moray, and afterwards of Aberdeen, on the death . of Bishop Gadderar in 1733... He died in 1746. Bishop Keith. was first appointed Bishop of Caithness, afterwards of Fife. ‘He was elected Primus after the death of Bishop Rattray, and. died in’ January 1756. June 24, 1735.—Mr Roserr Wuite, Presbyter at Cupar in’ Fife, was consecrated at Carsebank, near Forfar, by Bishop Rattray, Bishop. Dunbar, and Bishop Keith._-He was appoint- ed Bishop of Dunblane, succeeded Bishop Keith as Primus, and died in August 1761. . _ September 10, 1741.—Mr Witiram Fatconar, Presbyter at Forres, Was consecrated at Alloa, ’ by Bishop Rattray, Pri- : Bishop Keith, and Bishop White. He was first appointed ishop of Caithness, afterwards of-Moray ; succeeded Bishop White as Primus, and died in 1784. » October 4,.1742.—Mr James Ra 1T, Presbyter at Dundee, was consecrated at Edinburgh, by Bishop Rattray, Primus, Bishop Keith, and Bishop White. He was appointed Bishop of Brechin, and died in 1777. ) . _ August 19, 1743.—Mr Joun ALEXANDER, Presbyter at Al- ” -® Those Clergymen who, in consequence of the Revolution, were deprived of their parishes, are in this list called ministers: And those who had not heen Parish-Ministers, under the ciyil establishment are called Presbyters. - 586. °° APPENDIX, Net < loa, was consitianinds at Edinburgh, by Bishop Ke Bishop White, Bishop Falconar, and He ot He w: pointed Bishop of Dunkeld, and diedin 1776. ss July 17, 1747.—Mr Anprew GERARD, Présbyter in Abe! deen, was consecrated at Cupar in Fife, by Bishop White ving commission from Bishop Keith, the Primus, for fect) Bishop Falconar, Bishop Rait, and Bishop Ale He was appointed Bishop of Aberdeen, and Wind, tn October 1767. ~ winks , June 24, 1762. _Mr Rozert Forses, Zevlieieia in Leith was consecrated at Forfar by Bishop Falconar, Primus, 2 Alexander, and Bishop Gerard. He was so tn hop o Ross and Caithness, and died in 1776. September 21, 1768.—Mr Rogert Kixcour, Presbyter i Peterhead, was consecrated, at Cupar in Fife, by Bishop Fal conar, Primus, Bishop Rait, and. Bishop Alexander. He y wa appointed Bishop of Aberdeen, succeeded. Bishop “alconar a Primus, in 1784, and died March 22, 1790. be August 24, 1774.—Mr Cuarves Ross, filed was consecrated at Forfar, by Bishop Falconar, Primus, Rait, and Bishop Forbes. He was first appointed Bisl Dunblane, afterwards of Dunkeld, and died in April 1791, June 27, 1776.—Mr Arruur Perris, Presbyter at folla in Fyvie, was consecrated at Dundee, by Bishop Fal Primus, Bishop Rait, Bishop Kilgour, and Bishop Bie was first appointed coadjutor to Bishop Falconar, whom 1 terwards succeeded as Bishop of Neaaneay dahil 1787. colaal SOOM ae HE September 25, 1782.—Mr Joun Sahel Presta berdeen, was consecrated in the Chapel at Luthe Bishop Kilgour, Primus, Bishop Rose, and Bishop Pe was appointed coadjutor to Bishop Kilgour, on whose 1 _ tion he succeeded to the charge of the Diocese of Aberdec in October 1786, and was elected Primus in December 1788. March 7, 1787.—Mr AnpREw MAcFARLANE, Presbyter i Inverness, was consecrated at Peterhead, by Bishop k Primus, Bishop Petrie, and Bishop Skinner. He was ay a ™ ;) = ; APPENDIX. 5BSP* ed:coadjutor to Bishop Petrie, whom he succeeded soon nie as Bishop of Ross and Moray. September 26, 1787.—Dr Wintiam ARERNETHY Driven MOND, one of the Presbyters of Edinburgh, and Mr Joun SrracHAn, Presbyter in Dundee, were consecrated at Peter- head, by Bishop Kilgour, Primus, Bishop Skinner, and Bishop Macfarlane. Bishop Abernethy Drummond was first appoint- ed Bishop of Brechin, afterwards of Edinburgh, which having also resigned, he died Bishop of Glasgow. Bishop Strachan succeeded him as Bishop of Brechin. September 20, 1792.—Mr Jonaruan Warsox, Presbyter at Laurencekirk, was consecrated at Stonehaven, by Bishop Skin- ner, Primus, Bishop Macfarlane, Bishop Abernethy Drum-. mond, and Bishop Strachan. He was appointed Bishop of Dunkeld, that Diocese being vacant by the death of Bishop June 24, 1796.—Mr Avexanver Jorty, Presbyter at Fra- erburgh, was consecrated at Dundee, by Bishop Abernethy Drummond, Bishop Macfarlane, and Bishop Strachan. He was ippointed coadjutor to Bishop Macfarlane, on whose resigna- ion, he succeeded soon after to the oa of the Diocese of Moray. February 9, 1806.—Dante siesuidioel D. D. Presbyter n Edinburgh, was consecrated at Dundee, by Bishop Skinner, Primus, Bishop Watson, and Bishop Jolly. He was appointed of Edinburgh, that Diocese being vacant by the resig= . of Bishop Abernethy Drummond. ay 12, 1808.—Mr Patrick Torry, Presbyter in Pe- erhead, was consecrated at Aberdeen, by Bishop Skinner, cag Bishop Macfarlane, and Bishop Jolly. He was ap- ted Bishop of Dunkeld, that Diocese being vacant by the leath of Bishop Watson. October 30, 1808.—Grorcz Guieic, L\L.D. Aneel. in tirling, was consecrated at Aberdeen, by Bishop Skinner, "rimus, Bishop Jolly, and Bishop Torry. He was appointed. ‘ishop of Brechin, Bishop Strachan, from advanced age, and onsequent mental imbecility, being unequal to the duties of 588 APPENDIX. _ the Episcopal simian B. ‘Hichep tlliguied clected P on Bishop Skinner's death, in 1816. : October 27, 1816.—Mr Wiiu1am Sxinyer, Pi Aberdeen, was consecrated at Stirling by nd Bishop mus, Bishop Jolly, Bishop Sandford, and Bishop * was appointed Bishop of Aberdeen, that Diocese by the death of the former Primus, Bishop Though the districts into which the S DS divided their Church, are not exactly sm Pars. the Dioceses under the legal establishment of Epi iscop they still retain the names by which they were. 0 fa guished, with the exception of St _ Andrews. Ey cesan Bishop has his distinct “charge, and withot Big. ing any other local jurisdiction than what was ack ledged in the primitive Church. for the first three ‘ may as properly be denominated Bishop of the place. assigned to him, as St James has always heen called Jerusalem, Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, or Cyprian, 1 Carthage. On this footing the Episcopal College i in pene at present of. the following members : my in ae PST te e's ‘\ Dr Fi Bishop of Brechin, Pridgen Briel ‘A b 4 ‘Mr Anprew Macrartang, Bishop of Ross, _ Mr Avexanver Jotty, Bishop of Moray Dr SAnprForp, Bishop of Edinburgh. . fe Aes art “he Mr Parricx Torry, Bishop of Dunkeld. Mr Witi1aM Skinner, Bishop of Aberdeen, . :- pte ty ae . +A few more Presbyters have been consecrated Bishops in the Revolution ; but as they had no hand in carrying on L cession, it was thought unnecessary, in making out ; : ie eonsecrations, APPENDIX». §39. a No. II. - Proposed PREAMBLE to the Thirty- -nine 1¢ Articles, when subscribed at Laurencekirk. ' We the Bishops and Clergy of the Episcopal Church in Scots Jand, assembled in a Convocation holden at Laurencekirk in the county of Kincardine, on the 24th day of October in the year of-our Lord 1804, having taken into our serious consider- ation the obligations we lie under to provide, as far as we are able, for the preservation of truth, unity, and concord, in that small portion of the Church of Christ committed to our charge ; and having observed, with regret, that, owing to the confusions of the times, and the various difficulties which the Episcopacy of Scotland had to encounter, even when established by law, ‘no public Confession of Faith has been prescribed or handéd ‘down to us, who have thought it our duty to adhere to that Ec- ‘Clesiastical constitution which we believe to be truly Apostoli- ‘cal ; under these circumstances, we are unanimously of opinion, that it would be highly expedient: to exhibit some public testi-+ mony of our agreement in doctrine and discipline with the Es- tablished Church of England ; and, for that purpose, to give a solemn declaration of our assent to her Thirty-nine Articles of Religion, in the form and manner of subscription required by the act of the 32d of his present Majesty, intitled, an “ Act for granting Relief to Pastors, Ministers, and Lay-persons of the Episcopal Communion in Scotland.” Resolved, therefore, as we now are, by the grace of Almigh- ‘ty God, to adopt these Articles as the public test or standard of the religious principles of our Church, so far as they are ap- plicable to its present situation, we deem it our bounden duty, from a conscientious regard to the truth as it_is in Christ, to of- fer a few observations on the doctrine of the 17th and 25th, and the peculiar design of the 35th, 36th, and 37th Articles. I, With regard to the doctrine of the 17th Article, on the sub- ject. of Predestination and Election, it is with extreme concern that we perceive the great diversity of opinion which has long - 540 APPENDIX. } prevailed, and still does prevail, even among the Clergy of the Church of England, with respect to the true and genuine sen of this Article ; some contending, very poe wee to be understood in the rigorous, exclusive, Calvi as establishing the doctrine of - 118 _ Mr Dundas confesses the Chancellor's 2 gpa are | unintelligible tohim,. - - . 116 _ Lord Kinnaird moves the weston reading of the pill : , The Chancellor’s adjournment, - - 117 The case represented to the Bishop of Bangor, - 117 _~ He declines a conference, = - - 120 _. The Bishops thank the Archbishop for his attentions, 121 _ ‘They return from Lendon, - . - 122 ) An attempt made bya printed address te denounce | their conduct, - Sto pm has - ib. The address recorded, - - - - 123 Convention summoned at Laurencekirk, - - 126 Bishop Skinner's address to the Convention, Pant)" ab. They elect a preses and elerk, - - = 128 - The business of the Convention opened from the chair, 129 |Bishop Skinner refutes the charges in the printed address, 131 The Convention thank the Bishops for their zeal, alac- rity, and diligence, when in London, - - 188 they are addressed by Bishop Macfarlane to that a pose, - Se ele <2) Jat panther gt REO | The Convention nominates a Committee for canying on” the measure of repeal, _- - - 140 | The Convention makes choice of Trustees for the chari- _©\. table Funds of the Church, - “ - 141 It is dissolved, - = - - ae » ib. _ The London Committee agreed to carry on a corres- f ' pondence with the Committee in Scotland, - 142 Bishop Skinner is addressed by the venerable Dean of - a _ Canterbury, Pe eee - + 148 _ 1790.—From page 144 to page 185. _ The Committee transmit letre:s to the Lord Chancellor ; and to the Attorney and Solictor-General, - 144 to Ea 568 INDEX. PACE. - ¥790.—The manner in which they are received, = 145 Lord Gardenston interests himself with the Chaneellor, 147 Cause of failure last year explained by the Attorney- — General, - - - . eu 148 He is convinced that an oath of allegiance i is sufficient 149 Bishop Skinner calls 4 meeting of the Scottish Commit-— tee at Perth, ee ea 2a bent (f ib. The Case of the Episcopalians in Scotland reprinted at) the desire of the Bishop of Banger, - - 150 The Committee, being met at Perth, is unanimous for an immediate renewal of the measure of repeal of the penal statutes, - - - ocGhows 15H The Committee addresses the Universities of Oxford — “and Cambridge, - - am Dpeaial 6 152 The Preses and Secretary are carpe to correspond — with the London Committee, - oh cess The Archbishop is satisfied with the steps taken, = ~ © ib. He sees no necessity for a delegation to London, == ib. Sir William Dolben tenders his aid, ay dob ited 7 A Clause proposed in the Bill restricting Scottish or=— ders to Scotland, - - ence ae vl Communicated by Bishop Skinner to the Committee, © who remonstrate, - . a0 gM ar boot. ia Dr Gaskin communicates Bishop Horsley’s opinion on ~ the subject, > - - - 0 16R Bishop Horsley suggests an addition to the clause, “160 Bishop Skinner’s sentiments of it to Dr Gaskin, = 161 Bishop Horsley is anxious for instances of persons pur- posely ordained in England to officiate in Scotland, 170 The Chancellor’s objections stated, hae iets 4 Bishop Skinner gives instances of persons ordained in — England, for no other purpose but officiating in Scotland 172 He obviates Lord Thurlow’s ——? by an express — : ¥ disavowal of them - - - 0 35) ie The Bishop of Carlisle gives Principal Campbell’s senti- ments of the repeal, &e. ~ oii tri we 76 he An 4 a 4 INDEX, 5698 4% PAGE. “A790. —For which Bishop Skinner thanks the Principal, _ 176 _ | The repealing Bill postponed for another session, . - 177 F The Diocesan Synod of Aberdeen approves of the con- _«-» duct of the Committee, . - - 182 _. Mr Park visits Scotland, - - - - 183 _. Principal Robertson empowers him to use his name. as ' . friendly to repeal. - 2 pe a 18% 1791.—From page 185 to page ‘186, although, by mistake _... of the printer, the running title 1791, is carried-on to page 216. . The English Bishops abies and their interest soli- +. cited, - - - 185 : Letters from Principals Robertson and Canpbelt to the Bishop of Carlisle, in favour of the Bill, - - ib. _ Conference obtained with the Lord Chancellor, - . 186 Bill again too late for this session, - - 186 (1792.—From page 187 to page 261. po Addresses from the counties and royal siihientkota _ Scotland in favour of a repeal - 187 ne of the Scottish Committee required in rated phao Bishop Skinner the delegate commissioned... - 188 _ The Earl of Kellie presents the petitions from Scotland, » and moves the Bill, - - - - 189 The Chancellor objects, unless registration of orders is enforced, - - - - 190 “Mi other objections about an Pretender, &c. all refuted, 191 Dr. Horsley ready to combat every argument against + 4 ey ¥ ~ - y _ the Bill, - 193 The Earls of Guilford aa. Kinnoul, with ao taba i. see no necessity for registering orders, - 194 The second reading moved for the second of May, ..-. . ib. The names of Bishops present on the occasion, - ib. The speech of the mover of the Bill, the Earl of. Hers 195 ) The speech of Lord Thurlow, ._ - - meted ib. _ Thespeech of Lord Stormont, = - - 199 The speech of Bishop Horsley, ., « ~yit deedtenis 208 _ The speech of the Earl of Kinnoul, _- : 218 _ Subscription to the Thirty-nine Articles required - 214 ‘ The Clergy restricted from enjoying English benefices 216 570 INDEX. PAGE. 1792.—Earl of Radnor adverse to the clause = = ~—Ss«28 An addition proposed to the restricting clause, - ib. The Bill reported, and ordered to be Earee, with amend- ments, ° - OR St ie Ute ie Found by the Commons to be a money bill, and thrown out, - - - RE Seas 219 ‘Speech of Mr Fox on the occasion, = By tay ‘ib. Replied to by Mr Dundas, - - pt) ahaa ib. A new bill brought in, ‘and read a first and second | time, : ib. The bill passed with the royal assent; ~~" ')=) 9% ib. Heads of the Bill recorded Lodi, GPA aR Aaah gal Pieces of plate. &c. presented to the Loudel Comtaditi 230 Letter from Dr Gaskin in reply, - th fha Sa 31 Bishop Skinner’s return to Aberdeen, and the consequent — application to him for a Convention of the Church, Convention summoned to meet at Laurencekirk, - ib. Letters of thanks from the Committee to pee friends “of “e , the Bill of Repeal, —- - On ae ‘The replies recorded, - 2 ON MO aa Introduction of English ordained Clergy’ into Scotland / | accounted for, ec da Yo ia Application to the Lord Bishop of Bainbileih for’ such” oi a Clergyman in the town of Forfar, ~~ 2)" 9g Union in Banff between the aie “_? Scottish Cha- pels consummated, ~ - - eT ee ' Convention meets at Laurencekirk, August 22, F220 Bishop Skinner addresses that body on the subject of the Bill of Repeal, and its enactments, ~ - 246—95 phi The Convention unanimously approves of the ting of the Committee, and of its delegate, = = = - 255 - Account of contributions to defray the ns yg nes the 4 Bill, - - - Low /sid The College of Bishops meet at Stotitbal for the ere e 3 secration of Bishop Watson, &c. - Pe 98T | Mr Dundas, (Lord Melville,) expresses his conviction of — $ the loyalty, &c. of the Bishops and ait of ae ed Scottish Episcopal Church, - o 250 ‘7 a INDEX. 571 di eel PAGE. 1792—The Diocesan Synod of Aberdeen give their public assent to the truth of the 39- Articles of the Church of England, ° - - 259 They thank the Society for promoting Christian none ledge, in London, for their donation of Prayer Books, 261 1793—From p. 261, to 273. War being declared by France against Britain,—the Bi- _Shops and Clergy publish declarations of loyalty, &c. 262 That of the Diocese of Aberdeen recorded, - 263 Ecclesiastical unity and concord most interesting to the Primus and the Scottish Episcopate, - - 265 Mr Boucher, Vicar of Epsom, proposed as Bishop of Edinburgh, = - - - - 266 ‘The proposal abandoned on account of unfounded alarm, 268 The Friendly Society Act passed, and the Scottish Epis- -copat Friendly Society founded, wai Hette 271 Its flourishing condition, - - - 272 1794.—From p. 273 to p. 282. Mode ofestablishing its funds, and Brief by the Bishops, 273 1795.—His Majesty addressed in consequence of insults of- fered him,.29th October 1795, - ~ 282 1796. —A Co-adjutor proposed in the diocese of Ross and _ Moray, » = = - - 283 Bishep Skinner, as Primus,- adverse to the measure, ib. Bishop Jolly consecrated at Dundee, 24th June, = 28k » The right hand of fellowship speedily extended to him by Bishop Skinner, - - - 284 1800.— An address of congratulation to his Majesty on his escape from the shot of Hadfield’s pistol, : 285 1801.—From p. 285 to 297. _ Layman’s * Account of his Faith and Practice,’ edited by Bishop Skinner, - - - - ib. Nature and effects of that admirable little work, - 286 _ Character of it, as drawn by men of approved ‘sound principles, - - - - 289-—294. - Union in the country parish of Cruden, Aberdeenshire, 294 » Application to the Earl of Errol to this effect, 295 572 INDEX. PAGE, 1801—His Lordship’s conduct, errr in favour of the measure, — - - = te EL a7" 1802—From p. 297 to 300. tobe: SR Definitive treaty of peace being ratified, the Scottish = shops address the Throne, - ba In a note—the address of the Epes Clergy of the — | Diocese of Aberdeen to Queen Anné, on the peace pei Utrecht, ~- + - Se te! 1803 —From p. 300 to 325. petal Renewal of the war, and consequent conduct of the Scottish Episcopalians, - ~ 301—312 The liberal conduct of the Principeanysstanaedatin Edinburgh, and Campbell of Aberdeen, on occasion of the repeal of the Penal Statutes, = - = = 818. Principal Campbell’s « Lectures on Ecclesiastical His- tory’—illiberal in the extreme, - - -~-0 Sie Mr Daubeny’s strictures on these Lectures, - 818 Bishop Skinner’s work,—< Primitive Truth and Order,’ . in answer to the Lectures, A Character given of that work, - - 320—392 Union in the towns of Peterhead and Stonehaven effected $23 Of which the Bishop of Durham approves, == = = i Dr Laing of Peterhead returns Bishop Skinner thanks for his congratulations, ee b 1$04.—From 326 to 363. vt Death of Mr Boucher, - SE TUT gy Te His loyalty in America congenial with ~ of Scottish by a Episcopalians, - - . zoel ae Measure of union in Edinburgh revived, + = = $29 Dr N. Spens communicates the sentiments of an amiable bi a young Layman on the subject, - sil eA Passage of Bishop Skinner's * Primitive Truth and Order,’ A with these sentiments, - : at es ga 2 _ A Convocation of the whole Clerical Membersof the Scot- tish Episcopal Church determined on, as the only mode of carrying the Layman’s suggestions into ott Circular letter for assembling the said convocation, — : ro. INDEX, ; 573 PAGE, 1804—Dr Sandford’s resolution in consequence, = - 335 Bishop Skinner's view of the 39 Articles communicated to Dr Sandford, - aS yee <2 wit 338 Interesting communication Sen Sir William Forbes on the subject, - +. - - - = - 340 Account of the convocation, and the mode of conducting the subscription of the 39 Articles, - 344— 350 The measure communicated to the Archbishops and Bi- shops of England, - - - - - 356 And to the Honourable Dr Lindsay, Bishop of Kildare in Ireland, with the whole Irish Bench, - - 351 Returns to this communication, - £ 852—358 Dr Sandford’s unionin consequence, - - + 3359 The Bishop of London, Dr Porteous’ high iin’ of this union, - - - + - - 361 1805.—From 363 to 399. The Trustees and Vestry-men of the Cowgate Chapel in Edinburgh unite themselves, - - = - 363 Sir William Forbes corresponds with Sir William Scott on the subject, - - - = - - 364 The Deed of the Trustees, &c. of the Cowgate Chapel recorded, - - - = - - . 366 Bishop Skinner acknowledges receipt, &c. &c. = - 368 Mr Morehead’s settlement in Edinburgh, and consequent union, = - - . - 374 Bishop Skinner addresses that gentleman, > 373 Bishop Hors/ey’s great satisfaction on the Edinburgh ‘union - - - - - 374 Nature of the lawsuit regarding the Banff Chapel, as communicated to Bishop Horsley, - - S76 Bishop Horsley’s exertions towards defraying the ex- pence of that suit, - - - . 378 Amount of contributions by the English Bench, - 381 The cordial thanks of-the parties concerned transmitted to Bishop Horsfey, Elbe - 382 Bishop Skinner's private gratitude to that Prelate and his venerable Colleagues, - - - 384 574 INDEX a 1905—Dr Grant's apology. for continuing a schismatic ) That apology of a piece with Captain Cumming’s egal ti process, = - - ots tetera - - 387 Sir William Scoft’s opinion of union diametrically oppo" 4 site to Dr Grant’s, - - - - sed: 889, 4 Bishop Horsley chastises the ‘Anoka of Separation, pat 391 Yet he lives and dies a separatist, - dua ety 998% Dr Dampier, bishop of Rochester's account of Dr Grant's ~ letter tohim, - - . - - =~ mie, BOE Sir William Scott’s judgment coniplétely satisfactory to . Mr Alison, - - nee af 994 His letter to Bishop Skinner, a comnbaci to the Apo- logy for Separation,, - - - - 395 Bishop Skinner's cordial approbation of Mr Alison's conduct, - - - - = . 397 Mandate issued for the election of a ie for the dio- cese of Edinburgh, - ~ - 399 1806—From p. 399 to 446. Bishop Skinner’s view of the subject communicated to Sir William Forbes, - -- - - - - “400 Bishop Sandfora’s unanimous election, ib. Interesting paper subscribed by the English seditind members of the diocese on that occasion. - 401 Congratulations from Sir William Forbes on the choice of the Clergy,- -- - - 402 Consecration takes place on the oth Febtuary at Dundee, 404 Bishop Skinner’s address to his new colleague, i alca Progress-of union in 1806, - es 420 Bishop Horsley’s “ highest satisfaction” at this progress, 421 Bishop-Portcous thinks Dr Sandford a great acquisition, 423 — : Bishop Madan prays for the further — of ee r pal union in Scotland, ~ - ADA Bishop Douglas gives his own and the Archhishop’ 8 opi- ; nion of that union, - - aly Wading ibsey - And hopes that no more young men wil be sent from England to serve in Scotland, - “ 425 Sir William Forbes’s account of Bishop Sandford’s first Confirmation, - - = - 426. INDEX. 575 PAGE. 1806.—The Episcopal Fund established,—to which Sir William contributes L.400, ° - — 498 Account of its origin, &c. &c. - - 429 Bishop Skinner meets his Clergy and delivers a Charge, which they request him to print, - ~ 433 Account of that Charge, - AS4: Deaths of Bishop Horsley and. of Sit William Forbes, 436 Mr Skinner’s Verses on the latter, - - 438 Bishop -Horsley’s sentiments of the Scottish Communion Office, - - - ve 439 | Alarm excited by Bishop Skinner's printed Ghatsen é &e. 440 Bishop Skinner obviates it by Letter, ea we 442 1807—from p. 446 to 468, Deaths of Mrs Skinner, Mr Skinner, Longside, nie Mr Stevens, - - - “ 446 Account of Mr Stevens and his demise, “ ~ 450 - Bishop Shinner recurs to his printed Charge, and to the Note announcing his Son’s Illustration of the Scottish - Communion Office, ~ - - 454 The alarm respecting .that Work principally felt by Friends to the increase of the Scottish Episcopal Fund, 457 The-purpose of the Work stated, - - 461 Its success pronounced. complete, - - 464 But the time of its publication deemed unpropitious, 465 This objection refuted by Bishop Skinner, - -) 466 1808—From p. 468 to 479. Death of Bishop Watson, and account of that excellent man, - - - - - . 468 y His Successor nominated, - ~ - 471 ' The Rev. Dr Gileig elected to the Diocese of Brechin, ib. Bishop Skinner addresses the Bap oer - 472 Dr Gleig replies, - - - ATS The Declaration, as subscribed i Bidhsio Torry, pro-. posed to Dr Glezg, - - - ° 475 He accepts the Episcopal office by subscribing it, +~ 477 His Consecration, and Mr Horsley’s Sermon, . - 479 » 576 INDEX. ; PAGE. 1809 and 1810-—From p. 479 to p. 505. abe Deaths of Bishop Abernethy Drummond and Strachan, 479 Account of these Prelates,. - - - 480 Thanksgiving on his Majesty’s entering on the 50th year of his reign, - - nO hag 481 Addressed by the Scottish Bishops, sai Ye \que.. ib. Clergy of the Scottish Episcopal Church first noticed i in» | Orders of Council, - - - avid) 482@ Union at Musselburgh, _— ‘ie al pp bedi - ib. | Correspondence during the years 1809 and 1810 leads ' to the framing of a Code of Canons in 1811, =» 483 Bishop Gleio’s primary Charge, - 8 484 | Character of Bishop Skinner, by the Rev. James Walker, 484 Correctness of that Character exemplified, - 485 Bishop Skinner discusses the point of Liturgical Uni- formity with Bishop Glezg, - - ~ 486 And is justified by the Annalist, - - - 494. Bishop Gleig justifies his opinions, - - 488 Bishop Skinner is not satisfied with the mode of justi- fication, : - . - - 502 1811.—He views the measure of a Council, or Episcopal Synod, more favourably, - - - 505 And proposes it to his Colleagues, : - ib. He accounts to Bishop Cen fiae for the want of a proper Code of Discipline, - - - - 506 Bishop Sandford, with the other Members of the’ Col- lege, agrees to an immediate Enactment, = = + 508 The Synod fixed, and Members who should compose it, ib. The mode of ea ks its hee &c. &c. record- ed, : 509—517 The hierarchy of the United Church of “England and Ireland presented with the Canons, when printed, 517 Names of the Prelates who returned answers to Bishop. | Skinner's letter, - - - ras! 519° ys The conclusion of Bishop Skinner's labial in the ge- [i neral cause of Scottish Episcopacy, * = ibe ry lad i] —r”hCOUL SUS INDEX. 577 PAGE. 1811.-16.—The difficulties which surrounded him, when ; appointed Primus, - . 520 The powerful support, &c. afforded him by his Bia Father, = = - e ie 522 The Annalist disdains all interference with the measures, &c. of other Members of the Episcopal College, 524: And concludes in the Language of the a adegeaats of Bishop Horne, - - - 525 Whose character of Scottish Episcopacy, with that of the present President of Magdalene. College, Oxford, sums up the Annals, - THE END. Printed by John Moir, Edinburgh, 1813. ell w* 7 al wm 7 WORKS. LATELY PUBLISHED BY ALEX. BROWN & COMPANY, ABERDEEN. ie Pit 2653 THE FOUR GOSPELS, Translated from the Greek, swith Preliminary Disser- : tations and Notes, Critical and Explanatory. By Gzoncr Camrsect, D.D. Prin- cipal of Marischal College, Aberdeen. In 4 vols. 8vo. Price L2, 2s. LECTURES ON ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY, ‘to which is added, an Essay on Christian Temperance and Self-Denial. By Grorce CamesELL, D.D. Principal of the Marischal College, Aberdeen. 2 vols. $vo. L.1, 1s. An ESSAY on the EXISTENCE of a SUPREME CREATOR, possessed Infinite Power, Wisdom, and Goodness. By Wiit1am LavRENcE Brown, D. D. Principal of Marischal College and University of Aberdeen, to which Mr Bur- NETT?’s First Prize of 1.1200, was adjudged. 2 vols. 8vo. rae it SERMONS, on Several Subjects and Occasions, by the late Sues Rrppo: A.M. oneof the Ministers of St Paul’s Chapel, Aa 4th Edition, 3 Vals 8yvo. 24s. % ” r dl A LAYMAN’S ACCOUNT OF HIS FAITH AND PRACTICE, as Member of the Hpiscopal Church in Scotland: To which is annexed, the COD! of CANONS of the Eriscora' Cuurcu in Scotland. 2d et 12mo. 3s. is PRINCIPLES OF CHRISTIAN EVIDENCE ILLUSTRATED, by am Examination of Arguments subversive of Natural Theology and the Internal E i- dence of Christianity, advanced by Dr T. Cuatmers, in his “ Evidence and Authority of the Christian Revelation.” By Duncan Mzarns, D. D. Profes- sor of Theology in King’s College and University, Aberdeen. 9s. boards. OFFICE FOR THE SACRAMENT OF THE LORD’S SUPPER, HOLY COMMUNION, ACCORDING TO THE USE oF THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH IN SCOTLAND. WITH A PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION, oN THE DOCTRINE OF THE EUCHARISTICAL SACRIFICE } A COPIOUS LOCAL ILLUSTRATION, AND AN f APPENDIX, CONTAINING THE COLLATION OF OFFICES, &c. Drawn up by the late Dr. Samuer.Horstey, Lord Bishop of St. Asapka ) * By the Rev. JOHN SKINNER, A. M. Ri 2 Ta apyase «bn xpurar2.—Coneil. Nicen. Librum sacerdotalem quis nostrum resignare audeat ? signatum a confessoribus ef multorum jam martyrio consecratum. } AMBROSE, _ The evil taking of the Eucharist disunites us from God ; and the evil understands ing of it divides us from each other. Jeremy Taytor. Gberdeen: PRINTED BY J. CHALMERS AND COMPANY, 1807, 35 i PREFACE. vite = == give the enquiring reader every information on this important subject, which he can desire; the Author has, to the whole, appended a Collation of the four Offices for the holy Commu- nion used in Britain, since the xra of the reformation. -In the accuracy of this Collation the public will implicitly confide, when informed, that the late profoundly learned Dr. SamMuEL ~ Horstey, Lord Bishop of St. Asaph, was the collator. Having thus developed his plan, the Author has only humbly to hope, that the execution may, in things essential, be found to correspond with it. His object being, along with truth to Study compression, he has admitted only such matter as he _ deemed completely relevant and appropriate. He may not al- ways have selected the work, or the particular passage, most il- lustrative of his subject, for this reason’ among others, that they were not always within his reach. But he challenges any one to produce a passage quoted, the purport of which does not Strictly accord with the standard faith of the Church of Christ in her purest ages. Here is nothing introduced without unex- ceptionable warrant ; nothing of late beginning : Here is no ap- plication to Saints or Angels ; no worshipping of images; no praying of the dead out of purgatory; Here is no adoration of the consecrated elements, nothing that supposes a corporal pre- sence, either by way cf transubstantiation, consubstantiation, or of infusion! In short, here is nothing set down, as contended for, _ Oras practised, but what is strictly scriptural and Strictly primitive ; having been adopted by the Church universal, before any modern Sects or systems hada being! For, in the words of the great council of Ephesus—xarayyerrovres Toy Bauveroy Te povoyeres “wie zs rz, TET’ ecw lace Xess, Thy TE ex yexeay avaeiacsy, HMb THY C15 Becves cy= wandiv omoroysvres THY MvemanTey Ev Tels sxxAnoias TEABLEY buotey— shewing forth the death of the only begotten Son of God, * that is of Jesus Christ, as also confessing his resurrection from * the dead, and his ascension into heaven—wr CELEBRATE IN “ OUR CHURCHES THE UNBLOODY SACRIFICE,” : ae Pid ERRATA. , ytadack sxe Page 15. line 8. for viz. read err. ea. Page 47. line 2 of the Note, put the foint after the bas England and not time, asin Ime 3. ~ . . a oe Page 54. line 16. for the read thee. . Page 128. line 23. for occurs read occur, and line 26, for x« read uate "Page 134. last line of the Note, for shri read that. gj, BOR ‘Page 154. line 19. for is read was. : ; . ‘Ad gS ; rate aN we he « ¢3 Vie “4 2 = tai f ’ wo “ © va ¥ vi Le 7 er Z, x ‘ TO JAMES ALLAN PARK, Esquire, ONE OF HIS MAJESTY’S COUNSEL, &c. &c. &c. LONDON. 4) Dear Sir, IN testimony of my sincere respect and esteem, three most powerful considerations prompt me to mscribe this little volume to you: First, your laudable and very useful endeavours to promote “ a Srequent re- ception of the Holy Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper 2? Secondly, your zealous and unwearied exertions in behalf f the Episcopal Church in Scotland: And Lastly, the ardent and truly disinterested friendship with which, for a series of years, you have honoured the Senior Bishop of that Church, the beloved Father of, Dear Sir, Your faithful, obliged, and Very grateful Servant, - _ J. SKINNER, ; _ FORFAR, April 11th, 1807, { SS PREFACE. Ee « Ip i, important to state,” writes the learned author of a late valuable Consecration Sermon, “ because I imagine it has been ** very generally overlooked, that the principles which we” (the Episcopal Church in Scotland) « profess, have been maintained “ in England, in Ireland, and among ourselves, from the first *¢ dawning of the reformation, down to this present time, by men “¢ who have never had any superiors in learning, talents, and ** virtue; and they are, at this moment, professed and maintained *¢ by the first names which grace the Church of England, and the -.- ** republic of Letters *.? To shew that this statement contains no vague assertion, hazarded at random, is the purpose of the ~ present publication. The Episcopal Church in Scotland having adopted the same articles of religion with the United Church of England and Ire- Jand, one would have thought, that even the suspicion of a dif- ference, in the principles of the two Churches, would have been for ever laid to sleep. But no! the Scotch Communion Office is adduced as an instance of a difference even now subsisting ! Whether adduced correctly or otherwise will, by and bye, be " fade to appear. The Author regrets that no one, possessed of talents better Stted to the work, and enjoying access to more ample sources — of ¥ See Preface to the Sermon preached at the Consecration of the present Bishes ef Edinburgh 6 PREFACE. of information, should have thought of such an undertaking. — But he trusts, that the purity cf his motives will, in some re- spects, balance the defects of his performance.—** Throughout s¢ this Treatise,” to use the language of Dr. Vicesimus Knox, _ “‘ his wish has been to be supported by the opinion of great «© scholars, and good men, who were and are the ornaments — «¢ of their times. He hopes, therefore, to be sheltered under «¢ their wings from the shafts of angry heretics, and sophists, «* which are often tipt with poison, though shot from a feeble © bow *.” Thetask which the Author has assigned to himself embraces the labour of the compiler, of the editor, and of the illustrator. He has long regretted, that the Communion Office of the Church, in whichhe has the honour to serve, should only be found in the form of a fourpenny sheet of printed paper; and that re- pret has been of late years encreased, from his having heard the sarcastic sneer of ignorance levelled at this invaluable composi- tion, on account of the form of its publication: But simply to have republished the Office would have left this subject of re- — gret unremoved : besides, circumstances have occurred, which require that the undertaking should be extended, and that, how soon a néw edition of our eucharistical Service was thought of, there should be prefixed, not merely an historical account of that service from its commencement downward; but also an enquiry into the doctrines which it involves; shewing either their confor sity with the doctrines of the Church of England, as we are bold to assert, or their xon-conformity with the doctrines of that Church, as others have with equal boldness asserted: Such pre= | liminary matter, however, could only with propriety, regard ¢ the general tenour of our Altar Service. To point out the scope of each individual part and portion of it, demanded another mode of treatment. viz. that of local illustration here used.— While to p. ‘give ae * See Knox’s Considerations on the Lord’s Supper, page 242, PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION, —= 58908 S——— « "THE Lord Jesus, the same night in which he wa’ _“ betrayed, took bread ; and when he had given thanks ** he brake it, and said ¢ take, eat; this is my body, which ** is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me.’— *¢ After the same manner also he took the cup, when he ** had supped, saying, ‘ this cup is the New Testament “¢ in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in re- -** membrance of me *.’’. This command, given by him, “ of whom the whole -* family, in heaven and earth, is named,” is of that de- finite, and positive nature, that not to believe it to be of universal obligation were to deny the authenticity of scrip- ture, and to say in our hearts, that God never did reveal his willto man. This being the case, how nearly does B if _* The words of Institution are recorded by St. Matt. (xxvi. 26.), St. Mark, (Ziv. 22.), St. Luke, (xxii. 19.) and by St. Paul,(1 Cor. xi. 23.) The preference here given to the record of St. Paul, originated in his own express declaration, “that he had “ received of the Lord, that which be delivered’? on this subject ;—thus “pledging himself, as it were, for the strictest verbal accuracy in reporting what his blessed Master revealed_to him, as his own positive Institution, and imdispen- sible command. ‘ eee 10 PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. _ it concern the Christian world to know the true nature and import of the words, in which this command, of uni- versal obligation, is conveyed : since either we must “ eat *¢ the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of Man,” in the manner, which he has appointed, or, on his own authority, rest assured, that ‘* there is no life in us ?””— The words of the command seem plain and intelligible, | so long as every man is permitted to interpret them, in the manner dictated by his own preconceived opinions, or by the opinions of the sect or party to which he belongs. But that they only seem to be plain and intelligible, is sufficiently obvious from the many discor- dant interpretations, which have from time to'time, been imposed upon them. Papist, and Protestant, Lutheran, Calvinist and Socinian—all—hold opinions of their own on this subject—while all believe, that the true nature, and import of our Saviour’s institution and’ command sanction those opinions. If ever the question of Nico- demus was appropriate, surely we may here apply it— and ask, ‘ How can these things be? How! but for the following evident reason, assigned by a late learned Prelate of the American Church.—** The Papist, the ** Lutheran, the Calvinist, the Socinian,” writes Bishop SEABURY, “ all differ in their opinions on this subject— “< all appeal to Holy Scripture, and all are sure, that they “< are right, and that they who differ from them are | “* wrong. ‘This happens, because they all construe the % words of institution by principles, previously adopted, © “¢ or in which they have been bred; and are, a *¢ less careful to examine their pbinciptel and correct them, ‘< where they are WHER Be than to seek out such i calor a PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION« il “ tations of Scripture, as shall, apparently at least, com. “ port with their own preconceived system *.” The Church of England ‘has been well denominated, * The Bulwark of the Reformation.’ To that Church the Episcopal Church in Scotland, under God, stands in debted, not merely for her preservation as a Church, but for the orthodoxy of her faith, and for the purity of her forms and discipline. No wonder then, that, amid the daily increasing perplexities of modern error, she should cleave to such a bulwark for defence, when at any time the purity of her faith and practice is called in question. It being, therefore, the stedfast, the undis- guised belief of the Scottish Episcopal Church, that, in order. ‘correctly to ascertain the ature and extent of every positive Institution of our religion, (that of the Sa- crament of the Lord’s Supper more especially,) and of the words used by the Divine Institutor, recourse must be had to the doctrines, the principles, and practice of the Primitive and Apostolical Church of Christ, before the corruptions of Popery, or the errors of Socinus, of Lu: 4 and of Calvin, had a being ;—in this, the ground and pillar of her belief, is she, or is she not, supported by the avowed doctrine of the Church of England? * ~ No one requires to be told, that the doctrine of ‘the Church of England, stands expressed in her’ . Liturgy, im her Homilies, in her Ar ticles, in her Canéns, and i in the. Writings of her first reformed and truest sons: In the preface to her Liturgy, when treating: “of the B2 er yA Scéres $ TEA See « Discourse on the Holy Eucharist,” in the 1st vol. of Bishop sab printed Sermons, inscribed to the Clergy of Connecticut and Rhode Islartd=_pub- ished i in the year 1793, q - a ¢ Pies a 12 PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. ceremonies of the Church,’ this is the language of the — Church of England—‘ Surely where the old may well - <¢ be used, there men cannot reasonably reprove the old «© only for their age, without bewraying of their own « folly. For in such a case they ought rather to have “ reverence unto them for their antiquity, if they will ee declare themselves to be more studious of unify and concor/, than of innovations and new-fangleness, whic h (as asi as may be with true setting forth of Christ’ religion) is always to be eschewed !” In her Jrticles (become also the articles of the Epis copal Church in Scotland,) the Church of England joins the custom of the Primitive Church in authority with the word of God itself. It is (see the 24th Article) a thing “¢ plainly repugnant to the word of God, and the custom “° of the Primitive Church, &c. In her Homilies, (see Homily concerning the Sacrae ment, Part ist.) the Church of England speaks expres _ Ty to the point—‘ But before all things, this we must be “© sure of especially, that this (the Lord’s) Supper be in “© such wise done and muinistred, as our Lord and Saviour ‘© did, and commanded to be done, as his holy Apos les “« used it, and ss good Fathers of the Primitive Church « frequented it.” While her Canons declare, (see Can. 30.) that the Church of England, “ has only departed << from the Churches of Italy, &c. in those particular <¢ points, wherein they were fallen both from themselves “© in their ancient integrity, and from the Apostolical “ Churches, which were their first founders *.” n an n n a nn So ‘- - * S¢ Tt is the glory of our English Church,” writes Mr Marshall, “ and what a ik PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. 13 So much for the public, the avowed testimony of the Church of England, in support of the doctrine main- tained, as above, by the Episcopal Church in Scotland, which testimony, an appeal to the writings of the first reformed and truest sons of the English Church, will be found to strengthen, in such a manner, as to preclude all controversy on the subject. When treating of the ‘mode, by which he was to settle himself and others, in a right sense of the Sacrament of our Lord’s Supper, Poinet, Bishop of Winchester, in the reign of Edward the Sixth, declares it to be his opinion, that, in distin- guishing fruth from falsehood, and in adopting some fixed principle, by which he might not only satisfy him- self, but give a reason for this principle, if need be, to him that asketh, his duty was ‘ to resort to the autho- “¢ rity of Holy Scripture, and to the non-ambiguous tes- 6 timony of the fathers *.” _ A few pages after, he adds, ‘‘ Although we are not to <¢ place our faith on men, but on the word of God, yet *«¢ when they confirm their judgment by the authority of “© Scripture, it is very much for the advantage of pious _“ minds, and such as are desirous of truth, to consider, * how so many eminently holy and learned men under- « stood the words of Scripture, and with great agreement << transmitted « she often boasts of, that she is the nearest of any now in the Christian world to the Primitive model. It is not, I presume, denied that she might be nearer * still; and if her glory be great for being so near, it would certainly be greater “ if she were yet nearer.”—See Preface to his Translation of Cyprian. * Officii mei esse existimavi—quid verum sit, quid secus, investigare ; tum ex " autoritate sacrz scripture, “ et non-ambiguis patrum testimoniis, certam aliquam _ «# sententiam .statuere, qua possim et ipse mihi satisfacere, et rationem illius, si ~ * opus sit, petenti reddere,”—Diallacticon viri boni et literati, pag. 2. 7 fy 14 PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. “ transmitted their interpretations to posterity, mor can “* he be excused from rashness, that shall dare to contemn © so great authority *.” In his * Apology for the Church of England,’ Jaweiigll Bishop of Salisbury, in the reign ,of Queen Elizabeth, _ makes the following confession:—‘ We have ‘always “ looked upon the Primitive Church of Christ :and his ‘** Apostles, and of the Holy Fathers to be Catholic, nor ‘* do we scruple to call it the ark of Noah, the bride of “‘ Christ, the pillar and ground of truth, or to place “© the assurance of our Salvation upon it t.” In the same reign flourished Dr. WurteirT, pare bishop of Canterbury. Ina work of his, entitled, *“ De- ‘© fence of the Answer to the Admonition,’? occurs the following pertinent language—“ I have in,sundry points “‘ declared the use of the Church of Christ, in times ‘* past, and do use the testimony of ancient Councils and * learned Fathers, which these unlearned men unlearn-— * edly contemn—a thing not heard of in sd age or © Church },” &c. In the Convocation book of the learned Over att, Bishop — Cal bal . " * « Quanquam fides nostra non homimibus, sed verbo Dei nititur, tamen quum ~ © ijli sententiam suam autoritate Scripture muniant, utile est admodum piis ani+ ‘© mis, et veritatis cupidis considerare, quo pacto tot eximii pietate ac doctrina “ viri Scripture verba intellexerint, magnoque consensu ad posteros interpreta-— “ tiones suas transmiserint, neque temeritatis culpam effugiet, qui tantam audebit “ autoritatem contemnere.”’—Diallact. pag. 14, ‘ + Nos Christi, et Apostolorum, et sanctorum patrum Primitivam ecclesiam sem= per judicavimus esse Catholicam, nec eam dubitamus arcam Noe, sponsam Christi, — columnam et firmamentum veritatis appellare, aut in ea omnem salutis nostra: ra — Le tionem collocare—Apoll. p. 80. Lond. 1686, } Defence of the Answer, &c, p. 93. PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. 15 } == Bishop of Norwich, in the reign of James the First of England, there isa Canon, which decrees— If any man *¢ shall affirm—that, whilst men do labour to bring into ** discredit the ancient Fathers and Primitive Churches, ** they do not derogate from themselves such credit, as “¢ they hunt after, and, as much as in them lieth, bring ** many parts of religion into a wonderful uncertainty, “ &c. he doth greatly, viz. * ** Let us stand to the judgment and decision of anti- * quity,” writes Monracus, Bishop of Norwich, in the reign of King Charles the First, “ and embrace that “ saying of the Nicene Fathers, as if it came from an o- “ racle; let the ancient customs be: observed +.” “ Surely,” says his venerable successor, Bishop Hau, “ whosoever’ willingly subscribes to the word of God, * signed in the everlasting monuments of Scripture, to the ancient Creeds, to’ the four general Councils, to ** the common consent of the Fathers for 600 years after * Christ, which we of the reformed Church religiously * profess to do ; if he err.in small points, yet he cannot bean heretick.”” And again, “ neither soul nor Church can generally err, whilst it treads in the steps of the most ancient and universal t.” The leaned Dr. Hammonp thus characterizes. thé Church of England, as “ particularly solicitous to pre- * serve herself, from the rock of the moderns, (scopulo h *£ novatorum) ad | * Bishop Overall’s Convocation Book, 1606, Lib. 2. Can. vii. Lond. 1690, cc 14 4 cc - b } Sententiz et decisioni stemus antiquitatis, et cum Niczenis sanctissimis patribus, fanquam ab Oraculo: profectum exosculemur illud rz up yoie eon xpareiTa;—Mor- acut. Praf. ad apparat. ad origines Eccles, &, : : » * Noah’s Dove’—Vol, 1. of Bishop Hall’s Works, p. 518. sp ia 16 PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION, “* novatorum) making this her distinguishing feature and ** recommendation to unprejudiced posterity, that in dee «< termining controversies of faith and practice, the pre- “ ference was always given to the Scriptures, in the. first “¢ place, and then to the Bishops, Martyrs, and eccles < siastical writers of the first ages to be her guide and <¢ dire€tion, and that it was her will, that the British: rel * formation should be built on this foundation*.” ~~ * It having been laid to the charge of Protestants, that they leave Scripture to the fanciful interpretation of every private spirit; the eminently learned Bishop ST1LLING- FLEET, in name of the Church of England, thus replies, both to the accuser and to the charge—‘* If he speak “< of our Church, he knows the contrary, and that we ‘ profess to follow the wnanimous consent of the Prime “* tive Fathers, as much as they, (the Romanists) and *¢ embrace the doctrine of the four, general Councils *.”” , “. Since,” writes Bishop Beveripeg, “ the universal «¢ consent of the Church is the surest interpretation of «¢ Scripture in those chapters, in which it can be hz *< itis evident what, and how great use, the ancient Fa= << thers, and writers of all ages of the Church are of, ‘© and how necessary the consulting of them is to those; ** who are managing ecclesiastical controversies, and ha “é n ae * Ecclesia Anglicana hoc se ex universo Christianorum orbe dignoscendum, hoc zquz posteritati estimandum proponens, quod in controversiis fidei aut mpakiog decernendis, illud firmum ratumque semper habuerit (et huic basi reformation a Britannicam niti voluerit) ut/Scripturis prime, dein primorum szculorum phere martyribus, scriptoribus ecclesiasticis secunde deferrentur.—Dissert. preeemial. de Antichristo, cap. 13..§ 13, x ; rat) + See Discourse concerning the Idolatry practised in the Church of Rome, Bee page 48, 72. syst 4 PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. 17 “ any regard to their own Salvation, or to the peace of “ the Churcht.” And again, “ Be it how it willas to “other things; whalsoever all Churches have every “where agreed in, cannot but be most certain, and ne- “ cessary to be retained by all at this day t.” What are the writings of Bishop Bux, if not an ap- peal, almost from beginning to end, to the Fathers of the Christian Church ?—Let the following declaration of this distinguished Prelate, however, suffice. “* God knows the secrets of my‘heart: so far am I “* from an itch of innovating in theological points, that “* whatever comes recommended by the consentient au- “ thority of Catholic Fathers and ancient Bishops, tho? “it be above the reach of my small capacity, yet do I ** embrace it with all reverence §.” Than Archbishop Porter, the Church of England cannot well boast a man more zealously devoted to her cause, her faith and practice. His opinion on the sub- ject in hand, is as follows :— I have always thought it ‘** the best method of discovering the genuine sense of c Tie t “ Cum-hzc denique universalis ecclesiz consensio certissima sit in iis, quibus habeatur, capitibus sacre Scripture interpretatio, hinc clarissime constat, quali quantoque usui sint antiqui patres, aliique omnium ecclesiz seculorum scriptores, “quamque necessarii ab iis consulendi sint, quibus, ecclesiasticas agitantibus centtos versias vel sua salus vel pax ecclesia cordi est.” —Proxm. ad cod. can. Vindicat. ‘¢ $ Quicquid enim de aliis dicendum est, ea saltem, in quz omnes ubique eccle- siz consenserunt, non possunt non certissima esse et necessario’ ab omnibus etiam- ‘num retinenda.—Ibid. ‘ 2 § Deus novit cordis mei secreta: in dabanatis Theologicis a novaturiendi pruri- gine adeo alienus sum, ut quecunque Catholicorum patrum et veterum episcopo- 7um consensu comprobata sunt, etiamsi meum ingeniolum non assequatur, tamen omni Teverentia amplexurus sim,”—Apol. pro. Harmon. p. 7. edit. Grabi 1703. 18 ' PRELIMINARY DISSERTATON. << the Scriptures, to compare them with the practice of “ the first Christians, who had far better opportunity “‘ of acquainting themselves with the judgment of the <‘ Apostles, than we can pretend to at this distance ; and « cannot generally be supposed, in those times of dan- — ‘© ger and persecution, when there was no motive to — « profess Christianity, but the preserving of a good con-— « science, to have wilfully corrupted, or deviated in any <‘ respect from the divine oracles *.” To the same purport, is the following reasoning of Dr WaterLAND—* What we pretend is, that we have as ‘ good proof of the doctrine of the Church, as of the < Canon of Scripture—whether the Church, after the << Apostles, was as infallible as the Apostles themselves, — <¢ is quite another question: /WVe think it very unlikely « that the Apostolic Churches should not know the minds “< of the Apostles, or should suddenly vary from it in © any matter of moment—ze look upon it as highly im- “ probable, that the faith of those Churches should run <¢ counter to any thing in Scripture, since they had the < best opportunities of knowing what Scripture meant, “ were made up of wise and good men, who would sooner “die, than commit any error in that kind, wilfully. ‘© Upon this, we believe the concurring judgment of an << ¢iguity tobe, though not infallible, yet the safest com. «* ment upon Scripture, and to have. much more weigh ‘‘ in it, than there generally is in wit and criticism ; an 7 «© therefore not to be rejected, where the words of Scrip- ‘‘ ture will, with any propriety, bear that interpreta- “tion pA 3 % b ] n * Preface to Discourse of Church Government. PRELIMINARY ‘DISSERTATION. 19 ** tion}. Nay, the same learned divine affirms, in an- other work—that, “ if what appears but! probably to be ** taught in Scripture itself, appears certainly to have «< been taught by the Primitive and Catholic Church ; * such probability so confirmed and strengthened, carries ** with it the force of demonstration crt I might go on selecting siden from the most ap- proved divines of the last century, who, in this respect, speak a language, equally strong and explicit with shat, now quoted from the writings of their learned and iilus- trious predecessors; I trust, however, that I have suffi- ciently established the point, which it is my object to e- stablish : viz.—that the Church of England does support the Scotch Episcopal Church, in the veneration, which she expresses for Primitive doctrine and practice; and that she does agree completely with the latter, in believ- ‘ing that the “ ancient Church’? (to use the words of the “amiable Bishop Horng,) “ is the standard by which all ** modern ones are to be examined; and that unless a *¢ man knows what the Church was, in centuries before *¢ the reformation, he will see but darkly into the troub- “ led waters of latter times, in which faction and party * have confounded things §.” _ This then being established, when the Episcopal Church in Scotland appears to have regulated her eucharistical ‘service by the standard of the. Primitive Church, she cz cannot } Vindication of Christ’s Divinity, p. 458. t Preface to Dr Waterland’s Eight Sermons, &c. p. 4. § See his Lordship’s admirable Charge, intended to have been delivered to the Clergy of Norwich, at his primary visitation, 1791. eee ; ' 20 PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. cannot surely be said to dissent from the doctrine of the Church of England; although as an independent national - Ciurch, she may be found to deviate, im some measure, from the present practice of that Church. Instead of — charging her with such dissent, the Church of England does expressly countenance the deviation“ Every pare “ ticular or national Church,” asserts the 34th Art. o religion, “* /ac/ authority to ordain, change, and abolish “* ceremoniés, or rites of the Church, ordained only by ‘¢ man’s authority, so that all things be done to edifying.” And one of the most sound, most learned, and most zealous Churchmen, whom England has ever produced, has asserted, that ‘* as the Sacraments cannot be admini- ** stered without some form, which form is not set down *¢ for us, in so many words, by the New Testament, ne- “* cessity requires, that it should be settled by the gover “© nors of the Church, fier the pattern of the best times®.” While the present learned Archdeacon of Sarum, Mr, DausBeny, whose writings serve to evince his zeal if them from her communion, has aflirmed, that—‘‘ the E- ‘¢ piscopal Church of Scotland, by forming her commu ‘© nion service, upon the model of that set forth for the *° use of the Church of England, in the reign of Edward ” ‘ the Sixth, still keeps closer to the original pattern of «the Primitive Church in the celebration of this service, ‘*-than the Church of England now does ee n Lal « While | * See “ Remarks on the Confessional,” (page 332. vol. 2.) in the Works ofthe late Rev. Wm. Jones. + See Appendix to the © Guide to the Church,” by the Rev. Charles Daubeny, ~ wol. 2, page 4141799. : joo ae: PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. 21 “© When the extraordinary spirit of prophecy ceased,” writes the learned Mr SuepHerp, “ the rulers of the “c € on Church “supplied its absence, by forms of their own composition. As every Bishop had in those days au- thority to order the form of service for his own dio- cese, these forms would naturally differ from each other. But still, as they would all correspond with Apostolic precedent, there must have been a consider- able degree of resemblance between them ; “ Facies non omnibus nna, “ Nec diversa tamen, qualis decet esse sororum— ' This is true of the Liturgies ascribed to St: Peter, St. James, St. Mark, and to others, so far at least as any judgment can be formed of the originals, from the copies now extant, which are at the same time both mutilated and interpolated. With the assistance of these more antient forms, Basil, Chrysostom, and Am- brose composed liturgies for their respective Churches. Pope Gelasius afterwards compiled the Roman Missal, ‘ which Pope Gregory improved; and in this kingdom (England), Osmund the Norman, who was Bishop of Salisbury, Earl of Dorset, and Privy Counsellor to William the Conqueror, drew up the celebrated Litur- gy of Sarum: < In the compilation of the English Liturgy, the re- formers (adds this author,) took the same liberty that Basil, Chrysostom, Ambrose, Gelasius, Gregory, and Osmund, had taken before. They were in general, -* and as far as circumstances would admit, governed by the * practice of the Primitiv Ie Church 5 ; reserving to them- 6 selves 99 PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION, « selves the right of selecting whatever was most valuable “¢ in former liturgies, of rejecting what they thought less “* proper, of retrenching superfluities, and of making such” <‘ additions, alterations and transpositions, as they judged “‘ to be either necessary or expedient *.” But from the period of her reformation, down to the reign of the first Charles, there had been no authorised Liturgy in use in Scotland. His father James, had indeed attempted to re. medy this inconvenience, by procuring an act to be passed at Aberdeen, in August, 1616, ‘ that a Liturgy, or form of Common Prayer should be composed for the use of the Church’; while early in the succeeding year, he gave or. ders, that the English Liturgy, to shew his attachment to ‘< a form of sound words,”” should be daily used from that time forth in his own Chapel, at Holyrood-house. A form was accordingly drawn up, and transmitted to the king who, upon obtaining the opinion of competent judges, gave it his approbation, and returned it to Scotland, with are- commendation to bring it, as soon as might be, into pub: lic use. This, in all probability, had happened, if the death of this pious monarch had not intervened. 4 No sooner did his son, and successor, King CHARLES, ‘find leisure for a matter of this moment, than he remind. ed the Scotch Bishops of his father’s desire, for uniformis ty of worship, and urged them to revive, with all con venient speed, the measure of an established Liturgy.— Dr. Maxwext of Edinburgh, afterwards Bishop of Ross, ! being / * See Shepherd’s Critical and Practical Elucidation of the Book of Common Prayer, (vol. 2. page 144, &c.) published in 1801—a work, which I shall 4 quently have occasion to introduce, when I reach the illustration of the Scot Communion Office. PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. 23s being deputed to wait on his Majesty, was referred to Dr. Laup, at that time Bishop of London, for necessary in- formation—Bishop Laup gave it as his opinion, that if his Majesty would have a form of worship for the Church of Scotland, different from that which prevailed, it were best to take the English Liturgy withoat any variation, that so the same service book might pass through all his Majesty’s dominions. To this Dr. Maxwetueplied— *¢ that the Scots would be better pleased to have a Liturgy ** of their own, but such an one, as should come near to *¢ the English book both in matter and form ;”? because, added he, in name of the Bishops of Scotland, a Liturgy “ made by themselves, and in some things different from ** the English service, would be most acceptable to their * countrymen, whom they found very jealous of the least cc dependence on the Church of England *.?? The mat-_ ter however, being again referred to his Majesty—* he,” the historian adds, “ having weighed the arguments on *« both sides, declared for the English book.” | Some years after, when King Cxarues visited Scot- land, he brought Dr. Laup along with him. The Bishop being appointed to preach in the Abbey Church, recommended reverence to the laudable ceremonies of antiquity, with the beauty and benefit of liturgical unifor- mity, and “ was heard,’ Lord CLareNnpon writes, a ‘* with _ * For the Historical part of this Dissertation, the Author is indebted to a work, ef which it becomes him to speak sparingly—He will however be pardoned, he trusts, for using here the language of Mr. Jones, in his Life of Bishop Horne, and saying, that the “ Ecclesiastical History of Scotland by Mr Skinner, father te the im - oct of Aberdeen, comprehends a plain, and unaffected detail of facts very * interesting and amusing.”—For the facts now noticed, see vol. 2 »p. 285, + 24 ‘PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. ‘¢ with all the marks of approbation and applause ima- “* ginable.” In consequence of this recommendation, such of the Bishops and Clergy, as were in Edinburgh , had an immediate conference with Bishop Laup. His Lordship having lamented the bad effects, which were produced by the want of a Liturgy, and of a proper code of discipline for the Church of Scotland, the Arch bishop of St. Andrews, Srotswoon, replied, “ that ir ** the late king’s time, a motion had been made to frame ‘* a Liturgy, and collect some Canons for the Church but was deferred at that time, because of the stir about the Perth articles *, and he still had apprehensions tha the attempting of it, — yet, might have some dis- agreeable consequences.” ; The other Bishops not appearing to dread any such con- sequences, and the King consenting that there should be afi authorised Liturgy for Scotland, the matter was determin- edon. Still however did the Bishops continue their oppo 0- sition to the express words of the English Liturgy ; assign: ing the following reason, ‘‘ that by his Majesty’s continual ** residence in England, the Scots were become jealous ‘ of being, by degrees, reduced to be but a province t England, and entirely subject to English laws, ane government, which they would never submit to, noi * would any man of honour, who loved the king best - n i744 n n “ce * Five in number—1. Kneeling*at the Sacrament—2. Private Communion of the Sick—3. Private Baptism in cases of need—4, Catechising previous to Con mation; and, 5. Ordaining appropriate Discourses to be delivered on the Festi of the Church, , They had been proposed by K. James two years before their mission, had been frequently and seriously canvassed during that period, and were in a full and open assembly, agreed to at Perth, on the 25th August, 1618. PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. 25 * or respected England most, ever consent to bring such ** dishonour on his native country; and therefore it might *€ look too like an arbitrary imposition from England, ** and a designed beginning of trampling upon all the *« laws and privileges of Scotland, if a form, settled in * Parliament at Westminster, should, without any alter- «* ation by ourselves, be tendered, though from the king’s “* own hand, to be immediately submitted to, and obser- ** ved, in this independent Church and kingdom.” This remonstrance had the wished for effect. A Litur- gy for Scotland was prepared by the Scottish Bishops themselves; which, though submitted very properly to three English Bishops, (viz. the Archbishop of Canter- bury, Dr. Laup; the Bishop of London, Dr. Juxon ; and the Bishop of Norwich, Dr. Wrew;;) for their appro- bation, was arranged after the model of the jirst English Liturgy of Edward the Sixth: Of which book it may suffice to say, that to this hour, the Church of England bestows upon it the most unqualified approbation. . For, ‘in the act of Edward confirming the second book, the first is declared, by the whole legislative authority of the kingdom, “‘ to be concluded by the aid of the Holy Ghost, to be a very godly order, agreeable to the word of God and the Primitwe Church, very comfortable to all “ good people, designing to live in Christian conversation, ** and most profitable to the state of this realm:” and again, ‘‘ to have been compiled by certain of the most * learned and discreet Bishops, and other learned men Sevofthisrealm*.? - : D Nay, * See Collier’s Eccles, History, vol. 2. 26 PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. 4 Nay, by Archbishop Bancrorr it is affirmed, that the English Liturgy was first published’ with such ap- ‘¢ probation, that it was accounted the work of God Tf.” On Sunday the 23d of July, 1637, the Scottish Liturgy was publicly used for the first time, in St. Giles’? Church, in Edinburgh, when, owing to the vile fanatical spirit of the covenanting party, it met with such alarming opposi- tion, that, after some fruitless attempts at reconciliation, the Privy Council was constrained to discharge by pro- clamation, at the Market-Cross of Edinburgh, not only the Canons and Service-book, but also the Court of High Commission, instituted for the right ordering of all eccle siastical causes, and the Articles of Perth. Episcopac itself was, not long after, abolished in Scotland. At the restoration of the second Charles, Episcopacy was re-e- ‘stablished :—the Liturgy, however, for reasons, which cannot now be well ascertained, was still suppressed. No sooner did the revolution in i688 disunite the Church and State in Scotland, than the Bishops, betak ing themselves solely to spiritual concerns, endeavoured to place all matters ecclesiastical, on the footing of Pri- milfve and original independence. Early in the reign of Queen Anne, through the liberality of friends in England, a large supply of English prayer books was obtained bj the ejected Bishops and Clergy. Not that the Chm ch had relinquished her partiality to her own appointed form of prayer ; but because the Liturgy of the English Church was so easily procured, while copies ef the Scottish Lie turgy, + See Primitive Rule of Reformation, according to the first Lit, of King Bd ward, page 14, ; Lond ° PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. 27 _turgy, after the ravages committed on it, were few in ‘number, and the times would not admit of reprinting it. To this introduction of the English Liturgy no authority was ever attached. The Clergy were left at full liberty touse the Scottish Office, once duly authorised, or « any other orthodox form,” which the Bishops with the as- sistance of their Clergy might compose. | It is well known, that the effects of the revolution were ‘hot merely confined to the oyerthrow of the established religion in Scotland... Many political differences did, in consequence of that event, take place in England, and many eminently learned divines, refusing allegiance’ to King William, were dispossessed of their preferment,— Of similar political principles with their Episcopal breth- fen in Scotland, it is natural to suppose, that they would take a lively interest in the plan now on foot there, of regulating every thing after the Primi/ive model; and to this plan, thus powerfully seconded by the most emi- nent of the English non-juring Clergy, does the Episcopal Church in Scotland. owe her present strictly Primitive - Eucharistical service. » The second English Office for the Holy Communion, being drawn up ‘ on account of doubts, risen ruther by © the curiosity of the Minister, and mistakers,?? (as one of the acts of uniformity expresses it,) “chan of any opher * worthy cause,” hath introduced some partial dewiations from those forms, which the “ good, Fathersiof the Pri- “ mitive Church” used and frequented.” The second Scotch Ofjice for the Holy Communion being drawn up, on principles of inviolable regard to Primitive practice, (though little change ‘was nécessary) hath brought ghings . D2 nearer 28 PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. nearer to the ancient standard; as will appear to the — learned reader, on consulting the collation in the Appen- F dix. Thus it hath introduced a change of order in some of the prayers; it hath omitted the words, “ militant here ~ “* in earth,” in the preface to the prayer for the whole state of Christ’s Church, which words had_ no place im the first English Liturgy; and it hath inserted in the * Me: morial or Prayer of oblation’, the words, ‘ which we 7 yt © offer unto thee ;? whereby (if Mr Archdeacon Dav- BrNy be competent to judge) ‘ the Episcopal Church in “* Scotland keeps close to the original pattern of the Pra *© mitive Church, and with the Church of England, ‘con “© sidering the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, to be é «© feast upon a sacrifice, to constitute it such, makes tha * which is feasted upon first a sacrifice, by having i © offered up by a Priest *.” nh * In vol. 2. page 414, of his Appendix to the Guide, &c. Mr Daubeny wri «© The first Christians had no idea of the Holy Eucharist being a proper proj vit “ tory sacrifice, in which the body and blood of Christ, in truth, reality, < “© substance, are offered up—the idea, which gave rise to the idolatry pra « the modern Church of Rome on the subject ; but they considered it to b “© memorative sacrifice, and typical representation, by way of memorial, of tl ‘¢ grand sacrifice, that had been offered upon the cross by Jesus Christ ; an ide « which perfectly secures the possessors of it from the gross corruptions of # «© Church of Rome, because the commemoration of a fact cannot be the fact itse “« the representation cannot be the thing designed to be represented ; the sign c “ not be the reality, which it is meant to signify—Such is the idea which ot ‘ Church entertains upon thissubject. She considers the sacrament of the Lo “ Supper sr to bea feast upon a sacrifice 5 to constitute it such, that which i is fea “upon, must have been first made a sacrifice, by having been offered up “ Priest.—Such is the idea which the Episcopal Church of Scotland has upon « sacred subject”; which, as has been already quoted, “ by forming her Comm *« Service upon the model ef that set forth for the use of the Church of Eng n “ in the reign of Edward VI. still keeps closer to the original pattern of the Pri “ mitive Church, in the celebration of this service, than the Church of Englat *® now does,” : PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. 29 - Yet has it been urged, against this Scotch Communion Office, both before and since its revisal, that this doc- trine of a sacrifice, which it clearly establishes, is no bet- ter than symbolizing with Popery! The ‘ History of the Troubles, &c. of Archbishop Laup,’ contains an ample refutation of this charge, which, with other evidence about to be produced, will, itis humbly hoped, have the effect of removing every possible objection to the doctrine and language of our venerable ritual. The Scottish Commissioners charged the Archbishop with an approach to the doctrines of the Romish Church, by reason of the following matter, contained in the Scot- tish Liturgy, and approved by him, viz.—1. The conclu- sion of the prayer for the whole state of Christ’s Church, wherein all those, who are of the mystical body of Christ, are prayed for.—2. The insertion, in the prayer of Con- secration, of the ancient clause for invocating the Holy Ghost.—3. The memorial, or prayer of Oblation, insert- ed before the Distribution of the Elements ;—and lastly, ‘The words of Distribution being the same, as those in King Edward’s first book, without the addition ‘* take, << and eat this, in remembrance, &c. drink this in remem- B « before the corruptions of Popery had a being. Some “* of the greatest divines of the Church of England, : ; E2 PoINneET, gland opposed this doctrine, (see page 154 of his Defence, &c.)——“ It pitieth ™ me to see the vanity of your dealing. Have we no external sacrifice, say you! « I beseech you, what sacrifice did Christ or his Apostles command, that we have # refused ?—God’s name be blessed for ever: we want neither Church nor Priest« # hood, nor any kind of sacrificé, that Christ has left unto the faithful.” “ald | > See Mr. Lawrence’s work, “ The Bishop of Oxford’s Charge considered,” in which this subject is discussed in a truly masterly manner. ; * See his Address to the Members of the Convocation, in the Appendix te Bishop Skinner’s Sermon on that occasion. , ; . ‘ . . ee Bes &° Al) the’ ancient Liturzics,” Bishop Burnett acknowledges, in his Exposition fthe Sist Article, “ have this as a main part of the Ojjic-, that being mindful * of the death of Christ or commemorating it, they offered up the gifts.” P ‘ . 36 PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. . . Se é «< PoinetT, ANDREWS, LauD, fvum, MepeE, Tay-— “ ror, Butt, Jonson, and many others {, have as- < serted, and maintained the doctrine, which in that OF © “© fice is reduced to practice. Yet these divines did all ‘¢ subscribe the thirty-nine Articles, and must therefo ot <¢ have understood them consistently with their! belief of « the commemorative sacrifice of the Holy ‘Eucharist, td usi io . } Among the valuable publications, printed and circulated by the ‘* Society for promoting Christian Knowledge,” (a society devoted, as their regulations bear, t the doctrine and discipline of the Church of England,) are included, “ Nelson’ Practice of true Devotion, &c.” and “ Bishop Wilson’s Sermons.” In the 19th edition of the former, page 206, occurs the following language—* Before ouf & blessed Saviour entered upon the last scene of his sufferings, he celebrated the « Jewish sacrifice of the passover with his Disciples; and then at the conclusion _ of it substituted the Sacrament of the body and blood of Christ as the Christia sacrifice, in room of the passover.” In the 2d vol of the latter, (sermon 32 page 211,) Bishop Wilson calls the Lord’s Supper expressly “ the true Christian “ sacrifice—which the most unlearned is capable of understanding, when he see «¢ that done before his eyes, which Jesus Christ himself did, &e. just as the mos « ynlearned Israelite under the law, when he was commanded to bring his sacr “ fice to the altar, and fo lay his hand on the head of the beast, &c. could un « derstand this end of sacrifices, and perform the duty required of him, as well : ¢ the most learned master in Israel.” In Bishop Wilson’s Bible, edited by C: at well, to St. Matt. v. 23. is appended the following note—* If thou bring thy gift t & the altar, &c. This was always understood to have respect to the Christian sacrif “ tothe bread and wine there offered to God; for the legal sacrifices being soo ‘ thy gift, thy sacrifice.” —Again, St. Matt. xxvi. 28. “which is shed, i.e. He the « at that instant, gave his body and blood a sacrifice for the sins of the who « world. He then offered, asa Priest, himself, under the symbols of bread an “ wine, and this is the sacrifice, which bis Priests do still offer —And let it be observe that Jesus Christ did this, before be was apprebended, when he was at bis own ‘s posal 3 it was then he offered himself a sacrifice to God.” No Bishop of the Epise pal Church in Scotland could have expounded her doctrine more concisely; ¥i no Bishop of the Church of England is of greater authority than this vene Bishop of Sedor and Mann. PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. 37 “ using the present I\.urgy of the Church of England * as comprehending it. Our subscribing them in Scotland “* cannot then be justly interpreted, as an inconsistency with it; since our belief is diametrically opposite to “ the corrupt sacrifice of the mass, which, with all the “ other errors of the Church of Rome, none more hearti- “ ly renounce and detest, than we tx Scotland. do; with ** safety always to those truly Catholic Primitive doc- ** trines and practices, whereof these errors and novelties “ are the corruption. The term corruption, implies a ~* subject once sound; and error implies original truth, -%¢ from which it is a deviation. This distinction the “¢ Church of England in her blessed reformation carefully ~*© observed.” _ Itishowever asserted, by the great Dr. WATERLAND, ‘Gin his Review, &c.) that this doctrine of a real sacrifice 5 the Eucharist had no advocate in the Church of Eng- and, prior to the year 1635, “* when Mr. Mens, a -* very learned and judicious divine, delivered this doc- « trine in the College Chapel, (at Cambridge,) which was afterwards published with improvements, under « the title of ‘ The Christian Sacrifice.’ To this asser- ‘tion, the learned Dr. Brett thus satisfactorily replies— _ Twenty years before Mr. Meve preached his sermon “in the College Chapel, Bishop ANDREWS, no less -“ learned, than either Dr WatTERLAND or Dr. Cup. ae WORTH, preached a sermon before the Kivig’s Majesty, “at Whitehall, April 12th, 1612, being Easter-day ie in Ss _ _—‘«¢ See Bishop Andrews’ seventh Sermon on the Resurrection,” panes 453, - 4th edit. 1641, , " 38 PRELIMINARY | DISSERTATION. *‘.in which sermon is the following paragraph+—¢ In re- ‘*.membrance of him, Christ: What of him? Mortem ** Domini—his death, (saith St. Paul) fo shew forth the ** Lord’s death. Remember’ him, -that we will, and stz : “at home; think of him thete:—Nay, shew him forth “*-ye must: That we will, by a sermon of him. Nay ** it must be, hoc fucite (do this); it is not meant all “* #hinking, or verbal speaking ; there, must be actually ** something done to celebrate this memory'; That done to the Holy Symbols, that was done to him, to his body and his d/cod in the passe-dver: Break the one, pou out the other, to represent xAwevey=-how his sacred body was broken, and exypvoevv—how his precious blood was shed. And in corpus fractum, and sanguis “* effusus there is ¢mmolatis,” (in the body broken, and blood poured out there is sacrificed! )— This is it in the “* Eucharist, that answereth to, the saérifice in the pas. “* over: the memorial to the figure. -To them it was “* hoe facite_in mei prefigurationem, do this in prefigu ** ration of me: To us it is, do this im commemoration “ of me, To them jr@nuntiare, (foreshewing) to us “*-annuntiare (shewing forth); there is: the difference. ‘* By the same rules that theirs was, by the’ same may “* ours be, termed a sacrifice, In rigour of speech neither ‘ of them: For (to speak after the exact’ manner of d ** vinity,) there is but one only sacrifice, vert nominis, ‘* properly so called: That is, Christ's death, and that ns n ¢ n an “ PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. 53 = ===> “end. That only absolute, all else relutive to it, re * presentative of it, operative by it. The Zamb but once “actually slain, in the fulness of time: but virtually was * from the beginning, is and shall be to the end of the “world. That the centre, in which their dies and ours, “ their types and our antitypes, do meet. While yet this “ offering was not, the supe of it was kept alive by pre- “ figuration of it in theirs : and after it is past, the mea “ mory of it is still kept fresh in mind by the commemora- éion of it in ours. So it was the will of God, that. so there might be with themra continual Soreshewing, and with us a continual shewing forth the Lord’s death till he come again. Hence it is, that what names theirs carried, ours do the like, and the Futhers make no scruple at it; no more need we. The Apostle ‘in the 10th chapter of his first epistle to the Corinthians, ) com- pareth this of ours to the immolata, (the sacrifices) of the heathen *, and (to the Hebrews) habemus uram A (we have an altar) matcheth it with the sacrifice of the * Jews. -And we know the rule of comparisons. They ® must be ejusdem generis, (of the same genus. )”? ; When therefore, in the-year 1640, the Convocation of F j the ee Sk nN ee oe * On the Table of Devils,’ contrasted by St. Paul, (in 1 Cor. x. 21.) with the * Lord’s Table, Bishop Wilson’s Notes coincide exactly with the above language of the great Bishop Andrews—* We eat of God’s meat, of meat and drink, first © offered to God, and so bis, returned with a blessing.” ; + Here also, “ wehave an altar—the Lord’s Table.’-—And again, in this same Epistle to the Hebrews—on ch. ix. 25. Bishop Wilson notes, “ Better sacrifices, “i.e. bread and wine, made by consecration, the body aud blood of Christ; called “ thetefore sacrifices in the plural number.”—See his Bible on the place, pos: 40 PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. the English Church was enjoined, by royal authority, — « not to make any Canons repugnant to the Liturgy or “ the Articles of the Church;” and when, in compliance: with this mandate, they, in their seventh Canon, declare, “ that the holy tableis, and may be called an altar by us, “ in that sense, in which the Primitive Church called it « an altar”—if, as Bishop ANDREWS has positively as- serted, ‘ altar and sacrifice be ejusdem generis,” that is to say correlates, then by having the same altar with the Primitive Church, the Church of England must hav the same sacrifice. But the incomparably learned Mr Jonson, in his valuable work. intituled * The Unbloody Sacrifice, and Altar Unvailed and Supported,’ has pro duced irrefragable evidence of the doctrine of the Primi tive Church on this head ; such as can never, it is appre hended, beimpugned, and therefore such as must silence, even though it should fail to convince “ gainsayers.””— The following abstract will suffice to make the truth ¢ this assertion fully appear. Theodorite says, * that th ¢ Church offers the symbols of Christ’s body and blood. Cent. 5th.) ¢ Cyril of Alexandria, ‘ the table that had th ‘ shew-bread, signifies the unbloody sacrifice Cent.4th.] ¢ the loaves.’—Chrysostom says, * The sac ¢ fice isin our hands—and can we do otherwise, than pre ¢ vail with God, when the fremendous sacrifice lies € open view?’ St. Austin speaking to Christ, says, ¢ Thot _ © arta Priest for ever—for the priesthood and sacrifie < of Aaron are vanished, and what Melchisedec broug h < forth, when he blessed Abraham, is every where offé ‘ ed under the Priesthood of Christ Again, ¢ Whet PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. 41 * Melchisedec blessed Abraham, then first that sacrifice * appeared, which is now offered by Christians through * the world.’ Gaudentius Brixiensis declares for the ma- terial sacrifice, in saying, * Christ being offered in every * Church, under the mystery of bread and wine, does * refresh and enliven,’ &c. And again, ‘ Christ appointed € the Sacrament of his body and blood fo be offered, un- * der the figures of bread and wine.’ St. Jerom says of ‘Melchisedec, ‘ that representing Christ he offered bread * and wine; and dedicated the Christian mystery in the * body and blood of our Saviour .’—and again, * Mel. * chisedec dedicated the Sacrament of Christ in a pure, * and simple sacrifice, that is, bread and wine :?—again, “* our mystery is denoted in the word order, Ps. cx. 4. * irrational victims being no longer to be offered by Aa- * ron, but bread and wine, that is, the body and blood * of Christ, being made an Oblation.’-—Macarius says, * at that time the great men, and righteous, and prophets * knew that a Redeemer was coming, but they knew not, * that bread and wine were to be offered in the Church, * as the antitypes of his body and blood.’—St. Ambrose Supports the same doctrine, saying, ‘ formerly a lamb~ “ was offered, a calf was offered, now Christ is «fered, * and he offers himself, as a Priest, for the forgiveness of © our sins; 3 in an image Acre, in the »”//y there, where “hei interposes as an Advocate for us with the Father :” And again,‘ Though Christ is not now seen to offer, * yet he himself is offered on earth, when his Body is © offer ed ; nay, he apparently offérs in, or by us.’ Eph aim Syrus says, ‘ The tremendous mysteries, full of im- | E mortality, : 42, PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. * mortality, are offered to God.’ Gregory Nazianzen speaks of ‘ sacrifices, from the supposed defilement’ ‘ whereof Julian, when he apostatized, expiated his hands; * of sacrifices and altars, which were defiled, by the ‘ Arians and others, and therefore,’ adds Mr. Jonson, ° material beyond all dispute and doubt ;? and in anothe place, speaking of himself, ‘ how should I dare,’ says he, * to offer the external sacrifice, the antitype of the great’ * mysteries, if I had not first offered myself a sacrifice’ * to God, &c.’ St. Basil the great, represents the grea danger of * sacrificing the body of our Lord, while we’ * are under any defilement ;’ and speaks ¢ of the Priest * consummating, and distributing the sacrifice.’ Hil the Deacon says, ‘ thatthe Bishop offers the sacrifice n= ‘ stead of Christ.’ Cyril of Jerusalem speaks of a praye offered to God, * while the holy and most tremendo * sacrifice lies in open view, and of beseeching God ove “ the sacrifice of propitiation.’ St. Athanasius says, ove and again, ‘ that Melchisedec was the first example of * offering the unbloody sacrifice, (viz. bread and wine,) * and that thereforeit was said to our Saviour, * thou art ‘ a Priest for ever, after the order of Melchisedec.? Eu- sebius speaks ¢ of offering the oblation, and giving every * one his share ;’ and ‘ that altars were every where e rected for unbloody rational sacrifices, according to the new mysteries of the New Testament.’ ¢ Mental de votions require no a//ars, nor are they the new myste- * ries,” exclaims Mr. Johnson. Thus in another place Eusebius asserts, ‘ we offer the shew-bread and the blood 4 PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. 43 © of sprinkling—the blood of the Lamb, which takes * away the sins of the world, the expiation of our souls.” Cent. 3d-] St. Cyprian is an illustrious witness of this truth, saying, ‘ we are given to understand, that our * Lord’s tradition be observed in offering the cup ; ‘that * the cup which is oféred in commemoration of him, 6e * offered mixed with wine.’ Then he cites these words, * thou art a Priest for ever, after the order of Melchise- * dec, which order, being derived, and descending from © that sacrifice, is this; that Melchisedec was Priest. of * the most High God ; that he offered bread and wine . that he blessed Abraham; and that the blessing of A= braham might be duly celebrated, an imave of the sa- * ertfice of Christ, consisting of bread and wine, goes be- * foreit.? And * the Holy Ghost, by Solomon, describes ‘ before-hand, the figure of our Lord’s sacrifice, the 7m- * molated sacrifice of bread and wine.’ © And < that Priest * acts in Christ’s stead, who imitates what Christ did, * and offers to the Father a true and full sacrifice, in the * Church of God; if he so begin to ofr, as he sees- © Christ fo have offered.’ Origen teaches the same doc- trine, saying, * Let Celsus, as being ignorant of God, © render his’ Eucharistic sacrifices to demons ; but we, “ appeasing the Creator of the universe, do also eat the © bread, that is offered with thanksgiving, and prayer malle ‘ over the gifts, after they have been made a certain holy ‘body.’ Tertullian bears witness to the same truth; in these words, ‘ very many, on the Stationary (that is fast- ing) days, think that they ought not to be present at “the prayers of the sacrifices, lest their fast be broken, . FQ by « 4 « Ad PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. ‘ by receiving the body of our Lord; does therefore the «Eucharist slacken our devotions to God, or rather tie ¢-us faster to God? Will not your station be more SO- ¢ lemn, if you perform it at God’s altar? ¢ He distin- « guishes,’ adds Mr Johnson, ‘ between the prayers and © the sucrifice; and he tells you what the sacrifice was. ‘ viz; the sacramental body of Christ ; for to receive the < body of Christ,’ and ¢ to partake of the sacrifice,’ signt ¢ fy the same thing in this citation.’ | Cent. 2d] Trengeus is very full to our purpose, saying, ¢ that Christ, charging his disciples fo offer first fruits ¢ God of his own creatures, took such bread, asis acrea ¢ ture, and eave thanks, saying, ‘ this is my body ;’ an ¢ he declared the cup likewise to be his blood; whicl £ cup, according to our doctrine, is a thing created D) ¢ God;’ (this was what Irenaeus’ adversaries denied; ¢ and eight the new oblation of the New Testament ¢ which the Church, receiving from the Apostles, off@ « throughout the world.” To this sacrifice, he appliest 1 words of Malachi, (ch. i. 10. and 11.) and adds, ‘ ms « nifestly signifying by these words, that the former pet « ple, the Jews, shall cease to offer to God; but that every place, a sacrifice shall be offer ed, and that pure On which words, Mr Johnson very properly remar 5: « He cannot mean mental sacrifices; for the Jews ¢ © not cease to uffer prayers and praises, but material s * crifices, which the Jews cannot offer, since they ha © no temple.’ St. Justin Martyr is equally clear on th point, with any father yet produced; as for instance, whe he’ says, ¢ the oblation of the cake, which was order PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. 45 © to be offered for those, that were cleansed of the lepro- € sy, was a type of the bread of the Eucharist, which the * Lord Jesus Christ has, by tradition, instructed us to * offer, for a memorial of his passion.’ And. presently after when he adds, ‘concerning the sacrifices offered, in £ every place, by us Gentiles; that is, the bread of the -* Eucharist, and cup of the Eucharist ;’ he then foretold “saying, ‘ we should glorify his name.’ Here-St. Justin evidently refers to Malachi, i. 10. and 11. In the fol- lowing citation he refers to Isaiah xxxiii. 16. asserting, that here the prophet ‘ clearly speaks of the bread, which .* our Christ has by tradition instructed us to offer, fora ee ae. ia Es, € memorial of his incarnation, for the sake of them that © believe on him *.’ On these, and such like authorities, strengthened by the harmony, which, on this subject, all the antient Liturgies,f exhibit, and by the writings of many deeply learned divines of * See * Usbloody Sacrifice and Altar Unvailed, &c.’ part 1. p. 28. top. 36. | intlusive, 2d edition 1724, where Mr. Johnson refers to the Works of the differ- ent Fathers quoted ; but to avoid unnecessarily disfiguring the text, the references are omitted here. It is worthy of remark, that in her Homily of Salvation, 2d part, the Church of England terms a majority of those, above quoted, “ the best °* and Mest ancient writers.” While, in his learned work on éhe Church, (p. 761), Dr Field, Dean of Gloucester, in the Reigns of Elizabeth and James, thus expresses himself; “ We haye Altar:, in the same sort the Fathers had, though we have © thrown down Popish Altars; we admit the Eucharist to be rightly named a "© sacrifice, though we detest the blasphemous constructions the Papists make of it.” + Should it be thought an omission not to have introduced here the authoritic:, ~ which theancient Liturgies afford, I have to offer this apology, that they are omit- ted to prevent repetitions. In illustrating the Scotch Communion Office, the an- “tient Liturgies do naturally present themselves. Their testimony will, therefore, ‘be found in the sequel, under those heads of the illustration, which more em olerly respect the doctrine of a sacrifice now contended for. 46 ‘PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION, ' == ; of the Church of England, from the period of the Refor- ; mation downward, does the Episcopal Church in Scot- land build the doctrine, which she holds, on the subject of the Holy Eucharist, and of which doctrine this is the sum: As the legal sacrifices prefigured the sacrifice of Christ, so does the Eucharist commemorate that sacrifice ; but as the legal sacrifices were not less sacrifices, because they were figures of the gFand sacrifice, so neither can the Eucharist be the less a. sacrifice, because it is a figure and representation of the grand sacrifice !—Lit, rally, therefore, does the Scotch Episcopal Church obey the precept, delivered in the Homily of the Church of Eng- land ¢ concerning the Sacrament,’ and ‘* following the ** advice of Cyprian in like cases, cleaves fast to the Jirst: ** beginning, holds fast the Lord’s tradition, and: does that, in the Lord’s commemoration, which he himsel; did, he himself commanded, and his Apostles confirm= ed*.’? “For,” writes the excellent Mr. WHEATLEY, the Holy Eucharist was, from the very first institution, esteemed and received as a proper sacrifice, and so- “* lemnly ofered to God upon the altar, before it was “received, and partaken of by the communicants. In conformity whereunto it was Bishop OvEraL1’s prac- * tice to use the first prayer, in the» Post-communion Office, between the consecration and the administering, even when it was otherwise ordered by the, public, Lix turgy{.” While the incomparable Bishop JewExu is | _, acknow- A ® €¢ C44 * ® See Homily concerning the Sacrament, past 1. page 282. Oxford edit. 1683. + See Wheatley’s © Rational ustration of the book ef Common Prayer,’ 4th edit. PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION, 47 \ cee acknowledged by Dr. WaTzRtanp himself, thus to have announced, on this subject, the doctrine of the Church of England—< JVe deny not, but it may be well said, “ Christ at his last Supper offered up himself, unto his “ Father: albeit not really and zndeed, but in a figure, “ orina mystery ; in such sort, as we say, Christ was - © offered in the sacrifices of the old law ; and as St. John “says * the Lamb was slain from the beginning of the “ world.’ As Christ was slain at the table, so was he ** sacrificed at the table: but he was not slain at the “table, verily, and indeed, but only in a mystery *.” It has been objected to the doctrine of a proper ma- terial sacrifice, that it corresponds not with). nay is op- posed to the doctrine of a spiritual sacrifice—* the sacrifice * of praise and thanksgiving,’ expressed in the present 4 Com- 4th edit. page 313. London 1722. Dr. Overall was Bishop of Norwich inthe - reign of James the First of England, being allowed to be one of the best theologi- cal scholars of his time. When Dean of St Paul’s, Dr. Overall was appointed to draw up that part of the Church Catechism, which treats of the Sacraments. He is chiefly however known by his ‘ Convocation Book’, written on the subject of Go- Yernment, the divine institution of which, he very positively asserts. i _ * See Dr. Brett’s Remarks on Dr. Waterland’s Review of the doctrine of the Eucharist, page 176.—The value of those remarks can only be appreciated on an impartial and devout perusal of them. I have thought it necessary to make * them, (writes this learned author,) because, though I cannot but commend the = greatest part of the Dr.’s Review, &c. I dislike some things in it. Yet shall I * always retain a very high respect and value for the author, Difference in opi- “ nion shall never, I hope, cause me to detract from any man’s just commenda- ® tions, or lessen my esteem of him in any thing, wherein he deserves it; and Dr | * Waterland in particular deserves it on many accounts.” 48 PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. ——, “ taken. For how necessary soever we may think materia : “¢ sacrifice to be, we freely and readily acknowledge and -& maintain that such outward sacrifice is of xo value, not “¢ will be acceptable to God, if not accompanied with the “ inward or spiritual sacrifice of the heart. All good « men from the beginning of the world have been of <‘ this mind. For the Apostle says, that it was by faith that Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice «‘ than Cain. ‘That righteous man knéw, that the ma terial sacrifice, though of the firstlings of his flock, and «¢ of the fat thereof, would be of xo worth in the sight “© of God, if it was not sanctified by the spiritual sacri “ fice of a faith working by love *.” The bread and wine, though material, both to our senses and inthemselves, are yet, materially taken, o| ~ much a n Cal n “+ The Episcopal Church in Scotlind may here adopt the language of Mr. Scan dret, and reply «I am not ignorant, that Prayers are called Sacrifices, in God’ « holy word, for the blessed Apostle saith, ‘let us offer the sacrifice of praise t¢ “ God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to his name,’ ami “‘ there are some, who talk of abundance of sacrifices which they offer to God “ They offer,as they say, their souls, their passions, their sins, and lusts. If you “ ask them, how isthe oblation ofthese made? they will say, by destroying ches ‘© Jast ; if you ask, upon what Altar? they say, upon the Altar of a pure heart; | t “© you ask who are the Priests ? they say, all christian people are, or ought to be « such Priests; andall this is well said, if we suffer it not to hide from usthe¢ “ Christian Oblation in the Church.” Seandret’s ¢ Sacrifice the Divine Se page 67. * See Remarks, &c. page 139. PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. 49 much less value. than a Jewish sacrifice was. But being seen by the eye of faith, and with an understanding right- ly informed, they are, in power and efficacy, or to use the words of Dr. WaTERLAND, “ in just construction “ of evangelical law,” the very body and blood of Christ, which was finally broken and shed upon the Cross; and convey to us all the benefits purchased for us, by his Meritorious death and passion. They thereby are made spiritual food and a spiritital sacrifice, and of a “ value,” asserts Dr. Brett, and every sound Christian will con- firm the assertion, “ ae beyond all the legal sacri- “ fices *.?? . Although, fieeefard, the Episcopal Church in Scotland Berecs with the first compilers of the reformed Liturgy G of 4 * The distinction between a sa¢ramént and a sacrifice is thus concisely, yet Rnost convincingly, illustrated by Mr Scandret :—* Whereas the one is an outward “ visible sign of an invisible grace, a favour from God to man; the other is an outward visible sign of an invisible worship, paid by man to God. The one is « an act from a superior to an inferior : the other is an act from an inferior toa ® superior. ‘The one, I say, is an act of grace and favour from God to man: the ® other is an act of worship, paid by man to Gad.” See 2 valuable little tract, en- itled, ‘ Sacrifice the Divine Service, &c. by J. Scandret, Priest of the Church of gland,’ page 54. It may be proper to apprise the reader, that Mr Scandret’s ork was countenanced by the ‘ celebrated Cuartes Lestir’—(as Dr Horsley * fistly characterises him ; see his Charge when Bishop of St. David’s,) who, in a etter prefixed, gives this ample testimony in favour of the subject matter of it — s Sir, Ihave perused with great pleasure the ensuing pious and useful treatise, « committed tomy hands. The subject you have undertaken vindicates the Church of England, andher doctrine, against the profane, the Papists, and Dissenters: « and you have done it with that clearness and fulness, as was greatly desirable o among us, in an age, when not only this great point of the Christian sacrifice, © but all parts of our religion have been openly attacked ;’’ concluding thus, “ I © desire your prayers, as you have those of your fellow latourer, brother and faith- @ fol servant, Caartes Lesuiz,”—All Saints, 1706. ~ LN i 50 PRELIMINARY . DISSERTATION« of the Church of England, and has, in proof of that a- greement, taken the first reformed Liturgy of England, as a model in framing her Communion Office; and al. though she rejoices to find her faith strengthened and bishop Laup, Dr Heyiin, Mr Mepz, Dr Hammonp, Dr Grazr, Bishop Jeremy Tavior, Bishop Buty _ Mr Jounson, Dr Brett, Mr Nexson, Bishop Wu y son, and many others whose names might be added, did not the above suffice to shew the purity of her principles : Yet is she far from disagreeing with the truly learned Dr WaATERLAND, with the present Bishops of St. AsaPH# and Lincotn, with Dr Knox and others, who, thoug they are not fond of admitting any material sacrifice i the Holy Eucharist, do yet plainly admit of a * feast © upon a sacrifice ; and allow, that there was and ought to be a sacerdotal oblation t of the gifts, that is, of the material elements of bread and wine. This Dr WaTEE LAND proves from the testimony of St. Clemens, who was contemporary with the Apostles, and who wrote his epistle before the death of St. John*. For such a sacer, dotal oblation of some material gifts, upon an altar, with agreeable rites, in acknowledgment of sao dominio: 1 + “ If you will not call it a sacrifice,” says Mr. Seandret, “ call it an oblation, ‘© offering, or whatelse you please, but you may not believe otherwise ofit, tl “ asthe great Christian divine worship. Above all, beware of contemning it u « der this notior, lest you be found to have contemned the mystery of = owl % redemption, in your contempt of the appointed representations thereof,” — the above-mentioned Tract, page 127. * See Remarks, &c. page 214 ‘ YRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. Sk and of other divine attributes, with thanksgiving for the blessings of creation, redemption, and sanctification; and with prayers for pardon of sin, and for procuring all those blessings, which God has promised, in his holy word, to grant to those, who faithfully serve and obey him :—this, added to the consuming of those consecrared gifts, in such a manner, as the divine Institutor has appointed, is what the Episcopal Church in Scotland understands by a material sacrifice. And thus understanding the term, she - agrees with the present Bishop of St. Asaph, Dr. CLEa- VER—“ in safely concluding that a rite, which seems to “comprehend ali the virtues of ail the sacrifices, un- * der the old law, comprises that likewise of present and © immediate efficacy, in conveying to us an inward and * spiritual grace *.” She agrees with the present Bishop of LincoLy, in “ professing her belief, that while we ** worthily partake of the appointed emblems of Christ’s “6 body and blood, an inward grace is communicated, which purifies our hearts, fortifies our minds against “ the temptations of the world, and animates our efforts, * in pressing toward the mark for the prize of the high * calling of God in Christ Jesus}. She agrees with 7 ea ir. * See the conclusion of 2 Sermon, ¢ on the Sacrament of the Lerd’s Supper, &c.” preached at St. Mary’sin Oxford, in the year 1787, when his Lordship was Bishop ef Chester. His Lordship’s three discourses, on this interesting subject, are Worthy of the most serious perusal and regard. They are bound up, in the pam- phlet-form, and may be had of Mess. Rivington, London, * # See Exposition of the 39th Article, in vol. 2. of his Lordship’s Elements of Theology, &c. page 489, 3d edit. ; ey pag a wr ‘ ° a a, - sf . 52 PRELIMINARY DISSERTATION. Dr. Vicesimus Knox, in asserting, that ‘ this our “ Christian sacrifice, being a sacrifice sui generis, of a « peculiar nature, the oblation and the benefit are both «* of a transcendant kind, and the whole transaction a — <¢ mysterious intercourse between man, and his merciful : “© Maker ; in which the greatest good may be conveyed — ‘© to man, in any mode, approved (as this is) by infinite “ wisdom, however unaccountable to the reason of mi- <¢ mute philosophers, and the cavilling spirit of minute — < ¢heologists *. But more especially does she agree, in every particular, with the truly primitive and catholic | sentiments of Mr. Archdeacon Dauseny, as they stand expressed, in his admirable sermon on the text, ‘ this do © in remembrance of me,’ and of which this is the sum. «© The Holy Eucharist is a commemorative sacrifice, offer= «< ed up to God, by way of memorial, or bringing to re~ «¢ membrance that grand sacrifice, once offered on the <* Cross, and for the purpose of applying the merits of ‘© it to the parties, who in faith ofer it up. In this sense ~ <<‘ the consecrated bread and wine are the body and © blood of Christ in figures or by representation. They continue bread and wine in their nature; they become «¢ the body and blood of Christ in signification and my- “© stery: they are bread and wine to the senses; the body «< and blood of Christ to the eye of faith: bread and wine «‘ in themselves; the body and blood of Christ in spirit ‘© and effect; that is in virtue of the appointment of Christ, “ | And the Presbyter shall iben offer up, and place the . bread and wine prepared for the sacrament —_ ithe _ Lord's table ;. and shall say, am , The Lord be with you, | _ Answer, And with thy spirit. Presbyter.: Lift up your hearts, Answer. We lift them up unto the Lord. Presbyter. Let us give thanks. unto our Lord God. | Answer. It is meet and right so to do. 7 _Presbyter. It is very meet, right, and our bounden duty, that we should at all times, and in all places, give thanks unto - O Lord, * (holy + these words (holy Father) Father), Almighty, e e@- must be omitted on Trinity | Sunday- verlastin g God. . | Here shall follow the proper preface, according to the time, if there be any especially appointed ; or else ims z. mediately shall follow, Therefore with angels and archangels, &c. | Preper _‘gilaaemacaaals 64 CONMONIEN ‘OFFICE. 7 Bg oN q Proper Profaces. .994} 10, Biti02 { Upon Christmas-day, and séden days afters begs Because, thou didst give. Jesus Christy thine only Son, to be born (as on this day) + + During the seven for us, who, by the operation we a, ae ” ofthe Holy Ghost; was made © very man, of thé substance of the blessed — Virgin Mary his mother, and: that without spot of’sin, to make’us clean from’ all sin. ct Therefore with Angels, fek ; eS oa q Upon Easter-day, and seven days after. Bee ; Bur chiefly are we bound to praise thee, — for the glorious resurrection of thy Son, Jesus Christ our Lord: ' For he is the » very, Paschal Lamb which was offered for | Us, 5 and hath taken away the sin of the world ; ) who by his death hath destroyed death, and by his rising to life again, hath restored to us” everlasting life. Therefore with angels, &cv @ Upon Ascension-day, and seven days after. . Turovcs thy most dearly beloved Son,” J esus Christ our Lord: who, after his most glorious ‘ -e COMMUNION OFFICE. 65 ~ glorious resurrection, manifestly appeared _toall his Apostles, and in their sight as- _ cénded up into heaven, to prepare a place for us ; that where heis, thither might we also ascend, and reign with him in glory. :: Therefore with angels, &c. € Upon Whitsunday, and six days after. TuroucnH Jesus Christ our Lord; aes cording to whose most true promise, the - Holy Ghost came down * (as ot ee ays alter Whitsunday on this day) from heaven, sy, Asat thistime. with a sudden great-sound, as it had been a mighty wind, in the likeness of fiery _ tongues, lighting upon the Apostles, to teach them, and to lead them to all truth, giving them both the gift of divers langua- -ges, and also boldness, with fervent zeal, constantly to preach the gospel unto all na- tions, whereby we are brought out of dark- - ness and ‘error, into the°clear light and true _ knowledge of thee, and of thy Son Jesus | Christ. Therefore with angels, &c, I G Upon 66 COMMUNION OFFICE. | Upon the feast of Trinity only. Wuo art one God, one Lord ; not one only person, but three persons in one sub- stance. For thatwhich we believe of the glory of the Father, the same we believe of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, with- out any difference or inequality. There- fore with angels, &c. Gq After which Prefaces shall follow immediately this Doxology. ee, ts ee a ee a ee THEREFORE with angels and archangels, — and with all the company of heaven, we laud and magnify thy glorious name, ever- more praising thee, and saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of hosts, heaven and earth are full of thy glory. Glory be to thee, O— Lord most high. Amen. € Then the Presbyter, standing at such a part of the holy table, as he may with the most ease and decency use both his hands, shall say the prayer of consecration, as followeth, Aut glory be tothce, Almighty God, our een COMMUNION OFFICE. 67 our heavenly Father, for that thou, of thy tender mercy, didst give thy only Son Jesus Christ to suffer death upon the Cross for our redemption ; who, (by his own ob- lation of himself once offered) made a full, perfect, and sufficient. sacrifice, oblation, and satisfaction, for the sins of the whole world, and did institute, and in his holy gospel command us to continue, a perpetual memorial of that his precious death and sacrifice, until his coming again. For, in the night that he was betray- * Here the Presbyter ed, * he took bread; and atte ne when he had given thanks, + he brake it, and gave it to pre here to break his disciples, saying, Take, eat, { this is my body, which Mbp eas i 6 - is given for you: Do this in remembrance of me.— Likewise after supper § he took the cup; and when he had given thanks, he gave ‘ per D ‘it § Here he is to take the cup into his hand. * Ry 68 COMMUNION OFFICE, it to them, saying, Drink _ |] Andheretolayhis © hand’ unon every vessel ye all of this, for | this is (be it chalice or oe) 7 my blood of hie New Tes- ™ which there is any wine to be consecrated. tament, which is shed for ore! son you, and for many, for the remission of” sins : do this as-oft as ye shall drink it in remembrance of me. . Wuererore, O Lord, and [The Oblstion, heavenly Father, according to. the institu- tion of thy dearly beloved Son our Saviour Jesus Christ, we thy humble servants do celebrate and-make here before thy divine Majesty, with these thy holy gifts, WHICH WE NOW OFFER UNTO THEE, the memorial thy Son hath commanded us to make: a : ing in remembrance his blessed passion, 2 and precious death, his mighty resurrection, and glorious ascension; rendering untothee mo i hearty thanks for the innumerable benefits procured unto us by the same. And e most humbly beseech thee, O [The Invocation, merciful i. eS ’ 1 GOMMUNION OFFICES 69 4 sherciful Father, to, hear us, and of thy i Almighty goodness’ vouchsafe to ‘bless and _ sanctify, with thy word and Holy .Spirit. these thy gifts and creatures:of bread’ and _ wine, that they: may become the body and blood: of thy.most dearly beloved Son.— And we earnestly desire thy fatherly good- ness, mercifully: to-accept this our sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving, most humbly beseeching thee to grant, that by ‘the me- rits and death of thy Son Jesus Christ, and through faith in his blood, we and all thy whole Church may obtain remission of our sins, and all other benefits of his passion. And here we humbly offer and present un- - to thee, O Lord, ourselves, our souls and bodies, to be a reasonable, holy, and lively sacrifice unto thee, beseeching thee, that. whosoever shall be partakers of this holy Communion, may worthily receive the most precious body and blood of thy Son Jesus ‘Christ, and be filled with thy grace and heayenly benediction, and made one body with 70 COMMUNION OFFICE: == —— with him, that he may dwell in them, and they in him. And although we are un-_ worthy, through our manifold sins, to of fer unto thee any sacrifice ; yet we beseech — thee to accept this our bounden iduty and service, not weighing our merits, but par- — doning our offences, through Jesus Christ _ our Lord: by whom, and with whom, in ‘the unity of the Holy Ghost, all honour and glory be unto thee, O Father Al- mighty, world without end. Amen. Let us pray for the whole state of Christ’s - Church. ALMIGHTY and ever-living God, who by thy holy Apostle hast taught us, to make prayers and supplications, and to give thanks for all men; We humbly beseech thee, most mercifully to accept our alms and oblations, and to receive these our prayers, which we offer unto thy divine Majesty ; beseeching thee to inspire conti- nually the uniyersal Church with the spirit | ¥ of COMMUNION OFFICE, 71 =a ——— of truth, unity and concord: and grant, that all they, that do confess thy holy name, may agree in the truth of thy holy word, and live in unity and godly love. We be- seech thee also to save and defend all Chris- tian Kings, Princes, and Governors, and especially thy servant GEORGE our King, that under him we may be godly and quietly governed: and grant unto his whole coun- cil, and to all that are put in authority un- -der him, that they may truly and indiffer- ently minister justice, to the punishment of wickedness and vice, and to the main- tenance of thy true religion and virtue. — Give grace, O heavenly Father, to all Bi- shops, Priests, and Deacons, — that they may, both by their life and doctrine, set forth thy true and lively word, and rightly _and duly administer thy holy Sacraments ; and to all thy people give thy heavenly grace, that with meek heart, and due re- verence, they may hear and receive thy holy a2 Yes COMMUNION OFFICE. holy word, truly serving thee in holiness. and righteousness, all the days of their life. © And we commend especially to thy merci. ful goodness the congregation, which is here assembled in thy name, to celebrate the commemoration of the most precious death and sacrifice of thy Son, and our Saviour Jesus Christ. And we most humbly ‘be- seech thee of thy goodness, O Lord, to comfort and succour all those, who, in this transitory life, are in trouble, sorrow, need, sickness, or any other adversity. And we also bless thy holy name, for all thy ser- yants, who, having finished their course in faith, do now rest from their labours. An we yield unto thee most high praise, and hearty thanks, for the wonderful grace and virtue declared in all thy saints, who have been the choice vessels of thy grace, and the lights of the world in their several ge= _nerations: most humbly beseeching thee, to ane us grace to follow the example of their COMMUNION OFFICE. 73 their stedfastness in thy faith, and obedience to thy holy commandments, that at the day _ of the general resurrection we, and all they, who are of the mystical body of thy Son, may be set on his right hand, and hear that _his most joyful vcice, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. Grant this, O Father, for Jesus Christ’s sake, our only Mediator and Advocate.— _ Amen. @ Then shall the Presbyter says As our Saviour Christ hath commanded and taught us, we are bold to say, Our Father which art in heaven, hallow- ed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. » Give us this day our daily bread; and for- give us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, “iM K . for & : TA COMMUNION OFFICE. for thine is the kingdom, and the power, © and the glory, . for ever and ever. Amen. q Then the Presby ter shall say to them that come to recewwe $ the holy communion this wnvitation. Ye that do truly and earnestly repent. you of your sins, and are in love and cha- rity with your neighbours, and intend to lead a new life, following the command- ments of God, and walking from hence- forth in his holy ways; Draw near, and take this holy Sacrament to your comfort: -and make -your humble confession to Al- mighty,God, meekly kneeling ARON: your. knees. Then shall this general confession be made, - the people, along with the Presbyter, he first kneeling down. Aumicuty Gop, Father of our Lord | Jesus Christ, Maker of all things, Judge : of all men; we acknowledge and bewail _ our manifold sins and wickedness, which ' we-from time to time most grievously have committed, by thought, word, and deed, against 3 _—. & is ' iz pe oe o>, Naa rt = v Ps COMMUNION OFFICE. 7D _ against thy divine Majesty; provoking most justly thy wrath and indignation against us. We do earnestly repent, and are *heartily re eae, sorry, for these our misdoings; the re- “membrance of them is grievous unto us ; the burden of them is intolerable. Have mercy upon us, have mercy upon us, most merciful Father: for thy Son our Lord Jesus Christ’s sake, forgive us all that is past; and : ; Pe _ grant, that we may ever hereafter serve and _ please thee, in newness of life ; to the ho- nour and glory of thy name, through Jes esus - Christ our Lord. Amen. | Then shall the Presbyter, or the Bishop (being present), stand up, and turning himself to the people, pronounce the absolution, as followeth. AtmicHTy Gop, our heavenly Father, _who, of his great mercy, hath promised ee ee ee ; forgiveness of sins to all them, who with } hearty repentance and true faith turn unto “him, have mercy upon you; pardon and deliver you from all your sins ;_ confirm and "strengthen you in all goodness ; and bring Kg you 76 COMMUNION OFFICE, you to ee et rola Jesus s Christ _our Lord. Amen. | q Then shall the t otg ee yter also sayy. Hear what comfortable words our Saviour Christ saith unto all that truly turn to him : Come unto me, all ye that labour, andl are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matt. xi. 28. | God so loved the wiotial ye “hi ae "hid only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him,’ should not perish, but have ever- lasting life. John, iii. 16. .)3 eee vi Hear also. what St. Paul saith + This is a faithful saying, and el of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came int 0 the world to save sinners. 1 Tim. i, 15. _ Hear also what St. John saith: If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righieoneMa and he is the propitiation for our sins. 1 John Ape Wig: € Then shall the Presbyter, turning him to ‘olan cel id COMMUNION OFFICE. 7 down, and say, in the name of all them that shall com- mumicate, this collect of humble access to the holy com- munion, as followeth. We do not presume to come to this thy holy table, O merciful Lord, trusting in our own righteousness, but in thy manifold and great mercies. We are not worthy so much as to gather up the crumbs under thy table ; but thou art the same Lord, whose property is always to have mercy. Grant us therefore, gracious Lord, so to eat the flesh of thy dear Son Jesus Christ, and to drink his blood, that our sinful bodies may be made clean by his most sacred body, and our souls washed through his most pre- cious blood, and that we may evermore dwell in him, and he inus. Amen. § Then shall the Bishop, of he be present, or else the Presa _ byter that celebrateth, first receive the communion in both kinds himself, and next deliver tt to other Bishops, Pres- byters, and Deacons, (if there be any present), and af- ier to the people, in due order, all humbly kneeling. And when he receiveth himself, or delivereth the sacrament of the body of Christ to others, he shall say, THe Racal ¥ te es 78 COMMUNION OFFICE. Tue body of our ps Lord faa Christ, which was given for thee, preserve thy body and soul unto everlasting life. {| Here the person receiving shall say, Amen. qj] And the Presbyter or Minister that receiveth the cup Jimself, or *delivereth it to others, shall say this bene= diction. Tue blood of our Lord Jesus Christ, which was shed for thee, preserve thy body and soul unto everlasting life. -¥ Here the person recetoing shall say. Amen. If the consecrated bread or wine be all spent before all have communicated, the Presbyter is to consecrate more, according to the form before prescribed, y Ea at the words, All glory be to thee, &c. And ending with the words, | . That they may become the ae ated 4 blood of thy most dearly beloved Son. @ When all have communicated, he that celebrates shall — go to the Lord’s table, and cover with a fair linen cloth — that which remaineth of the consecrated elements, and ; then say, Havine now received the precious body and — a €OMMUNION OFFICE: . 73 and blood of Christ, let us give thanks to our Lord God, who hath graciously vouch- _ safed to admit us to the participation of his holy mysteries; and let us beg of him grace _ to perform our vows, and to persevere in. our good resolutions ; and that being made holy, we may obtain everlasting life, thro’ _the merits of the all-sufficient sacrifice of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. ‘| Then the Presbyter shall say this collect of thanksgiving, as followeth. . _ Avmicury and ever-living God, we most _ heartily thank thee, for that thou dost vouch- _ safe to feed us, who have duly received these holy mysteries, with the spiritual food of the most precious body and blood of thy Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ ; and dost _ assure us thereby of thy favour and goodness _ towards us, and that we are very members _ Incorporate in the mystical body of thy Son, _which is the blessed company of all faithful people; and are also heirs through hope of t thy 80 , COMMUNION OFFICEs thy everlasting kingdom, by the merits of — his most precious death and passion. We — now most humbly beseech thee, O heaven- — ly Father, so to assist us with thy grace © and Holy Spirit, that we may continue in~ that holy communion and fellowship, and | do all such good works as thou hast com- manded us to walk in, through Jesus Christ our Lord; to whom, with the Father, and the Holy Ghost, be all honour and glory, world without end. Amen. | Then shall be said or sung, Gloria in excelsis, as followeth. Gory be to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will towards men. We praise thee, we bless thee, we worship thee, : we glorify thee, we give thanks to thee for thy great glory, O Lord God, heavenly King, God the Father Almighty ; and to” thee, O God, the only begotten Son Jesu Christ ; and to thee, O God, the Holyt Ghost. | | a O Lord, Fae ft COMMUNION OFFICE $1 O Lord, the only begotten Son Jesu Christ ; O Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father, that takest away the sins of the. world, have mercy upon us. Thou that takest away the sins of the world, re- ceive our prayer. Thou that sittest at the right hand of God the Father, have mercy _ upon us. '. For thou only art holy, thou only art the Lord, thou only, O Christ, with the Holy Ghost, art most high in the glory of ' God the Father. Amen. '@ Then the Presbyter, (or Bishop, if he be present), ‘shall let them depart, with this blessing. . _ Tue peace of God, which passeth all "understanding, keep your hearts and minds ; in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord: and the _ blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, be amongst you, “and remain with you always. Amen. I, PRIVATE DEVOTIONS. AT THE WOY COMMUNION, ADAPTED FO FHE FOREGOING OFFICE, And taken from a little Work, entitled, “ 4 LAYMAN’S ACCOUNT OF HIS FAITH AND PRACTICE, AS A MEMBER GF ‘¢ THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH IN SCOTLAND.” ¢ W HEN the sermon is ended, we should endeavour “¢ to compose ourselves for the devout celebration of “‘ the Christian sacrifice; and while the minister is <° preparing for the holy table, we should be preparing” “¢ our minds for the humble participation of the holy $f mysteries ; and when he is going t to the altar, we ‘¢ may say in his behalf :” od Tur Lord hear thee! The name of the God of Ja ob defend thee! Send. thee help from ‘the sanctuary, and strengthen thee out of Sion! Remember all thy offerings, : and accept thy burnt sacrifice ! *¢ Then may be said the pees prayer of preparation ) eS ‘< for yourself, and the rest of the congregation.” ~ O Mosr indulgent Father of mercies, and God vais all Sill PRIVATE DEVOTIONS, &c. ‘83 but also in the appointed commemoration of that his pre- cious death and sacrifice, to be our spiritual food and sus- tenance, the nourishment of our souls, and a principle of life and immortality to our whole frame: Look down from heaven, the throne of thy glory, in mercy and compas- sion, upon me thy unworthy creature, and assist me with thy holy Spirit, in the solemn duty and service, which I am now about to perform. Drive away from my mind all wandering thoughts and vain imaginations; that 1 may attend on the celebration of this heavenly mystery with re- verence and godly fear. My sincere desire is to worship and serve, to love and adore thee, as the God of my life, as, _ the portion, which I have chosen in the land of the living, and which, I humbly beg, may be my happiness to all eternity. Do thou graciously accept of this desire, and e- ~ nable me to fulfill it. Behold, also, with thy favour and + HB e- loving kindness, the rest of thy people who are here met together in the same spirit, and in the same faith; and lend a merciful ear to the prayers which thy servant, whom thou hast appointed to minister, shall offer in our behalf. - Unite, O Lord, our hearts and our wills, and remove from us all whatever may make us unfit to appear in thy sanctu- ary. Let us draw near with reverence, and present our holy offering in peace; that, being thereby made one with Christ, and Christ with us, nothing may ever be able to dissolve this happy union, but that, being begun here in - grace, it may, in thy good time, be perfected in glory, for * y ¥ a: q his sake, whose all-sufficient sacrifice we are about to re- | ~present, and by whose authority and command we do it, even the same, thy Son Jesus Christ, to whom be seca in L2 the - "s 7 >. q 84 PRIVATE DEVOTIONS ; the Church dora aetiou all ages, world without end.— — Amen. af: At offering your alms, say:”’ I AckNowLepce, O Lord, that all I possess is the — effect of thy bounty: It is from thee I have received it, and to thy holy name be all the praise. Accept of this” free-will offering from my hands, as a testimony of thy — right to all I enjoy, and as an exercise of that love and charity to my brethren which thou requirest, and art plea-_ sed to take as done to thyself. ‘“¢ Tf there be time, whilst others are offering, you may_ <* go on thus *” ; Lorp, grant that I may always dedicate a part of what : thou hast bestowed upon me, to the maintenance of thy clergy, to the support of thy divine service, and to the relief of the poor; and so influence and dispose my heart, that what I shall apply to these ends, may beara just and due proportion to what I enjoy, and so be’acceptable — in thy sight, through the merits of him, who gaye himself for us—Jesus Christ our Lord and only Saviour. Amen. “ In the following part of the communion-service, we ‘< ought to join most devoutly with the Priest that offi- ‘* ciates, and never use our private prayers, when we «* are called upon to accompany him. Only in the z27- “¢ wtation, and the absolution, we must not repeat the “© words after him, because in the invitation, he ad. *¢ dresses himself to uss and in the abdsolulion, he exer= *© cises a part of the Priesi’s office, which does not be- « long to us.” é, ae “¢ When = i a ee AT THE HOLY COMMUNION. ~6BS sl When those portions of scripture are read, that follow *¢ the ahsolution, and are designed to beget in us a “© lively faith, and trust in God’s mercy, we may use «© some short ejaculations after Bhai, in the following «> manner, viz.— Come unto me, &c. RerresH, O Lord, thy servant, wearied with the bur- den of sin. 4 God so loved the world, &c. Lorp, I believe in thy Son Jesus Christ—O let this faith purify me from all iniquity. his ts a faithful saying, Xc. I Emprace with thankfulness that "salvation, which Jesus Christ has brought into the world. If any man sin, &c. INTERCEDE for me, O blessed Jesus, that my sins. may be pardoned, through the powerful merits of thy propitiating death. _ * After we have fervently joined in the public devotions “¢ on this solemn occasion, while the officiating Bishop “* or Presbyter is receiving the holy communion him- “* self, or delivering it to others, we may use the fol- | “* lowing prayer.” Accert, O most gracious and merciful God, of this _ commemorative representation, which we make before } ¢ " " Ly ‘thee, of the all-sufficient sacrifice, which thy Son Jesus Christ once made to thee of himself for the redemption of the world, Let this memorial of that most precious sa- , crifice plead with thee effectually for all the benefits there- RIES DERE p77 by 86 PRIVATE DEVOTIONS by obtained; and grant, O Lord, that the power of it may strengthen my weakness, and fortify me against all temptations; that the wisdom which it exhibits may make me wise unto salvation, and the peace which it offers may reconcile me unto thee, and give me peace of conscience. IT adore thee, O blessed Jesus, who didst humble thyself to the death of the Cross, that I might be redeemed from astate of sin and misery. I admire thy infinite condes- cension, in submitting to be abased, that I might be ex- alted; to be made poor, that I might be enriched ; and to suffer and die for me, that I might live for ever. Thou knowest, Lord, my weakness, and my wants, how unfit Jam to appear in thy divine presence, and how unwor- thy of the blessings of thy holy table. Yet thou desirest not the death of a sinner, but rather that he should turn . to thee and live. Tothee therefore I fly for succour and relief, for peace. and comfort, and for all that is necessary to restore me to life and ‘happiness. I come as one sick, to the physician of souls; as one unclean, to the fountain of purity; as one that is blind, to the light of eternal glory; as one poor and needy and naked, to the Lord of heaven and earth; beseeching thee, in the greatness of thine infinite bounty, to heal my infirmities, to wash away my sin, to remove my blindness, to relieve my necessities, and to clothe me with thy grace, that I may come prepar- ed with the wedding garment, the robe of thy righteous- nme & is Pass ness, and so be received as a happy guest at thy holy rf ». table. It is inthe multitude of thy mercies, that Iam nie to approach thine altar—O pardon my sins, increase my~ faith, sanctify my devotion, and grant that in eating of A tha 2 AT THE HOLY COMMUNION. $7 that bread, and drinking of that cup, which are ‘there _ prepared for me, I may spiritually eat the flesh of Christ, _ and drink his blood; may dwell with Christ, and Christ _ with me, be made one with Christ, and Christ with me, : U to the strengthening and refreshing my soul in this life present, and to the everlasting felicity both of my soul and body, in thy blessed presence, O God, my Redeemer, to whom be praise and glory, for ever and ever. Amen. «¢ When we go uptothealtar, or communion table, we ‘* may thus address ourselves to God in the thoughts ‘© of our hearts :” In obedience to thy gracious call and invitation, I am now drawing near to thee, O God, to take thy holy Sa- crament to my comfort; be thou also near to me, to sanctify and save me. ‘Thou, O blessed Jesus, hast said, << he that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath “¢ eternal life.’ 1 therefore present myself to receive thee; behold thy servant; be it unto me according to thy word. Amen. * Then, receiving the bread with reverence, and answer- “ing Amen to the prayer of the Priest, we may say _ thus in our hearts :” Buezssep be thy holy name, O Lord, for feeding my _ soul with this bread of life. By thy crucified /body deliver — _ me, I beseech thee, from this body of death. Grant, _ that, in the strength of this heavenly food, I may, walk - henceforth in the way of thy commandments. _ O be thou _ my God, and through the help of thy grace, I will be thy servant from this time forth for evermore. Amen. ; «© Just $8 PRIVATE DEVOTIONS — SSS ‘¢ Just before receiving the cup, we may say,” Wuar reward shall! give unto the Lord, for all the benefits that he hath done unto me? I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the Lord. | ** Then, receiving the cup with reverence, and again an- — <¢ swering Amen to the minister’s prayer, we may af- F << terwards say thus:” Lorp, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, — for mine eyes have seen thy salvation; yea, I have tasted as well as seen, that thou art good and gracious, and wonderful in thy doings towards thy faithful people.— That holy and venerable Sacrament, of which Ihave now — been a happy partaker, has united me to all the faithful — here on earth, and to those that are departed hence in the true faith of thy holy name; it has united me even to thee, — © blessed Jesus, the Saviour-and head of thy whole” church. May it ever preserve me a sound and living — member of Christ, a dear and dutiful child of God, and ~ an heir, through faith, of the kingdom of heaven: and through thy mercy, O God the Father, and thy merits 4 and intercession, O God the Son; and thy guidance and 7 sanctification, O God the Holy Ghost, may I obtain, in © thy good time, the end of my faith, even the salvation — of my soul, to the glory of thy grace, O adorable Three, who art one God, blessed for ever. Amen. | «© After having retired from the holy table, while oma fivare org niga we may use Me following — : “ prayer.” BLESSING © Hy % ~ AT THE HOLY COMMUNION. 89 - Butessine and honour, glory and power, be unto Him that sitteth on the throne, and unto the Lamb that was slain, for ever and ever. I give thee most humble and hearty thanks, O Lord, that thou hast been pleased to admit me at this time to the participation of these holy and heavenly mysteries; that thou hast vouchsafed to feed me, thy weak and unworthy servant, with the spi- ritual nourishment of the body and blood of thy Son Jesus Christ ; and this thou hast done, not on account of my merit, or any thing that is pleasing in me, but to shew thy infinite goodness and mercy, for the sake of him, in whom thou art ever well ple%ed. | Unworthy though I am, yet thy bounty, O Lord, never fails; the love of my Saviour is not diminished, and the virtue of his propitiation is never exhausted. Grant, therefore, I _ beseech thee, that this holy Sacrament may never turn to my judgement and condemnation ; but that it may be health and recovery under all my weaknesses and infir- Mities ; safety and defence against all the attacks of my . spiritual enemies; vigour and strength to all my holy _ purposes and resolutions; comfort and support under all ‘the afflictions and calamities of life ; assistance and direc- tion, under all doubts and difficulties; courage and con- stancy, under all dangers, troubles and trials, especially ‘inthe time of sickness, and at the hour of death ; finally, ‘Tet it procure for me pardon and forgiveness in te life, “mercy and favour at the day of judgment, and a never-fa- ding crown of glory in thy heavenly kingdom, where with oy adorable Son, Jesus Christ, and the holy ever blessed . M Spirit, — ‘oa ' z : i 4 90 PRIVATE DEVOTIONS ~ Spirit, thou, O Father, livest and reignest, One God, — world without end. Amen. 4 “ If there be sufficient time, before the administration of — ‘¢ the holy Sacrament is finished, it will be very proper — < to use the following form of thanksgiving, and pray- “* er of intercession, according to the practice of the © <¢ primitive Church; with regard to which it is to be — *¢ observed, that athankful commemoration of God’s ‘“* mercies, in the creation and redemption of mankind, ~ “* was always accounted so suitable and necessary an «© employment at the holy communion, that the whole ** service was from thence distinguished by the gene- * ral name of Eucharist, or thanksgiving.” | A THANKSGIVING FOR GOD'S MERCIES. = Wortuy art thou, O Lord of heaven and earth, to re- ceive all glory and honour, thanksgiving and praise, for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. Thou hast made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth, and all things that are therein; thou preservest them all, and the host of heaven praiseth thee ; angels, principalities, and pow- ers, all join in glorifying and extolling thy adorable name, with uninterrupted shouts of praise. Nor has man, O” Lord, less cause to adore and magnify thee, than any of thy most exalted creatures; for thou createdst him, O God, in thine own image: thou broughtest him into para- dise, thy sacred garden of holy pleasure, and didst place” him | - AT THE HOLY COMMUNION. 91s him in a state of dignity and honour, and gavest him do- minion over the works of thy hands; and, when he had lost his glory and happiness, by transgressing thy command- ment, thou, of thy goodness, didst not abandon and des- pise him ; but thy providence was still continued, thy care and protection were not withdrawn from him, thy mercy and loving-kindness were wonderfully exhibited to the eye of his faith; thy law was given to revive the sense of his duty; thy prophets were commissioned to restrain and/in- struct him, and keep him in mind of thy gracious promise of deliverance; and, at last, when the fulness of time came, for the accomplishment of that merciful promise, thou didst send thine only-begotten Son into the world, to take away sin by the sacrifice of himself, to satisfy thy jus- tice, to fulfil all righteousness, and- make up our peace with thee our offended God. For these great and glorious purposes, thine eternal word came down from heaven, was incarnate by the Holy Ghost, born of the blessed Virgin, made himself of no re- putation, and took on him the form of a servant, for us men, and for our salvation ; and, when his hour was fully come to offer the propitiatory sacrifice for our sins, be- | hold, he, who had no sin, undertakes to suffer for the sins of the world; the Lord is sold that the slave may be free, the innocent is condemned that the guilty may be saved 5 the physician is sick, that the patient may be cured, and the Creator dies, that his creature may live. And fully to ensure and perpetuate to us, all the benefits and advanta- ges of his death, he was pleased to institute this feast of mercy and love which we are now celebrating, to repair M 2 and 92 PRIVATE DEVOTIONS and support our weak corrupted nature, with his own most holy body and blood, and thereby to make us one with himself; that so, by virtue of his quickening Spirit now dwelling in us, our mortal bodies may have a princi- ple of life, the seed of a blessed immortality, and be rais- ed by him, who himself arose, as the first fruits of them that slept ; is ascended with our nature into the highest heavens, sits there at thy right hand, interceding for us, © _and shall come again at the last day, to re-unite our bodies — to our souls, and to confer on both a perfect happiness to all eternity. For all these stupendous instances of thy love, O God the Father ; for the inestimable and infinite purchase of them, by thy blood, O God the Son; and for thy gra- cious sanctification, and application of them to us, O God the Holy Ghost; I bless and praise, I magnify and adore — thee, the glorious three in one Jehovah, not asiI ought, but as Iam able: ina grateful sense of these thy manifold nercies and blessings, I present myself here at the solemn — memorial of them, which Christ hath commanded us to make, with a humble trust, that my own defects and im-— perfections will be supplied from the fulness of thy grace, acknowledged in the united prayers and praises of thy church. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and all that is. within me, praise his holy name. May blessing, and ho- - nour, thanksgiving, and glory, more than I can utter, more than I can conceive, be unto thee for all thy mercy and goodness, O most adorable Trinity, Father, Son, : ~and Holy Ghost, by angels, men, and all creatures, ectetiaih and for evermore. Amen, | ow = a AT THE HOLY COMMUNION. 93 A PRAYER OF INTERCESSION. O mosT gracious and merciful God, who hast blessed ~ me with this happy opportunity of bowing myself at thy holy table, to receive the precious pledges of my Redeem- “er’s dying love; grant that these holy mysteries may con- vey to me the pardon and forgiveness of all my sins, a supply of fresh grace, strength, and support against all my enemies, and a sure preservation of my whole spirit, soul and body, unto the day of his coming, And now, O Lord, in obedience to thy commands, and with a full trust in the prevailing and all-sufficient sacrifice which we _ have once more commemorated, I humbly implore the benefits of it, not only for myself, but for all mankind, especially for the whole Christian church, for all the faith- ful, in whatever place or state they be: O save thy people, and give thy blessing unto thine inheritance; feed them, and watch over them for ever. Be particularly gracious to this church and nation. Look upon us always in thy _ loving kindness, and manifest thyself to us, O Lord, in thine abundant mercies. Heal the schisms and divisions: which abound among those who call themselves Christians. Put astop to the growth of heresy and false doctrine, and preserve that portion of the church, to which we belong, in primitive truth and peace, unity and concord. Give thy heavenly grace to all our bishops, priests, and deacons, to our own bishop especially, and the clergy under him, and still more particularly to this thy servant, who is here admi« nistering thy holy mysteries. Look graciously on all those who are here assembled, to be partakers in this holy com- munion, and grant to each of them the several graces and blessings ‘ 94 PRIVATE DEVOTIONS blessings which I have desired for myself. Be favourable to all the rest of the members of this congregation. To those who are hindered from being present among us, by any just cause or impediment, do thou supply, by the ex- traordinary operations of thy holy Spirit, what is wanting from the outward and ordinary means; and those who heedlessly absent themselves, through irreligion, indevo- tion, carelessness and sloth, be pleased to call toaserious mind, and to make them sensible of the danger of their neglect 5 ; teach them, that their souls can no more subsist in a state of salvation without spiritual nourishment, than their bodies can subsist i in a state of health, without their — natural food. Accept of my prayers and praises for all that Thou know- est to be good, for my relations, friends. and benefactors ; and do thou, O Lord. who hast taught us to pray for our enemies, pardon and forgive all who have in any way in- jured or slandered me, as well those that have done, as those that have wished me evil, and let no provocations’e- ver exasperate me to make any other returns for their un- kindness, than my prayers for their repentance, and that thou wouldst grant them better minds, and more charitable hearts.'. Give me grace, O Lord, to remember before thee, and do thou sanctify and save, allthose for whom , my prayers ought to be offered up on this solemn occasion. ~ Bless the King, with those that are placed in authority under him, and grant that all governors may rule with wisdom and justice, and subjects obey with love and chearfulness. Have compassion on the aged and infants, the sick and infirm, and on all who are unable to help them- & AT THE HOLY COMMUNION. 95 _ themselves : whatever oppression, plague, or trouble, any of the children of men lie under, be thou their friend and helper, their comfort and support, and, in thy good time, grant them a happy deliverance out of all their afflictions. Inevery condition of life, thou knowest all the desires, and all the wants of thy people ; be pleased therefore, O merciful Father, to suit thy grace and blessings to the several necessities of our souls and bodies, and grant us thy peace all the days of our life. Hear me, O God of my salvation, and lend a gracious ear to my prayers and supplications, for the sake, and through the meritorious intercession of him, whose precious death and sacrifice I have been now commemorating, and for which I will bless thy holy name, this day, and for évermore. Amen. ‘¢ Arrer the foregoing prayers are used, if there bea *¢ considerable number of persons to communicate, we may still want some proper assistance for the exer cise of our devout affections ; and the communion-of- jice contains such a variety of excellent matter for meditation, that we cannot perhaps do better, than employ our minds in the serious consideration of some particular parts of it, or in using some of the prayers and meditations which are subjoined to that short treatise bound up with most of our prayer-— “© books, called a Companion to the Altar.” 6G ce 44 6c cc «¢ 14 ce «© When all have communicated, we must fervently join “ in what remains of the public devotions appointed by- ‘the 96 PRIVATE DEVOTIONS, & “« the church, and after the concluding benediction is «* pronounced, we may use some such short prayer as “ the following. I rHanx thee, O blessed Jesus, my Lord and my God, that thou hast vouchsafed to make me a partaker of the ho- ly communion of thy body and blood, for the remission of | my sins, and the preservation of my soul and body unto everlasting life. Pardon the many failings and imperfec- — tions which have accompanied the performance of this blessed duty, and grant that those things, which I have ~ faithfully asked according. to thy will, may effectually be — obtained, to the relief of my necessities, and to the setting forth of thy glory, O Christ, who, with the Father, and the holy Spirit, art one God, blessed for evermore.——— ~ Amen. : : } ILLUSTRATION OF THE FOREGOING OFFICE, FROM THE Ancient Liturgies, and from the Wi r iting s of the most approved Ritualists, &c. ae the Church of England. t 1 {ue 000 bea THE EXHORTATION. ‘Tis Exhortation is, verbatim, the same with that in the English Office appointed to be used “‘ at the time “© of the celebration of the communion ;”’ and only differs from the exhortation, in the authorised Scottish Liturgy of King Charles, in omitting the words ‘ therefore if any ‘ of you be a blasphemer of God, an hinderer or slan- « derer, &c.’ as contained in the first exhortation, pre- vious to the day of communion. _ It is thus satisfactorily ' elucidated by Mr. SHupHerp.— Chrysostom informs «¢ ys, that in the Greek Church, when the communicants & were conveniently placed, ‘ the Priest, standing ina ‘¢ conspicuous station, and stretching forth his hand, and, _« lifting up his voice in the midst of profound silence, in- « vited some (that is, those who were worthy, ) and for= _ “© bade others (the unworthy) to approach.’ In this ex. - N 3 « hortations 98 ILLUSTRATION OF THE hortation, the Minister excites us to two general duties, self-examination and thanksgiving. He states the be- nefits of receiving the Sacrament worthily, and the danger of receiving it unworthily. He enforces the duties of true repentance, lively faith, complete refor- mation, and perfect charity, in order to our becoming - * meet partakers of these holy mysteries. He insists, above all things, on the necessity of thanksgiving to God, for the redemption of the world, by the death and pas-— sion of our Saviour Christ. Thanksgiving is a prin- cipal part of the Eucharistic banquet, and the conclud- : ing paragraphs of the exhortation furnish us with vari- — ous considerations, on which our gratitude may ex-— “¢ patiate *,’? RUBRIC AFTER THE EXHORTATION. Then the Presbyter or Deacon shall say, ‘* Let us present our offerings to the, Lord ‘* with reverence and godly fear.” Fe ee ee THe terms of this short address are countenanced both by the language of Scripture, and of the ancient Litur- gies. In the 12th chapter of St Paul’s Epistle to the He- brews is found the following admonition ; “ wherefore -“ we, receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have * See Critical and Practical Elucidation of the book of Common Prayer, vol. 2. page 192, ‘ . 27 : FOREGOING OFFICE. 99 “have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably _‘ with reverence and godly fear.” While in the Clemen- “> tine Liturgy, and in that of St. James, after the saluta- tion, or kiss of peace, the deacon said ‘ fen Tig Toy Morey e= = PAVLOV fA TIE THY HHPOLWMLEVON, [LN TIS TRY OTIS ON, hy TIS ‘a Twy ‘Ete Cok cwy 4 TG HATA Tivoc 4 Tg 2y UTPOMDIT ele O FSEO90E Wy fei] Th morta THIOL, Min TIC sy UmrON, e y= bo mpog xupioy peeror DolSe next TeOMB ETWTES WEY TpOT= “ Qzpxy, &c.”” < Let none of the.catechumens, let none _ “© of the hearers, let none of the unbelievers, let none of ** the heterodox stay ; let none have aught against any ** one, let none come in hypocrisy. Let us stand up- “* right before the Lord with fear and trembling to of* “fer * THE OFFERTORY. THE custom of offering gifts at the celebration of the Lord’s supper is sanctioned, first by the precept of our blessed Lord, and then by that of St. Paul. The former enjoins, that we should never bring our gift unto the al- tar, without being first reconciled to our brother ; or, if we should do so, that we leave there our gift before the altar, until being reconciled to our brother, we then come and offer our giftt. And the latter directs, « that on N 2 ** the * See the ¢ Ancient Liturgy of the Church of Jerusalem,’ freed from all latter _ additions and interpolations, &c. and compared with St. Cyril’s 5th Mystagogical Catechism, and with the Clementine Liturgy, &c.—London, printed by Betten? ham, 1744, } St. Matt. v. 23, 24. 100 ILLUSTRATION OF THE “¢ the first day of the week,” (the day on which breaking of bread and prayer were regularly solemnized,) “ every <¢ one lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him *.” In the Primitive Church these offerings were so consider- able, as to be found adequate to the following purposes. 1. The maintenance of the Bishop and clergy,—2. The — support of the Church, with every thing requisite for daily worship ;—and lastly, the relief of the poor. In order, therefore, to stir us up more effectually to imitate such a pious example, the Presbyter is directed to “* begin the *< offertory, saying one or more of these sentences follow- *© ing, as he thinketh most convenient by his discretion, “ according to the length or shortness of the time that the — << people are offering t.? The sentences from scripture, : which are common to both the Scotch and English Com- munion Offices, were substituted for the Antiphona or — Anthem after the gospel, which is found in the ancient Liturgies; and, from their being originally sung, while the people made their oblations, ‘hey were called the of- : fertory t+. The sentences contained in the Scottish Office — are precisely the same with those in the authorised Litur-— gy of King Charles I.; with this exception, that 1 Chron.” xxix. 10, 11, 12, is reserved for a form of presentation before the Lord, when the oblations are delivered to the Presbyter, to be set upon the holy table, ‘ where,’’ it is 1 acknowledged by one well qualified to judge, the late” eminently learned Bishop Hors.ey, “ it is introduced ¢* with peculiar propriety §. | a The * 1 Cor. xvi. 2. + Thistubric is taken-from the authorised Office for Scotland. , ¢ See Wheatly and Shepherd in loco. § See Collation in the Appendix. a FOREGOING OFFICE. 101 The Presbyter shall then offer up, and place the bread and wine prepared for the Sacrament upon the Lord’s table. Tuts rubric is expressly the same with that in the au- thorised Scottish Liturgy. In the present English Office the order that the Pries/, and none other; shall place the bread and wine upon the holy table, is equally perempto- ry. This ancient practice,” writes Mr SHEPHERD, “¢ was enjoined by a rubric in King Edward's first book.” And though he adds, that “ it is not here necessary ‘to <¢ enquire why it was omitted in the second * ;” yet such enquiry is much to our purpose, as it will be found to e- stablish the strictest harmony of doctrine on the subject of the Eucharistical sacrifice, between the Church of England and the Episcopal Church in Scotland. «© In all the Jewish sacrifices,’ writes Mr WHEATLY, <¢ of which the people were partakers, the viands or ma- terials of the feast were first made God’s by asolemn vblation, and then afterwards eaten by the communi- © cants, not as man’s but as God’s provision; who, by <¢ thus entertaining them at his own table, declared himself nan an cal La) © reconciled, and again in covenant with them. And ‘¢ therefore, our blessed Saviour, when he instituted the “ new sacrifice of his own body and blood, first gave “ thanks, and blessed the elements, i.e. offered them up “¢ to God, as Lord of the creatures, as the most ancient * Fathers expound that passage: who, for that reason, “¢ when- * See Shepherd’s Elucidation, vol. 2. page 190. 102 ILLUSTRATION OF THE “* whenever they celebrated the Holy Eucharist, always- ** offered the bread and wine for the communion to God, “* upon the altar, by this or some such short ejaculation; — * Lord, we ofr thee thine own, out of what thou hast @ * bountifully given us.? After which they received “* them, as it were, from him again, in order to convert “¢ them into the sacred banquet of the body and blood * of his dear Son. In the ancient Church, they had gene- ** rally a side-table * near the altar, upon which the ele ments were laid, until the first part of the communion- service was over, at which the catechumens were al- lowed to be present; but when they were gone, the elements were removed, and placed upon the holy al- tar itself, with a solemn prayer. Now, though we have no side-table authorised by our Church; yet in the first common-prayer of King Edward VI. the Priest himself was ordered in this place to set both the bread ‘* and wine upon the altar. But at the review in 1551, : “ this and several other such antient usages were thrown — out, I suppose, at the instance of Bucer and Martyr; after which the Scotch Liturgy was the first, in which _ we find it restored: But there the Presbyter is direct- ed to offer up and place the bread and wine prepar- — ed for the Sacrament upon the Lord’s table, that it © nae €¢ 66 ec 14 6 ee «ce Li4 €¢ i+ ce ce e¢ * In the Greek Church, this side-table was called Prothesis, because the elements were first set in public view upon it; and in the Latin church, Paratorium, be- cause they were prepared and made ready upon it for the holy communion. See Dr. Hickes’ prefatory discourse to the Christian Priesthood, 3d edit. page 64. In all chapels, where the Scotch communion office is used, the side-table or prothesis” makes a part of the altar furniture. 7 FOREGOING OFFICE. 103 * may be ready for that services And Mr Mede, having ** observed our own Liturgy to be defective in this parti- cular, was probably the occasion, that, in the review of it after the restoration, this primitive practice was *¢ restored, and the bread and wine ordered by the ru- * bric, to be set solemnly upon the table Ay the Priest © himself }.” Mr. Wueat Ly makes no reference to Mr. Mepr’s works ; there is little doubt however but that the follow- ing are the words of Mede above alluded to: “ If all this “* be so, how is not our celebration of the Eucharist de- ** fective, where no such obd/ation is used ? I answer, this ** concerns not us alone, but all the churches of the west *« ofthe Roman communion, who, as in other things they “* have depraved this mystery, and swerved from the pri- ** mitive pattern thereof, so have they for thany ages dis- * used this oblation of bread and wine, and brought. in, $< in lieu thereof, a real and hypostatical oblation of Christ “© himself. This blasphemous oblation we’? (the church of England) “ have taken away, and justly, but not reduced “* again that express and formal use of the other. How- _ * soever, though we do it not with a set ceremony and “* form of words; yet in deed, and effect we do it; so oft- ** ens we set the bread and wine upon the holy table; for _ ¢ whatsoever we set upon God’s table is, ipso facto, de- _ “ dicated and offered unto him according to that of our “*¢ Saviour, (Matthew xxiii. 19.) ‘the Altar sanctifies the “ gift,’ that is consecrates it to God, and appropriates it ce te ¢ See Wheatly’s Illustration, &c. 4th edit. page 288, 104 ILLUSTRATION OF THE —=— to his use. In which respect it were much to be wished * that this were more solemnly done than is usual; namely “ not until the time of the administration, and by the hand “© of the minister,in the name and sight of the whole con- — <‘ sregation standing up, and shewing some sign of due t “ and holy reverence, according as the deacon was wont “© to admonish the people in ancient Liturgies, “ Opfar . S¢ arpog 2xUpLOY pete Doe xa TeoKs “ESTES COfLeY 7 moor Depety’ —_ “¢ Let us stand in an upright posture before God, to offer ‘¢ with fear and trembling*.” Thus what Mr Mede wished to be done, the convoca- tion of the church of England ordered to be done, and the order is in full force to this hour ; nay, we have the evi- dence of the learned Bishop Patrick, who, if not him: self a member of the convocation of 1661, was contempo- rary with the members of that venerable body, to prove - that “ itis not common bread and wine, which the ancient © « christians prayed might become the body and blood of “¢ Christ to them, but bread and wine, first sanctified by “ being offered to God with thanksgiving ; this is to be - i Hidurivsed: when you see the bread and wine set up- ! “ on God?s table by him that ministers in'this divine ser- « pice; then it is oféred to God, for whatsoever is so- << lemnly placed there becomes, by that means, a thing de- “ dicated and appropriated to him; and if you observe — «‘ the time, when this bread and wine is ordered to be i “© placed there, which is immediately after the alms of © ‘¢ the people have been received for the poor, you will see 66 ich n * See the works of the pious and Aap learned Joseph Medey B. Ds &c. e in folie. Sd edit. page 376. Lendon 1672 % FOREGOING OFFICE« 105 *®¢ it is intended by our Church to be a thankful oblation ** to God of the fruits of the earth; all that are present “<< desiring God to accept of these gifts, as a small token «* of their grateful sense, that they hold all they have of “ him, as the great Lord of the world. And so we are ** taught to do in that prayer, which immediately follows ¢ in our Liturgy, for the whole State of Christ’s Church, « and wherein we humbly beseech him to accept not only our alms, signifying that which was given for the relief of the poor; but also our 0d/ztions, which can ‘< signify nothing else, according to the stile of the an- * cient Church, but this bread und wine *.” I am aware of the attempts which have been made to do away the force of Bishop Parrick’s evidence;—but as the rubric in question, and the term ‘ obiations,’ in the prayer immediately following, were inserted at one and the same time, viz.—at the review authorised by the Convocation of 1661, and as it is well known, that then great regard was had to the sentiments of Archbishop Laup, it follows, as argued by Mr Jounson, that “ the <¢ gteater regard that was had to the sentiments of Arch- *¢ bishop Laup, the more sure we are, that read and © wine were designed to be offered; for this was one ¢ particular, on which Archbishop Laup and his friends < did always insist .” Mr Reeves is clearly of this opi- nion; he asserts with Mr Wheatly, that “ the Priest, in *< piacing the bread and wine upon the table, offvrs them solemnly to God, .as an acknowledgement of his sove- fo) “ reignty Li4 it4 * See Bishop Patrick’s Christian Sacrifice, page 77, 9th edit. ; See Prefatory Epistle to the Unblocdy Sacrifice, page 67. 106 ' ILLUSTRATION OF THE == ‘¢ reignty over his creatires, and that they may thence- “¢ forth become properly and peculiarly hist.” Mr SuHep- ~ HERD admits that the words “ and oblations were intend- « ed, as he conceives, more immediately to-refer to the “* bread and wine, and the new order about placing them <*_upon the table ;” which action, he adds, ** tho’ no form ‘¢ of prayer is prescribed by our Church, (the Church ** of England) zs not to be neglected; * if the alms only — ** were meant,” says this learned author, * there wasno — ** adequate reason for the addition of the words Sand o= — ‘© blations ;° for on this supposition nothing more is ex- — “¢ pressed, than was fully and clearly expressed before. ** Again,” asks he, ‘ does not the disjunctive ¢or,? inthe — ‘¢ marginal rubric, imply a distinction between a/ms and- — «© oblations }?” True it is, that we agree with Mr Joun- SON, 4 } ~ See the book of Common Prayer, published for John Reeves, Esq, under the head of ‘the order for the administration of the Lord’s Supper, &c.” } See Shepherd’s Elucidation, volume 2d. pagé 189, with the note annexed. In an edition of the book of Common Prager published by the Rey, Richard Warner of Bath, with an introduction and notes, the following curious. specimen of the ~ Author’s indecision, not to characterise it by a harsher name, occurs; “ it is free “ cuently a matter of doubt with the clergy, whether or not the word. cb/ations should ** be introduced or omitted by the Minister in the performance of the holy com- «© munion ; those who omit it, considering it to refer to the perquisites, which the * clergy anciently received for saying mass, or in other words administring the sae * crament ; for untill the 4th century, the Church had no fixed revenues nor any © other means of subsistence than the voluntary oblations which were offered for the ** support of its ministers, principally upon these occasions ; but those clergymen “ are probably right, who intreduce the word as it appears to apply to the ele= & ments themselves, which are ob/eta, or offered to the Lord, according to that “ injunction in the African canons ; ‘ ut in sacramentis corporis et sanguinis Domi- ni nihil amplius offeratpr, quam quod ipse Dominus tradidit, hoc est panis et vinum aqua mixtum.” Cen, Afric. Can, 4th. NA NN Spe EOS A ey a j 5 4 FOREGOING OFFICE. 107 son, and with “ Connie the learned Non-juror,” (as Mr Shepherd terms him,) in believing that “the Excha- “ ristic oblation,”’ properly so called, “ is the offering of “¢ the consecrated elements, the sacramental body and ** blood of our Saviour, in memory of his sacrifice and ‘¢ passion,” by the express ob/atory prayer, ‘“‘ wherefore ** O Lord, according to the institution, &c.”? Yet, as in Justin Martyr’s time, the elements were offered to the president or celebrator, (agosswri,) who, taking them in- to his hands, placed or presented them on the Altar, and then proceeded in the Eucharistical service; and as the very action of offering the blood, which formed the most essential part of the Jewish sacrifice, is in English render- ‘ed ¢ putting the blood,’ in latin, * ponere sanguinem,’ in greek, emiriJevou ‘xia ;’ the hebrew [73 nathan, signi- fying either to give, put, or place ; we believe, that, when - the Convocation of 1661 commanded the bread and wine to be placed by the Priest upon the holy fable, that ‘is, commanded the elements to be made an oblution, the Church of England plainly condemned the contrary doc- trine, whieh teaches that the bread and wine are to be considered as simple memorials, and are noi to be offered as a sacrifice or solemn oblation to God, to be consumed only in his service; and we are therefore of opinion, though no oblatory form of prayer is prescribed by the Church of England, yet that, in this important doctrine, the strictest harmony subsists between her and the Epis- - copal Church in Scotland. In proof of this we need cite no more competent authority, than that of the late Rev. Wituiam Jones, whose learning, and transcendant ta- 02 y lents, f oa iy : Ly 168 ILLUSTRATION OF THE © “tents, were devoted to the interests of the English Church. In his ‘ Churchman’s Catechism,’ to the question ¢ when * are a/ms more particularly required by the Church ?— _ this zealous advocate for truth directs the youthful mem- ber of the Church of England to answer—* In the com- <¢ munion-service ; when with the holy oblation of Christ's ** body and blood, it is right, that we should offer our- “© selves, and our worldly substance, to be consecrated “© with the offering of the Eucharistic sacrifice, that we, s* and all we have, may be acceptable and blessed *.” Arter the rubric for offering up, and placing the bread and wine, prepared for the Sacrament, upon the Lord’s table, the first Liturgy of Edward directed, that to the wine there should be put ‘ a little pure and clean «© water ;” and to this practice, though no such direc- tion occurs in her Communion Office ¢, the Episcopal Church in Scotland still adheres. True, the Eucharistical mixture is not now thought necessary by the Church of 4 Englarid. Yet is it so far from being condemned by her, that — 3 * See page 419 of the 11th vol. of the invaluable works of the Rev. William Jones, M. A. F. R. S. + Should it be thought strange that this practice is continued in the Scotch Epis- j copal Church, when no rubric to that effect appears in her Office ; { make answer, fr in the language used by Mr Shepherd to elucidate the practice of alternately re- citing the Psalms of David— It is not,” says es “as far as lat present recollect, Mt q s enjoined by any rubric, nor by any other injunction of our Church: But we « uniformly adopt it, and in defence of our practice, we have to allege, that it is ry f* perfectly congenial to the usage of antiquity, is sanctioned by the recommenda- « ticn of the wisest and best among the Fathers, and has been ratified by respect» — * able councils,”"—-See Elucidation, vol. 1. page 130. ; - = i _ is V FOREGOING OFFICE. 109 =e that some of her greatest divines, and most zealous de- fenders, have expressed themselves desirous of having the order restored. “ It must be confessed,” writes Mr. Wueat ty, “ that the mixture has in all ages been the « general practice, and for that reason was enjoined to < be continued in the Church of England, by the first < reformers; and though in the next review the order <‘ for it was omitted, yet the practice of it was continued « in the King’s Chapel Royal all the time that Bishop « Anprews was Dean of it; who also in the form, that « he drew up for the consecration of a Church, &c. ex- s¢ pressly directs, and orders it to be used*. How it «© came to be neglected in the review of our Liturgy in “ King Edward’s reign, I have not yet been able to dis- “ cover. [am apt to suspect, that it was thrown out <¢ upon some objection of CaLvIN and Bucer, who « were no friends to any practice for its being ancient « and cutholic, if it did not happen to suit with their fan- <¢ cy and humour. But whatever may have been the «¢ cause of laying it aside, since there is no reason to “ believe it essential ; and since every Church has liber- «© ty to determine for herself in things not essential ; it “© must be an argument sure of a very indiscrect, and OUET= *® The words of this form are, ° cxteris rebus ordine gestis, demum episcopus =f . . . . . . s ad sacram mensam redit, (sacellanis aliquantulum recedentibus) lotisque manibus, “ pane fracto, vino in calicem effuso, et agua admista, stans ait, &c.—other matters “ being adjusted, then the Bishop returns to the holy table, (the chaplains withdraw- « ing alittle) and having washed his hands, broke the bread, and poured the wine “ into’the cup, and mixed it with water, standeth and saith, &c.” See Sparrow’s s Rationale, — " \ ¥ . 110 . ILLUSTRATION OF ‘THE Sees _— “* over-hasty zeal to urge the omission of it, as a ground ¢ for separation t.” Ml But if urging the omission as a ground of separation from the Church of England be thus characterised by Mr Wueat y, what character is due to those, who urge the practice of the mixture as a ground of separation fron. the Episcopal Church in Scotland? The Church of Eng- land directs, that “ before all things, this we must be “< sure of especially, that the Lord’s Supper be in such : ** wise done and ministred, as our Lord and Saviour did “* and commanded to be done, as his holy Apostles used { “¢ it, and the good Fathers of the Primitive Church Sre= ““ quented it }.”? Now the Church of England admits, that the good Fathers of the Primitive Church used, and. . therefore frequented, the mized cup inthe Lord’s sup- per. “ Justin Martyr,” says the ‘ Homily of Com- — ‘ mon Prayer and Sacraments,’ “ who lived about 160 “¢ years after Christ, saith thus of the administration of “¢ the Lord’s supper in his time—Upon the Sunday as- 4 . ‘* semblies are made, both of them that dwell in Cities, ** and of them that dwell in the country also, Amongst, “* whom, as much as may be, the writings of the Apostles _ ** and Prophets are read. Afterwards when the reader 4 “* doth cease, the chief minister maketh an exhortation, iM “ exhorting them to follow honest things. After this — we rise all together, and offer prayers, which being end. _ ** ed, (as we havé said) bread and wine and water are “ brought n Py € n + See Wheatly’s Mlustration, &c. 4th edit, page 294,. ¢ See book of Homilies, page 282, first part of the sermon concerning the Sacrament, BOREGOING OFFICE. ili Se ,——_—_——_—_] “ brought forth: then the head minister offereth prayers “ and thanksgivings with all his power, and the people “ answer Amen *.” The celebrated Christian Baber IrEN Us lived also in the second century, and writes thus, “ temperamen- “* tum calicis suum sanguinem confirmavit ;” that is, '* our Saviour established the mired cup, vs his blood ot and again, “* hec enim et Dominus docuit mixtionem ca- “ licis novam regno, cum discipulis habiturum se polli- ** citus,” that is, “ our Lord promised to his disciples “to drink the mixed: cup new with them in his king- « dom fT.” Ciemens ALEXANDRINUs asserts that “ the Aoyos or “ zord ordered the blood of the grape to be mixed with “© water, as his own blood has happiness or salvation in- 46 corporated with it,” rs “CLLLeeT OS rs sapuays “vdcers H1p- wardas Bererotos TE Aoys, ‘ws uot TO “oct uce OUTS rob]ngre 11g yore § ; while Cyprian may be said to put the matter beyond all doubt, in as far as the “ good Fathers of the _ Primitive Church” are concerned. “ Calix Domini -€ non est aqua sola aut vinum solum, nisi utrumque sibi © misceatur”— the cup of the Lord is neither water a- “* Jone, nor wine alone, but consists. of both mixéd foge- “© ther :’ again, ‘ post cenam, mixtam calicem obtulit Dominus’, our Lord offered a mixed cup after supper’; ** and again, ‘ in sacrificio, quod Christus obtulerit, non nisi Christus sequendus est; utique id nobis obaudire " ce et { ‘ * See book of Homilies, page 227, Homily of Common Prayer and Sacraments } See Irenzus lib. 4th. ch, 57, edite Grabe, }- Padagog. lib, 2, ch, 2. 112 . ILLUSTRATION OF HE «¢ et facere oportet, quod Christus fecit, et quod faciendunt — *¢ esse mandavit’; ‘in the sacrifice which Christ offered, «* Christ’s example alone is to be followed ; for it is our * duty to obey and practisé that which both Christ did, : « and commanded to be done *”. ¢ Should it be contended, that admitting all this, there” is no mention made of the mixture of the cup at the insti-— tution of the Eucharist, and no precept in Scripture enjoin- ing the practice of it ; the following case in point will, i is hoped, do away this objection ; ** when Moses sprinkled « the people with the blood of the Covenant,” there is no mention made in the Old Testament of wafer being mixed with itt, yet the Apostle St Paul assures us that Moses took the blood of calves and of goats with water, &c. +. Now this sprinkling with blood was a solemn rite in the Mosaic Covenant, and used, like the blood shed at the passover, for the remission of sin; notwithstanding of which, the practice of Moses, who took the blood with water, though no immediate command to that effect ap " pears, called for the following Apostolical commendation, that “* Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a ser=_ a <¢ spoken hereafter §.”’ Dr. Licutroor proves the mixture of wine and water to have constituted the paschal cup of the Jews; and ob- serves, when treating of the Eucharistical cup, 1. that in rs striking the o/d covenant, there was blood mixed with wi- ter, and in this sanction of the new covenaut, there was wine * Cyprian Epist. 63. page 164.—Oxford edit. $ Excdus xxiv. 5, 6. + Hebrews ix. 19. § Hebrews iii. Se FOREGOING OFFICE. . 118 > a wrne also mired with water ; 2. that out of Christ’s side water flowed with blood, ** unusual this,’ adds he, “ and _ * beside the course of nature, that it might answer she < type}. © The mixture of water,” writes Bishop - Hooper, “ with the sacramental wine, of which the an- _ € cients speak; was done after the manner of the Jews; <¢ and in their opinion did not make it less proper for a cup of thanksgiving; for they //tew/se do not think they “ celebrate their paschal supper duly with pure wine, but & mir tt with water *: while the learned BincHam declares that the primitive Christians believed the mixture to be our Saviour’s institution. “* As to the ancients,” says he, “ they are not to be blamed in keeping strictly to this “ custom, because they thought it a part of the institu- © tion. Upon which account they censured all that made « any alteration in the elements, either by addition or sub- * traction, or changing one element for another ; the Aquarians were condemned for taking away the wine, € the Armenians and others for not using water alsoy.” If therefore the Episcopal Church in Scotland errs in a- dopting the mired cup, in celebrating the christian passo- ver, she errs with the Church universal; nay she errs with the divine Institutor of the Eucharist himself, who is declared (not only by the writers above quoted, but by one, whose attachment to the Church of England as now P con. ae - e, , 4 See Hore Hebraice in Matt. Tom. 2. page 257. and in 1 Cor. xi. 25. * See ‘ Discourse concerning Lent,’ part 2. ch. 7. page 287. London 1696. + See * Antiquities of the Christian Church,’ book XV. ch. 2, yol. 8 pages "619. 620. 114 ILLUSTRATION OF THE constituted, cannot be doubted, by the learned Archdea- — con DauBeENy,) to have taken “ the cup of wine and wa- ; “* ter mixed, to signify and represent the blood and water, — ** which flowed from his dead body on the cross §.”* emt Having ofered up and placed the bread and wine pre- pared for the sacrament upon the Lord’s table, the Presbyter is directed to say, The Lord be with you. The People answering, And with thy spirit. Presbyter. Lift up your hearts. | Answer. We lift them up unto the Lord, &c. Tuis part of the Office liturgical. writers have stiled the Preface,’ from its being employed in all the ancient Christian sacrifice ; which being a feast of joy and thanks- giving, the Apostles themselves partook of it ‘* with glad” « ness of heart, praising God*.? The versicles and Trisagion (or hymn in which the epithet holy is thrice § See Mr. Daubeny’s Sermon, quoted in Preliminary Dissertation, page 92 se vel. of Discourses on various subjects. : * Acts II. 46, FOREGOING OFFICE. bis ‘repeated,) were so anciently, and so universally, and with such little alteration admitted into the Liturgies of the Eastern and: Western Churches, that some have con- cluded them to be forms received from the Apostles themselves f.”” © Ayw rug nopdiaes” ‘ sursum corda,’ that is, ‘lift up your hearts’ was the name given by the Greek and Latin Fathers to the versicles, now under diss eussion ; who all expounded them as a seasonable ad- monition to dismiss our worldly thoughts, and to fix our minds upon the divine mercies, and the mysteries now celebrating. In the Latin Church these versicles were likewise called Contestatio, because (according to Mr: SHEPHERD,) “ the people by their responses gave their ** attestation or testimony of their complying with the mi- ** nister’s exhortation ; declaring, that their hearts were ** lifted up to heaven, and that it is meet and right to ¢ praise the Lord *.” After the versicles, unless on such festivals as have a proper preface appointed, follows the 7yisagion, or hymn Thrice Holy. 1n the Primitive-Church the Eucharistia, _ or great thanksgiving, was introduced here. Thus in all the ancient Liturgies, as soon as these words were pro- : nounced, “‘ it is very meet, right, and our bounden duty, ' “ that we should at all times, and in all places give thanks, " ‘© &c.” there was immediately subjoined a commemora- - tion of all that God had done for man, from the foun- ~ dation of the world, but more particularly of what he had _ done in the great and wonderful mystery of our redemp- PQ tion. } See Shepherd in loco. * See Elucidation, &c, page 209, * ’ 116 ILLUSTRATION OF THE tion t. ‘But the Roman missal having omitted this greaf thanksgiving, and having retained only the proper Pre- faces to the festivals, it has never been restored, farther than what the ¢risagzon contains, which in general in- cludes the ¢hanks of men and angels, It was an opinion entertained by the early Christians, that angels were pre- sent in all religious assemblies, but more especially at the — celebration of the Eucharist §. | CHRysosTomM says— “< Consider, O man, near whom thou standest in those — ‘¢ dreadful mysteries ; with whom thou art going to wor- ‘© ship God, with the cherubim, seraphim, and all the ! ‘¢ powers. of heaven.”? Thus the seraphim are described — by the Prophet Isaiah, as using the very words of this — hymn, and saying, ‘‘ Holy! Holy! Holy! is the Lord of «* Hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory ;” where- fore is the /risagion, or hymn of angels, found in a? Liturgy extant. THE PROPER PREFACES. | | | . In the Roman missals the proper prefaces were ten | in number. Of these prefaces, after the necessary alter- . ations, the compilers of the English Liturgy retained five, — which were carefully introduced into the authorised Com- munion Office of King Charles, and ‘still hold a conspi-— cuous place in the Scottish Office now in use. ‘The pro-— per prefaces are ordered to be used for seven’ days after ; the — a * See Wheatly in loco. § See Shepherd in loco, © — / * , FOREGOING OFFICE. 117 ——— - the festivals for which they are appointed, with the ex- ie all ception of the preface for Whitsunday, and for Trinity Sunday. For this exception, the following reason has been assigned—that Trinity Sunday, being the Octave (as it has been termed,) to the festival of Whitsunday, has a proper preface appointed for it; while it seems probable that the order for using this preface on Trinity Sunday _ only, originated in the doctrine, which the public reading on that occasion is meant to confirm; viz. that ‘ Jehovah our God is ove Jehovah.’ All the great festivals, under the Jewish dispensation, were to consist (besides the festival itself,) of the space of seven days*. They were . only types and shadows of the good things which Chris- tians enjoy under the Gospel dispensation. Most proper- ly therefore did the primitive Church extend her festi- vals for an equal period; and with no less propriety, is the example of the Primitive Church followed to this day. Then the Presbyter, standing at such a part of the holy table, as he may, with the most ease and decency, use both his hands, shall say the Prayer of Consecration as followeth. Tus rubric is in substance the same with the rubric before the consecration prayer in the authorised Office of King Charles, and in the present Communion Office of the Church of England. All the legal sacrifices were offered * Levit. xsi. 36. 118 ILLUSTRATION OF THE offered by the Priest standing. “‘ But,” (argues the learned elucidator so often quoted) ‘ between the legal, and e. *¢ vangelical sacrifice there is the same correspondence, ** that exists between the shadow and the substance.— ** The Christian Priest offers up the incense of prayers, praises and alms ; the oblation of ourselves, our souls, ** and bodies; and the memorial of the sacrifice of ‘the ‘* Lamb slain from the foundation of the world *.” Nots withstanding therefore the practice of kneeling, contend- ed for by Dr. Nicuoxs, both Mr. Wuratiy, and Mr; SHEPHERD very properly have determined, that unlessat the * general confession,” at the prayer of “ access,” and at the time when he himself partakes of the consecrated elements, the minister is uniformly to stand, faring the communion-service. n an THE PRAYER OF CONSECRATION. As ignorance and prejudice have united in condemning the additions to the present English form of consecration, which the prayer in the Scottish Office exhibits, it shall — be my endeavour, by adducing authorities, on the princi- ples of the Church of England most unexceptionable, to shew that those additions are not only solemn, and appro- priate ; that they are not only agreeable to primitive and catholic practice, but that they stand approved by some . of * See Elucidation, &c, val. 2, page 196. D FOREGOING OFFICE. 118 of the most eminent divines, and liturgical writers, whom the Church of England has ever produced. : When the author and giver of every good and perfect gift, belonging to the Christian dispensation, did institute the holy Sacrament of his body broken, and of his blood shed for our redemption, it is particularly written for our learning, that “ he took the bread and blessed it, that “he took the cup, and gave thanks *.”? Now to ¢ bless? and * give thanks’ imply, beyond all doubt, the use of some appropriate expressions, other than the words ¢ this © is my body, this is my blood.’—For these are only decla- ratory of the effect, which the act of blessing and giving thanks was intended to produce. If, however, the very expressions, ‘by which our divine Saviour did bless the elements of bread and wine, giving thanks unto the Fa- ther, have not been transmitted for after-use—and yet the Church has been required ¢ to do this in remembrance © of him’—what has she to do but to search for that form, which passed, in the Primitive Church, as containing the sum and substance of the very expressions uttered by the divine Institutor of this our Christian sacrifice ? And that form (it cannot, on the principles of the Church of Eng- land, be denied) is contained 7x the uncient Liturgies still extant, of which it may suffice to say, in the words of a living author, Dr. Vicesimus Knox, that the pray- ers inserted in them do “ certainly contain the opinions * of very early ages, which it is not at all unreasonable to ** conclude, were handed down to the Greek, Latin and “© Oriental * See Histery of the Institutign, in the New Testament. 120 ILLUSTRATION OF THE “¢ Oriental Churches, by tradition from the Apostles *.” But I dare assert, without fear of contradiction, that, in all the ancient Liturgies, the only expressions of b/essing and giving thanks, which can be construed as relating to the elements, are contained in their forms of »)/a/ton, and of invocating the Holy Ghost ! ** The custom of which,” writes Dr. WaTERLAND—“ might commence in the “ Anostolical age, or it might come in later; but when- “¢ ever it commenced, it seems to have been grounded “ upon scripture principles t.”” For though, as Mr Joun-— son asserts, ‘“* none but the Clementine be truly primi- “‘ tive, yet the same series of the consecrafory and more « solemn ob/afory part of the service, their agreement in “ invocating the Holy Ghost, and in the end for which «¢ he is invoked, and in their intercessions and propitia- “ tions for others, is a demonstration, that as to’ these <¢ particulars, they were all formed by one rule, and with <¢ one and the same view, and by hands as it were di- < rected by the very same hand and soul; for as to these $ uae they scarce differ in thought, but in words © = only j.” Now in the Clementine liceeend immediately after the words of institution in the consecration, occurs the fol- lowing —Meuyypcvor rowuy 78 mabes auje not T& Paves, nat TNS EX VEMPWY HYAF HTSUS, HHL TNS MS Beaver CTUYOOS, UAL TYG MEAAsons ave dcU]egas TAPBCIAS, E ‘4 eex,e]oct pestoc dokns Hoe Suyocws rpivar Covrag mot yenpss, Ket aToosval “enarw Kar - Ta * See Considerations on the nature and efficacy of the Lord’s Supper, p. 163. + See Brett’s Remarks on Dr Waterland’s Review, &c.. page 62. $ See Prefatory Epistle te “* Unbloody Sacrifice,” page 42, ee Ee ——_—- —— . — FOREGOING OFFICE; 121 Te Ta cpyx aure’ TmeocDepoucy co tw Racika nat Ozw nove Tijy avTs diarakws Toy ae: OY TETOYs, HAL TO Te OTH eLOy TET0, cUs Kapisevras cor ds wure, &c *. that is, “ having i in remem- ** brance his passion and death, and resurrection from “ the dead, his ascension into heaven, and his second’ ** advent, when he shall come again with glory and ~ power to judge the quick and the dead, and to render ‘* to every man according to his works; we offer unto “thee, our King and our God, according to his institu- tion, ‘ this bread and this cup, giving thanks to thee ** through him,’ &c.”” So much for the ‘ obdlution, and ‘ giving thanks, &c. The words of invocation, or blessing, in the Clementine Liturgy, are as follow—xzr Q>-..f y OE LB uy GE O75WG aede STUSAEVIS ET’ TH T GORE H ONO THUTA EvWTIOY 68, ‘0 cavevdsng Ozocy uxt cvdoxaoHS cm avroIg aS Tiny 78 Reiss ck, nat natomeyalys TO aylov C8 Tysupoent Tyy Guotiay TaUTyy, Tov fapsupa tay wedguarey 78 nvpie Inoks ‘OT ws aohyyn tov agroy T8roy reipleg 78 Keis8 o8, nat 70 Tori gLoy T8T0 “cebpuce 78 X gis 8, ‘wa ‘ot peraraGorses aure Bee eae 79S cure Sits aDio TEWE “ocpearge i[paroy TUX FSbs- &c fT: that is, “* And we beseech thee to leak favourably upon “* these gifts, which are here set before thee, 6) God, Q “ who * See Ancient Liturgy of the Church of Jerusalem, freed from all latter addi= tions and interpolations, &c. &c. page $7 and 39, See ditto page 43. On comparing the above forms with the forms of obJation and invocation in the Scotch Communion Office, though the ordering of the clauses is different, the strictest verbal coincidence will be perceived. ‘ The conclusion of the Scottish Consecration Prayer will be found verbatim in the first prayer in the English post-communion service; “ And we earnestly desire thy fatherly good- *« ness, "Ke. &cw 122 ILLUSTRATION OF THE ** who standest in need of nothing ; and to accept them ** to the honour of thy Christ; and to send down thy ** Holy Spirit upon this saliitiees the witness of the suffer- * ings of the Lord Jesus, that he may make this bread the *¢ body of thy Christ, and this cup the blood of thy Christ, ** that they who partake thereof may be confirmed in “* godliness, may obtain remission of sins, &c.” It would be to add nothing to the information of the learned reader, and would to the unlearned be tedious and unedifying, to multiply quotations from the Liturgies of St. James, St. Marx, St. Curysostom, St, Basit, the Ernropic Liturgy, the Liturgies of Severus, Nzs- rrorius, &c. all of which do, in their forms of oblation and /nvocation, ** scarce differ in Pabst according to Mr. Jounson, “ but in words only.” Suffice it then to say, in the words of the profoundly learned Archbishop | Wake, that “ since it can hardly be doubted; but that — ** the holy Apostles and Evangelists did give some diréc- — ** tions for the administration of the blessed Eucharist, in ** the Churches, which they founded; it may reasonably ** be presumed, that some of those orders are still remain- “* ing in those Liturgies, which have been brought down ** to us, and that ‘hese prayers wherein they all agree ~ ‘ (in sense at least, if not in words) were first presented “© in the same or like terms by those Apostles and Evan- «< velists. Nor,”? adds the Archbishop, “ would it be dif- ** ficult to make a further proof of this conjecture from — « the writings of the ancient Fathers, if it were needful: ** in this place to insist upon it *.” ! Cal ono eta * See Preliminary Dissertation to Wake’s Apostolical Fathers, page 102, The reader . q * « 4 » - z 5 4 Pgs mak ; FOREGOING OFFICE... * “361: ed passages in the Liturgy, in the number of which the form of administration of the consecrated elements was — included, were debated in the Convocation ; the issue of which was, that ‘the emissaries of Calvin’ (to use Hey= © lin’s words,) “ did so ply their work, by the continual ‘* prs soliciting. of the King, the Council, and the Convoca- ** tion, that at the last the book was brought to a rea. ** view *.”’ “And thereupon we may conclude,” con- tinues this historian, <« that the first Liturgy was dis- ** continued, and the second superinduced upon it after ** this review, to give satisfaction to Calvin’s cavils, the ‘* curiosities of some, and: the mistakes of. others of his “¢ friends and followers.” It is therefore clear, what the object of these foreigriers was, so to alter the first reform- ed Liturgy, in the compiling of which they had no share, that it might become conformable to their own bare sa- cramentarian doctrine, which confers no other power on the elements of the eucharist (according to Calvin’s staunch disciple Beza) than outwardly to signify—* It «« is God alone” say they, ‘ who exhibits, and the. sa- “¢ crament is no instrument at all, but the occasional “© cause, as it were, of God’s, bestowing his blessings wo x ** upon * Hist. Presb. 239. “ 1 know some will have it, that the alteration was not « made to please Calvin and his partizans,” (among which number Iam not a little surprised to find the very learned Bampton Lecturer, Dr Lawrence; see appendix to his valuable Lectures, pages 197 and 198, 236 and 247,) “ but,” adds Dr. Brett in his Dissertation annexed to his Collection of Liturgies, “ all our «‘ Historians say the contrary; Dr. Heylin particularly provesit by unquestion- « able evidence, saying thus to his adversary, with whom he disputes concerning t the altar, which word, though used in the first Liturgy, was thrown out of the ‘6 second: fe . D s +. . eh : " : ave - ‘ + ch s . ’ m 162 ILLUSTRATION OF THE * r — + di 2 — * upon ust.” “Some indeed,” an Bishop ANDREWS smartly says, “to avoid es‘, in the Church of Romé’s «© sense, fall to be all for significat, and nothing for est # at all; and whatsoever goes farther than. significat, . * they take to savour of the carnal presences But this « is the doctrine of Zuinglius, and not of our Church *.”?- ‘ ge With « second. Now for the alteration of the Liturgy, which did indeed draw with “ it a full and final alteration of the thing now talked of: you take great pains ® to make it visibie to the world, that Calvin had no finger init. It had been “¢ happy for this Church, if he and Beza could have kept themselves to their me- “ ditations; and not been curiosi in aliena republica, as they were too muc ma Antidot. Lincoln, page 110. For “ the alterations of King Edward’s Liturgy proceeded rather from some *¢ motions without, than any great dislike at home; the ‘king declasmaay Wax answer to the Devonshire men, that the Lord’s supper, as it was then admi- nistered, was brought even to the very use, as Christ left it, as the Apostles “ used it, and as the holy Fathers delivered it; and in the Act, of Parliament, by «« which that book was called in, it was affirmed, to be agreeable to God’s word « and the Primitive Church.” Ibid. page 121. — + See a brief historical account of the primitive Invocation, &c. in a letter to his Grace the Archbishop of Canterbury, with a full confutation of Beza’s argu- ments, &c. page 75. London 1740. 4 , ‘ *Though not the doctrine of the Church of England yet by the time the Review of the first reformed Liturgy was undertaken, “ Given of Zuingli- us” had become the doctrine of Archbishop Cranmer; this may 2ccount‘for the changes, which the Communion Office underwent, more satisfactorily than volumes: written to prove “that Cranmer’s principle was to proceed gradually and with “ moderation, and that therefore the first book of Edward retained many things “which might properly enough have ‘been omitted,” (see Introduction to Shepherd’s Elucidation.) In the year 1550, the Archbishop published his « De- “ fence of the true and catholic doctrine of the Sacrament.” Of this worl, his a coadjutor Bishop Ridley thus speaks, “how can ye make but a fiure or sign ** of the Sacrament, as that book aoth, qwhich is set Sorth in my Lord of Canterbury's Sf name ; . aude FOREGOING OFFICE. » -— 163 | _——— With the Church: of f England chereire igre,” on eieleltn ' piscopal Church in’ Scotland, do firmly believe, that ** the body and blood of Christ. are verily and_ indeed »“¢faken and received by the faithful i in the Lord’s- Sup- *. ss pers” that Is, provided we draw near “with hearty re- . “pentance and trué faith, ce, inthe consecrated elements, receive, not'merely in type and figure, as the Calvinists .- hold,* but ‘virtually and spiritually, in power.and ‘efficacy, the body of Christ which was given for us, and the’ blood of Christ which was shéd for us. On this account . does our Church think herself perfectly justifiable in ad- hering to the form of administration authorized: by the . first Liturgy of Edward, and the Scotch Office of King CharlesI. A great saving in point of time is obtained, * while no infringement ‘whatever of doctrinal harmony between the Churches is occasioned, if the foregoing ob- servations be, as I presume hey must appear, worthy — of credit*. + x Z “ name, &c. See Fox’s “ Martyrology,” page 1298. as quuee by Dr. Lawrence, see Notes to his “ Lectures,” page 206. “ Thas much we must be sure to hold,” asserts the Homily, (1st part concerns sing the Sacrament) “ that, inthe Supper of the Lord, there is no vain ceremony, “ no bare sign, no untrue figure of a thing absent, but the communion of the body *: and blood of our Lord in a marvellous incorporation, which by the operation *s of the Holy Ghost is through faith wrought in the,souls of the faithful, &c.” * That they are worthy of credit, the excellent Vicar of Martock, Semcon, shire, Mr Bowyer, has proved in the following passage of his “'True account of * the nature, end, and efficacy of the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, &c.” ** ‘Though in the 2d Liturgy of Edward VI. some expressions were left out, yet & the Church did not then alter ber opinion with respect to the dectrine of the sacri- - : fess - ~™ 164 ILLUSTRATION OF THE _ oe “ fice, because at the same time, in the same Act of Parliament which enacted the * alterations, it was declared that ‘ the frst book for administration of the Sacraments ‘© was agreeable to the word of God and the Primitive Church, and that the altera= * tions were made rather by the curiosity of the Minister (perhaps Bucer is meant) “¢ and mistakers, than of any other worthy cause.’ This Act of Parliament ** repealed by Queen’ Mary, revived by Queen Elizabeth, and confirmed by “ King Charles II. after the Restoration ; (at which time the rubric relating to « the time when, and the person by whom (the Priest ~whilé the sentences are « read) together with the word od/ations in the prayer for ‘the whole state, cw “© were added probably by Heylin, Bishop Cosins, Thorndike and others, who “ thought the Sacrament a sacrifice ; (and it were to be wished, that this rubric “* was universally observed. ) So that this Act is still in force, and though some “ expressions are left out, some alterationegmodey, Sep the doctrine of our Church “ with respect to the sacrifice of the Sacrament altereth not.” (see this excellent treatise, Lat for C. Rivington at the Bible and Crown, St; Paul’s Church Yard, 786, &c. page 54.) The above testimony of the learned Mr. Bowyer is con- ae by the authority of an eminent living writer, Mr Archdeacon Daubeny, who positively asserts, that the “ objections made to the original Liturgy did not “‘ respect the essentials of it, but those explanations which the mistaken judge- *« ‘ment of some obstinate people had rendered necessary.”—See Vindicie Ecclesia n Anglisana, page 399. f gee That very useful periodical work, the ‘Orthodox Churchman’s Magaene® in the conclusion of an interesting biographical memoir of Bishop Horsley, asserts the doctrine of the sacrifice to be still the ‘sound doctrine’ of the Church of England. “ Because,” says the biographer, “ Bishop Horsley warned his clergy against a “© corrupt mode of teaching, which made morality all in all, and excluded the Ss peculiar doctrines of revealed religion; the pretended ‘true Churchmen’ have «* taken and applied particular passages of his charge (of 1790) in favour of their «¢ tenets, to which in fact they have just as much relation, as the sound doctrine of * our Church, with regard to the eucharistic sacrifice, bas to the Popish error f “¢ the real presence.” See No, for December 1806. page 400. ; q 7 ; [ ; FOREGOING OFFICE. ‘5 165 THE RUBRIC AFTER DISTRIBUTION. + Tf the consecrated bread and wine be all spent . before all have communicated, the Presbyter 1s to consecrate more, according to the form before Brest begin- ning at the words, * All glory be to ne ee. And concluding with the words, That they may become the body and blood of thy most dearly beloved Son. In the first reformed Liturgy of England, there is no such rubric occurs, from which, I think, it is to be infer- red, either that, ‘ the consecrated bread and wine being € spent,’ to consecrate more, the whole form of conse- cration was to be repeated, or that the officiating clergy- man, knowing exactly, and at all times, the number of can- didates, required no direction on the head. The rubric above is express, as to the belief of our Church, thatthe ele- ments are consecrated by the word of God and by prayer. The rubric in the present English Office, after the distribu- tion, was inserted only at the lastreview. Mr. WHEaTLY supposes it to have been taken from the authorised Scotch Office, and asserts, I think rather rashly, that the com- pilers of this Office “ call the words of institution the © words of consecration.’ The old Scottish rubric is as fo}. 166 ILLUSTRATION OF THE follows: “ To the end there may be little left, he that ** officiates is required to consecrate with the least, and “* then, if there be want, the words of consecration may “* be repeated again over more—either bread or wine, ** beginning at these words in the prayer of consecration, << © Our Saviour, in the night, that he was betrayéd,” &c. Now although the Presbyter is directed _to begin at these | words, in order to a second consecration, * Our Saviour, * in the night,’ &c.—Yet no order is given for his end- ing without the memorial or prayer of oblation, which the rubric requires to be said immediately after the words of institution. Be this however as it may, the rubric in our present Office is unexceptionable ; since it includes. the words of institution, and also the forms of blessing and thanksgiving, which this truly primitive writer pro- perly deems to be necessary and essential, when he as- serts, that ‘ though all Churches in the world have, ** through all ages, used the words of institution, yet * none, I believe, except the Church of Rome, ever “* before attributed the consecration to the bare pronoun- “« cing of those words only : that was always attributed by «* the most ancient fathers to the prayers of the Church t.”” cal = When all have communicated, he that celebrates shall go to the Lord’s table, and cover with a fair linen cloth, that which remaineth of the consecrated elements. ‘Tuts rubric seems first to have been enjoined in the ~ author- + See Mlustration, 4th edit. -page 310. FOREGOING OFFICE. 167 authorised Scotch Office, though as Mr. SHEPHERD con- jectures, the ceremony, which it prescribes, was probably observed before. In the Latin Church the cloth used was named the corporal, because it was employed in co- vering the eucharistical body of Christ. It was sometimes termed the pa//, for the same reason. The introduction of it has been ascribed to Eusebius, who was Bishop of Rome, in the commencement of the fourth century. We know, that in the year 412 it was in use, from the fol- lowing remarkable words of Isiporz PeLEusiotra—* the “¢ fine linen cloth,” says he, ‘‘-which is stretched over the “< holy gifts, represents the good office of Joseph of Ari- *¢ mathea *.”” ? POST-COMMUNION. THE post communion-service consists, in the English and Scotch Liturgies, of thanksgiving, of prayer, of an- gelic praise, and of sacerdotal benediction. The exhor- tation, however, to the duty of thanksgiving, with which, in the Scottish Office the post-communion commences, is peculiar to that office; yet all the ancient Liturgies have this exhortation; and in the Clementine Liturgy it is or- dered to be said by the Deacon, and is almost word for word * See both Wheatly and Shepherd ia loco. 168 ILLUSTRATION OF THE word the same with that which the present Scottish Office prescribes. MeraraBovree 78 TIALS COMETS, Mal TS TI PS “opextos TE rain euXapisnrwpey Tw Kotak wooar “y= fears psraAa Bey Tov “onyioy oure HOS TgLeOYy « &c.—Having received the precious body and the’ precious blood of Christ, let us give thanks to him who hath vouchsafed us to partake of his holy mysteries, &c. * Then the Presbyter shall say this collect of thanksgiving, as followeth : Almighty and ever-living God, &c. Tue first prayer in the present-English post-commu- nion-service is that, which in the first Liturgy of Edward, in the authorised Scotch Liturgy, and in the present Scotch Communion Office, concludes the prayer of con- secration. The second prayer in the English post-com- saunion is the form of thanksgiving, which in Scotland the Presbyter is here directed to use; and no language can be more appropriate:—Since, according to Mr. SHEPHERD, *¢ it abounds with praise and thanksgiving, and expresses «* our joyful sense of the benefits received in this Sacra- «¢ ment; which thanksgiving is followed by a petition for «© grace, that we may continue in the communion of the Catholic Church, and be fruitful in all good works t.” THE 44 * See Ancient Liturgy of the Church of Jerusalem, &c. page 87. + See Elucidation, &c. vol. 2. page 223, FOREGOING OFFICE. | 169 THE GLORIA IN EXCELSIS, OR ANGELIC HYMN. Tuts was the morning hymn of the Primitive Church, and from its commencing with the words which the an- gels sung, at our Saviour’s birth, it has been-called the Angelic Hymn. tis however, frequently mentioned by St.-Chrysostom, as a part of the communion-service; ** when,” says he, “ we celebrate the Eucharist, we say, ‘* Glory be to God on high, &c.*” In the first Office of Edward VI. this hymn was introduced before the com- secration of the elements: but the compilers of the pre- _ sent both Scotch and English Offices have followed the “pattern of the authorised Office for Scotland, and placed it with’ much more propriety, before the final benediction. Of this very ancient hymn, we have two editions: one is found in the Apostolica! ‘Constitutions ; the other is an- nexed to the psalter of the 4/erandrian Bible} presented by Lucan to King Charles I. As there is good reason to believe, that the Constitutzons have been defaced and al- tered by the Arian party, it seems more than probable, that of the two copies the .4/erandrianis the more genuine. When the first reformed Liturgy was published, the Aler- andrzan copy had not been discovered ; but after its ap- pearance, the compilers of the present Scotch Office did well to profit by it; and thus, as is our bounden duty, “* glorify, and give thanks to God the Father Almighty, ** to God the only begotten Son Jesu Christ, and to God « the Holy Ghost,” &c. Y THE * See Shepherd in loco. 170 ILLUSTRATION OF THE THE FINAL BENEDICTION. a= —_ Ir was decreed by the council of Agatho, (A. D. 380) that before the sacerdotal benediction the people were not to presume to retire, ‘“* ante benedictionem sacerdo- “ tis populus egredi non presumat.” This decree, writes Bishop Jeremy Tavior, “ is in no hand to be ‘* under-valued, lest we become Esau-like, arid miss it, ** when we most want it. For my-own particular, I shall ** still press on to receive the benediction of holy Church, “¢ till at last I shall hear a ‘ venite benedicti,? (come ye blessed,) “* and that I be reckoned among those blessed ** souls, who come to God by the ministeries of hisown — ** appointment, and will not venture upon that neglect, ‘* against which the picty and wisdom of all — in ** the world do infinitely prescribe *.” St. Paul, after directing us to address God deehasit., and supplication, and thanksgiving, (cvyapisi) immedi- ately adds, ** and the peace of God which passeth all un- ‘* derstanding shall keep your hearts and minds, through “* Christ Jesust.”” These words of the Apostle are care- fully embodied in the form of benediction, common to all the reformed Offices; and never were words better suited to the conclusion of our eucharistical service. For ac- cording to the Apostle’s direction, we have just been oc- cupied * See Preface to his Collection of Offices. } Philip. iv, 7. FOREGOING OFFICE. 17i cupied in offering up our prayers, our supplications, and thanksgivings to the divine majesty, and now before our departure, does the ambassador for Christ, having besought the people in Christ’s stead to be recone ‘ed to God, pronounce upon us so reconciled, and upon our hearts and minds, that blessing, which passeth all understanding, viz. the peace of Gcd! “ and this bles- “sing,” writes Mr. SHEPHERD, in the language of sound doctrine, “ is not to be considered merely as a prayer. &¢ Tt is likewise an absolution, an assurance of blessing «¢ and peace; for God himself will bless those who are ** duly -qualified to receive the sacerdotal blessing, and “¢ the benedictions, and absolutions, which the ambassa- *¢ dors of Christ m/inisterially pronounce upon earth, will ‘© be ratified in heaven *.” * See Elucidation, vol. ii. page 229, i ‘ Sit 75 ‘ag (iakyer ava Theil) ~aak do bsxendlel Porte bei: bur ; a yi saemeps Ae ng bids ae bas’ ' PokR to sige q gfft nn APPENDIX. —— ES A COLLATION OF THE SEVERAL COMMUNION OFFICES, IN THE PRAYER BOOK OF EDWARD VI. THE SCOTCH PRAYER BOOK OF THE YEAR 1687. THE PRESENT ENGLISH PRAYER BOOK, ' AND THAT USED IN THE PRESENT SCOTCH EPISCOPAL CHURCH. PREFACE, THE following Collation was made by a Divine of the established Church of England, high in situation, at first with a view to nothing more than bis own private satisfaction. It is now, with his permis- sion, printed and dispersed, in order to confute certain false and ma-~ ficious Insinuations which have been circulated concerning the present Practices of the Episcopalians in Scotland, with an evident intention zo injure them in the esteem of the British Legislature-—That the Liturgy now in use among the Scotch Episcopalians, is precisely the same with the present Common Prayer Book of the established Church of England, except in the Communion Office ; and thatthe Variations Sound there are those, and those only, which are exhibited in this Col- ation, is attested by JOHN SKINNER, Bishop, and Delegate of the Scotch Episcopal Church. _Lonpon, March 80th, 1792, A COLLATION, &. King Edward VIth’s Prayer Book. First Rubric. — §. 1. REQuireEs those who would be partakers to signify their intention to the Curate o- ver night, or in the morning be- fore Matins. §. 4. ‘Appoints the vestments ef the Priests and Deacons. The old Scotch Prayer-Pook. a=-to the Presbyter or Cprate. j. 4 Orders the Holy Table, : at the Communion time, to have upon it a fair white linen cloth, Priest to stand humbly before the middes of the altar. The Lord’s Prayer. The Collect——“ Almighty God, unto whom all hearts be open,” &e, with other decent furniture, meet for the high mysteries there to be celebrated ; and that it stand at the uppermost part of the Chan- cel or Church. Presbyter to stand on the North side. Jon The Lord’s Prayer. The Collect——* Almighty God, unto whom all ‘hearts be open,” &e, The COLLATION, &cs 375 The present English Prayer- Book. —to the Curate some time the day before. : §- 3. Two clauses added.— One requiring the Curate reject- ing any to report the same to the Ordinary. Another requiring the Ordinary to proceed against the offender. §- 4. Orders the Table, at Communion time, to havea fair white linen cloth upon it. To stand in the body of the Church or in the Chancel, where Morn- ing and Evening Prayer are said. Priest to stand on the North side. The Lord’s Prayer. The Collect——‘¢ Almighty God, unto whom all hearts be open,” &c. The present Scotch Communion Office. No Rubric prefixed. The Lord’s Prayer. The Collect‘ Almighty God, unto whom all hearts be open,” Sc, King 376 COLLATION,! &cz Edward VIth’s Book. King Prayer The Psalm appointed for the Introit: Lord have mercy, &c. Christ have mercy, &c. Lord have mercy, &c. Second Rubric. - Then the Priest, standing at God’s Borde, shall begin, « Glory be to God on high.” “The Clerks proceed with this anthem, which we now use at _ the conclusion of the Service. The Lord be with you. And with thy spirit. Let us pray. The Collect for the Day, and one of the two Collects for the King. ————have mercy upon the whole congregation, and so rule, &e. ———— we his subjects, &c. King.” The old Scotch Prayer Book. Second. Rubric. The Presbyter, turning to the People, to rehearse distinctly the Ten Commannments ;—the peo- ple kneeling,’ and asking God?s mercy for the transgression of eve- ry duty therein, either according to the letter, or to the mystical importance of the said Command-— ment. hogar oF Yate gai ‘: ~*~ The Ten Commandments, ; The Collect for the ‘pay! ahd one of the two Colle for the j a! Oo aN vi é In the first ‘Collect for the King are only these variations : have mercy upon thy ho- ly Catholic Church, and in this particular Church in which we J live, so rule, &c. ——— we his subjects, &c. The COLLATION, &c. 177 The present English Prayer The present Scotch Communion Book. Office. shall ask God mercy for their transgression thereof for the time past, and grace to keep the same for the time to come. The Ten Commandments. The Ten Commandments, or the Summary of the Law in these words, ** Jesus said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God,”? &c. The Collect for the Day, and The Collect for the Day, and one of the two Collects for the one of the Collects for the King, King. asin the English Office. In the first Collect for the King are only these variations. have mercy upon the whole Church, and so rule, &c. =we and all his subjects, &c, 2 King 178 COLLATION, &c, le esescenal =—_ King Edward VIth’s Prayer- Book. - The Epistle. Rubric orders, that the Epis- tlesended, the Priest, or one ap- pointed to read the Gospel, shall say, The Holy Gospel, written in the Chapter of Clerks and People to answer, Glory be to thee, O Lord. The Gospel. The Nicene Creed; the Priest beginning, I believe in One God, and the Clerks singing the rest, A Sermon or Homily, where- in if the people be not exhorted to the worthy receiving of the Holy Sacrament of the Body and The old Scotch Prayer-Book. The Epistle. —The Presbyter saying, The Holy Gospel is written in the Chapter of The People, all standing up shall say, Glory be to thee, O Lord. The Gospel: At the end of the Gospel the Presbyter shall say, “ So endeth the holy Gospel,” and the people shall answer, “ Thanks be to thee, O Lord.” The Nicene Creed —But note, that this creed is not called the Nicene either in King Edward’s Prayer-book or the old Scotch Prayer-book, or in the present English. Prayer-book. A Sermon or Homily:-<=Then Notice of Holidays and Fasting- days.—The Sentences, namely, Gen. iv. 3. Exod. xxv. 2. , The ‘ _ ~~ COLLATION, &€c. eet Fnaeeeie} ———— The present English Prayer- The present Scotch Communion Book. Office. The Epistle. The Epistle. The Presbyter shall say, The Holy Gospel is written in the—— The People shall say, Glory be to thee, O Lord. The Gospel.. / The Gospel. The Presbyter shall say, “ Thus endeth the holy Gospel ;”?—and the people answer—‘* Thanks be to thee, O Lord, for this thy glorious Gospel.” : The Nicene Creed.——A fter The Nicene Creed. Declaration of Holidays and Fast- ing-days, Publication of Banns, and reading of Briefs, Citations, and Excommunications, . A Sermon or Homily, A Sermon. The Sentences, —Namely, 22 King 180 COLLATION, &c. oe =e King Edward VIth’s Prayer- Book. Blood of our Saviour Christ, then shall the Curate give this Exhor- tation, The old Scotch Prayer-Book. Deut. xvi. 16. 1 Chro. xxix. 10. Ps, xcvi. 8. Matt. vi. 19. 20. vii. 21. Mark xii. 41. 42) 43. 44. Cor. ix. 7. 11. 13. 14. 2 Cor. ix. 6.7. Galat. vi. 6. 7. 1. Tim. vie 17. 18. 19. Heb. vi. 10. xiii. 16. Rubric orders, that while these sentences are reading, the alms be collected by the Deacon, or if no such person be present, by one of the Church-wardens, in a decent, bason provided for that purpose. And when all have of- fered, he shall reverently bring the said bason, with the oblations therein, and deliver it to the Presbyter, who shall humbly pre- sent it before the Lord, and set it upon the Holy Table. And the Presbyter shall then offer up and place the Bread and Wine prepared for the Sacrament upon the Lord’s ‘Table, that it may be ready for that service, Prayer for the whole State of Christ’s Church Militant, An Exhortation, the same in substance and effect, as that which is now directed to be used The | COLLATION, &c. 181 The present English Prayer- > Book. Matt. v. 16. vi. 19, 20. Vii. 12. 21. Luke, xix. 8.4 Cor. ix. 7. Me Phiiks Fae ,t4.. 2-Cor. ix. 6, qs Gal. v1.6. 7. vi. 0. 1 Tim. vi. 6. 7. 17. 18. 19. Heb. vi. 10. xili, 16. 1 John ili. 17. Tob. iv. 47.8. 9. Prov. xix. 17. Psal. xli. 1. _ While these sentences are read- ing, the Deacons, Church-ward- ens, or other fit persons appoint- ed for that purpose, shall receive the alms for the Poor, and other devotions of the people, in a de- cent bason to be provided by the parish for that purpose; and re- verently bring it to the Priest, who shall humbly present and place it upon the Holy Table. _ And when there isa Commu- nion, the Priest shall then place upon the Table so much Bread and Wine as he shall think suffi- cient. _. Prayer for the whole State of Christ’s Church Militant. The present Scotch Communion Office. King 182 COLLATION, &c. © «King Edward VIth’s Prayer- ; Book. Dearly beloved in the Lord, Ye that mind to come————= consider what St. Paul writeth to the Corinthians, how he exhort- eth all men ‘ea————=— we be made one we become guilty death. a blasphemer, adulterer, or be in Vherefore if any here be malice or envie, or in any other grievous crime, (except he be truly sorry therefore, and ear- nestly minded to leave the same _ vices, and do trust himself to be The old Scotch Prayer-Book. in our Prayer-book, when the Priest gives notice of the Com- munion, if he see the i ne- gligent to come, ' A second Exhortation, in sub- stance and effect the same with: the first of those, which we are. directed to use, when we give warning of the Communion, ex- cept that the clause forbidding blasphemers, &c. to come with. out repentance, is omitted, The Exhortation: )... : L. Hodaved Dearly beloved in the Lord, Ye that mind to come-——____ consider what St. Paul writeth to the Corinthians, how he exhort- eth all persons WS eee —we be one sae eaeeaelh we be guilty ———-——death. Therefore if any of you be a blas- phemer of God, an hinderer or slanderer of his word, an adulte- rer, or be in malice, or envie, or in any other grievous crime, be~ — wail your sins, and come not to this holy table, lest after the tak- The COLLATION, &c. 183 The present English Prayer- Book, The Exhortation. Dearly beloved in the Lord, Ye that mind to come consider how St. Paul ex- ‘horteth all persons ————. ER aes | ED SD SS eee ee we are one————— we are guilty death. Judge therefore yourselves-—— Lord, Repent you truly— The present Scotch Communion Office. The Exhortation *. Dearly Beloved, Ye that mind to come- Paul writeth to the Corinthians, how pone IIT ES St. he exhorteth all persons In the sequel the exhortation proceeds verbatim in the terms of our own. King * The present Scotch Communion Office, as printed by itself, begins with this Exhortation. But what is marked as preceding it in this Collation, is agreeable to the Form made use of in the Scotch Episcopal Chapels; and thus to state their practice, was an act of friendship in the Right Reverend Collator, for which, a- mong many others, the memory of Bishop Horsley must ever be dear to the Scotch Episcopalians. Epiror. sl 184 COLLATION, &c. —Ss —_—_—_ King Edward VIth’s Prayer . Book. conciled to Almighty God, and in charity with all the world) let him bewail his sins, and not come to that holy table, lest after the taking of that most blessed bread, the Devil enter into him as he did into Judas, to fill him full of all iniquity, and bring to des- truction both of body and soul. Judge therefore yourselves Lord. Let your mind be without desire to sin; repent you truly— an earnest and lively faith- be in perfect-——— Saviour ; sinners 3 which lay in darkness and shadow =e the exceeding love-——— US 5 he hath left in these holy myste- ries, as a pledge of his love, and a continual remembrance of the same his own blessed body and precious blood, for us to feed u- pon spiritually to our endless com- To him fort and consolation. therefore and study--——__—- Then follows the Offertory with the Sentences, the very same The old Scotch Prayer-Book. ing of that Holy Sacrament the devil enter into you as he entered into Judas, and fill you full of all iniquities, and bring you to de- struction both of body and soul. Judge therefore yourselves Lord. Repent you truly ———a lively and stedfast faith____—— Amend your lives, and be in perfect — sinners which lay in darkness and shadow Saviour, the exceeding great love us: he hath instituted and ordained — holy mysteries, as pledges of his love, and continual remembrance of his death, to our great and endless comfort. To him there- fore ' te SSS ee and studying Ye that do truly and ear- ee King nestly &c. ———— GCOLLATIoN, &c, 185 The present English Prayer- Book, ———— a lively and stedfast _ Amend your lives, and be in perfect — sinners; who lay in darkness and the shadow —————— the exceeding great faith, ———— Saviour. eS a ———— ———— us; he hath insti- tuted and ordained holy mysteries as pledges of his lave, and for a continual remembrance of his death, to our great and endless To him therefore comfort. —— ee eee ———— = - and studying Ye that do truly and earnest- The present Scotch Communion Office, Then the Presbyter or Deacon shall say, F Let us present our offerings to the Lord with reverence and god- ly fear. Then the Presbyter shall begin the effertory, saying one or more of these sentences. : The sentences are the same as in the old Scotch Prayer-Book, with this single exception, that i Chron. xxix. 10. is not insert- ed in its order, being reserved for a particular place, where it is in- troduced with peculiar propriety. For when the Presbyter places the bason containing the offering on the holy table, then he repeats 1 Chron. xxix. 10. And the-Présbyter shall then offer up, and place the bread and wine prepared’ for the Sacrament upon the Lord’s table, and shall say, The Lord be with you ; And with thy spirit. Lift up your hearts, to the end of, Itis meet and right——= Then immediately follows the Hymn. Therefore with Angels and Archangels, with the proper prefaces. Aa King 186 COLLATION, &c:’ King Edward VIth’s Prayer: Book. that are now in use. The Sentences ended, the Mi- nister shall take so much bread and wine as shall be sufficient, and putting the bread in the patin, and the wine into the chalice, and putting thereto a little pure and cleane water, he shall set both bread and wine upon the Altar, and say, The Lord be with you; And with thy spirit, &c. Lift up your hearts, to the end of the Hymn. Therefore with Angels and Archangels, with the proper prefaces. Christmas-Day, ——as this day-—— —the Virgin Mary— Whitsunday. —down this day— Therefore with Angels———= glory : Osanna in the high- est. Blessed is he that cometh in the Name of the Lord. Glory to thee, O Lord most High. —— The old Scotch Prayer-Book. draw near, and con-" fession to Almighty God before this congregation here gathered together in his holy name, meek- ly kneeling The General Confession. Absolution, Texts. Lift up your hearts, to the end of the Hymn. Therefore with Angels and Archangels, with the proper prefaces. Christmas-day. - ——as on this day—= —the blessed Virgin. Mary— Whitsunday. —down this day-—— Therefore with Angels ———» ——— glory: Glory be to thee, O Lord most High. The COLLATION, &c. 187 The present English Prayer- Book. " ly eee 9 pe draw near with faith and confession to Almighty God, meekly kneeling, &c. The General Confession. Absolution. Texts. Lift up your hearts, to the end of the Hymn. Therefore with Angels and Archangels, with the proper prefaces. Christmas-Day. ==—=as at this time—— —the Virgin Mary— Whitsunday. —down as at this time— Therefore with Angels —— glory : Glory be to thee, O Lord most high. We do not presume, &c. AazZ The present Scotch Communion - Office. Christmas-Day. « as on this day—— —the blessed Virgin Mary== Whitsunday. —down as on this day— Therefore with Angels and Archangels glory : Glory be to thee, O Lord most high. Kin 188 COLLATION, &c. King Edward VIth’s Book. Prayer Let us pray for the whole State of Christ’s Church. Then follows a Prayer nearly the same with that now in use for the'whole state of Christ’s Church militant. O God heavenly Father, which of thy tender mercy didst give made there — — — — one oblation ence offered — — — i eee eel ee CUS Sl to celebrate —memory of that his pre- cious death until — — — el we beseech thee; and with thy Holy Spirit and word vouchsafe to bl-ress and sanc+tify these thy gifts, and creatures of bread and wine, that they may be unto us the body and blood of thy most dearly be- loved Son fesus Christ , who in ——_ the ‘same night a . 3 The old Scotch Prayer ‘Book. eee Almighty God our heavenly Father, which of thy tender mer- cy didst give —— —— —_ — made there ¢=—= == = e= one oblation of himself once of- fered? "== ) eee to continue mes memory of that his pre- cious death and sacrifice until — ———= we most humbly be- seech thee ; and of thy almighty goodness vouchsafe so to bless and sanctify with thy word and thy holy. Spirit ‘these thy gifts, and creatures of bread and wine, that they may be unto us the body and blood of thy most dear- ly beloved Son : so that we re. ceiving them according to thy Son our Saviour Jesus Christ’s Holy Institution, may be partak- ers of his most blessed body and The COLLATION, &c- 189 —— —=——> The present English Prayer- Book. Almighty God our heavenly Father, which of thy tender mer- cydidst give — — —- — madethere — — — — one oblation of himself once of- cd — — — — — —_—_ = —_ —_—_— —_—_ = us — to continue ——— memory of that his pre- cious death until —— —— ——— ——e ——— we most humbly beseech thee, and grant that we receiving these thy creatures of bread and wine, according to thy Son our Saviour Jesus Christ’s holy insti- tution, may be partakers of his “most blessed body and blood ; who in the same night ——— The present Scotch Communion Office. All glory be to thee, Almighty God, for that thou of thy ten- der mercy didst give — —— who (by his own oblation of himself once offered) made a — to continue ——= ——— memorial of that his precious death and sacrifice wntil a . \ For in the night that he was betrayed, &e, 2 : King COLLATION, &c. SSS 196 King Edward VIth’s Prayer . Book. These words before rehearsed, are to be said turning to the altar, without any elevation, or shew- ing the Sacrament to the people. Then follows a Prayer of Ob- lation in these words : uf‘ Wherefore, O Lord and hea- venly Father, according to the Institution of thy dearly beloved Son Jesus Christ, we thy humble servants do celebrate, and make here before thy divine majesty with these thy holy gifts, the memorial which’ thy Son hath willed us to make, having in re- membrance his blessed passion, mighty resurrection, and glori- ous ascension, rendering unto thee most hearty thanks, for the in- numerable benefits procured unto us by the same, entirely desiring thy fatherly goodness.” The sequel of the prayer is the Collect now used in the Post-Communion after the Lord’s prayer, with only these variations : Instead of, ‘‘ all we who are ‘“* whosoever partakers,”’ shall be partakers.”” Instead of, ‘* communion may The old Scotch Prayer-Book, blood ; who in the night oes “ Wherefore O Lord,’? ——_= PEER RRR: Md ahs THEE TE same. And we desire oO =] et me = os ‘ The old Scotch Prayer-Book. ——— of Christ's Church mili- tant here in Earth. Almighty and everliving God, which ~—~———mercifully (to accept our alms, and) to receive these our Prayers ee | We beseech thee also to save and defend all Christian Kings, Princes, and Governors, and specially thy servant Charles our King — love. ry es a maintenance of God’s true religion COLLATION, &c. 203 The present English Prayer- Book. of Christ®s Church mi- litant here in earth. Almighty and ever-living God, who —— mercifully (to accept our alms and oblations, and) to receive these our Prayers love. We beseech thee also to save and defend all Christian Kings, Princes, and Governors, and especially thy servant George our King ee es ——S—— ae See maintenance of thy true ree mathe religion eed The present Scotch Communion Office. ae of Christ’s Church. Almighty and ever-living God, who —— mercifully (to accept our alms and oblations, and) to receive these our Prayers We beseech thee also to all Christian Kings, Princes, and Governors, and especially thy servant our King love. save and defend ——S Ss see ate | | maintenance of thy true 204 COLLATION, &c. King Edward VIth’s Prayer Book. —to all Bishops, Pastors, and Curates grace, that with meek heart— Miser es a pean — life. And we most humbly beseech thee of thy goodness, O Lord, to comfort and succour all them who in this transitory life be in trouble, sorrow, need, sick- any And especially we commend un- to thy mercifull goodness, this ness, or other adversity. Congregation which is here as- sembled in thy name, to cele- brate the commemoration of the most glorious death of thy Son. And here we do give unto thee most high ’ praise and _ hearty thanks, for the wonderfull grace and vertue declared in all thy saints from the beginning of the And chiefly in the glori- ous and most blessed Virgin Mary, world. Mother of thy Son Jesus Christ, our Lord and Ged ; and in the holy Patriarchs, Prophets, A post- jes, and Martyrs, whose examples O Lord, and stedfastness in thy faith and keeping thy command- ~ The old Scotch Prayer-Book, —————+o all Bishops, Presby- ters, and Curates grace, that with meek heart — —— = J —e — life. And we commend espe- cially unto thy merciful good- ness the Congregation which is here assembled in thy name, to the commemoration of the most precious Death and Sacrifice of thy Son and our Sa- And we most humbly beseech thee of thy goodness, O Lord, to comfort and succour all them which in this transitory life are in trouble, sorrow, need, celebrate viour Jesus Christ. sickness, or any other adversity. And we also bless thy holy name for all these thy servants, who having finish- ed their course in faith, do now And we yield unto thee most high praise and hearty thanks, for the won- derful grace and virtue declared rest from their labours. in all thy saints, who have been the choice vessels of thy grace, and the lights of the world in their several generations 3 most The COLLATION, &c. 205 The present English Prayer- Book. to all Bishops and Curates ° ——— grace; and’ especially to this Con- greyation here present, that with el meek heart life. And we most humbly be- seech thee of thy goodness, O Lord, to comfort and succour all them who in this transitory life are in troyble, sorrow, need, sick- ness, or any other adversity. And we also bless thy holy name for all thy servants departed this life in thy faith and fear; be- seeching thee to’ give us grace so to follow their good examples, that with them we may be par- takers of thy heavenly kingdom. -Grant this, O heavenly Father, for Jesus Christ’s sake, our only Mediator and Advocate. Amen. The present Scotch Communion Office. to all Bishops, Priests and Deacons wee ee grace, that with. meek heart — See life. cially, &c. in the precise terms of the old Scotch Prayer Book, —— And we commend espe- except with one variation, as helowsy a — = wad a wets ae — — — ee — —— — — — — —=—= =— = ae =e pa ee = eat nis Boe — — th sg tes ook ad ae —s wie ee = oe one ais 2068 COLLATION, &c: - King Edward VIth’s Prayer- Book. ments grant us to follow. We commend unto thy mercy, O Lord, all other thy servants, which are departed hence from us with the sign of faith, and now do rest in the sleep of peace. Grant unto them, we beseech thee, thy mercy, and everlasting peace ; and that at the day of the general resurrection, we -and all they which be of the mystical bo- dy of thy Son, may altogether be set on his right hand, and hear that his most joyful voice, Come unto me, O ye that be blessed of my Father, and possess the king- dom which is prepared for you from the beginning of the world. Grant this, O Father, for Jesus Christ’s sake, our only Mediator and Advocate, Amen. The old Scotch Prayer-Book. humbly beseeching thee, that we may have grace to follow the ex- ample of their stedfastness in thy faith, and obediencesifj thy holy commandments; that at — — the day of the general resurrec- tion, we and all they which are — of the mystical body of thy Son, may be set on his right hand, and hear that his most joyful voice, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the- world. Grant this, O Father, for Jesus Christ’s sake, our only Mediator and Advocate. Amen. “ COLLATION, &c. 207 == e ‘ . The present English Prayer- The present Scotch Communion Book, Office. ———saemennee- fo give us grace to follow ee Se q The name of the King is not to be found in the present copies of this Office, because they were printed several years before that event took place, which released the Scotch Episcopalians from their former scruples; but that the name of his Majesty King George, is now inserted by the officiating Minister, is attested by Joun Skinner *, * His Majesty’s name is now printed in all the cepies of the Scotch Communion Office—Editar. | Qhe End, ey sect Dintee tage 21 1 Vabadr UPt wsit corakenden otose Si Pe es oA viz CUD ee enor ae Beira nneweery wallot ot 20M i ga sit to Sean of TR pai? gasaarg 303 ai baoot od’ oF grow yout seuesod got Gr aid¥ ie , Y FS a eds ptolsd extoy ibto'eae DeTerny b ys Roos Trista ioe 2 ent tiuecl at Ha { ‘Viae : xis x bedrsaai HON 1: .eDKA ye 4 ae » My ss a end Ae Pee) \ “ t cast) doica% pels A fe ti pt Botit Py é NS ¥ » DATE DUE oe ve Mr aa aN Ee a Any SENSR ear. -297 DEMCO 38 gTé6Pre te wi