A collection of articles injunctions, canons, orders, ordinances, and constitutions ecclesiastical with other publick records of the Church of England; chiefly in the times of K. Edward. VIth. Q. Elizabeth. and K. James. Published to vindicate the Church of England and to promote uniformity and peace in the same. And humbly presented to the Convocation. Church of England. This text is an enriched version of the TCP digital transcription A79649 of text R211415 in the English Short Title Catalog (Wing C4093A). Textual changes and metadata enrichments aim at making the text more computationally tractable, easier to read, and suitable for network-based collaborative curation by amateur and professional end users from many walks of life. The text has been tokenized and linguistically annotated with MorphAdorner. The annotation includes standard spellings that support the display of a text in a standardized format that preserves archaic forms ('loveth', 'seekest'). Textual changes aim at restoring the text the author or stationer meant to publish. This text has not been fully proofread Approx. 697 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 171 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. EarlyPrint Project Evanston,IL, Notre Dame, IN, St. Louis, MO 2018 A79649 Wing C4093A ESTC R211415 99895404 99895404 152894 2240940703

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 Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 2, no. A79649) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 152894) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 2331:1) A collection of articles injunctions, canons, orders, ordinances, and constitutions ecclesiastical with other publick records of the Church of England; chiefly in the times of K. Edward. VIth. Q. Elizabeth. and K. James. Published to vindicate the Church of England and to promote uniformity and peace in the same. And humbly presented to the Convocation. Church of England. Sparrow, Anthony, 1612-1685. Hollar, Wenceslaus, 1607-1677, engraver. [14] , 31, [3], 33-92, 63-85, [9], 87-99, 200-247, [3], 6, [2], 54, [2], 303-372 p., [1] leaf of plates printed by R. Norton for Timothy Garthwait at the little north-doore of St. Pauls Church, London : 1661. Compiled in 1661 by Anthony Sparrow, who signs the preface. The engraved frontispiece is signed: W. Hollar fecit. The words "K. Edward. ... James." are bracketed together on title page. Most articles, some in Latin, have separate dated title page; pagination and register are irregular. Reproduction of original in the Henry E. Huntington Library. eng Church of England -- History -- Sources -- Early works to 1800. Church of England -- Government -- Early works to 1800. Church of England -- Catechisms -- Early works to 1800. Church of England -- Creeds -- Early works to 1800. Church of England -- Liturgy -- Early works to 1800. Church of England -- Customs and practices -- Early works to 1800. Ecclesiastical law -- England -- Early works to 1800. eebo A collection of articles injunctions, canons, orders, ordinances, and constitutions ecclesiastical, with other publick records of the Church of Englan Church of England 1661 341 108883 94 0 0 0 0 0 8.63 B The rate of 8.63 defects per 10,000 words puts this text in the B category of texts with fewer than 10 defects per 10,000 words. 2008-11 Assigned for keying and markup 2008-12 Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2012-02 Sampled and proofread 2012-02 Text and markup reviewed and edited 2012-05 Batch review (QC) and XML conversion

The Seales of ARMES of the Bishops of England , etc.

A COLLECTION OF ARTICLES Injunctions , Canons , Orders , Ordinances , and Constitutions Ecclesiastical , with other Publick Records OF THE CHVRCH of ENGLAND ; Chiefly in the Times of K. EDWARD . VIth . Q. ELIZABETH . and K. JAMES .

Published to Vindicate the Church of ENGLAND and to promote Uniformity and peace in the same .

And humbly presented to the CONVOCATION

LONDON , Printed by R. Norton for Timothy Garthwait at the Little North-doore of St. Pauls Church 1661.

THETABLE. Anno Domini Pag. KIng EDWARD'S Injunctions . 1547. 1. Order of Communion Service 1547. 15. Arch Bp. CRANMERS Articles of visitation . 1548. 25. Bp RIDLYES Articles of visitation . 1550. 33. ARTICLES of Religion agreed upon in the Convocation . 1552. 39. The Latin Edition of those Articles . 1552. 51.
Q. ELIZABETH'S Injunctions 1559. 63. The Queens Articles of visitation 1559. 235. An ACT for Vniformity of Common Prayer . 1559. 75. Celebratio Coenae Dom. in Funebribus . in the 2. yeer of the Queen . 1560. 249. Book of ORDINATION . 1559. 96. Commendatio Benefactorum . 1560. ARTICLES of Religion agreed upon in the Convocation &c. and compared with King EDWARD the VI. Articles . 1562. 86. The Latine Edition of those Articles . 1562. * .1 . ADVERTISEMENTS for Due order about Ministers Apparel , the Communion &c. 1564. 86. Liber quorundam CANONUM 1571. * 15. ARTICVLI Provinciae Cantuariensis 1584. 243. Capitula , sive CONSTITUTIONES Ecclesiasticae . 1597. 37. The OATHES of Supremacy , Allegiance , Canonical Obedience , Residence . 88. The Oath against Simony . 90. Of Abrogate HOLYDAYES in K. HENRY the 8 ths . time . 1536. 225. Proclamation against the despisers of the COMMON PRAYER &c. 1573. 227. Proclamation against the Sectaries of the Family of Love . 1580. 229. Proclamation against Schismatical and seditious Books and Libels . 1588. 231. Prayers at the Healing . 223.

InK.JAMEShistime. CANONS and Constitutions in Latine . 1603. 303. PRoclamation declaring the proceedings in Ecelesiastical Courts to be according to the Laws of the Land . 91

A PREFACE to the Reader .

OUR great Lord and Master Christ , having purchased to himself , by his precious blood , a peculiar people , his One mystical Body the Church , sanctified it with the washing of water by the word , that he might present it to himself a glorious Church , holy without spot , Ephes. 5.27 . not without all spot ( there is a spot of Gods children , of sins of frailty and infirmity , which the Church as long as she is Militant will never be without , ) but without spot of malice and wicked lewdness ; such spots and blemishes as were figured by the corporal blemishes forbidden to the Priests and their sacrifices Lev. 21. & 22.20 . spots that will make the Church as abhorred in the sight of God , as those bodily spots made the Priests and their sacrifices unto the eyes of men ; without such scandalous spots mentioned Gal. 5.9 . all the members of this one Body may and ought to be . That the Church may preserve her self in this purity without spot , and in this unity without division , and continue one holy Church , as it is in our Creed , a double power and Authority is needful , as to all other Bodies politick , so likewise to this Society of Believers , the Church ; one of jurisdiction to correct and reform those impure members by spiritual censures , whom counsel will not win , and if they be incorrigible , to cast them out of this holy Society , lest their leaven should leaven the whole lump , 1 Cor. 5.6 . thus to preserve the Churches purity , and again to correct and reduce to unity the contentious troublers of the Churches peace , if it may be , by charitable admonitions , if not , to stop their mouths Titus 1.11 . not by arguments alone , for such will never prevail upon absurd , unreasonable and obstinate men , ( and such there alwayes will be ) but by spiritual Censures , even to the casting them out of the Churches Society , so to preserve peace and unity . Besides this power of Jurisdiction there is necessary also for the obtaining of those two high ends , a Legislative power to make Canons and Constitutions upon emergent occasions . For though our great Lord hath already given to his Church most holy and wise rules and Laws for the same purposes ; yet because they are general , not descending to every particularity of time , and place , and manner of performanee , which yet are necessary to be determined for the preservation of publick peace and unity ; and because there may , at least through the perversnesse of men of corrupt minds , arise some doubts and controversies about the sense and meaning of those most holy rules of our Lord , for the determining of which we are not now to expect any resolution from Prophet or Oracle or other immediate voice from heaven ; it doth hereupon necessarily follow that there must be Authority left to this Church and the Governours thereof to make new Laws upon these emergent occasions , to determine these particularities , to decide and compose these controversies , whereby to preserve the unity of the spirit in the Bond of Peace . Who soever shall think that all this may be done by friendly perswasion , or learned disputes onely will finde himself deceived , as experience of all Ages hath shown , and will shew as long as there be men of perverse mindes and corrupt affections . Without a definitive and Authoritative sentence , controversies will be endless , and the Churches peace unavoidably disturbed , and therefore the voice of God and right Reason hath taught , that in matters of Controversie the definitive sentence of Superiours should decide the doubt , and whosoever should decline from that sentence , and do presumptuously , should be put to death , that others might hear and fear and do no more presumptuously Deut. 17. which is to be understood mystically also of death spirituall by Excommunication , by being cut off from the living body of Christs Church . It being thus cleared by reason and Gods own rule that such power is necessary for the preserving Peace and unity , it cannot be imagined with reason , that our great Master should deny his dear bought body such necessaries . But not to rest upon the reason why they should be given ; it may be made to appear that de facto He hath given such power to the Church , and that by reciting his gracious Commissions granted to the Church , with his Apostles practice and exercise of those powers , who best knowing their Lords will and pleasure must be , by their practice , the best Interpreters of his minde and meaning . See then , how read we ? For the power of Jurisdiction , we finde a large Commission , St. John 20. As my father sent me so send I you ; and one particular of Jurisdiction there expressed , Whosoever sins you binde in Earth , they are bound in Heaven , a sharp and dreadful sentence , worse then that of the Sword , by so much as the death of the Soul is worse then the death of the Body , which in obstinate despisers of that correction doth too certainly follow .

This power of spiritual censures , St. Paul calls the rod of Discipline , 1 Cor. 4. ult. By vertue of this Power & Commission , S. Paul delivers the incestuous Corinthian to Satan , and casts him out of the Churches Communion , 1 Cor. 5. and the same St. Paul not only exercises this Jurisdiction himself , but also directs his son , Bishop Timothy how to behave himself , in the ordering of these Church censures , 1 Tim. 5.19 . not to receive an accusation against a Presbyter under two or three witnesses , and when he hath heard , to rebuke or censure , as the cause requires without partiality or leaning to either side , all which speak plainly a Tribunal erected in the Church , and acknowledged by the Apostle , enough to prove the power of Jurisdiction . Then the Legislative of making Laws and Constitutions for regulating manners and determining doubts and controversies , it cannot with reason be denied to be granted in that large Commission forecited St. John 20. As my father sent me , so send I you . For here , committing the Government of the Church to his Apostles , our Lord Commissions them with the same Power that was committed to him for that purpose , when he was on earth , with the same necessary standing power that he had and exercised as Man for the good of the Church . Less cannot in reason be thought to be here granted , then all power necessary for the well and peaceable government of the Church , and such a power is this of making lawes ; this is a Commission in general for making lawes , then in particular for making Articles and decisions of doctrines controverted the power is more explicit and expresse . S. Matth. 28. All power is given to me , Go therefore and teach all nations , that is , with authority and by vertue of that power that is given to me , and what is it to teach the truth with authority , but to command and oblige all people to receive the truth so taught , and this power was not given to the Apostles persons only , for Christ there promised to be with them in that Office to the end of the world , that is , to them and their successors in that Pastoral Office , to the Apostles or Bishops that should succeed them to the end of the world . This will appear still more clear by S. Paul Heb. 13. where , after he had commanded them not to be carried about with divers and strange doctrines , he prescribes this as the preservative against such errours and inconstancy , Obey them that have the oversight over you , and watch for your souls , obey them in the guidance and conduct of your souls , in their determinations and decisions about such divers and strange Doctrine , all which supposes in those Guides a power to govern and rule us in such doubts and controversies about doctrines and matters of belief , an authority to determine in controversies of faith , as our Church teaches in her 20. Article ; adde to this that St. Paul tells us 1 Tim. 3.15 . that the Church is the ground and pillar of truth . And whither then should we go in doubts and controversies , for the determination of what is truth , but to the ground and pillar of truth ? For the clearer understanding of this power in the Church , know that to this one holy Church , our Lord committed in trust the most holy faith and the whole stock of necessary Christian truth , therefore called the ground and pillar of truth . This truth she must endeavour to preserve , as by stopping the mouthes of obstinate gainsaiers , so by guiding and governing the meek , but weak doubters into the truth , by determining their doubts and controversies . Not that the Church can make Articles of faith and obtrude them upon the members , but that she may and must ( if the true sense of faith and holy Scriptures be called in question ) declare and determine what that sense is which she hath received in trust from Christ and his Apostles , commanding under penalties and censures , all her children to receive that sense and to profess it in such expressive words and form as may directly determine the doubt . Thus she did in the great NICENE Council venerable over all the Christian world , when the Arrians had perverted by subtil controversies and questions the true sense of the Creed concerning our Saviours Divinity ; she first declared what sense of the Creed she had received by constant tradition from the Apostles and then enjoyned all Christians to profess that sense by the word 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of the same substance with the Father , a word directly determining the controversie in hand . Nor did the Christian world ever question her ▪ Authority in this particular . And in controversies about doctrines , where she hath received no such clear determination of either part from Christ and his Apostles , she hath power to declare her own sense in the controversie and to determine which part shall be received and profest for truth by her members , and that too under Ecclesiastical penalty and censure , which they accordingly are bound to submit to , not as an infallible verity , but as a probable truth , and rest in her determination , till it be made plain by as great or a greater authority , that this her determination 〈…〉 our , and if it shall appear to any of the members to be an errour , or if they shall think it so to be by the weight of such reasons as are privately suggested to them , yet are they still obliged to silence and peace , ( where the Decision of a particular Church is against the Doctrine of the Universal ) not to profess in this case against the Churches determination , because the professing of such a controverted truth is not necessary , but the preservation of the peace and unity of the Church is . This is not to assert infallibility in the Church , but authority . The sentence shall binde to submission though the Superiors may erre in the sentence . Thus God ordered it Deut. 17. that in doubts the inferior were to stand to the decision and sentence of the Priests and the Judge , and yet their judgement was not infallible , 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the whole assembly , the chiefest Senate might erre , & sin through ignorance , & a sacrifice is appointed for the expiation of their error Lev. 4.13 . Better that inferiours be bound to stand to such fallible judgement ( as to quiet submission ) in such kind of controversies as afore mentioned , then that every man be suffered to interpret Laws , & determine controversies , which will bring into the Church certain confusion . Nor wil such submission in the Inferiors be damnable , seeing in this submission to authority they follow Gods method ( obeying them that have the oversight over them . Heb. 13. and keep order , of which God is the Author , 1 Cor. 14.33 . God is not the Author of confusion but of order and peace , as in all Churches of the Saints .

This Authority in determining doubts and controversies the Church hath practised in all Ages , and her constant practice is the best interpreter of her right . We read not onely of St. Pauls determining controversies about rites and circumstances , 1 Cor. 14. but also of the Churches determining controversies of doctrines and matters of belief in a full Council Act. 15. and requiring submission to those determinations from inferiour members . The like did the Church afterwards in her general Councils of NICE , CONSTANTINOPLE , EPHESUS and CHALCEDON . And not onely the General Councils have exercised this Authority , but particular Churches also in National Councils , in the Council of ORANGE , MILEVIS and others have used the same power over their children , whom they were bound to teach and govern , and for whose souls they were to account to God , and they did no more then was their right , so long as they did it with submission to the general Church to whom they are subject ; Christ said to the Apostles , and by this , to all the guides of soules , that should succeed them in a lawful Ordination , He that heares you heares me , and he that despises you despises me , St. Cypr. ep. 69 From these premises it plainly follows , that our dear Mother the Church of England in making these Canons and Articles for determining of controversies in matters of belief , which you may see in the ensuing Collection , did no more , then what was both her right and her duty to do , both for the preservation of her peace , and the guidance and conduct of the souls committed to her charge , and what her care hath been in the exercise of this power for the good of her members ever since the Reformation , will evidently to her honour appear by this following Collection , made up not without great care and industry of the Publisher . By which he hath done our Mother this farther right , that now , whosoever will , may easily see the notorious slander which some of the Roman perswasion have endeavourd to cast upon her : That her Reformation hath been altogether Lay and Parliamentary : for by the Canons and articles following , which were formerly scattered and hard to be seen by every one , now gathered together into a body , it easily appears to any that will but open their eyes and read , that the Reformation of this Church was orderly and Synodical by the Guides and Governours of souls , and confirmed by Supream Authority , and so in every particular as legal as any reformation could or ought to be .

Anth. Sparrow .
Books sold by T. Garthwait . THe Works of that Profound Divine Dr. Tho. Jackson president of Corp. Chr. Coll. Oxon. in Folio . 3. Volumes . The Scholastical History of the Canon of the Scripture by Dr. Cofin Ld. Bp. Duresme . in 4ᵒ. An Introduction to the Oriental Languages by Dr. Walton Ld. Bp. of Chester . in 12ᵒ. The English Case , exactly set down by Hezekiahs Reformation in a Serm. at Paris before His Majesty by Dr. Steward Dean of Westminster in 12ᵒ. A Rationale upon the Book of Com. Prayer by Dr. Sparrow in 12ᵒ. A Defence of the Liturgy in answer to the Exceptions of divers Ministers in 12ᵒ. The Form of Consecration of a Church by Bp. Andrews . Golden Remains of Mr. John Hales of Eton Colledge with His Letters touching rhe Synod of Dort in 4ᵒ. Dr. Pierce of the Positive being of sin , with a Postscript touching Mr. Baxter in 4ᵒ. A Sermon of Lent preacht before his Majesty by Dr. Gunning &c. in 4ᵒ. Bp. Andrews his Sermons in fol.

INJUNCTIONS given by the most excellent Prince , EDWARD the Sixt ,

By the grace of God King of England , France , and Ireland :

Defender of the Faith , and in earth under Christ of the Church of England and Ireland , the supreme head : To all and singular his loving subjects , as well of the Clergy as of the Laitie .

Imprinted at LONDON by Richard Grafton , 1547.

Injunctions given by the most excellent Prince , Edward the sixt , by the grace of God , King of England , France , and Ireland : defender of the Faith and in earth under Christ , of the Church of England and of Ireland , the supreme head : To all and singular his loving subjects , as well of the Clergy as of the Laity .

THE Kings most Royal Majestie , by the advice of his most dear uncle , the Duke of Somerset , Lord Protector of all his Realms , Dominions and Subiects , and Governour of his most royal person , and the residue of his most honourable counsel , intending the advancement of the true honour of almighty God , the suppression of Idolatry and Superstition , throughout all his Realms and Dominions , and to plant true Religion , to the extirpation of all hypocrisy , enormities and abuses , as to his duty appertaineth : doth minister unto his loving subjects , these godly Injunctions , hereafter following : Whereof part were given unto them heretofore , by the authority of his most dear beloved father , King Henry the viii . of most famous memory , and part are now ministred and given by his Majesty . All which Injunctions , his highnesse willeth and commandeth his said loving subjects , by his supreme authority obediently to receive , and truely to observe and keep every man in their offices , degrees and states , as they will avoyd his displeasure , and the pains in the same Injunctions hereafter expressed .

1. The first is , that all Deans , Archdeacons , Parsons , Vicars , and other Ecclesiastical persons , shall faithfully keep and observe , and as far as in them may lye , shall cause to be observed and kept of other , all and singular laws and statutes made as well for the abolishing and extirpation of the Bishop of Rome , his pretensed and usurped power and jurisdiction , as for the establishment and confirmation of the Kings authority , jurisdiction , and supremacy of the Church of England and Ireland . And furthermore , all Ecclesiasticall persons , having cure of souls , shall to the uttermost of their wit , knowledge , and learning , purely , sincerely and without any colour or dissimulation , declare , manifest , and open iiii . times every year at the least , in their Sermons ond other collations , that the Bishop of Romes usurped power and jurisdiction ; having no establishment nor ground by the laws of God , was of most just causes , taken away and abolished , and that therefore , no manner of obedience or subjection , whithin his Realms and Dominions , is due unto him . And that the Kings power , within his Realms and Dominions , is the highest power under God , to whom all men , within the same Realms and Dominions , by Gods laws , owe most loyalty and obedience , afore and above all other powers and Potentates in earth .

Besides this , to the intent that all superstition and hypocrisy , crept into divers mens hearts , may vanish away : They shall not set forth or extol any Images , Relicks , or Miracles , for any superstition or lucre , nor allure the people by any inticements , to the Pilgrimage of any Saint or Image : but reproving the same , they shall teach , that all goodness , health and grace , ought to be both asked and looked for , onely of God , as of the very author and giver of the same , and of none other .

Item , that they , the persons above rehersed , shall make or cause to be made in their Churches , and every other Cure they have , one Sermon , every quarter of the year at the least , wherein they shall purely and sincerely declare the word of God : and in the same , exhort their hearers to the works of faith , mercy ; and charity , specially prescribed and commanded in scripture , and that workes devised by mens phantasies , besides Scripture : as wandering to Pilgrimages , offering of mony , candels , or tapers , or relicks , or Images , or kissing and licking of the same , praying upon beades , or such like superstition , have not only no promise of reward in scripture for doing of them : but contrariwise , great threats and maledictions of God , for that they be things tending to Idolatry and superstition , which , of all other offences , God almighty doth most detest and abhor , for that the same diminish most his honour and glory .

Item , that such Images , as they know in any of their cures , to be , or to have been abused with Pilgrimage or offering of any thing made thereunto , or shall be hereafter censed unto , they ( and none other private persons ) shall for the avoiding of that most detestable offence of Idolatry , , forthwith take down , or cause to be taken down and destroy the same , and shall suffer from henceforth , no Torches , nor candles , Tapers or Images of wax , to be set afore any Image , or picture , but onely two lights upon the high altar , before the Sacrament , which for the signification , that Christ is the very true light of the world , they thall suffer to remain still : admonishing their Parishioners , that Images serve for no other purpose , but to be a remembrance , whereby men may be admonished , of the holy lives and conversation of them , that the said Images do represent : which Images , if they do abuse for any other entent , they commit Idolatry in the same , to the great danger of their souls .

Item , that every holy day throughout the year , when they have no Sermon , they shall immediately after the Gospel , openly and plainly , recite to their Parishioners in the pulpit : the Pater noster , the Credo , and x. Commandments in English , to the intent the people may learn the same by heart : exhorting all parents and housholders , to teach their children and servants the same as they are bound by the law of God , and in conscience to do .

Item , that they shall charge Fathers and Mothers , Masters and governours to bestow their children and servants , even from their childhood , either to learning or to some honest exercise , occupation or husbandry : Exhorting and counseling , and by all the wayes and means they may , aswel in their sermons and collations as otherwaies , perswading their said Fathers and Mothers , Masters , and other governours , diligently to provide and foresee , that the youth be in no manner of wise , brought up in idlenesse , least at any time afterward , for lack of some craft , occupation , or other honest mean to live by , they be driven to fall to begging , stealing , or some other unchriftinesse : Forasmuch as we may daily see , through sloth and idlenesse , divers valiant men fall , some to begging , and some to theft and murder , which after brought to calamity and misery , do blame their parents , friends and governours , which suffered them to be brought up so idlely in their youth , where , if they had been well brought up in learning some good occupation or craft , they would ( being rulers of their own houshold ) have profited aswell themselves , as divers other persons , to the great commodity and ornament of the Common wealth .

Also , that the said Parsons , Vicars , and other Curates , shall diligently provide , that the Sacraments be duly , and reverently ministred in their Parishes . And if at any time it happen them in any of the cases expressed in the statutes of this Realm , or of special licence given by the Kings Majesty , to be absent from their benefices , they shall leave their Cure , not to a rude and unlearned person , but to an honest well learned and expert Curate that can by his ability teach the rude and unlearned of their Cure wholsom doctrine , and reduce them to the right way , that do erre , which will also execute these Injunctions , and do their duty otherwise , as they are bound to do in every behalf , and accordingly may and will profit their cure , no less with good example of living , then with the declaration of the word of God , or else their lack and default shall be imputed unto them , who shall straightly answer for the same , if they do otherwise . And alwayes let them see , that neither they , nor their Curates , do seek more their own profit , promotion , or advantage , then the profit of the souls that they have under their Cure , or the glory of God .

Also , that they shall provide within three moneths , next after this visitation , one book of the whole Bible , of the largest volumn in English . And within one twelve moneths next after the said visitation , the paraphrasis of Erasmus also in English upon the gospels , and the same set up in some convenient place , within the said Church , that they have Cure of , whereas their Parishioners may most commodiously , resort unto the same , and read the same . The charges of which books shall be ratably born , between the Parson or approprietary , and parishiones aforesaid , that is to say , the one half by the Parson or proprietary , & the other half by the parishioners . And they shall discourage no man ( authorised & licensed thereto ) from the reading of any part of the Bible , either in Latine or in English : but shall rather comfort & exhort every person to read the same , as the very lively word of God , and the special food of mans soul , that all Christian persons are bound to embrace , believe , and follow , if they look to be saved : whereby they may the better know their duties to God , to their sovereign Lord the King , and their neighbour : ever gently and charitably exhorting them , and in his Majesties name , straightly charging and commanding them , that in the reading thereof , no man to reason or contend , but quietly to hear the Reader .

Also , the said Ecclesiastical persons shall in no wise , at any unlawful time , nor for any other cause , then for their honest necessity , haunt or resort to any Taverns , or Alehouses . And after their dinner or supper , they shall not give themselves to drinking or riot , spending their time idlely , by day or by night at dice , cards , or tables , playing , or any other unlawful game : but at all times , ( as they shall have leasure ) they shall hear and read somewhat of holy Scripture , or shall occupie themselves with some other honest exercise , and that they alwayes do the things which appertain to honesty , with endeavour to profit the common weale , having alwayes in minde , that they ought to excel all other , in purity of life , and should be an example to the people , to live well and Christianly .

Item , that they shall in confessions every Lent , examine every person , that cometh to confession to them , whether they can recite the Articles of their faith , the Pater noster , and the ten Commandments in English , and heare them say the same particularly , wherein , if they be not perfect , they shall declare then , that every Christian person ought to know the said things , before they should receive the blessed Sacrament of the Altar , and admonish them to learn the said necessary things more perfectly , or else they ought not to presume to come to Gods board , without a perfect knowledge and will to observe the same : and if they do , it is to the great peril of their souls , and also to the worldly rebuke , that they might incur hereafter by the same .

Also , that they shall admit no man to preach within any their Cures , but such as shall appear unto them , to be sufficiently licensed thereunto , by the Kings Majeste , the Lord Protectors grace , the Archbishop of Canterbury , the Archbishop of York in his Province , or the Bishop of the Diocesse : and such as shall be so licensed , they shall gladly receive to declare the word of God , without any resistence or contradiction .

Also , if they have heretofore declared to their parishioners any thing to the extolling , or setting forth of pilgrimages , relicks or Images , or lighting of Candels , kissing , kneeling , decking of the same Images , or any such superstition , they shall now openly before the same , recant and reprove the same : shewing them ( as the truth is ) that they did the same upon no ground of scripture , but were led and seduced by a common errour and abuse , crept into the Church , through the sufference and avarice of such as felt profit by the same .

Also , if they do , or shall know any man within their parish , or elsewhere , , that is a letter of the word of God , to be read in English , or sincerely preached , or of the execution of these the Kings Majesties Injunctions , or a fautor of the Bishop of Romes pretensed power , now by the laws of this Realm justly reiected , extirpated , and taken away utterly , they shall detect and present the same to the King or his Council , or to the Iustice of peace next adjoyning .

Also , that the Parson , Vicar , or Curate , and parishioners of every parish , within this Realm shall in their Churches and Chapels , keep one Book or Register , wherein they shall write the day and year of every wedding , Christning , and Burial , made within their Parish for their time , and so every man succeeding them likewise : And therein shall write every persons name , that shall be so Wedded , Christned or Buried . And for the safe keeping of the same book , the parish shall be bound to provide of their common charges , one sure cofer , with two locks and keyes , whereof the one to remain with the Parson , Vicar , or Curate , & the other with the Wardens of every Parish church or chapel , wherein the said book shall be laid up : which book they shall every Sunday take forth , and in the presence of the said Wardens , or one of them , write and record in the same all the Weddings , Christnings , and Burials , made the whole week before , and that done , to lay up the book in the said cofer , as afore . And for every time that the same shall be omitted , the party that shall be in the fault thereof , shall forfeit to the said Church . iii. s. iiii . d. to be employed to the poor mens box , of that parish .

Furthermore , because the goods of the Church , are called the goods of the poor , and at these dayes , nothing is less seen , then the poor to be sustained with the same : all Parsons , Vicars , Pencionaries , Prebendaries , and other beneficed men within this Deanery , not being resident upon their benefices , which may dispend yearly xx.l. or above , either within this Deanery , or elsewhere , shall distribute hereafter , among their poor parishioners , or other inhabitants there , in the presence of the Church-wardens , or some other honest men of the parish , the xl . part of the fruits and revenues of their said benefices , lest they be worthily noted of ingratitude , which reserving so many parts to themselves , cannot vouchsafe , to impart the xl . portion thereof among the poor people of that parish , that is so fruitful and profitable unto them .

And to the intent that learned men may hereafter spring the more , for the execution of the premisses , ever Parson , Vicar , Clerk , or beneficed man within this Deanery , having yearly to dispend in benefices and other promotions of the Church an C.l. shall give competent exhibition to one Scholar : and for so many . C.l. more as he may dispend , to so many Scholars more shall he give like exhibition , in the Vniversity of Oxford , or Cambridge , or some Grammar schole , which after they have profited in good learning , may be partners of their patrons cure and charge , as well in preaching , as otherwise in the execution of their offices , or may ( when need shall be ) otherwise profit the Common weale , with their counsail and wisdom .

Also , that the proprietaries , Parsons , Vicars , and Clerks , having Churches , Chapels , or Mansions within this Deanery , shall bestow yearly hereafter , upon the same Mansions or Chancels of their Churches , being in decay the fift part of that their benefices , till they be fully repaired : and the same so repaired shall alwayes keep and maintain in good estate .

Also , that the said Parsons , Vicars , and Clerks , shall once every quarter of the year , read these Injunctions given unto them , openly and deliberately , before all their parishioners , to the intent , that both they may be the better admonished of their duty , and their said Parishioners , the more moved , to follow the same for their part .

Also , for as much , as by a law established , every man is bound to pay his tithes , no man shall by colour of duty omitted by their Curates , detain their tithes , and so redubbe and requite one wrong with another , or be his own judge , but shall truely pay the same , as he hath been accustomed to their Parsons , Vicars , and Curates , without any restraint or diminution . And such lack and default , as they can justly finde in their Parsons and Curates , to call for reformation thereof , at their ordinaries and other superiours hands , who upon complaint and due proof thereof , shall reform the same accordingly .

Also , that no person shall from hence forth alter or change the order and manner of any fasting day that is commanded , or of Common prayer or divine service , otherwise then is specified in these Injunctions , until such time as the same shall be otherwise ordered , and transposed by the Kings authority .

Also , that every Parson , Vicar , Curate , Chauntery priest , and Stipendary , being under the degree of a Bacheler of Divinity , shall provide and have of his own , within three moneths after this visitation , , the New Testament , both in Latine and in English , with the Paraphrase upon the same of Erasmus , and diligently study the same conferring the one with the other . And the Bishops and other ordinaries by themselves , or their officers , in their Synods and visitations , shall examine the said Ecclesiastical persons , how they have profited in the studie of holy Scripture .

Also , in the time of high Masse , within every Church , he that saith or singeth the same , shall read or cause to be read , the Epistle and Gospel of that Masse , in English , and not in Latine , in the Pulpit or in such convenient place as the people may hear the same . And every Sunday and holy day , they shall plainly and distinctly , read , or cause to be read , one Chapter of the New testament in English , in the said place at Matius immediately after the Lessons : and at Even-song , after Magnificat , one Chapter of the old Testament . And to the entent the premisses may be more conveniently done : the Kings Majesties pleasure is , that when ix . Lessons should be read in the Church , three of them shall be omitted and left out with the responds : and at Evensong time the responds with all the memories , shall be left off , for that purpose .

Also , because those persons which be sick and in peril of death , be oftentimes put in despair , by the craft and subtilty of the Devil , who is then most busy , and specially with them , that lack the knowledge , sure perswasion , and stedfast belief , that they may be made partakers of the great and infinite mercy , which almighty God , of his most bountiful goodnesse , and meer liberality , without our deserving , hath offered freely to all persons that put their ful trust and confidence in him : therefore that this damnable vice of despair , may be clearly taken away and firme belief , and stedfast hope , surely conceived of all their parishioners , being in any danger , they shall learn and have alwayes in a readinesse , such comfortable places and sentences of Scripture , as do set forth the mercy , benefits , and goodness of almighty God , towards all penitent , and believing persons , that they may at all times , ( when necessity shall require ) promptly comfort their flock , with the lively word of God , which is the onely stay of mans conscience .

ALSO , to avoid all contention and strife , which heretofore hath risen , among the Kings Majesties subjects , in sundry places of his Realmes and Dominions , by reason of fond curtesie , and challenging of places in procession , and also that they may the more quietly hear that which is said or song to their edifying , they shall not from henceforth , in any parish Church , at any time use any procession , about the Church or Church-yard , or other place , but immediately before high Mass , the Priests with other of the Quire , shall kneel in the midst of the Church , and sing or say , plainly and distinctly , the Litany which is set forth in English , with all the Suffrages following , and none other procession , or Litany to be had or used , but the said Litany in English , adding nothing thereto , but as the Kings grace , shall hereafter appoint : and in Cathedral or Collegiate Churches , the same shall be done in such places as our Commissaries in in our visitation shall appoint . And in the time of the Litany , of the Masse , of the Sermon , and when the Priest readeth the Scripture to the parishioners , no manner of persons without a just and urgent cause , shall depart out of the Church , and all ringing and knowling of Bells , shall be utterly forborn for that time , except one Bell in convenient time , to be rung or knowled before the Sermon .

ALSO , like as the people be commonly occupied the work-day with bodily labour , for their bodily sustenance , so was the holy day at the first beginning godly instituted and ordained , that the people should that day give themselves wholly to God . And whereas in our time , God is more offended then pleased , more dishonoured , then honored , upon the holy day , because of idlenesse , pride , drunkennesse , quarelling and brawling , which are most used , in such dayes , people nevertheless perswading themselves sufficiently to honour God on that day , if they hear Masse and service , though they understand nothing to their edifying : therefore all the Kings faithful and loving subjects , shall from henceforth celebrate , and keep their holy day , according to Gods holy will and pleasure , that is : in hearing the word of God read and taught : in private and publick prayers : in knowledging their offences to God , and amendment of the same : in reconciling their selves charitably to their neighbours where displeasure hath been : in often times receiving the Communion , of the very body and blood of Christ : in visiting of the poor and sick : in using all sobernesse and Godly conversation . Yet notwithstanding , all Parsons , Vicars , and Curates , shall teach and declare unto their Parishioners , that they may with a safe and quiet conscience , in the time of Harvest labour upon the holy and festival dayes , and save that thing which God hath sent . And if for any scrupulosity , or grudge of conscience , men should superstitiously , abstain from working upon those dayes , that then they should grievously offend and displease God .

ALSO , forasmuch as variance and contention , is a thing which most displeaseth God , and is most contrary to the blessed Communion of the body and blood of our Saviour Christ : Curates shall in no wise admit to the receiving thereof any of their Cure and flock , who hath maliciously and openly contended with his neighbour , unlesse the same do first charitably and openly reconcile himself again , remitting all rancour and malice , whatsoever controversie hath been between them : and neverthelesse , their iust titles and rights , they may charitably prosecute before such as have authority to heare the same .

ALSO , that every Dean , Archdeacon , Master of Collegiate Church , Master of Hospital , and Prebendary , being Priest , shall preach by himself personally , twice every year at the least , either in the place where he is intituled , or in some Church where he hath jurisdiction , or else which is to the said place appropriate or united .

ALSO , that they shall instruct and teach in their Cures , that no man ought obstinately , and maliciously , to break and violate the laudable ceremonies of the Church , by the King Commanded to be observed , and as yet not abrogated . And on the other side , that whosoever doth superstitiously abuse them , doth the same to the great peril and danger of his souls health : as in casting holy water upon his bed , upon Images , and other dead things , or bearing about him holy bread , or saint Iohns Gospel , or making crosses of wood upon Palm-Sunday , in time of reading of the Passion , or keeping private holy dayes , as Bakers , Brewers , Smithes , Shoomakers , and such other do , or ringing of holy bells , or blessing with the holy candle , to the intent , thereby to be discharged of the burden of sin , or to drive away devils , or to put away dreames and phantasies , or in putting trust and confidence of health and salvation in the same ceremonies , when they be onely ordained , instituted and made , to put us in remembrance of the benefits , which we have received by Christ . And if he use them for any other purpose , he grievously offendeth God .

ALSO , that they shall take away , utterly extinct and destroy , all shrines , covering of shrines , all tables , candlesticks , trindilles or rolles of wax , pictures , paintings , and all other monuments of feigned miracles , pilgrimages , Idolatry and superstition : so that there remain no memory of the same in walls , glasses , windows , or elsewhere within their Churches or houses . And they shall exhort all their Parishioners , to do the like within their several houses . And that the Church Wardens , at the common charge of the Parishioners in every Church , shall provide a comely and honest pulpit , to be set in a convenient place within the same , for the preaching of Gods word .

ALSO , they shall provide and have within three moneths after this visitation , a strong Chest , with a hole in the upper part thereof , to be provided , at the cost and charge of the parish , having three keyes , whereof one shall remain in the custody of the Parson , Vicar , or Curate , and the other two , in the custody of the Church wardens , or any other two honest men , to be appointed , by the parish from year to year : which Chest you shall set and fasten near unto the high altar , to the intent the parishioners , should put into it their Oblation and almes , for their poor neighbours . And the Parson , Vicar , or Curate , shall diligently , from time to time , and specially , when men make their testaments , call upon , exhort and move their neighbours , to confer and give , as they may well spare , to the said Chest , declaring unto them , whereas heretofore they have been diligent , to bestow much substance otherwise then God commanded , upon Pardons , Pilgrimages , Trentalles , decking of Images , offering of Candels , giving to Friers , and upon other like blinde devotions ; they ought at this time , to be much more ready to help the poor and needy , knowing that to relieve the poor is a true worshiping of God , required earnestly , upon pain of everlasting damnation : and that also , whatsoever is given for their comfort , is given to Christ himself , and so is accepted of him , that he will mercifully reward the same with everlasting life , the which almes and devotion of the People , the keepers of the keyes , shall at times convenient , take out of the Chest , and distribute the same , in the presence of the whole Parish , or six of them , to be truely and faithfully delivered , to their most needy neighbours : and if they be provided for , then to the reparation of high wayes next adjoyning . And also the money which riseth of Fraternities , guilds , and other stocks of the Church ( except by the Kings majesties authority it be otherwise appointed ) shall be put into the said chest , and converted to t●… said use , and also the rents of lands , the profit of cattle , and mony given or bequeathed , to the studing of Torches , Lights , Tapers , & Lampes , shalt be converted to the said use , saving that it shall be lawful for them to bestow part of the said profits , upon the reparation of the Church , if great need require , and whereas the parish is very poor , and not able otherwise to repaire the same .

And forasmuch as priests be publick ministers of the Church , and upon the holydayes ought to apply themselves to the common administration of the whole Parish , they shall not be bound to go to women lying in childbed , except in time of dangerous sickness , and not to fetch any corse , before it be brought to the Churchyard : and if the woman be sick , or the corse brought to the Church , the priest shall do his duty accordingly , in visiting the woman , and burying the dead person .

ALSO , to avoid the detestable sin of symony , because buying and selling of benefices , is execrable before God : therefore all such persons as buy any benefices , or coine to them by fraud or deceit , shall be deprived of such benefices , and be made unable at any time after to receive any other spiritual promotion . And such as do sell them , or by any colour do bestow them , for their own gain and profit , shall lose the right and title of patronage , and presentment for that time , and the gift thereof for that vacation , shall appertain to the Kings Maiesty .

ALSO , because through lack of Preachers in many places of the Kings Realms and Dominions : the people continue in ignorance and blindnesse : all Parsons , Vicars , and Curates , shall read in their Churches every Sunday , one of the Homilies , which are and shall be set forth for the same purpose , by the Kings authority , in such sort as they shall be appointed to do in the Preface of the same .

ALSO , whereas many indiscrete persons do at this day , uncharitably contemn and abuse Priests and Ministers of the Church , because some of them , ( having smal learning ) have of long time favoured phansies rather then Gods truth : yet forasmuch , as their office and function is appointed of God : The Kings Majesty willeth and chargeth all his loving subjects , that from henceforth , they shall use them charitably and reverently , for their office and administrations sake , and especially , such as labour in the seting forth of Gods holy word .

ALSO , that all manner of persons , which understand not the Latine tongue , shall pray upon none other Primer , but upon that , which was lately set forth in English , by authority of King Henry the VIII . of most famous memory . And that no teachers of youth , shall teach any other , then the said Primer . And all those which have knowledge of the Latine tongue , shall pray upon none other Latine Primer , but upon that , which is likewise set forth by the said authority , And that all graces to be said at dinner and supper , shall be alwayes said in the English tongue . And that none other grammar shall be taught in any schoole or other place , within the Kings Realms and Dominions , but onely that which is set forth by the said authority .

ITEM , that all Chauntery Priests , shall exercise themselves in teaching youth to read and write , and bring them up in good manners , and other vertuous exercises .

ITEM , when any Sermon or Homily shall be had , the Prime and houres shall be omitted .

❧ The form of bidding the Common Prayers .

YOU shall pray for the whole congregation of Christs Church , and specially for this Church of England and Ireland , wherein first I commend to your devout prayers , the Kings most excellent Majesty , supreme head immediately under God , of the spirituality and temporality of the same Church : and for Queen Katharine dowager , and also for my lady Mary and my lady Elizabeth , the Kings sisters .

Secondly you shall pray for my Lord Protectors grace , with all the rest of the Kings Majestes Councel : for all the Lords of this Realm , and for the Clergy and the commons of the same : beseeching almighty God to give every of them in his degree , grace to use themselves in such wise , as may be to Gods glory , the Kings honour , and the weal of this Realm .

Thirdly , ye shall pray for all them that be departed out of this world in the faith of Christ , thath they with us and we with them at the day of Iudgement , may rest both body and soul , with Abraham , Isaac , and Iacob , in the kingdom of heaven .

ALL which and singular Iniunctions , the Kings Maiesty ministreth unto his Clergy , and their successours , and to all his loving subiects : straightly charging and commanding them to observe and keep the same , upon pain of deprivation , sequestration of fruits of benefices , suspension , excommunication , and such other coertion , as to Ordinaries , or other having Ecclesiastical jurisdiction , whom his Majesty hath appointed for the due execution of the same , shall be seen convenient : charging and commanding them to see these Injunctions observed and kept of all persons , being under their jurisdiction , as they will answer to his Majesty for the contrary , and his Majesties pleasure is , that every Iustice of peace ( being required ) shall assist the Ordinaries and every of them , for the due execution of the said Injunctions .

THE ORDER OF THE COMMUNION .

Imprinted at LONDON by Richard Grafton , 1547.

The Proclamation . EDward by the grace of God King of England , France and Ireland , defender of the faith , and of the Church of England and Ireland in earth the supreme head : To all and singular our loving subjects , Greeting :

For so much as in our high Court of Parliament , lately holden at Westminster , it was by us with the consent of the Lords spiritual and temporal , and Commons there assembled most godly and agreeably to Christs holy institution enacted , that the most blessed Sacrament of the body and blood of our Saviour Christ should from thenceforth be commonly delivered and ministred unto all persons within our Realm of England and Ireland , and other our dominions under both kinds , that is to say , of bread and wine , ( except necessity other wayes require ) least any man phansying and devising a sundry way by himself , in the use of this most blessed Sacrament of unity , there might thereby arise any unseemly and ungodly diversity : Our pleasure is by the advice of our most deare Vncle the Duke of Somerset , governour of our person , and Protector of all our Realms , Dominions and Subjects , and other of our privie Councel , that the said blessed Sacrament be ministred unto our people onely after such form and manner as hereafter , by our authority , with the advice before mentioned is set forth and declared : willing every man with due reverence and Christian behaviour , to come to this holy Sacrament and most blessed Communion , lest by the unworthy receiving of so high mysteries , they become guilty of the body and blood of the Lord , and so eat and drink their own damnation : but rather diligently trying themselves , that they may so come to this holy table of Christ , & so be partakers of this holy Communion , that they may dwell in Christ , and have Christ dwelling in them : And allso with such obedience and conformity to receive this our ordinance , and most godly direction , that we may be encouraged from time to time , further to travel for the reformation , and setting forth of such godly orders , as may be most to Gods glory , the edifying of our subjects , and for the advancement of true Religion .

Which thing , we ( by the help of God ) most earnestly intend to bring to effect : willing all our loving subjects in the mean time , to stay and quiet themselves , with this our direction , as men content to follow authority ( according to the bounden duty of subjects , ) and not enterprising to run afore , and so by their rashnesse , become the greatest hinderers of such things , as they more arrogantly then godly , would seem ( by their own private authority ) most hotly to set forward . We would not have our subjects so much to mislike our Iudgement , so much to mistrust our zeal , as though we either could not discern what were to be done , or would not do all things in due time : God be praised , we know both what by his word is meet to be redressed , and have an earnest minde , by the advice of our most dear uncle , and other of our privie Councel , with all diligence and convenient speed so to set forth the same , as it may most stand with Gods glory , and edifying & quietness of our people : which we doubt not , but all our obedient and loving subjects , will quietly and reverently tarry for .

God save the KING .
The Order of the Communion .

First the Parson , Vicar , or Curate , the next Sunday or holy day , or at the least , one day before he shall minister the Communion , shall give warning to his parishioners , or those which be present , that they prepare themselves thereto , saying to them openly and plainly as hereafter followeth , or such like .

DEar friends , and you especially , upon whose souls I have cure & charge , upon day next I do intend by Gods grace to offer to all such as shall be there Godly disposed , the most comfortable Sacrament of the body and blood of Christ , to be taken of them in the remembrance of his most fruitful and glorious passion : By the which passion , we have obtained remission of our sins , and be made partakers of the kingdom of heaven , wherof , we be assured and ascertained if we come to the said Sacrament , with hearty repentance for our offences , stedfast faith in Gods mercy , and earnest minds to obey Gods will , and to offend no more : wherefore our duty is , to come to these holy mysteries with most hearty thanks to be given to Almighty God , for his infinite mercy and benefits , given and bestowed upon us , his unworthy servants , for whom he hath not onely given his body to death and shed his blood , but also doth vouchsafe in a Sacrament , and mystery to give us his said body and blood spiritually , to feed and drink upon . The which Sacrament , being so divine and holy a thing , and so comfortable to them which receive it worthily , and so dangerous to them that will presume to take the same unworthily : my duty is to exhort you in the mean season , to consider the greatness of the thing and to search and examine your own consciences , and that not lightly , nor after the manner of dissemblers with God : But as they which should come to a most godly and heavenly banket : not to come but in the marriage garment , required of God in Scripture , that you may so much as lyeth in you , be found worthy to come to such a table : the wayes and means thereto is ,

First , that you be truly repentant of your former evil life , and that you confesse with an unfeigned heart to almighty God your sins and unkindnesse towards his Majesty committed either by will , word or deed , infirmity or ignorance , and that with inward sorrow and tears , you bewaile your offences , and require of almighty God mercy , and pardon , promising to him from the bottom of your hearts , the amendment of your former life . And amongst all others , I am commanded of God , especially to move and exhort you , to reconcile your selves to your neighbours , whom you have offended , or who hath offended you , putting out of your hearts , all hatred and malice against them , & to be in love & charity with all the world , and to forgive other , as you would that God should forgive you . And if there be any of you , whose conscience is troubled and grieved at any thing , lacking comfort or counsel , let him come to me , or to some other discreet and learned Priest taught in the law of God , and confess and open his sin and grief secretly , that he may receive such ghostly counsel , advice and comfort , that his conscience may be relieved , & that of us as a Minister of God & of the Church , he may receive comfort , and absolution to the satisfaction of his mind and avoiding of all scruple and doubtfulness : requiring , such as shall be satisfied with a general confession , not to be offended with them that do use , to their further satisfying the auricular and secret confession to the Priest , nor those also , which think needful or convenient for the quietness of their own cons●iences , particularly to open their sins to the Priest , to be offended , with them which are satisfied with their humble confession to God , and the general confession to the Church : But in all these things , to follow and keep the rule of charity , and every man to be satisfied with his own conscience , not judging other mens minds or acts , whereas he hath no warrant of Gods word for the same .

The time of the Communion , shall be immediatly after that the Priest himself hath received the Sacrament , without the varying of any other rite or ceremony in the Masse ( until other order shal be provided ) but as heretofore usually the Priest hath done with the Sacrament of the body , to prepare , blesse and consecrate so much as will serve the people : so it shall yet continue still after the same manner and form , save that he shall blesse and consecrate the biggest Chalice or some faire and convenient cup or cups full of wine with some water put unto it . And that day , not drink it up all himself , but taking one onely sup or draught , leave the rest upon the altar covered , and turn to them that are disposed to be partakers of the Communion , and shall thus exhort them as followeth .

DEarly beloved in the Lord , ye coming to this holy Communion , must consider what S. Paul writeth to the Corinthians , how he exhorteth all persons diligently to try and examine themselves , or ever they presume to eat of this bread and drink of this Cup , for as the benefit is great , if with a truely penitent heart and lively faith we receive this holy Sacrament , ( for then we spiritually eat the flesh of Christ and drink his blood : then we dwell in Christ and Christ in us , we be made one with Christ and Christ with us ) So is the danger great , if we receive the same unworthily , for then we become guilty of the body and blood of Christ our Saviour , we eat & drink our own damnation , because we make no difference of the Lords body , we kindle Gods wrath over us , we provoke him to plague us with divers diseases and sundry kinds of death . Iudge therefore your selves , ( brethren ) that ye be not judged of the Lord . Let your minde be without desire to sin : Repent you truely for your sinnes past , have an earnest and lively faith in Christ , our Saviour , be in perfect charity with all men , so shall ye be meet partakers of these holy mysteries : But above all things you must give most humble and hearty thanks to God the Father , the Son and the holy Ghost , for the redemption of the world , by the death and passion of our Saviour Christ both God and man , who did humble himself even to the death upon the crosse for us miserable sinners , lying in darknesse and the shadow of death , that he might make us the children of God and exalt us to everlasting life . And to the ende that we should alwayes remember the exceeding love of our Master and onely Saviour Iesus Christ thus doing for us , and the innumerable benefits which by his precious blood-shedding he hath obtained to us , he hath left in these holy mysteries as a pledge of his love , and a continual remembrance of the same , his own blessed body and precious blood for us spiritually to feed upon , to our endlesse comfort and consolation . To him therefore with the Father and the holy Ghost , let us give , as we are most bounden , continual thanks , submitting our selves wholly to his holy will and pleasure , and studying to serve him in true holinesse and righteousnesse all the dayes of our life . Amen .

Then the priest shall say to them which be ready to take the Sacrament .

If any man here be an open blasphemer , adulterer , in malice , or envie , or any other notable crime , and be not truely sorry therefore , and earnestly minded to leave the same vi●es , or that doth not trust himself to be reconciled to Almighty God , and in charity with all the world , let him yet a while bewaile his sins and not come to this holy table , least after the taking of this most blessed bread , the devil enter into him , as he did into Iudas , to fulfil in him all iniquity , and to bring him to destruction , both of body and soul .

Here the Priest shall pause a while , to see if any man will withdraw himself : and if he perceive any so to do , then let him commune with him privily at convenient leasure , and see whether he can with good exhortation , bring him to grace : and after a little pause , the Priest shall say .

You that do truely & earnestly repent you of your sins , and offences , committed to almighty God , and be in love and charity with your neighbours , and intend to lead a new life and heartily to follow the Commandments of God , and to walk from hence forth in his holy wayes , draw neer , and take this holy Sacrament to your comfort , make your humble confession to almighty God , and to his holy Church , here gathered together in his name , meekly kneeling upon your knees .

Then shall a general confession be made in the name of all those that are minded to receive the holy Communion , either by one of them , or else by one of the ministers , or by the Priest himself , all kneeling humbly upon their knees .

Almighty God , Father of our Lord Iesus Christ , maker of all things , judge of all men , we knowledge and bewaile our manifold sins and wickednesse , which we from time to time , most grievously have committed by thought , word , and deed , against thy divine majesty , provoking most justly thy wrath and indignation against us : we do earnestly repent , and be heartily sorry , for these our misdoings : The remembrance of them is grievous unto us , the burthen of them is intolerable , have mercy upon us , have mercy upon us most mercyful Father , for thy son our Lord Iesus Christs sake : Forgive us all that is past , and grant that we may ever hereafter , serve and please thee in newness of life to the honour and glory of thy name , through Iesus Christ our Lord .

Then shall the priest stand up , and turning him to the people , say thus .

Our blessed Lord , who hath left power to his Church , to absolve penitent sinners frō their sins , & to restore to the grace of the heavenly Father such as truely believe in Christ , have mercy upon you , pardon and deliver you from all sins , confirm and strengthen you in all goodnesse , and bring you to everlasting life ,

Then shall the Priest stand up , and turning him toward the people , say thus :

Here what comfortable words our Saviour Christ saith to all that truely turn to him .

COme unto me all that travel and be heavy laden , and I shall refresh you . So God loved the world that he gave his onely begotten son , to the end , that all that believe in him , should not perish , but have life everlasting .

Heare also what S. Paul saith .

THis is a true saying , and worthy of all men to be embraced and received , that Iesus Christ came into this world to save sinners .

Heare also what St. John saith .

IF any man sin , we have an advocate with the Father , Iesus Christ the righteous , he it is that obtained grace for our sins .

Then shall the Priest kneel down and say in the name of all them that shall receive the Communion , this prayer following .

WE do not presume to come to this thy table ( O merciful Lord ) trusting in our own righteousnesse , but in thy manifold and great mercies : we be not worthy so much as to gather up the crombs 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 Iesus Christ , and to drink his blood in these holy Mysteries , that we may continually dwell in him , and he in us , that our sinful bodies , may be made clean by his body , and our souls washed through his most pretious blood Amen .

Then shall the Priest rise , the people still reverently kneeling , and the Priest shall deliver the Communion , first to the Ministers , if any be there present that they may be ready to help the Priest , and after to the other . And when he doth deliver the Sacrament , of the body of Christ , he shall say to every one , these words following .

THe body of our Lord Iesus Christ , which was given for thee , preserve thy body unto everlasting life .

And the Priest delivering the Sacrament of the blood , and giving every one to drink once and no more , shall say ,

THe blood of our Lord Iesus Christ , which was shed for thee , preserve thy soul unto everlasting life .

If there be a Deacon or other Priest , then shall he follow with the Chalice , and as the Priest Ministreth the bread , so shall he for more expedition Minister the wine , in form before written .

Then shall the priest , turning him to the people let the people depart with this blessing .

THe peace of God which passeth all understanding , keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God and of his son Iesus Christ , our Lord .

To the which the people shall answer

Amen .

Note , that the bread that shall be consecrated shall be such as heretofore hath been accustomed . And every of the said consecrated breads , shall be broken into two pieces , at the least , or more , by the discretion of the Minister , and so distributed . And men must not think , lesse to be received in part , then in the whole , but in each of them the whole body of our Saviour Iesus Christ .

Note , that if it doth so chance , that the wine hallowed and consecrate doth not suffice or be enough for them that do take the Communion , the Priest after the first Cup or Chalice be emptied , may go again to the altar , and reverently and devoutly , prepare , and consecrate an other , and so the third , or more likewise , beginning at these words , Simili modo , postquam coenatum est , and ending at these words , qui pro vobis & pro multis effundetur in remissionem peccatorum , and without any levation or lifting up .

Articles to be enquired of , in visitations to be had within the Diocesse of Canterbury : in the second year of the Reign of our Dread Sovereign Lord Edward the 6. by the grace of God , King of England , France , and Ireland defender of the Faith , and in earth of the Church of England and also of Ireland the supreme head .

FIrst , Whether Parsons , Vicars , and Curates , and every of them have purely and sincerely , without colour or dissimulation , four times in the year at the least , preached against the usurped power , pretensed authority , and jurisdiction of the Bishop of Rome .

Item , Whether they have preached & declared likewise , 4. times of the year at the least , that the Kings Majesties power , authority , and preheminence , within his Realms and dominions , is the highest power under God .

Item , whether any person hath by writing , ciphring preaching , or teaching , deed or act obstinately holden , and stand with to extol , set forth , maintain or defend the authority , jurisdiction , or power of the Bishop of Rome , or of his sea heretofore claimed and usurped , or by any pretense , obstinately or maliciously , invented any thing for the extolling of the fame , or any part thereof .

Item , Whether in their common prayers , they use not the Collects made for the King , and make not special mention of his Majesties name in the same .

Item , Whether they do not every Sunday and Holy day , with the collects of the English procession , say the prayer set forth by the Kings Majesty for peace between England and Scotland .

Item , Whether they have not removed , taken away , and utterly extincted and destroyed in their Churches , Chappels and houses , all images , all shrines , coverings of shrines , all tables , candelsticks , trindels or rolles of wax , pictures , paintings , and all other monuments of feigned miracles , pilgrimages , idolatry and superstition , so that there remain no memory of the same in walls , glaswindowes or elsewhere .

Item , Whether they have exhorted , moved and stirred their parishoners to do the like in every of their houses .

Item , Whether they have declared to their Parishoners , the Articles concerning the abrogation of certain superfluous holy dayes , and done their indeavour to perswade the said parishioners ; to keep and observe the same Articles inviolably , and whether any of those abrogate dayes hath been kept as holy dayes , and by whose occasion they were so kept .

Item , Whether they have diligently , duly and reverently ministred the Sacraments in their Cures .

Item . Whether they have preached , or caused to be preached , purely and sincerely the word of God , in every of their Cures , every quatter of the year , once at the least , exhorting their parishioners to the works commanded by Scriptures , and not to works devised by mens phantasies besides Scripture , as wearing or praying upon beads , or such like .

Item , Whether they suffer any Torches , Candles , Tapers , or any other lights to be in your Churches , but only two lights upon the high Altar .

Item , Whether they have not every holy day , when they have no Sermon , immediately after the Gospel , openly , plainly , and distinctly recited to their parishioners in the Pulpit , the Pater Noster , the Creed , and the Ten Commandements in English .

Item , Whether every Lent they examine such persons as come to Confession to them , whether they can recite the Pater Noster , the Articles of our Faith , and the Ten Commandements in English .

Item , Whether they have charged fathers and mothers , masters and governours of youth , to bring them up in some vertuous study or occupation .

Item , Whether such beneficed men , as be lawfully absent from their benefices , do leave their Cure to a rude and unlearned person , and not an honest well learned and expert Curate which can and will teach you wholsome doctrine .

Item , Whether in every Cure they have , they have provided one book of the whole Bible of the largest volumn in English , and the Paraphrasis of Eras , mus , also in English upon the Gospels , and set up the same in some convenient place in the Church where their parishioners may most commodiously resort to the same .

Item , Whether they have discouraged any person , from reading of any part of the Bible , either in Latine or in English , but rather comforted and exhorted every person to read the same , as the very lively word of God , and the special food of mans soul .

Item , Whether Parsons , Vicars , Curates , and other Priests , be common haunters & resorters to Taverns , or Alehouses , giving themselves to drinking , rioting , or playing at unlawful games , and do not occupie themselves in the reading or hearing of some part of holy Scripture , or in some other godly exercise . Item , Whether they have admitted any man to preach in their cures , not being lawfully licensed thereunto , or have refused or denied such to preach , as have been licensed accordingly .

Item , Whether they which have heretofore declared to their parishioners , any thing to the extolling or setting forth of Pilgrimages , relicks or Images , or lighting of candles , kissing , kneeling , decking of the same Images , or any such superstition , have not openly recanted and reproved the same .

Item , Whether they have one book or register safely kept , wherein they write the day of every Wedding , Christening , and Burying .

Item , Whether they have exhorted the people to obedience , to the Kings Majesty and his Ministers , and to Charity and love , one to another :

Item , Whether they have admonished their Parishioners , that they ought not to presume to receive the Sacrament , of the body and blood of Christ before they can perfectly rehearse the Pater noster , the Articles of the faith and the ten Commandments in English .

Item , Whether they have declared and to their wits and power have perswaded the people , that the manner and kinde of fasting in Lent , and other dayes in the year , is but a meer positive law , and that therefore all persons , having just cause of sickness , or other necessity , or being licensed by the Kings Majesty , may moderately eat all kinde of meats , without grudge or scruple of conscience .

Item , Whether they be resident upon their benefices , and keep hospitality , or no , and if they be absent , or keep no hospitality , whether they do make due distributions among the poor parishioners or not .

Item , Whether Parsons , Vicars , Clerks , and other beneficed men , having yearly to dispend an hundred pound , do not finde competently one Scholar in the university , of Cambridg or Oxford , or Some Grammar schoole , and for as many hundred pounds , as every of them may dispend , so many Scholars like wise to be found by them , and what be their names , that they so finde .

Item , Whether Proprietaries , Parsons , Vicars , and Clerks , having Churches , Chapels or Mansions , do keep their Chancels , Rectories , Vicarages , and all other houses appertaining to them in due reparations .

Item , Whether they have councelled or moved their Parishioners , rather to pray in a tongue not known , then in English , or to put their trust in any prescribed number of prayers , as in saying over a number of beads or other like .

Item , Whether they have read the Kings Majesties Injunctions , every quarter of the year , the first holy day of the same quarter .

Item , Whether the Parsons Vicars , Curates and other Priests , being under the degree of a Bachelar of Divinity , have of their own the new Testament , both in Latine and in English , and the paraphrase of Erasmus upon the same .

Item , Whether within every Church , he that Ministreth hath read or cause to be read , the Epistle and Gospel in English , and not in Latine , either in the Pulpit or some other meet place , so as the people may hear the same .

Item , Whether every Sunday and holy day at Matiues , they have read or cause to be read , plainly and distinctly in the said place , , one Chapter of the new Testament in English , immediatly after the Lessons , and at Evensong after Magnificat , one Chapter of the old testament .

Item , Whether they have not at Matius , omitted three lessons , when ix , should have been read in the Church , and at Evensong the Responds with all the Memories

Item , Whether they have declared to their parishioners , that Saint Marks day , and the evens of the abrogate holy dayes should not be fasted .

Item , Whether they have the Procession book in English and have said or song the said Litany in any other place , but upon their knees in the middest of their Church , and whether they use any other procession , or omit the said Litany at any time , or say it or sing it in such sort as the people cannot understand the same .

Item , Whether they have put out of their Church-books this word Papa and the name and service of Thomas Bequet , and prayers having rubrics , containing pardons or indulgences , and all other superstitious legends and prayers .

Item , Whether they bid not the beades according to the order appointed by the Kings Majesty .

Item , Whether they have opened and declared unto you the true use of Ceremonies , ( that is to say ) that they be no workers nor workes of salvation , but onely outward signes and tokens , to put us in remembrance of things of higher perfection .

Item , Whether they have taught and declared to their parishioners , that they may with a safe and quiet conscience in the time of Harvest , labour upon the holy and festival dayes , and if supersticiously they abstain from working upon those dayes , that then they do greivously offend and displease God .

Item , Whether they have admitted any persons to the Communion , being openly known to be out of charity with their neighbours .

Item , Whether the Deanes , Archdeacons , Masters of Hospitals , and Prebendaries have preached by themselves personally , twice every year at the least .

Item , whether they have provided , and have a strong Chest for the poor mens Box , and set and fastned the same , neer to the high altar .

Item , Whether they have diligently called upon , exhorted and moved their parishioners , and specially when they make their Testaments , to give to the said poor mens Box , and to bestow that upon the poor Chest , which they were wont to bestow upon Pardons , Pilgrimages , Trentalles , Masses satisfactory , decking of Images , offering of Candles , giving to Friers , and upon other like blinde devotions .

Item , Whether they have denied to Visit the sick , or bury the dead , being brought to the Church .

Item , Whether they have bought their benefices , or come to them by fraud or deceit .

Item , Whether they have every Sonday , when the people be most gathered , read one of the Homilies , in order as they stand in the book , set forth by the Kings Majesty .

Item , Whether they do not omit prime and houres , when they have any Sermon or Homily .

Item , Whether they have said or sung any Masse , in any Oratory , Chappel , or any mans house , not being hallowed .

Item , Whether they have given open monition to their Parishoners , that they should not wear beads , nor pray upon them .

Item , Whether they have moved their Parishoners , lying upon their death-beds , or at any other time , to bestow any part of their substance , upon Trentals , Masses Satisfactory or any such blinde devotions .

Item , Whether they take any Trentals or other Masses Satisfactory to say or sing for the quick or the dead .

Item , Whether they have given open monition to their parishioners , to detect and present to their Ordinary all adulterers and fornicators , and such men as have two wives living , and such women as haue two husbands living within their parishes .

Item , Whether they haue not monished their Parishoners openly , that they should not sell , giue nor otherwise alienate any of their Churche goods .

Item , Whether they or any of them do keep more benefices , and other Ecclesiastical promotions then they ought to do , not having sufficient licence and dispensations thereunto , and how many they be , and their names .

Item , Whether they minister the Communion any otherwise then only after such form and manner , as is set forth by the Kings Majesty , in the book of the Communion .

Item , Whether they hallowed and delivered to the people any Candles upon Candlemas-day , and Ashes upon Ashe-Wednesday , or any Palms upon Palm Sunday last past .

Item , Whether they had upon Good-Friday last-past , the Sepulchres with their lights , having the Sacrament therein .

Item , Whether they upon Easier-Even last past , hallowed the Font , Fire , or Paschal , or had any Paschal set up , or burning in their Churches .

Item , Whether your Parsons and Vicars have admitted any Curates to serve their Cures which were not first examined and allowed , either by my Lord of Canterbury , Master Arch-Deacon or their officers .

Item , Whether you know any person within your parish , or else where , that is a letter of the word of God to be read in English , or sincerely preached , or of the execution of the Kings Majesties Injunctions , or other his Majesties proceedings in matters of religion .

Item , Whether every parish have provided a Chest with two locks and keyes for the book of Wedding , Christining and Burying .

Item , Whether in the time of the Letany , or any other Common prayer , in the time of the Sermon or Homily , and when the Priest readeth the Scripture to the parishioners , any person have departed out of the Church , without a just and necessary cause .

Item , Whether any bells have been knowled or rung at the time of the premisses .

Item , Whether any person hath abused the Ceremonies , as in casting holy water upon his bed , or bearing about him holy bread , St. Iohns Gospel , ringing of holy bells , or keeping of private holy dayes , as Taylors , Bakers , Brewers , Smithes , Shoomakers , and such other .

Item , Whether the money coming and rising of any cattle , or other movable stocks of the Church , and mony given or bequethed , to the finding of Torches lights , tapers , or lamps , ( not paid out of any lands ) have not been employed to the poor mens Chest .

Item , Who hath the said stocks and money in their hands , and what be their names .

Item , Whether any undiscreet persons do uncharitably contemn , and abuse Priests , and Ministers of the Church .

Item , Whether they that understand not the Latine , do pray upon any Primer but the English Primer , set forth by the Kings Majesties authority , and whether they that understand Latine , do use any other then the Latine Primer , set forth by like authority .

Item , Whether there be any other Grammar , taught in any other school within this Diocesse then that which is set forth by the Kings Majesty .

Item , Whether any person keep their Church holy day , and the dedication day , any otherwise or at any other time , then is appointed by the Kings Majesty .

Item , Whether the service in the Church , be done at due and convenient houres .

Item , Whether any have used to commune , jangle , and talk in the Church , in the time of the Common prayer , reading of the Homily , Preaching , Reading or declaring of the Scripture .

Item , Whether any have wilfully maintained and defended , any Heresies , Errors or false opinions , contrary to the faith of Christ , and holy Scripture .

Item , Whether any be common drunkards , swearers , or blasphemers of the name of God .

Item , Whether any have committed adultery , fornication , or incest , or be common bands , and receivers of such evil persons , or vehemently suspected of any of the premises .

Item , Whether any be braulers , slanderers , chiders , scolders , and sowers of discord , between one person and another .

Item , Whether you know any that use Charmes , Sorcery , Enchantments , Witchcraft , Southsaying , or any like craft invented by the Devil .

Item , Whether the Churches , Pulpits , and other necessaries appertaining to the same , be sufficiently repaired .

Item , Whether you know any , that in contempt of their own Parish Church do resort to any other Church .

Item , Whether any Inholders or Alehousekeepers , do use commonly to sell meat and drink , in the time of Common prayer , Preaching or Reading of the Homilies , or Scripture .

Item , Whether you know any to be married , within the degrees prohibited by the Laws of God , or that be separated or divorced without a just cause , allowed by the Law of God , and whether any such have married again .

Item , Whether you know any to have made privie contratts of matrimony , not calling two or more thereunto .

Item , Whether they have married solemnly , the banes not first lawfully asked .

Item , Whether you know any Executors , or Administrators of dead mens goods , which do not duely bestow such of the said goods , as were given and bequeathed , or appointed to be distributed among the poor people , repairing of high wayes , finding of poor Scholars , or marrying of poor Maids , or such other like charitable deeds .

Item , Whether any do contemn married Priests , and for that they be married , will not receive the Communion , or other Sacraments at their hands .

Item , Whether you know any that keep in their houses undefaced , any abused or feigned Images , any Tables , Pictures , Paintings , or other monuments of feigned miracles , Pilgrimages , Idolatry , or Superstition .

ARTICLES to be enquired of IN THE VISITATION OF THE DIOCES of LONDON , By the reverend Father in God , NICOLAS BISHOP of LONDON ,

In the fourth year of our Soveraign Lord King Edward the 6. by the Grace of God King of England France and Ireland defender of the faith , and in earth , of the Church of England and also of Ireland , the supreme head , next and immediatly under our Saviour CHRIST .

Imprinted at LONDON by Reynold Wolfe . M.DL .

St. PAUL .

I Testifie therefore before God and before the Lord Jesus Christ , which shall judge the quick and dead , at his appearing in his Kingdom , preach thou the word , be fervent in season or out of season . Improve , rebuke , exhort , withal long suffering and Doctrine .

2. Tim. 4.
Articles of Visitation by Bishop Ridley Anno 1550.

WHether your Curates and ministers be of that cdnversation of living , that worthily they can be reprehended of no man .

Whether your Curates and Ministers do haunt and resort to Taverus or Alesouses , otherwise then for their honest necessity , there to drink and riot or to play at unlawful games .

Whether your Ministers be common brawlers , sowers of discord rather then charity among their parishioners , haukers , hunters , or spending their time idlely , or coming to their benefice by Simony .

Whether your Ministers or any other persons have committed adultery , fornication , incest , baudry , or to be vehemently suspected of the same , common drunkards , scolds , or be common swearers and blasphemers of Gods holy name .

Whether your Parsons and Vicars do maintain their houses and Chancels in sufficient reparation : or if their houses be in decay , whether they bestow yearly the fift part of the fruits of the benefice , untill the same be repaired .

Whether your Parsons , and Vicars absent from their benefice , do leave their Cure to an able Minister . And if he may dispend yearly xx.l. or above in this Deanry , or else where , whether he doth distribute every year among his poor parishioners there at the least , the fourty part of the fruits of the same . And likewise spending yearly C.l. Whether he doth finde one scholar , at either of the universities , or some grammar School : and so for every other hundred pound , one Scholar .

Whether every Dean , Archdeacon , and Prebendary , being Priest , doth personally by himself Preach twice every year at the least , either where he is intitled , or where he hath jurisdiction , or in some place united or appropriate to the same .

Whether your Minister having licence thereunto , doth use to preach , or not licenced , doth diligently procure other to preach , that are licenced : or whether he refuseth those , offering themselves that are licenced , or absenteth himself , or causeth other to be away from the Sermon , or else admitteth any to preach that are not licenced .

Whether any by preaching , writing , word or deed , hath or doth maintain the usurped power of the Bishop of Rome .

Whether any be a letter of the word of God to be preached or read in the English tongue .

Whether any do preach , declare , or speak , any thing in derogation of the book of Common prayer , or any thing therein contained , or any part thereof .

Whether any do preach and defend , that private persons may make insurrections , stir sedition , or compel men to give them their goods .

Whether the Curate doth admit any to the Communion before he be confirmed , or any that ken not the Pater Noster , the articles of the faith and ten Commandments in English ,

Whether Curates do Minister the Communion for mony , or use to have trentals of Communions .

Whether any of the Anabaptists sect , or other use notoriously any unlawful or private conventicles , wherein they do use Doctrine , or administration of Sacraments , separating themselves from the rest of the parish .

Whether there be any that privatly in their private house have their Masses contrary to the form and order of the book of Communion .

Whether any minister doth refuse to use the Common prayers , or minister Sacraments in that order and form , as is set forth in the book of Common prayer .

Whether baptisme be ministred ( out of necessity ) in any other time then on the Sunday or holy day , or in an other tongue then english .

Whether any speaketh against baptisme of Infants .

Whether any be married within degrees prohibited by Gods law , or separate without cause lawful , or is married without banes thrice first asked 3. several holy dayes or Sundayes openly in the Church at service time .

Whether any curate doth marry them of other parishes , without that curates licence and certificate from him of the banes thrice solemnly asked .

Whether any saith , that the wickedesse of the Minister taketh away the effect of Christs Sacraments .

Whether any saith that Christian men cannot be allowed to repentance , if they sin voluntarily after baptisme .

Whether your Curates be ready to Minister the Sacraments , visit the sick , and bury the dead , being brought to the Church .

Whether any minister useth wilfully and obstinately any other Right , Ceremony , Order , Form , or manner of Communion , Mattens , or Evensong , Ministration of Sacraments or open prayers then is set forth in the Book of Common prayer .

Whether your Curate , once in six weeks at the least , upon some Sunday or holy day , before Even-song , do openly in the Church instruct and examine children not confirmed , in some part of the Catechisme , and whether Parents and Masters do send them thither upon warning given by the Minister .

Whether any useth to keep abrogate holy dayes or private holy dayes , as bakers , shoomakers , brewers , smiths , and such other .

Whether any useth to hallow water , bread , salt , bells , or candles upon Candlemas day , ashes on Ashwenesday , Palms on Palmsunday , the Font on the Easter even , fire on paschal , or whether there was any sepulchre on Good-Fryday ,

Whether the water in the Font be changed every moneth once , and then any other praiers said , then is in the book of Common prayer appointed .

Whether there be any images in your Church , Tabernacles , Shrines , or covering of Shrines , candles or trindels of wax , or feigned Miracles in your Churches or private houses .

Whether your Church be kept in due and lawful reparation , and whether there be a comly pulpit set up in the same : and likewise a coffer for almes for the poor , called the poor mans box or chest .

Whether any legacies given to the poor , amending high wayes , or marrying poor maides , be undistributed , and by whom .

God save the King .

ARTICLES agreed upon by the BISHOPS and other Learned and Godly men , In the Last CONVOCATION at LONDON , In the year of our Lord 1552. to root out the discord of Opinions , and establish the Agreement of true Religion .

Published by the Kings Majesties Authority 1553.

Imprinted at LONDON by John Day .

ARTICLES agreed upon in the CONVOCATION and published by the KINGS MAJESTY
Of Faith in the holy Trinity .

THere is but one living and true God , and he is everlasting , without body , parts , or passions ; of infinite power , wisdom and goodnesse , the maker and preserver of all things both visible and invisible . And in unity of this Godhead there be three persons , of one substance , power and eternity ; the Father , the Son and the holy Ghost .

That the word or Son of God was made very man .

THe Son , which is the word of the Father took mans nature in the womb of the blessed Virgin Mary of her substance : so that two whole and perfect natures , that is to say , the Godhead and manhood , were joyned together into one person , never to be divided , whereof is one Christ , very God and very man , who truely suffered , was crucified , dead and buried , to reconcile his Father to us . and to be a sacrifice for all sin of man both original and actual .

Of the going down of Christ into hell .

AS Christ died and was buried for us ; so also it is to be believed , that he went down into hell , for the body lay in the Sepulchre until the Resurrection , but his Ghost departing from him was with the Ghosts that were in prison or in Hell and did preach to the same as the place of St. Peter doth testifie .

The Resurrection of Christ .

CHrist did truely rise again from death and took again his body , with flesh , bones , and all things appertaining to the perfection of mans nature , wherewith he ascended into Heaven , and there sitteth , untill he return to judge men at the last day .

The Doctrine of holy Scripture is sufficient to salvation .

HOly Scripture containeth all things necessary to salvation : so that whatsoever is neither read therein , nor may be proved thereby , although it be some time received of the Faithful as godly and profitable for an order and comlinesse , yet no man ought to be constrained to believe it as an Article of Faith or reputed requisite to the necessity of salvation .

The old Testament is not to be refused .

THe old Testament is not to be put away as though it were contrary to the New , but to be kept still , for both in the Old and new Testaments everlasting life is offered to mankinde by Christ , who is the onely Mediator between God and man , being both God and man . Wherefore they are not to be heard , which feign that the old fathers did look onely for transitory promises .

The three Creeds .

THe three Creeds , Nicene Creed , Athanasius 's Creed , and that which is commonly called the Apostles Creed ought thorowly to be received : for they may be proved by most certain warrants of holy Scripture .

Of Original or Birth sin .

ORiginal sin staudeth not in the following of Adam , ( as the Pelagians do vainly talk , which allso the Anabaptists do now adayes renew , but it is the fault and corruption of the nature of every man , that naturally is ingendred of the off-spring of Adam , whereby man is very far gone from his former righteousness which he had at his creation , and is of his own nature given to evil ; so that the flesh desireth alwayes contrary to the spirit , and therefore in every person born into this world , it deserveth Gods wrath and damnation , and this infection of nature doth remain , yea in them that are baptized , whereby the lust of the flesh , called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which some do expound the wisdom , some the sensuality , some the affection , some the desire of the flesh , is not subject to the Law of God . And although there is no condemnation for them that believe and are baptized . yet the Apostle doth confesse , that concupiscence and lust hath of it self the nature of sin .

Of Free-will .

WE have no power to do good works pleasant and acceptable to God without the grace of God by Christ preventing us , that we may have a good will and working in us when we have that will .

Of Grace .

THe Grace of Christ or the holy Ghost by him given doth take away the stony heart and giveth an heart of flesh and although those that have no will to good things he maketh them to will , and those that would evil things he maketh them not to will the same : yet neverthelesse he enforceth not the will : and therefore no man when he sinneth can excuse himself as not worthy to be blamed , or condemned by alledging that he sinned unwillingly or by compulsion .

Of the Justification of Man .

JVstification by onely Faith in Iesus Christ in that sense as it is declared in the Homily of Iustification is a most certain and wholsome Doctrine for Christian men ,

Works before Justification .

WOrks done before the grace of Christ , and the inspiration of his Spirit , are not pleasant to God , forasmuch as they spring not of faith in Iesu Christ , neither do they make men meet to receive grace , ( or as the School-authors say ) deserve grace of cong●uity : but because they are not done as God hath willed and commanded them to be done , we doubt not but they have the nature of sin .

Works of Supererogation .

VOluntary works besides , over and above Gods commandments , which they call works of supererogation cannot be caught without arrogancy and iniquity . For by them men do declare that they do not onely render to God as much as they are bound to do , but that they do more for his sake then of bounden duty is required : Whereas Christ saith plainly , When ye have done all that are commanded you , say , We be unprofitable servants .

No man is without sin but Christ alone .

CHrist in the truth of our nature was made like unto us in all things ( sin onely except ) from which he was clearly void , both in his flesh and in his Spirit . He came to be the Lamb without spot , who by sacrifice of himself made once forever , should take away the sins of the world : and sin ( as S John saith ) was not in him . But the rest ( yea , although we be baptized , and born again in Christ ) yet we offend in many things , and if we say we have no sin , we deceive our selves , and the truth is not in us .

Of sin against the holy Ghost .

Every deadly sin willingly committed after Baptisme is not sin against the holy Ghost , and unpardonable . Wherefore the place for penitents is not to be denied to such as fall into sin after Baptisme . After we have received the holy Ghost , we may depart from grace given , and fall into sin ; and by the grace of God ( we may ) arise again and amend our lives . And therefore they are to be condemned , which say they can no more sin as long as they live here , or deny the place for penitents to such as truely repent and amend their lives .

Blasphemy against the holy Ghost .

BLasphemy against the holy ghost , is , when a man of malice and stubborness of minde doth rail upon the truth of Gods word manifestly perceived , and being enemy thereunto persecuteth that same , and because such be guilty of Gods curse , they intangle themselves with a most grievous and hainous crime : whereupon this kinde of sin is called and affirmed of the Lord unpardonable .

Of Predestination and Election .

PRedestination to life is the everlasting purpose of God , whereby ( before the foundations of the world were laid ) he hath constantly decreed by his own judgement , secret to us , to deliver from curse and damnation those whom he hath chosen out of mankinde , and to bring them to everlasting salvation by Christ , as vessels made to honour , Whereupon such as have so excellent a benefit of God given unto them , be called according to Gods purpose by his Spirit working in due season : they through grace obey the calling : they be justified freely , they be made sons by adoption : they be made like the Image of Gods only begotten Son Iesu Christ : they walk religiously in good works , and at length by Gods mercy they attain to everlasting felicity .

As the godly consideration of Predestination and our Election in Christ is full of sweet , pleasant and unspeakable comfort to godly persons , and such as feel in themselves the working of the Spirit of Christ mortifying the works of the flesh , and their earthly members , and drawing up their minde to high and heavenly things , as well because it doth greatly establish and confirm their faith of eternal salvation , to be enjoyed through Christ , as because it doth fervently kindle their love towards God : So for curious and carnal persons , lacking the Spirit of Christ , to have continually before their eyes the sentence of Gods predestination , is a most dangerous downfal , whereby the Devil may thrust them either into desperation , or into wretchlesnesse of most unclean living , no less perillous then desperation .

Further more , although the decrees of Predestination are unknown unto us , yet we must receive Gods promises in such wise as they be generally set forth to us in holy Scripture : and in our doings that will of God is to be followed , which we have expresly declared unto us in the Word of God .

We must trust to obtain eternal Salvation onely by the Name of Christ .

THey also are to be had accursed and abhorred that presume to say that every man shall be saved by the law or sect which he professeth , so that he be diligent to frame his life according to that law , and the light of nature . For holy Scripture doth set out unto us onely the name of Iesu Christ whereby men must be saved .

All men are bound to keep the Moral Commandments of the Law .

THe Law which was given of God by Moses although it binde not Christian men as concerning the Ceremonies and Rites of the same , neither is it required that the civil precepts and orders of it should of necessity be received in any Common-Weale , yet no man be he never so perfect a Christian is exempt and loose from the obedience of those Commuadements which are called Moral , wherefore they are not to be hearkned unto , who affirm that holy Scripture is given only to the weak , and do boast themselves continually of the spirit , of whom they say they have learned such things as they teach , although the same be most evidently repugnant to the holy Scripture .

Of the Church .

THe visible Church of Christ is a congregation of faithful men , in the which the pure word of God is preached , and the Sacraments be duely ministred according to Christs ordinance , in all those things that of necessity are requisite to the same .

As the Church of Ierusalem , of Alexandria , and of Antioch hath erred : So also the Church of Rome hath erred , not onely in their living , but also in matters of faith .

Of the authority of the Church .

IT is not lawful for the Church to ordain any thing that is contrary to Gods word written , neither may it so expound one place of Scripture , that it be repugnant to another . Wherefore although the Church be a witnesse and a keeper of holy Writ , yet as it ought not to decree any thing against the same , so beside the same ought it not to enforce any thing to be believed for necessity of salvation .

Of the Authority of general Councils .

GEneral Councils may not be gathered together without the commandment and will of Princes . And when they be gathered ( forasmuch as they be an assembly of men , whereof all be not governed with the Spirit and word of God ) they may erre and sometimes have erred , not onely in worldly matters , but also in things pertaining unto God . Wherefore things ordained by them as necessary to salvation , have neither strength nor authority , unless it may be declared that they be taken out of holy Scripture .

Of Purgatory .

THe Doctrine of Schoole Authors concerning Purgatory , Pardons , worshipping and adoration , aswel of Images as of Relicks , and also invocation of Saints is a fond thing , vainly feigned , and grounded upon no warrant of Scripture , but rather repugnant to the Word of God .

No man may minister in the Congregation except he be called

IT is not lawful for any man to take upon him the office of publick preaching , or ministring the Sacraments in the congregation , before he be lawfully called , and sent to execute the same . And those we ought to judge lawfully called and sent , which be chosen and called to this work by men , who have publick authority given unto them in the Congregation , to call and send Ministers into the Lords vineyard .

Men must speak in the Congregation in such a tongue as the people understandeth .

IT is most seemly and most agreeable to the word of God , that in the Congregation , nothing be openly read or spoke in a tongue unknown to the people , the which thing St. Paul did forbid , except some were present that should declare the same .

Of the Sacraments .

OVr Lord Iesus Christ hath knit together a company of new people , with Sacraments most few in number , most easie to be kept , most excellent in signification , as is baptisme and the Lords Supper .

The Sacraments were not ordained of Christ to be Gazed upon , or to be carried about , but that we should rightly use them . And in such onely , as worthily receive the same ; they have a wholsome effect and operation , and yet not that of the work wrought as some men speak , which word as it is strange and unknown to holy Scripture , so it engendreth no godly , but a very superstitious sense ; but they that receive the Sacraments unworthily purchase to themselves damnation , as S. Paul saith .

Sacraments ordained by the word of God be not onely badges and tokens of Christian mens profession : but rather they be certain sure witnesses , and effectual signes of grace and Gods good will towards us , , by the which he doth work invisibly in us and doth not onely quicken , but also strengthen and confirm our faith in him .

The wickednesse of the Ministers doth not take away the effectual operation of Gods Ordinances .

ALthough in the visible Church the evil be ever mingled with the good , and sometime the evil have chief authority in the ministration of the Word and Sacraments : yet forasmuch as they do not the same in their own name , but do minister by Christs commission and authority , we may use their ministery both in hearing the Word of God , and in the receiving the Sacraments . Neither is the effect of Gods ordinances taken away by their wickedness , nor the grace of Gods gifts diminished from such , as by faith and rightly receive the Sacraments ministred unto them , which be effectual , because of Christs institution and promise , although they be ministred by evil men .

Neverthelesse , it appertaineth to the discipline of the Church , that enquiry be made of such , and that they be accused by those that have knowledge of their offences : and finally being found guilty by just judgement be deposed .

Of Baptisme .

BAptisme is not onely a signe of profession , and mark of difference , whereby Christian men are discerned from others that be not Christned : but it is also a signe and seal of our new birth , whereby as by an instrument , they that receive Baptisme rightly are grafted into the Church : the promises of forgivnesse of sin , and of our adoption to be the sons of God , are visibly signed and sealed : faith is confirmed , and grace increased by vertue of prayer unto God . The custome of the Church to Christen young Children is to be commended , and in any wise to be retained in the Church .

Of the Lords Supper .

THe Supper of the Lord is not onely a signe of the love that Christians ought to have among themselves one to another : but rather it is a Sacrament of our redemption by Christs death . Insomuch that to such as rightly , worthily and with faith receive the same , the bread which we break , is a communion of the body of Christ : likewise the Cup of blessing is a Communion of the blood of Christ .

Transubstantiation or the change of the Substance of Bread and wine , into the substance of Christs Body and Blood , cannot be proved by holy Writ : but it is repugnant to the plain words of Scripture , and hath given occasion to many superstitions

For as much as the truth of mans nature requireth that the body of one and the self same man , cannot be at one time in divers places , but must needs be in some one certain place , therefore the body of Christ cannot be present at one time , in many and divers places : and because as holy Scripture doth teach , Christ was taken up into heaven and there shall continue unto the end of the World : a faithful man ought not either to believe or openly to confesse the real and bodily presence , as they tearm it , of Christs flesh and blood in the Sacrament of the Lords Supper .

The Sacrament of the Lords Supper was not commanded by Christs ordinance , to be kept carried about , lifted up , nor worshipped .

Of the perfect oblation of Christ made upon the Cross .

THe offering of Christ made once for ever , is the perfect redemption , the pacifying of Gods displeasure , and satisfaction for all the sins of the whole world both original and actual , and there is none other satisfaction for sin but that alone . Wherefore the sacrifices of Masses , in the which it was commonly said , that the Priest did offer Christ for the quick and the dead , to have remission of pain or sin , were forged fables , and dangerous deceits .

The state of single life is commanded to no man by the word of God .

BIshops , Priests , and Deacons are not commanded to vow the state of single life without marriage , neither by Gods Law are they compelled to abstain from matrimony

Excommunicate persons are to be avoided .

THat person which by open denunciation of the Church , is rightly cut off from the unity of the Church , and excommunicate , ought to be taken of the whole multitude of the faithful as an Heathen and Publican , until he be openly reconciled by Penance , and received into the Church by a Iudge that hath authority thereto .

Traditions of the Church .

IT is not necessary that Traditions and Ceremonies be in all places one , or utterly like , for at all times they have been divers , and may be changed according to the diversity of countries , and mens manners , so that nothing be ordained against Gods word . Whosoever through his private judgement , willingly and purposely doth openly break the Traditions and Ceremonies of the Church , which be not repugnant to the word of God , and be ordained and approved by common authority , ought to be rebuked openly , ( that other may fear to do the like ) as one that offendeth against the common order of the Church , and hurteth the authority of the Magistrate , and woundeth the consciences of weak brethren .

Of Homilies .

THe Homilies of late given and set out by the Kings authority be godly and wholsome containing Doctrine to be received of all men , and therefore are to be read to the people , diligently , distinctly , and plainly .

Of the book of Prayers and Ceremonies of the Church of England .

THe Book which of very late time was given to the Church of England by the Kings authority and the Parliament , containing the manner & form of praying and ministring the Sacraments in the Church of England , likewise also the book of ordering Ministers of the Church , set forth by the foresaid authority are Godly , and in no point repugnant to the wholsome Doctrine of the Gospel , but agreeable thereunto , furthering and beautifying the same not a little and therefore of all faithful members of the Church of England and chiefly of the Ministers of the word , they ought to be received & allowed with all readinesse of minde and thanksgiving and to be commended to the people of God .

Of Civil Magistrates .

THe King of England is Supream head in earth next under Christ of the Church of England and Ireland .

The Bishop of Rome hath no jurisdiction in this Realm of England .

The Civil Magistrate is ordained and allowed of God , wherefore we must obey him not onely for fear of punishment but also for conscience sake .

The Civil Laws may punish Christian men with death , for heinous and grievous offences ,

It is Lawful for Christians , at the commandment of the Magistrate , to wear weapons , and serve in lawful wars .

Christian mens goods are not common .

THe riches and goods af Christians are not common , as touching the right , title and possession of the same , as certain Anabaptists do falsly boast . Notwithstanding , every man ought of such things as he possesseth , liberally to give almes to the poor according to his ability .

Christian men may take an oath .

AS we confesse that vain and rash swearing is forbidden Christian men by our Lord Iesu Christ , and his Apostle Iames : So we judge that Christian Religion doth not prohibit , but that a man may swear when the Magistrate requireth , in a cause of faith and charity , so it be done according to the Prophets teaching , in justice , judgement and truth .

The Resurrection of the dead is not yet brought to passe .

THe Resurrection of the Dead is not as yet brought to passe : as though it onely belonged to the soul , which by the grace of Christ is raised from the death of sin : but it is to be lookt for at the last day . For then ( as Scripture doth most manifestly testifie ) to all that be dead , their own bodies , flesh and bone shall be restored : that the whole man may according to his works have either reward or punishment , as he hath lived vertuously or wickedly .

The Souls of them that depart this life do neither dye with the bodies nor sleep idly .

THey which say that the Souls of such as depart hence do sleep being without all sense feeling or perceiving untill the day of judgement : or affirm that the souls dye with the bodies , and at the last day shall be raised up with the same , do utterly dissent from the right belief , declared to us in holy Scripture .

Hereticks called Millenarii .

THey that go about to renew the Fable of the Hereticks called Millenarii be repugnant to holy Scripture , and cast them selves headlong into a Iewish dotage .

All men shall not be saved at the length .

THey also are worthy of Condemnation , who endeavour at this time to restore the dangerous opinion , that all men be they never so ungodly , shall at length be saved , when they have suffered paines for their sins , a certain time appointed by Gods Iustice .

The End of the Articles .

Imprinted by John Day , 1553.

ARTICULI de quibus in SYNODO LONDINENSI Anno Dom. M.D.LII. ad tollendam opinionum dissensionem & consensum verae religionis firmandum , INTER EPISCOPOS Et alios Eruditos Viros convenerat , REGIA authoritate in lucem editi .

Excusum LONDINI , apud Reginaldum Wolfium , Regiae Majestatis in Latinis Typographum . Anno Dom. M.D.LIII.

De fide in Sacrosanctam Trinitatem .

UNus est vivus & verus Deus , aeternus , incorporeus , impartibilis , impassibilis , immensae potentiae , sapientiae , ac bonitatis , creator & conservator omnium , tum visibilium tum invisibilium . Et in unitate hujus divinae naturae tres sunt personae , ejusdem essentiae , potentiae , ac aeternitatis , Pater , Filius , & Spiritus Sanctus .

Verbum Dei , verum hominem esse factum .

FIlius qui est verbum patris , in utero beatae Virginis , ex illius substantia naturam humanam assumpsit , ita ut duae naturae , divina & humana , integre atque perfecte in unitate personae fuerint inseparabiliter conjunctae , ex quibus est unus Christus , verus Deus & verus homo , qui vere passus est , crucifixus , mortuus & sepultus , ut patrem nobis reconciliaret , essetque hostia non tantum pro culpa originis , verum etiam pro omnibus actualibus hominum peccatis .

De discensu Christi ad Inferos .

QUemadmodum Christus pro nobis mortuus est & sepultus , ita est etiam credendus ad inferos descendisse . Nam corpus usque ad resurrectionem in sepulchro jacuit , Spiritus ab illo emissus , cum spiritibus qui in carcere five in inferno detinebantur , fuit , illisque praedicavit , quemad modum testatur Petri locus .

Resurrectio Christi .

CHristus vere à mortuis resurrexit , suumque corpus cum carne , ossibus , omnibusque ad integritatem humanae naturae pertinentibus , recepit , cum quibus in coelum ascendit , ibique residet quoad extremo die ad judicandos homines revertatur .

Divinae Scripturae doctrina sufficit ad salutem .

SCriptura sacra continet omnia quae sunt ad salutem necessaria , ita ut quicquid in ea nec leg●tur neque inde probari potest , licet interdum à fidelibus , ut pium & conducibile ad ordinem & decorum admittatur , attamen à quoquam non exigendum est ut tanquam articulus fidei credatur , & ad salutis necessitatem requiri putetur .

Vetus Testamentum non est rejiciendum

TEstamentum Vetus , quasi Novo contrarium sit , non est repudiandum , sed retinendum , quandoquidem tam in veteri quam in novo per Christum qui unicus est mediator Dei & hominum , Deus & homo , aeterna vita humano generi est proposita . Quare non sunt audiendi , qui veteres tantum in promissiones temporarias sperasse confingunt .

Symbola tria .

Symbola tria , Nicenum , Athanasii , & quod vulgo Apostolicum appellatur , omnino recipienda sunt . Nam firmissimis divinarum scripturarum testimoniis probari possunt .

Peccatum Originale .

PEccatum originis non est ( ut fabulantur Pelagiani , & hodie Anabaptistae repetunt ) in imitatione Adami situm , sed est vitium & depravatio naturae cujuslibet hominis ex Adamo naturaliter propagati : qua fit ut ab originali justitia quam longissime distet , ad malum sua natura propendeat , & caro semper adversus spiritum concupiscat : unde in unoquoque nascentium , iram Dei atque damnationem meretur . Manet etiam in renatis haec naturae depravatio , qua fit ut affectus carnis , graecè 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , quod alii sapientiam , alii sensum , alii affectum , alii studium vocant , legi Dei non subjicitur . Et quanquam renatis & credentibus nulla propter Christum est condemnatio , peccati tamen in sese rationem habere concupiscentiam fatetur Apostolus .

De libero arbitrio .

Absque gratia Dei , quae per Christum est , nos praeveniente ut velimus , & cooperante dum volumus , ad pietatis opera facienda , quae Deo grata fint & accepta , nihil valemus .

De gratia .

GRatia Christi , seu spiritus sanctus qui per eundem datur , cor lapideum aufert , & dat cor carneum , Atque licet ex nolentibus quae recta sunt , volentes faciat , & ex volentibus prava , nolentes reddat , voluntati nihilominus violentiam nullam infert . Et nemo hac de causa , cum peccaverit , seipsum , excusare potest , quasi nolens aut coactus peccaverit , ut eam ob causam accusari non mereatur aut damnari .

De Hominis justificatione .

JUstificatio ex sola fide Iesu Christi , eo sensu quo in Homilia de justificatione explicatur , est certissima & saluberrima Christianorum doctrina .

Opera ante justificationem .

OPera quae fiunt ante gratiam Christi , & Spiritus ejus afflatum , cum ex fide Jesu Christi non prodeant , minime Deo grata sunt . Neque gratiam ( ut multi vocant ) de congruo , merentur : Imo cum non sint facta ut Deus illa fieri voluit & praecepit , peccati rationem habere non dubitamus .

Opera Supererogationis .

OPera quae Supererogationis appellant , non possunt sine arrogantia & impietate praedicari , nam illis declarant homines non tantum se Deo reddere quae tenentur , sed plus in ejus gratiam facere quam deberent : cum aperte Christus dicat , Cum feceritis omnia quaecunque praecepta sunt vobis , dicite : Servi inutiles sumus .

Nemo praeter Christum est sine peccato .

CHristus in nostrae naturae veritate , per omnia similis factus est nobis , excepto peccato , â quo prorsus erat immunis , tum in carne tum in spiritu . Venit ut agnus absque macula esset , qui mundi peccata per immolationem sui semel factam tolleret : & peccatum ( ut inquit Ioannes ) in eo non erat . Sed nos reliqui etiam baptizati , & in Christo regenerati , in multis tamen offendimus omnes , & si dixerimus quia peccatum non habemus , nos ipsos seducimus , & veritas in nobis non est .

De peccato in spiritum sanctum .

NOn omne peccatum mortale post baptismum voluntarie perpetratum , est peccatum in spiritum sanctum & irremissibile : proinde lapsis à baptismo in peccata , locus poenitentiae non est negandus . Post acceptum spiritum sanctum poffumus à gratia data recedere atque peccare , denuoque per gratiam Dei resurgere ac resipiscere . Ideoque illi damnandi sunt , qui se quamdiu hic vivant , amplius non posse peccare affirmant , aut vere resipiscentibus poenitentiae locum denegant .

Blasphemia in Spiritum Sanctum .

BLasphemia in Spiritum Sanctum , est cum quis verborum Dei manifeste perceptam veritatem , ex malitia & obfirmatione animi , convitiis insectatur , & hostiliter insequitur . Atque hujusmodi , quia maledicto sunt obnoxii , gravissimo sese adstringunt sceleri . Unde peccati hoc genus Irremissibile à Domino appellatur , & affirmatur :

De Praedestinatione & Electione .

PRaedestinatio ad vitam est aeternum Dei propositum , quo ante jacta mundi fundamenta suo consilio , nobis quidem occulto , constanter decrevit eos quos elegit ex hominum genere , à maledicto & exitio liberare , atque ut vasa in honorem efficta , per Christum ad aeternam salutem adducere : unde qui tam praeclaro Dei beneficio sunt donati , illi , spiritu ejus opportuno tempore operante , secundum propositum ejus vocantur , vocationi per gratiam parent , Justificantur gratis , adoptantur in filios , unigeniti Iesu Christi imagini efficiuntur conformes , in bonis operibus sancte ambulant , & demum ex Dei misericordia pertingunt ad sempiternam felicitatem .

Quemadmodum praedestinationis & electionis nostrae in Christo pia consideratio , dulcis , suavis , & ineffabilis consolationis plena est vere piis , & his qui sentiunt in se vim spiritus Christi , facta carnis , & membra quae adhuc sunt super terram mortificantem , animumque ad coelestia & superna rapientem , tum quia fidem nostram de aeterna salute consequeuda per Christum , plurimum stabilit atque confirmat , tum quia amorem nostrum in Deum vehementer accendit : Ita hominibus curiosis , carnalibus , & spiritu Christi destitutis , ob oculos perpetuo versari praedestinationis Dei sententiam , perniciosissimum est praecipitium , unde illos diabolus pertrudit vel in desperationem , vel in aeque perniciosam impurissimae vitae securitatem . Deinde licet praedestinationis decreta sunt nobis ignota , promissiones , tamen divinas sic amplecti oportet , ut nobis in sacris literis generaliter propositae sunt : & Dei voluntas in nostris actionibus ea sequeuda est , quam in verbo Dei habemus diserte revelatam .

Tantum in nomine Christi speranda est aeterna salus .

SUnt & illi anathematizandi qui dicere audent , unumquemque in lege aut secta quam profitetur esse servandum , modò juxta illam & lumen naturae accurate vixerit : cum sacrae literae tantum Jesu Christi nomen praedicent in quo salvos fieri homines oporteat .

Omnes obligantur ad Moralia legis praecepta servanda .

LEx à Deo data per Mosen , licet quò ad Caeremonias & ritus Christianos non astringat , neque civilia ejus praecepta in aliqua Repub necessario recipi debeant , nihilominus ab obedientia mandatorum quae Moralia vocantur , nullus quantumvis Christianus est solutus : quare illi non sunt audiendi , qui sacras literas tantum infirmis datas esse perhibent , & spiritum perpetuò jactant , à quo sibi quae praedicant suggeri asserunt , quanquam cum Sacris literis apertissime pugnent .

De Ecclesiae .

ECclesia Christi visibilis est coetus fidelium , in qou verbum Dei purum praedicatur , & Sacramenta quoad ea quae necessario exiguntur , juxta Christi institutum recte administrantur .

Sicut erravit Ecclesia Hierosolymitana , Alexandrina , & Antiochena , ita & erravit Ecclesia Romana , non solum quoad agenda & caeremoniarum ritus , verum in his etiam quae credenda sunt .

De Ecclesiae authoritate .

ECclesiae non licet quicquam instituere , quod verbo Dei Scripto adversetur : neque unum Scripturae locum sic exponere potest , ut alteri contradicat : quare licet Ecclesia sit divinorum librorum testis & conservatrix , attamen ut adversus eos nihil decernere , ita praeter illos nihil credendum de necessitate salutis debet obtrudere .

De authoritate Conciliorum Generalium .

GEneralia Concilia sine jussu & voluntate Principum congregari non possunt : & ubi convenerint , quia ex hominibus constant qui non omnes spiritu & verbis Dei reguntur , & errare possunt & interdum errarunt , etiam in his quae ad normam pietatis pertinent : ideo quae ab illis constituuntur , ut ad salutem necessaria , neque robur habent neque authoritatem , nisi ostendi possunt è sacris literis esse desumpta .

De Purgatorio .

Scholasticorum doctrina de Purgatorio , de Indulgentiis , de veneratione & adoratione tum Imaginum tum Reliquiarum , nec non de invocatione sanctorum , res est futilis , inaniter conficta , & nullis Scripturarum testimoniis innititur , imo verbo Dei perniciose contradicit .

Nemo in Ecclesia ministret nisi vocatus .

NOn licet cuiquam sumere sibi munus publice praedicandi , aut administrandi Sacramenta in Ecclesia nisi prius fuerit ad haec obeunda legitime vocatus & missus . Atque illos legitime vocatos & missos existimare debemus , qui per homines , quibus potestas vocandi ministros atque mittendi in vineam Domini publice concessa est in Ecclesia , cooptati fuerint & asciti in hoc opus .

Agendum est in Ecclesia lingua quae sit populo nota .

DEcentissimum est & verbo Dei maxime congruit , ut nihil in Ecclesia publice legatur aut recitetur lingua populo ignota , idque Paulus fieri vetuit , nisi adesset qui interpretaretur .

De Sacramentis .

DOminus noster Iesus Christus Sacramentis numero paucissimis , observatu facillimis , significatione praestantissimis , societatem novi populi colligavit , sicuti est Baptismus & Coena Domini .

Sacramenta non instituta sunt à Christo ut spectarentur aut circumferrentur , sed ut rite illis uteremur : & in his duntaxat qui digne percipiunt , salutarem habent effectum , idque non ex opere ( ut quidam loquuntur ) operato ; quae vox ut peregrina est & sacris literis ignota , sic parit sensum minime pium , sed admodum superstitiosum : qui vero indigne percipiunt damnationem ( ut inquit Paulus ) sibi ipsis acquirunt .

Sacramenta per verbum Dei instituta , non tantum sunt notae professionis Christianorum , sed certa quaedam potius testimonia & efficacia signa gratiae atque bonae in nos voluntatis Dei , per quae invisibiliter ipse in nobis operatur , nostramque fidem in se non solum excitat , verum etiam confirmat .

Ministrorum malitia , non tollit efficaciam institutionum divinarum

QUamvis in Ecclesia visibili , bonis mali sint semper admixti , atque inrerdum ministerio verbi & Sacramentorum administrationi praesint , tamen cum non suo sed Christi nomine agant , ejusque mandato & authoritate ministrent , illorum ministerio uti licet , cum in verbo Dei audiendo , tum in Sacramentis percipiendis : neque per illorum malitiam effectus institutorum Christi tollitur , aut gratia donorum Dei minuitur quoad eos , qui fide & rite sibi oblata percipiunt , quae propter institutionem Christi & promissionem efficacia sunt , licet per malos administrentur . Ad Ecclesiae tamen disciplinam pertinet , ut in eos inquiratur accusenturque ab iis , qui eorum flagitia noverint , atque tandem justo convicti judicio , deponantur .

De Baptismo .

BAptismus , non est tantum signum professionis ac discriminis nota , qua Christiani à non Christianis discernuntur , sed etiam est signum regenerationis , per quod tanquam per instrumentum recte Baptismum suscipientes , Ecclesiae inseruntur , promissiones de remissione peccatorum atque adoptione nostra in filios Dei per Spiritum Sanctum visibiliter obsignantur , fides confirmatur , & vi divinae invocationis , gratia augetur . Mos Ecclesiae baptizandi parvulos & landandus & omnino in Ecclesia retinendus .

De Coena Domini .

Coena Domini non est tantum signum mutuae benevolentiae Christianorum inter sese , verum potius est Sacramentum nostrae per mortem Christi redemptionis . Atque adeò rite , digne & cum fide sumentibus , panis quem frangimus est communicatio corporis Christi : Similiter poculum benedictionis , est communicatio sanguinis Christi .

Panis & vini transubstantiatio in Eucharistia , ex sacris literis probari non potest , sed apertis Scripturae verbis adversatur & multarum superstitionum dedit occasionem .

Quum naturae humanae veritas requirat , ut unius ejusdemque hominis corpus in multis locis simul esse non posset , sed in uno aliquo & definito loco esse oporteat , idcirco Christi corpus , in multis & diversis locis , eodum tempore , praesens esse non potest . Et quoniam , ut tradunt Sacrae literae , Christus in Coelum fuit sublatus , & ibi usque ad finem seculi est permansurus , non debet quisquam fidelium carnis ejus & sanguinis Realem & Corporalem ( ut loquuntur ) praesentiam in Eucharistia vel credere vel profiteri .

Sacramentum Eucharistiae ex institutione Christi non servabatur , circumferebatur , elevabatur , nec adorabatur .

De unica Christi oblatione in cruce perfecta .

O Blatio Christi semel facta , perfecta est redemptio , propitiatio & satisfactio pro omnibus peccatis totius mundi , tam originalibus quàm actualibus : neque praeter illam unicam est ulla alia pro peccatis expiatio . Unde Missarum sacrificia , quibus vulgo dicebatur , Sacerdotem offerre Christum in remissionem poenae aut culpae pro vivis & defunctis , figmenta sunt , & perniciosae imposturae

Coelibatus ex verbo Dei praecipitur nemini .

EPiscopis , Presbyteris & Diaconis non est mandatum ut coelibatum voveant : neque jure divino coguntur matrimonio abstinere .

Excommunicati vitandi sunt .

QUi per publicam Ecclesiae denunciationem rite ab unitate Ecclesiae praecisus est & excommunicatus , is ab universa fidelium multitudine , donec per poenitentiam publice reconciliatus fuerit arbitrio ludicis competentis , habendus est tanquam Ethnicus & Publicanus .

Traditiones Ecclesiasticae .

TRaditiones atque caeremoniae easdem non omnino necessarium est esse ubique , aut prorsus consimiles , nam & variae semper fuerunt & mutari possunt pro Regionum & morum diversitate , modo nihil contra Dei verbum instituatur .

Traditiones & caeremonias Ecclesiasticas , quae cum verbo Dei non pugnant , & sunt authoritate publica institutae atque probatae , quisquis privato confilio volens & data opera publice violaverit , is , ut qui peccat in publicum ordinem Ecclesiae , quique laedit authoritatem Magistratus , & qui infirmorum fratrum conscientias vulnerat , publice , ut caeteri timeant , arguendus est .

Homiliae .

HOmiliae nuper Ecclesiae Anglicanae per injunctiones Regias traditae atque commendatae , piae sunt atque salutares , doctrinamque , ab omnibus amplectendam continent : quare populo diligenter , expedite clareque recitandae sunt .

De libro Precationum & caeremoniarum Ecclesiae Anglicanae .

LIber quinuperrime authoritate Regis & Parliamenti Ecclesiae Anglicanae traditus est , continens modum & formam orandi , & sacramenta administrandi in Ecclesia Anglicana : Similiter & libellus eadem authoritate editus De ordinatione Ministrorum Ecclesiae , quoad doctrinae veritatem , pii sunt , & salutari doctrinae Evangelii in nullo repugnant sed congruunt , & eandem non parum promovent & illustrant , atque ideo ab omnibus Ecclesiae Anglicanae fidelibus membris , & maxime a ministris verbi cum omni promptitudine animorum & gratiarum actione recipiendi , approbandi , & populo Dei commendandi sunt .

De Civilibus Magistratibus .

REx Angliae est supremum caput in terris post Christum Ecclesiae Anglicanae & Hibernicae .

Romanus Pontifex nullam habet jurisdictionem in hoc Regno Angliae . Magistratus civilis est à Deo ordinatus atque probatus , quamobrem illi non solum propter iram , sed etiam propter conscientiam , obediendum est .

Leges civiles possunt Christianos propter capitalia & gravia crimina morte punire .

Christianis licet ex mandato Magistratus arma portare & justa bella administrare .

Christianorum bona non sunt Communia .

FAcultates & bona Christianorum non sunt communia , quoad jus & possessionem , ut quidam Anabaptistae falsò jactant , debet tamen quisque de his quae possidet , pro facultatum ratione , pauperibus eleemosynas benigne distribuere .

Licet Christianis jurare .

Quemadmodum juramentum vanum & temerarium à Domino nostro Iesu Christo & ab Apostolo ejus Jacobo , Christianis hominibus interdictum esse fatemur , ita Christianam religionem minime prohibere censemus , quin jubente Magistratu , in causa fidei & charitatis jurare liceat , modo id fiat juxta Prophetae doctrinam , in Iustitia , in Judicio & veritate .

Resurrectio mortuorum nondum est facta .

REsurrectio mortuorum non adhuc facta est , quasi tantum ad animum pertineat , qui per Christi gratiam à morte peccatorum excitetur , sed extremo die quoad omnes qui obierunt , expectanda est : tunc enim vita defunctis ( ut Scripturae manifestissime testantur ) propria corpora , carnes & ossa restituentur , ut homo integer , prout vel recte vel perdite vixerit , juxta sua opera , sive praemia sive poenas reportet .

Defunctorum animae neque cum corporibus intereunt , neque otiose dormiunt

QUi animas defunctorum praedicant usque ad diem judicii absque omni sensu dormire , aut illas asserunt una cum corporibus mori , & extrema die cum illis excitandas , ab orthodoxa fide , quae nobis in sacris literis traditur , prorsus dissentiunt .

Millenarii .

QUi Millenariorum fabulam revocare conantur , sacris literis adversantur , & in Iudaica deliramenta sese praecipitant .

Non omnes tandem servandi sunt .

HIi quoque damnatione digni sunt , qui conantur hodie perniciosam opinionem instaurare quod omnes , quantumvis impii , servandi sunt tandem , cum definito tempore à justitia divina poenas de admissis flagitiis luerunt .

Excusum Londini , apud Reginaldum Wolfium , Regiae Majestatis in Latinis Typographum . Anno Dom. M.D.LIII.

INJUNCTIONS Given by the QUEENS MAJESTY concerning both the Clergy and Laity of this Realm . Published Anno Dom. 1559.

BEING The first year of the Raign of our Soveraign Lady Queen ELIZABETH .

London Printed 1559.

INJUNCTIONS Given by the QUEENS MAJESTY , Aswell To the Clergy , as to the Laity of this Realm .

The QUEENS most Royal Majesty , by the advice of her most honourable Councel , intending the advancement of the true honour of Almighty God , the suppression of superstition throughout all her Highness Realms and Dominions , and to plant true Religion , to the extirpation of all Hypocrisie , enormities and abuses , ( as to her duty appertaineth ) doth minister unto her loving Subjects these Godly Injunctions hereafter following . All which Injunctions , her Highness willeth and commandeth her loving Subjects obediently to receive , and truly to observe and keep , every man in their Offices , degrees and states , as they will avoid her Highnesse displeasure , and the pains of the same hereafter expressed .

1. THe first is , That all Deans , Archdeacons , Usurped and forraign authority . Parsons , Vicars , and all other Ecclesiastical persons , shall faithfully keep and observe , and as far as in them may lye , shall cause to be observed and kept of other , All and singular Lawes and Statutes made for the restoring of the Crown , the antient jurisdiction over the state Ecclesiastical , and abolishing of all forraigne power , repugnant to the same . And furthermore all Ecclesiastical persons having cure of Souls , shall to the uttermost of their wit , knowledge and learning , purely and sincerely , and without any colour or dissimulation , declare , manifest and open foure times every year at the least , in their Sermons and other Collations , that all usurped and forraigne power , having no establishment nor ground by the law of God , is for most just causes taken away and abolished : and that therefore no manner of obedience and subjection within her Highnesse Realms and Dominions , is due unto any such forraigne power . And that the Queens power within her Realms and Dominions , is the highest power under God , to whom all men within the same Realms and Dominions by Gods laws owe most loyalty and obedience , afore and above all other powers and Potentates in earth .

2. Besides this , to the intent that all superstition and Hypocrisie crept into divers mens hearts , Images . may vanish away , they shall not set forth or extol the dignity of any Images , Relicks or Miracles , but declaring the abuse of the same they shall teach , that all goodness , health , and grace ought to be both asked and looked for only of God , as of the very author and giver of the same , and of none other .

3. Item , That they the Parsons above rehearsed , shall preach in their Churches , A Sermon every Moneth . and every other cure they have , one Sermon every moneth of the year at the least , wherein they shall purely and sincerely declare the word of God , and in the same exhort their hearers to the works of faith , Works of faith . as mercy and charity , especially prescribed and commanded in Scripture , and that the works devised by mans fantasies , besides Scripture ( as wandring of Pilgrimages , setting up of Candles , Works of mans device . praying upon Beads , or such like superstition ) have not only no promise of reward in Scripture for doing of them , but contrariwise great threatnings and maledictions of God , for that they be things tending to Idolatry and Superstition , which of all other offences God Almighty doth most detest and abhor , for that the same diminish most his honour and glory .

Quarter Sermon or Homily . 4. Item , That they the Parsons above rehearsed , shall preach in their own persons once in every quarter of the year at least one Sermon , being licenced especially thereunto , as is specified hereafter : or else shall read some Homily prescribed to be used by the Queens authority every Sunday at the least , unless some other Preacher sufficiently licenced , as hereafter , chance to come to the Parish for the same purpose of Preaching .

5. Item , That every Holiday through the year , when they have no Sermon , The Pater Noster . they shall immediately after the Gospel , openly and plainly recite to their Parishioners in the Pulpit the Pater Noster , the Creed , and the Ten Commandements in English , Creed and Ten Commandements . to the intent the people may learn the same by heart , exhorting all Parents , and Housholders , to teach their Children and Servants the same , as they are bound by the Law of God and conscience to do .

Also , that they shall provide within three moneths next after this visitation , at the charges of the Parish , one book of the whole Bible of the largest volume in English : and within one twelve moneths next after the said visitation , the Paraphrases of Erasmus also in English upon the gospel , and the same set up in some convenient place within the said Church that they have cure of , whereas the Parishioners may most commodiously resort unto the same , and read the same , out of the time of common Service . The charges of the Paraphrases shall be by the Parson or Propriatory and Parishioners , born by equal portions , and they shall discourage no man from the reading of any part of the Bible either in Latine or in English , but shall rather exhort every person to read the same with great humility and reverence , as the very lively word of God , and the especial food of mans Soul , which all Christian persons are bound to embrace , believe and follow if they look to be saved , whereby they may the better know their duties to God , to their Soveraign Lady the Queen , and their neighbour , ever gently and charitably exhorting them , and in her Majesties name straightly charging and commanding them , that in the reading thereof , no man to reason or contend , but quietly to hear the Reader .

7. Also , Haunting of Ale houses by Ecclesiastical persons . the said Ecclesiastical persons shall in no wise at any unlawful time , nor for any other cause then for their honest necessities haunt or resort to any Taverns or Ale-houses . And after their meats they shall not give themselues to drinking or ryot , spending their time idly by day and by night , at Dice , Cards , or Tables-playing , or any other unlawful game , but at all times as they shall have leasure , they shall hear or read somewhat of the holy Scripture , or shall busie themselues with some other honest study or exercise , and that they alwayes do the things which appertain to honesty , and endeavour to profit the Commonwealth , having alwayes in minde that they ought to excell all other in purity of life , and should be examples to the people to live well and christianly .

8. Also , Preachers not licenced . that they shall admit no man to preach within any their cures , but such as shall appear unto them to be sufficiently liceaced thereunto by the Queens Majesty , or the Archbishop of Canterbury , or the Archbishop of York , in either their Provinces , or the Bishop of the Diocess , or by the Queens Majesties Visitors . And such as shall be so licensed , they shall gladly receive to declare the word of God at convenient times , without any resistence or contradiction . And that no other be suffered to preach out of his own Cure or parish , then such as shall be licensed , as is above expressed .

Letters of the word 9. Also , if they do or shall know any man within their Parish , or else-where , that is a letter of the word of God to be read in English , or sincerely preached , Fautours of the usurped power . or of the execution of these the Queens Majesties Injunctions , or a fautor of any usurped and forreign power , now by the laws of this Realm justly rejected and taken away , they shall detect and present the same to the Queens Majesty , or to her Councel , or to the Ordinary , or to the justice of peace next adjoyning .

10. Also , that the Parson , Vicar , or Curate , and Parishioners of every Parish within this Realm , shal in their Churches and Chappels keep one Book of Register , wherein they shall write the day and year of every Wedding , Christning , and Burial made within their Parish for their time , and so every man succeeding them likewise : and also therein shall write every persons name that shall be so wedded , christned , and buried . And for the safe keeping of the same Book , the Parish shall be bound to provide of their common Charges , one sure Coffer with two lockes and keyes , whereof the one to remain with the Parson , Vicar , or curate , and the other with the Wardens of every Parish Church or Chappel , wherein the said Book shall be laid up . Which Book they shall every Sunday take forth , and in the presence of the said Wardens , or one of them , write and record in the same all the Weddings , Christnings , and Burials made the whole week before : And that done , to lay up the Book in the said Coffer as before , and for every time that the same shall be omitted , the party that shall be in the fault thereof , shall forfeit to the said Church 3. s. 4. d. to be imployed the one half to the poor mens box of that Parish , the other half towards the repairing of the Church .

Distribution of the fortieth part . 11. Furthermore , because the goods of the Church are called the goods of the poor , & at these dayes nothing less seen then the poor to be sustained with the same . All Parsons , Vicars , Pensionaries Prebendaries , & other Beneficed men within this Deanry , not being resident upon their benefices , which may dispend yearly twenty pounds or above , either within this Deanry , or else-where , shall distribute hereafter among their poor Parishioners , or other inhabitants there , in the presence of the Church wardens , or some other honest man of the Parish , the fourtieth part of the fruits and revenues of their said Benefice , lest they be worthily noted of ingratitude , which reserving so many parts to themselves , cannot vouchsafe to impart the fortieth portion thereof among the poor people of that Parish , that is so fruitful and profitable unto them .

12. And to the intent that learned men may hereafter spring , Exhibition for Scholars . the more for the execution of the premisses , every Parson , Vicar , Clerk , or beneficed man within this Deauty , having yearly to dispend in Benefices and other promotions of the Church an hundred pounds , shall give 3. l. 6. s. 8. d. in exhibition to one Scholar in either of the Vniversities , and for as many C. li. more as he may dispend , to so many Scholars more shall give like exhibition in the Vniversity of Oxford or Cambridge , or some Grammar-School , which after they have profited in good learning , may be partners of their Patrons Cure and charge , as well in preaching , as otherwise in executing of their offices , or may , when time shall be , otherwise , profit the Common-weal with their Counsel and wisdom .

13 , Also that all Proprietaries , Parsons , Vicars and Clerks , The fift part for reparation having Churches , Chappels , or Mansions within this Deanry , shall bestow yearly hereafter upon the same Mansions , or Chancels of their Churches , being in decay , the fift part of that their benefi●es , till they be fully repaired , and shall alwayes keep and maintain in good estate .

14. Also , that the said Parsons , Vicars , and Clerks , Reading of the Injunctions . shall once every quarter of the year read these Injunctions given unto them openly and deliberately before all their Parishioners at one time , or at two several times in one day , to the intent that both they may be the better admonished of their duty , and their said Parishioners the more moved to follow the same for their part .

15. Also , For as much as by Laws established , every man is bound to pay his Tythes : Payment of Tythes . no man shall by colour of duty omitted by their Curates , detain their Tythes , and so requite one wrong with another , or be his own Iudge , but shall truly pay the same , as he hath been accustomed to their Parsons , Vicars , and Curates , without any restraint or diminution , and such lack and default as they can justly finde in their Parsons and Curates , to call for reformation thereof at their Ordinaries , and other Superiours , who upon complaint and due proof thereof , shall reform the same accordingly .

16. Also , that every Parson , Vicar , Curate , and stipendary Priest , being under the degree of a Master of Art , shall provide and have of his own within 3. moneths after this visitation , The New Testament & Paraphrases the New Testament both in Latine and in English , with Paraphrases upon the same : conferring the one with the other . And the Bishops and other Ordinaries by themselves or their officers , in their Synods and visitations , shall examine the said Ecclesiastical Persons , how they have porfited in the study of holy Scripture .

Comfortable sentences for the sick . 17. Also , that the vice of damnable dispair may be clearly taken away , and that firm belief and stedfast hope may be surely conceived of all their Parishioners , being in any danger , they shall learn and have alwayes in a readinesse , such comfortable places & sentences of Scripture , as do set forth the mercy , benefits & goodness of Almighty God , towards all penitent and beleiving persons , that they may at all times when necessity shall require , promptly comfort their flock with the lively word of God , which is the only stay of mans conscience ,

Procession to be left . 18. Also , to avoid all contention and strife which heretofore hath risen among the Queens Majesties Subjects in sundry places of her Realms and Dominions , by reason of fond courtesie , and challenging of places in the Procession , and also that they may the more quietly hear that which is said or sung , to their edifying , they shall not from henceforth in any Parish Church , at any time use any Procession , about the Church or Church-yard , or at any place , but immediately before the time of Communion of the Sacrament , the Priests with others of the Quire shall kneel in the midst of the Church , The Letany and sing or say plainly and distinctly , the Letanie which is set forth in English , with all the suffrages following , to the intent the people may hear and answer , and none other Procession or Letany to be had or used , but the said Letany in English , adding nothing thereto , but as it is now appointed . And in Cathedral or Collegiat Churches , the same shall be done in such places , and in such sort , as our Commissioners in our visitation shall appoint . And in the time of the Letany , Let of hearing of Divine service . of the Common prayer , of the Sermon , and when the Priest readeth the Scripture to the Parishioners , no manner of persons , without a just and urgent cause , shall use any walking in the Church , nor shall depart out of the Church : and all ringing and knolling of bells shall be utterly forborn , at that time , except one bel in convenient time to be rung or knolled before the Sermon . But yet for the retaining of the perambulation of the Circuits of Parishes , they shall once in the year at the time accustomed with the Curate and the substantial men of the Parish , walk about the Parishes as they were accustomed , and at their return to the Church , make their common prayers .

19. Provided , Perambulation of Parishes that the Curate in their said common Perambulations , used heretofore in the dayes of Rogations , at certain convenient places , shall admonish the people to give thanks to God , in the beholding of Gods benefits , for the encrease and abundance of his fruits upon the face of the earth , with the saying of the Ciii Psalm : Benedic anima mea &c. At which time also the same Minister shall inculcate these or such sentences , Cursed be he which translateth the bounds and dolles of his Neighbour . Or such other order of prayers , as shall be hereafter appointed .

20. Item , All the Queens faithful and loving Subjects , Spending of the holy day . shall from henceforth celebrate and keep their Holyday according to Gods holy will and pleasure , that is , in hearing the word of God , read and taught , in private and publick prayers , in knowledging their offences unto God , and amendment of the same , in reconciling themselves charitably to their neighbours where displeasure hath been , in oftentimes receiving the Communion of the very body and blood of Christ , in visiting of the poor and sick , using all sobernesse and Godly conversation , yet notwithstanding , all Parsons , Vicars , and Curates shall teach & declare unto their Parishioners , that they may with a safe & quiet conscience , after their common prayer in the time of Harvest , labour upon the holy and festival dayes , and save that thing which God hath sent : and if for any scrupulosity or grudge of conscience , men should superstitiously abstain from working upon those dayes , that then they should grievously offend and displease God .

21. Also , Open contenders to be reconciled openly . For as much as variance and contention is a thing that most displeaseth God , and is most contrary to the blessed Communion of the body and blood of our Saviour Christ , Curates shall in no wise admit to the receiving thereof , any of their cure and flock , which be openly known to live in sin without repentance , or who hath maliciously and openly contended with his neighbour , unlesse the same do first charitably and openly reconcile himself again , remitting all rancour and malice , whatsoever controversie hath been between them . And neverthelesse , the just titles and rights they may charitably prosecute before such as have authority to hear the same .

Contemners of laudable Ceremonies , 22. Also , that they shall instruct and teach in their Cures , that no man ought obstinately and maliciously to break and violate the laudable Ceremonies of the Church , commanded by publick authority to be observed .

The abolishment of all things superstitious . 23. Also , that they shall take away , utterly extinct , and destroy all Shrines , covering of Shrines , all Tables , Candlesticks Trindals , and Rolls of wax , Pictures , Paintings , and all other Monuments of feigned miracles , Pilgrimages , Idolatry and Superstition , so that there remain no memory of the same in walls , glasse-windows , or elsewhere within their Churches and houses , preserving neverthelesse , or repairing both the walls and glasse windows , and they shall exhort all their Parishioners to do the like within their several houses .

The Pulpit . 24. And that the Church-wardens at the common charge of the Parishioners , in every Church shall provide a comly and honest Pulpit , to be set in a convenient place within the same , and to be there seemly kept for the preaching of Gods word .

The chest of the poor . 25. Also , They shall provide and have within three months after this visitation , a strong Chest with a hole in the upper part thereof , to be be provided at the cost and charge of the Parish , having three keyes , whereof one shall remain in the custody of the Parson Vicar or Curate , and the other two in the Custody of the Church-wardens , or any other two honest men , to be appointed by the Parish from year to year , which Chest you shall set and fasten in a most convenient place , to the intent the Parishioners should put into it their oblations and almes for their poor neighbours . And the Parson Vicar and Curate , shall diligently from time to time , and especially when men make their Testaments , call upon exhort and move their neighbours to confer and give , as they may well spare , to the said Chest : declaring unto them , whereas heretofore they have been diligent to bestow much substance otherwise then God commanded , upon Pardons , Pilgrimages Trentals , decking of Images , offering of Candles , giving to Fryers , and upon other like blinde devotions : they ought at this time , to be much more ready to help the poor and needy , knowing that to relieve the poor is a true worshipping of God , required earnestly upon pain of everlasting damnation , and that also whatsoever is given for their comfort , is given to Christ himself , and so is accepted of him , that he will mercifully reward the same with everlasting life . The which almes and devotion of the people , the keepers of the keyes shall at all times convenient take out of the Chest , and distribute the same in the presence of the whole Parish , The distribution of alms . or six of them , to be truely and faithfully delivered to their most needy neighbours . And if they be provided for , then to the reparation of high wayes next adjoyning , or to the poor people of such Parishes neer , as shall be thought best to the said keepers of the keyes . And also the mony which riseth of Fraternities , Guilds and other stocks of the Church ( except by the Queens Majesties Authority it be otherwise appointed ) shall be put in the said chest , and converted to the said use : and also the rents of Lands , the profit of cattle , and money given or bequeathed to Obits , and Dirges , and to the finding of Torches , Lights , Tapers and Lamps , shall be converted to the said use , saving that it shall be lawful for them to bestow part of the said profits upon the reparation of the said Church , if great need require , and whereas the Parish is very poor , and not able otherwise to repaire the same .

26. Also , To avoid the detestable sin of Simonie , Simonie because buying and selling of benefices is execrable before God , therefore all such persons as buy any benefices , or come to them by fraud or deceit shall be deprived of such benefices , and be made unable at any time after to receive any other spiritual promotion , and such as do sell them , or by any colour do bestow them for their own gain and profit , shall lose their right and Title of patronage , and presentment for that time , and the gift thereof for that vacation , shall appertain to the Queens Majesty .

27. Also , Homilies to be read . Because through lack of Preachers in many places of the Queens Realms and dominions , the people continue in ignorance and blindnesse , all Parsons Vicars and Curates shall read in their Churches every Sunday one of the Homilies which are and shall be set forth for the same purpose by the Queens authority , in such sort as they shall be appointed to do in the Preface of the same .

28. Item . Whereas many undiscreet persons do at this day uncharitably contemn and abuse Priests and Ministers of the Church , Contempt of Ministers . because some of them ( having small learning ) have of long time favoured fond fancies , rather then Gods truth , yet forasmuch as their office and function is appointed of God , the Queens Majesty willeth and chargeth all her loving Subjects that from henceforth they shall use them charitably and reverently for their office and Ministration sake , and especially such as labour in the setting forth of Gods holy word .

29. Item , Although there be no prohibition by the word of God , nor any example of the primitive Church , but that the Priests and Ministers of the Church , may lawfully for the avoiding of fornication , have an honest and sober wife , and that for the same purpose , the same was by Act of Parliament in the time of our dear brother King Edward the sixt made lawful : Wherupon a great number of the Clergie of this Realm were then married , and so yet continue . Yet because there hath grown offence , and some slander to the Church , by lack of discreet and sover behaviour in many Ministers of the Church , both in choosing of their wives , and in undiscreet living with them , the remedy whereof is necessary to be sought : It is thought therefore very necessary , that no manner of Priest , or Deacon , shall hereafter take to his wife , any manner of Woman without the advice and allowance first had upon good examination by the Bishop of the same Diocesse , and two Iustices of the peace of the same Shire dwelling next to the place where the same woman hath made her most abode before her marriage , nor without the good will of the Parents of the said woman , if she have any living , or two of the next of her kinsfolks , or for lack of knowledge of such , of her Master or Mistresse where she serveth . And before she shall be contracted in any place : he shall make a good and certain proof thereof to the Minister , or to the Congregation , assembled for that purpose , which shall be upon some holy-day where divers may be present . And if any shall do otherwise , that then they shall not be permitted to Minister either the word or the Sacraments of the Church , nor shall be capable of any Ecclesiastical benefice , & for the manner of Marriages of any Bishops , the same shall be allowed and appo●…ed by the Metropolitan of the Province , and also by such Commissioners as the Queens Majesty thereunto shall appoint , and if any Master or Dean , or any Head of any Colledg shall purpose to marry , the same shall not be allowed , but by such to whom the Visitation of the same doth properly belong , who shall in any wise provide that the same tend not to the hindrance of their house .

Of apparel of Ministers 30. Item , Her Majesty being desirous to have the Prelacy and Clergy of this Realm to be had aswell in outward reverence , as otherwise regarded for the worthinesse of their Ministeries , and thinking it necessary to have them known to the people in all places and assemblies , both in the Church and without , and thereby to receive the honour and estimation due to the speciall Messengers and Ministers of Almighty God ; willeth and commandeth , that all Arch-Bishops and Bishops , and all other that be called or admitted to Preaching or ministery of the Sacraments , or that be admitted into vocation Ecclesiastical , or into any society of learning in either of the Vniversities , or elsewhere , shall use and wear such seemly habits , garments , and such square caps , as were most commonly and orderly received in the latter year of the Reign of King Edward the sixt , not thereby meaning to attribute any holinesse or special worthinesse to the said garments , but as Saint Paul writeth , Omnia decenter & secundum ordinem fiant . 1 Cor. 14 cap.

31. Item That , Heresies . no man shall wilfully and obstinately defend or maintain any Heresies , Errors , or false doctrine , contrary to the faith of Christ and his holy spirit .

32. Item , That no persons shall use Charms , Sorceries , Charmers . enchantments , witchcraft , sooth saying , or any such like divillish device , nor shall resort at any time to the same counsel or help .

33. Item , that no person shall , Absent from Common Prayer . neglecting their own Parish Church , resort to any other Church , in time of Common prayer or preaching , except it be by the occasion of some extraordinary Sermon in some Parish of the same town .

34. Item , That no Inholders , or Alehouse-keepers , Inholders & Alehouses . shall use to sel no meat nor drink in the time of Common prayer , preaching reading of the Homilies or Scriptures .

35. Item , Images in houses . That no persons keep in their houses any abused Images , Tables , Pictures , Paintings , and other Monuments of feigned Miracles , Pilgrimages , Idolatry , and Superstition .

36. Item , Disturbers of Sermon or Service . That no man shall willingly let or disturb the Preacher in time of his Sermon , or let or discourage any Curate or Minister , to sing or say the divine Service now set forth , nor mock or jeast at the Ministers of such service .

37. Item , Rash talkers of Scripture : That no man shall talk or reason of the holy Scriptures rashly , or contentiously , nor maintain any false doctrine , or Errour , but shall commune of the same when occasion is given , reverently , humbly , and in the fear of God , for his comfort and better understanding .

38. Item , That no man , woman , or childe , Attendant to the Service . shall be otherwise busied in the time of the Service , then in quiet attendance to hear , mark and understand that is read , preached and Ministred .

39. Item , That every Schoolmaster , and Teacher shall teach the Grammar set forth by King Henry the 8. The Grammar of King Henry the 8. of noble memory , and continued in the time of King Edward the sixth and none other .

Allowance of School masters . 40. Item , That no man shall take upon him to teach but such as shall be allowed by the Ordinary , and found meet as well for his learning and dexterity in teaching , as for sober and honest conversation , and also for right understanding of Gods true Religion .

Duty of Schoole-masters . Sentences of scripture for Scholars . 41. Item , That all Teachers of children shall stir and move them to love and due Reverence of Gods true Religion , now truely set forth by publick authority .

42. Item , That they shall accustome their Scholars Reverently to learn such sentences of Scriptures , as shall be most expedient to induce them to all Godlinesse .

Vnlearned Preists . 43. Item , Forasmuch as in these latter dayes , many have been made Priests , being children , and otherwise utterly unlearned , so that they could read to say Mattens and Masse : the Ordinaries shall not admit any such to any Cure or spiritual Function .

The Catehisme . 44. Item , Every Parson , Vicar , and Curate , shall upon every Holiday , and every second Sunday in the year , hear and instruct all the youth of the Parish for half an hour at the least before Evening prayer , in the ten Commandements , the Articles of the belief , and in the Lords Prayer , and diligently examine them , and teach the Catechisme set forth in the Book of publick prayer .

The book of the afflictions for religion . 45. Item , That the Ordinary do exhibit unto our Visitors their books or a true copy of the same , containing the causes why any person was imprisoned , famished , or put to death for religion .

Overseers for service on the holy-dayes . 46. Item , That in every Parish 3. or 4. discreet men which tender Gods glory , and his true Religion , shall be appointed by the Ordinaries , diligently to see that all the Parishioners duly resort to their Church upon all Sundayes and holydayes , and there to continue the whole time of the godly service , and all such as shall be found slack and negligent in resorting to the Church , having no great nor urgent Cause of absence , they shall straightly call upon them , and after due admonition if they amend not , they shall denounce them to the Ordinary .

●nventories of Church goods . 47. Item , That the Churchwardens of every Parish , shall deliver unto our Visiors the Inventories of Vestments , Copes , and other Ornaments , Plate , Books , and specially of Grayles , Couchers , Legends , Processionals , Manuals , Hymnals Portnesses , and such like appertaining to their Church .

48. Item , That weekly upon Wednesdayes and Fridayes , Service on Wednesdays and Fridays . not being Holydayes , the Curate at the accustomed houres of service , shall resort to Church , and cause warning to be given to the people by knolling of a Bell , and say the Letany and prayers .

49. Item , because in divers Collegiate , Continuance of singing in the Church . and also some Parish Churches heretofore , there have been livings appointed for the maintenance of men and children to use singing in the Church , by means whereof the laudable service of Musick hath been had in estimation , and preserved in knowledge : the Queens Majesty neither meaning in any wise the decay of any thing that might conveniently tend to the use and continuance of the said Science , neither to have the same in any part so abused in the Church , that thereby the Common prayer should be the worse understanded of the hearers , willeth and commandeth , that first no alterations be made of such assignements of living , as heretofore hath been appointed to the use of singing or Musick in the Church , but that the same so remain . And that there be a modest and distinct song so used in all parts of the Common prayers in the Church , that the same may be as plainly understanded , as if it were read without singing , and yet nevertheless for the comforting of such that delight in Musick , it may be permitted , that in the beginning , or in the end of Common prayers , either at Morning or Evening , there may be sung an Hymn , or such like song to the praise of Almighty God , in the best sort of melody and musick that may be conveniently devised , having respect that the sentence of the Hymn may be understanded and perceived .

50. Item , because in all alterations , and specially in Rites and Ceremonies , there happen discords amonst the people , Against slanderous and infamous words . and thereupon slanderous words and railings , whereby charity the knot of all Christian society is loosed : the Queens Majesty being most desirous of all other earthly things , that her people should live in charity both towards God and man , and therein abound in good works , willeth and streightly commandeth all manner of her Subjects , to forbear all vain and contentious disputations in matters of Religion , and not to use in despight or rebuke of any person , these convitious words , Papist or papistical Heretick , Schismatick or Sacramentary , or any such like words of reproach . But if any manner of person shall deserve the accusation of any such , that first he be charitably admonished thereof , and if that shall not amend him , then to denounce the offender to the Ordinary , or to some higher power , having authority to correct the same .

51. Item , because there is a great abuse in the Printers of Bookes , which for covetousnesse chiefly , regard not what they Print , so they may vave gain , whereby ariseth the great disorder by publication of unfruitful , vain , and infamous Books , and papers ; The Queens Majesty straightly chargeth and commandeth , that no manner of person shall print any manner of Book or paper , of what sort , nature , or in what Language soever it be , except the same be first licensed by her Majesty , by express words in writing , or by six of her privy Councel : or be perused and licensed by the Arch-bishops of Canterbury and York , the Bishop of London , the Chancellours of both Vniversities , the Bishop being Ordinary , and the Archdeacon also of the place where any such shall be printed , or by two of them , whereof the Ordinary of the place to be alwayes one . And that the names of such as shall allow the same , to be added in the end of every such work , for testimony of the allowance thereof . And because many Pamphlets , Playes , and Ballads , be oftentimes printed , wherein regard would be had , that nothing therein should be either heretical , seditious , or unseemly for Christian ears : Her Majesty likewise commandeth that no manner of person shall enterprise to print any such , except the same be to him licensed by such her Majesties Commissioners , or three of them , as be appointed in the City of London , to hear and determine divers causes Ecclesiastical , tending to the execution of certain Statutes , made the last Parliament , for uniformity of order in Religion . And if any shall sell or utter any manner of books and papers , being not licensed as is abovesaid : that the same party shall be punished by order of the said commissioners , as to the quality of the fault shall be thought meet . And touching all other books of matters of Religion , or Policie , or Governance , that have been printed , either on this side the Seas , or on the other side , because the diversity of them is great , and that there needeth good consideration to be had of the particularities thereof , her Majesty referreth the prohibition or remission thereof to the order which her said Commissioners , within the City of London shall take and notifie . According to the which , her Majesty straightly chargeth and commandeth all manner of her Subjects , and especially the Wardens and Company of Stationers to be obedient .

Provided that these orders do not extend to any prophane Authors and Workes in any Language that have been heretofore commonly received or allowed in any of the Vniversities and Schools , but the same may be printed and used as by good order they were accustomed

52. Item , Reverence of Prayers . Although Almighty God is al times to be honoured withal manner of reverence that may be devised : yet of all other times , in time of Common prayer , the same is most to be regarded . Therefore it is to be necessarily received , that in time of the Letanie , and all other Collects , and common Supplications to Almighty God , all manner of people shall devoutly and humbly kneel upon their knees , and give ear thereunto , and that whensoever the name of Iesus shall be in any Lesson , Sermon , Honour to the name of Iesus . or other wise in the Church pronounced , that due reverence be made of all persons young and old , with lownesse of courtesie , and uncovering of heads of the menkinde , as thereunto doth necessarily belong , and heretofore hath been accustomed .

53. Item , That all Ministers and Readers of publick Prayers , Curates to read distinctly . Chapters , and Homilies , shall be charged to read leasurely , plainly , and distinctly , and also such as are but mean Readers , shall peruse over before once or twice the Chapters and homilies , to the intent they may read to the better understanding of the people , and the more encouragement of godlinesse .

An Admonition to simple men , deceived by malitious .

THE Queens Majesty being informed , that in certain places of the Realm , sundry of her native Subjects , being called to Ecclesiastical Ministery of the Church , be by sinister perswasion and perverse construction , induced to finde some scruple in the form of an Oath , which by an Act of the last Parliament is prescribed to be required of divers persons , for the recognition of their Allegeance to her Majesty , which certainly never was ever meant , nor by any equity of words or good sense can be thereof gathered : would that all her loving Subjects should understand , that nothing was , is , or shall be meant or intended by the same Oath to have any other duty , allegeance , or bond required by the same Oath , then was acknowledged to be due to the most noble Kings of famous memory , K. Henry the 8. her Majesties Father , or K. Edward the sixt , her Majesties Brother .

And further her Majesty forbiddeth all manner her Subjects , to give ear or credit to such perverse and malicious persons , which most sinisterly and maliciously labour to notifie to her loving Subjects , how by words of the said Oath it may be collected , that the Kings or Queens of this Realm , possessors of the Crown , may challenge authority and power of Ministery of divine service in the Church , wherein her said Subjects be much abused by such evil disposed persons . For certainly her Majesty ●…n either doth , nor ever will challenge any authority , then that was challenged and lately used by the said noble Kings of famous memory , K. Henry the 8. and K. Edward the sixt , which is , and was of ancient time due to the Imperial Crown of this Realm , that is , under God to have the Soveraignty and rule over all manner of persons born within these her Realms , Dominions and Countries , of what estate , either Ecclesiastical or Temporal soever they be , so as no other forraign power shall or ought to have any superiority over them . And if any person that hath conceived any other sence of the form of the said Oath , shall accept the same Oath with this interpretation , sense or meaning , her Majesty is well pleased to accept every such in that behalf , as her good and obedient Subjects , and shall acquit them of all manner of penalties contained in the said Act , against such as shall peremptorily or obstinately take the same Oath .

For Tables in the Church .

WHereas her Majesty understandeth , that in many and sundry parts of the Realm , the Altars of the Churches be removed , and Tables placed for the administration of the holy Sacrament , according to the form of the Law therefore provided : And in some other places , the Altars be not yet removed , upon opinion conceived of some other order therein to be taken by her Majesties Visitors . In the other whereof , saving for an uniformity , there seemeth no matter of great moment , so that the Sacrament be duely and reverently ministred . Yet for observation of one uniformity through the whole Realm , and for the better imitation of the Law in that behalf , it is ordered , that no Altar be taken down , but by oversight of the Curate of the Church and the Church-wardens or one of them at the least , wherein no riotous or disordered manner to be used . And that the holy Table in every Church he decently made , and set in the place where the Altar stood , and there commonly . Covered as thereto belongeth , and as shall vs appointed by the Visitors , and so to stand , saving when the Communion of the Sacrament is to be distributed : at which time the same shall be so placed in good sort within the Chancel , as whereby the Minister may be more conveniently heard of the Communicants , in his prayer and ministration , and the Communicants also more conveniently , and in more number Communicate with the said Minister . And after the Communion done , from time to time the same holy Table to be placed where it stood before .

Item , The Sacramental bread Where also it was in the time of K. Edward the sixt used to have the Sacramental bread of common fine bread , it is ordered for the more reverence to be given to this holy Mysteries , being the Sacraments of the body and Blood of our Saviour Iesus Christ , that the same Sacramental bread be made and formed plain , without any figure thereupon , of the same finenesse and fashion round , though somewhat bigger in compasse and thicknesse , as the usuall bread and water , heretofore named singing Cakes , which served for the use of the private Masse .

The form of bidding the prayers to be used generally in this uniform sort .

YE shall pray for Christs holy Catholick Church , that is , for the whole Congregation of Christian people , dispersed throughout the whole world , and specially for the Church of England and Ireland . And herein I require you most specially to pray for the Queens most excellent Majesty , our soveraign Lady Elizabeth , Queen of England France and Ireland , defender of the Faith , and Supreme governour of this Realm , as well in Causes Ecclesiastical as Temporal . You shall also pray for the Ministers of Gods holy word and Sacraments , as well Archbishops and Bishops , as other Pastors and Curates . You shall also pray for the Queens most honorable Counsel , and for all the Nobility of this Realm , that all and every of these in their calling , may serve truely and painfully to the glory of God , and edifying of his people , remembring the account , that they must make . Also ye shall pray for the whole Commons of this Realm , that they may live in true faith and fear of God , in humble obedience and brotherly charity one to another . Finally let us praise God for all those that are departed out of this life in the faith of Christ , and pray unto God , that we may have grace for to direct our lives after their good example , that after this life , we with them may be made partakers of the glorious Resurrection in the life everlasting .

And this done , shew the holy dayes and fasting dayes .

ALL and singular which Injunctions , the Queens Majesty ministreth unto her Clergy , and to all other her loving Subjects , straightly charging and commanding them to observe and keep the same upon pain of deprivation , sequestration of fruits and benefices , suspension , excommunication , and such other correction , as to Ordinaries , or other having Ecclesiastical Iurisdiction , whom her Majesty hath appointed or shall appoint for the due execution of the same , shall be seen convenient , charging and commanding them to see these Injunctions observed and kept of all persons being under their jurisdiction , as they will answer to her Majesty for the contrary . And her highnesse pleasure , is that every Iustice of peace being required , shall assist the Ordinaries and every of them , for the due execution of the said Injunctions .

ARTICLES AGREED UPON By the ARCH-BISHOPS and BISHOPS of both Provinces , and the whole CLERGIE ; In the Convocation holden at LONDON , in the year , 1562.

For the avoiding of diversities of opinions , and for the establishing of Consent touching true RELIGION .

Reprinted by His MAJESTIES Commandment : with His Royal Declaration prefixed thereunto .

LONDON , Printed by Bonham Norton and John Bill , Printers to the Kings most Excellcnt Majestie , 1630.

HIS MAJESTIES DECLARATION .

BEing by Gods Ordinance , according to Our just Title , Defender of the Faith , and supream Governour of the Church within these Our Dominions , We hold it most agreeable to this Our Kingly Office , and Our own Religious zeal , to conserve and maintain the Church committed to Our charge in the unity of true Religion , and in the bond of peace : and not to suffer unnecessary Disputations , altercations , or questions to be raised , which may nourish faction both in the Church and Common-wealth . We have therefore upon mature deliberation and with the advice of so many of Our Bishops as might conveniently be called together , thought fit to make this Declaration following ; That the Articles of the Church of England ( which have been allowed and authorized heretofore , and which our Clergy generally have subscribed unto ) do contain the true Doctrine of the Church of England , agreeable to Gods word : which We do therefore ratifie and confirm , requiring all our loving Subjects to continue in the uniform profession thereof , and prohibiting the least difference from the said Articles , which to that end We command to be new printed , and this Our Declaration to be published therewith .

That we are supream Governour of the Church of England : and that if any difference arise about the external policy , concerning Injunctions , Canons , or other Constitutions whatsoever there to belonging , the Clergy in their Convocation is to order and settle them , having first obtained leave under Our broad Seal so to do : and We approving their said Ordinances and Constitutions , providing that none be made contrary to the Laws and Customes of the Land .

That out of Our Princely care , that the Church-men may do the work which is proper unto them ; the Bishops and Clergy from time to time in Convocation , upon their humble desire shall have licence under Our broad Seal to deliberate of , and to do all such things , as being made plain by them , and assented unto by Us , shall concern the setled continuance of the Doctrine and Discipline of the Church of England now established ; from which We will not endure any varying , or departing in the least degree .

That for the present , though some Differences have been ill raised , yet we take comfort in this , that all Clergy-men within our Realm , have alwayes most willingly subscribed to the Articles established , which is an Argument to Us , that they all agree in the true usual literal meaning of the said Articles , and that even in those curious points in which the present differences lie , men of all sorts take the Articles of the Church of England to be for them , which is an argument again , that none of them intend any desertion of the Articles established .

That therefore in these both curious and unhappy differences , which have for so many hundred years , in different times and places , excercised the Church of Christ : We will that all further curious search be laid aside , and these disputes shut up in Gods promises , as they be generally set forth to Us , in the holy Scriptures ; and the general meaning of the Articles of the Church of England according to them . And that no man hereafter shall either print or preach to draw the Article aside any way , but shall submit to it in the plain and full meaning thereof : And shall not put his own sense or Comment to be the meaning of the Article , but shall take it in the literal and Grammatical sense .

That if any publick Reader in either Our Universities , or any Head or Master of a Colledge , or any other person respectively in either of them , shall affix any new sense to any Article , or shall publickly read , determine , or hold any publick disputation , or suffer any such to be held either way , in either the Universities or Colledges respectively ; or if any Divine in the Universities shall preach or print any thing either way , other then is already established in Convocation with Our Royal assent : he , or they the offenders , shall be liable to Our displeasure , and the Churches censure in our Commission Ecclesiastical , as well as any other : and We will see there shall be due execution upon them .

ARTICLES OF RELIGION .
Of faith in the holy Trinity .

THere is but one living and true God , everlasting , without body , parts , or passions ; of infinite power , wisdome and goodness , the maker and preserver of all things both visible and invisible . And in unity of this Godhead there be three persons , of one substance , power , and eternity ; the Father , the Son , and the Holy Ghost .

2. Of the Word or Son of God , which was made very man .

THe Son , which is the Word of the Father , Haec notata non habentur in Edw. 6. begotten from everlasting of the Father , the very and eternal God of one substance with the Father , took mans nature in the womb of the blessed Virgin , of her substance : so that two whole and perfect natures , that is to say , the Godhead and manhood , were joyned together in one person , never to be divided , whereof is one Christ , very God and very man , who truly suffered , was crucified , dead and buried , to reconcile his Father to us , and to be a sacrifice , not only for original guilt , but also for actual sins of men .

3. Of the going down of Christ into Hell .

AS Christ dyed for us , and was buried : Nam Corpus usque ad resurrectionem in Sepulchro jacuit , spiritus ab illo emissus cum spiritibus qui in carcere sive in inferno detinebantut fuit , illisque praedicavit , quemadmodum testatur Petri locus . Sic Artic. Edw. 6. so also it is to be believed , that he went down into Hell .

4. Of the resurrection of Christ .

CHrist did truly rise again from death , and took again his body , with flesh , bones , and all things appertaining to the perfection of mans nature , wherewith he ascended into Heaven , and there sitteth , until he return to judge all men at the last day .

5. Of the Holy Ghost .

Non habentur in R. Edward 6. Artic. THe Holy Ghost , proceeding from the Father and the Son , is of one substance , Majesty and Glory , with the Father and the Son , very and eternal God .

6. Of the sufficiency of the holy Scriptures for salvation .

HOly Scripture containeth all things necessary to salvation : so that whatsoever is not read therein , nor may be proved thereby , * * Licet interdum à fidelibus ut pium & conducibile ad ordinem & , decorum admittatur . is not to be required of any man , that it should be believed as an Article of the faith , or be thought requisite or necessary to salvation . In the name of the holy Scripture , we do understand those Canonical Books of the Old and New Testament , of whose authority was never any doubt in the Church .

Of the names and numbers of the Canonical Books . Non habetur in R. Edw. 6. Artic. GEnesis . Exodus . Leviticus . Numeri . Deuteronomium . Josue . Judges . Ruth . The 1. Book of Samuel . The 2. Book of Samuel . The 1. Book of Kings . The 2. Book of Kings . The 1. Book of Chron. The 2. Book of Chron. The 1. Book of Esdras . The 2. Book of Esdras . The Book of Hester . The Book of Job . The Psalms . The Proverbs . Ecclesiastes , or Preacher . Cantica , or songs of Salom. 4. Prophets the greater . 12. Prophets the lesse .

And the other Books ( as Hierome saith ) the Church doth read for example of life and instruction of manners but yet doth not apply them to establish any doctrine ; Such are these following .

The 3. Book of Esdras . The 4. Book of Esdras . The Book of Tobias . The Book of Judeth . The rest of the Book of Hester . The Book of Wisdom . Jesus the son of Sirach . Baruch the Prophet . The song of the three children . The Story of Susanna . Of Bell and the Dragon . The prayer of Manasses . The 1. Book of Maccabees . The 2. Book of Maccabees .

All the books of the New Testament , as they are commonly received , we do receive and account them Canonical .

7. Of the Old Testament .

THe old Testament is not contrary to the New , Testamentum vetus , quasi novo contrarium sit , non est repudiandum sed retinendum . for both in the Old and New Testament , everlasting life is offered to mankinde by Christ , who is the onely Mediator between God and man , being both God and man . Wherefore they are not to be heard , which feign that the old Fathers did look onely for transitory promises . Although the Law given from God by Moses , as touching Ceremonies and Rites , do not binde Christian men , Vid. haec Art. 18. notata e●… R. Edwardi●… nor the civil precepts thereof ought of necessity to be received in any Common wealth : yet notwithstanding , no Christian man whatsoever , is free from the Obedience of the Commandments , which are called Moral .

8. Of the three Creeds .

THe three Creeds , Nice Creed , Athanasius Creed , and that which is commonly Called the Apostles Creed , ought thorowly to be received and believed , for they may be proved by most certain warrant of holy Scripture .

9. Of Original or Birth-sin .

ORiginal sin standeth not in the following of Adam , ( as the Pelagians do vainly talk * * Et hodie Anabaptistae repetunt . ) but it is the fault and corruption of the nature of every man , that naturally is ingendred of the off-spring of Adam , whereby man is very far gone from original righteousness , and is of his own nature enclined to evil , so that the flesh lusteth always contrary to the spirit , and therefore in every person born into this world , it deserveth Gods wrath and damnation . And this infection of nature doth remain , yea in them that are regenerated , whereby the lust of the flesh , called in Greek 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 , which some do expound the wisdom , some sensuality , some the affection , some the desire of the flesh , is not subject to the Law of God . And although there is no condemnation for them that believe and are baptized , yet the Apostle doth confesse , that concupiscence and lust , hath of it self the nature of sin .

De Gratia .

GRatia Christi seu S. spiritus qui per eundem datur , cor lapideum aufert & dat cor carneum : Atque licet ex nolentibus quae recta sunt , volentes faciat ; & ex volentibus prava , nolentes reddat , voluntati nihilominus violentiam nullam infert , & nemo hâc de causâ cum peccaverit , seipsum excusare potest , quasinolens aut coactus peccaverit , ut eam ob causam accusari non mereatur aut damnari . Artic. Edward 6. decimus

10. Of Free-will .

THe condition of man after the fall of Adam , is such , that he cannot turn and prepare himself by his own natural strength and good works to faith and calling upon God : Wherefore we have no power to do good works pleasant and acceptable to God , without the grace of God by Christ preventing us , that we may have a good will , and working with us , when we have that good will .

11. Of the Justification of man .

WE are accounted righteous before God , Haec non habentur in Reg. Edward 6. Artic. onely for the merit of our Lord and Saviour Iesus Christ by faith , and not for our own works , or deservings . Wherefore that we are justified by faith onely , is a most wholesome doctrine , and very full of comfort , Justificatio ex solâ Fide Jesu Christi , eo sensu quo in Homiliâ de justificatione explicatur est certissima & saluberrima Christianorum doctrina , fie in Reg. Edward 6. Artic. 11. as more largly is expressed in the Homily of Iustification .

12. Of good works .

ALbeit that good workes , which are the fruits of faith , Hic Artic. non habetur in Reg. Edward 6. Articulis . and follow after Iustification , cannot put away our sins , and endure the severity of Gods judgement , yet are they pleasing and acceptable to God in Christ , and do spring out necessarily of a true and lively faith , in so much that by them a lively faith may be as evidently known , as a tree discerned by the fruit .

13. Of works before Justification .

WOrks done before the grace of Christ , and the inspiration of his Spirit , are not pleasant to God , for as much as they spring not of faith in Iesu Christ , neither do they make men meet to receive grace , ( or as School-Authors say ) deserve grace of congruity : yea , rather for that they are not done as God hath willed and commanded them to be done , we doubt not but they have the nature of sin .

14. Of works of Supererogation .

VOluntary works besides , over and above Gods Commandments , which they call works of Supererogation , cannot be taught without arrogancy and impiety . For by them men do declare that they do not only render unto God as much as they are bound to do , but that they do more for his sake , then of bounden duty is required : Whereas Christ saith plainly , When ye have done all that are commanded to you , say , We are unprofitable servants .

15. Of Christ alone without sin .

CHrist in the truth of our nature , was made like unto us in all things ( sin only except ) from which he was clearly void both in his flesh , and in his Spirit . He came to be a Lamb without spot , who by sacrifice of himself once made , should take away the sins of the world : and sin ( as S. Iohn saith ) was not in him . But all we the rest ( although baptized , and born again in Christ ) yet offend in many things , and if we say we have no sin , we deceive our selves , and the truth is not in us .

Blasphemia in Spiritum Sanctum .

EST cum quis verborum Dei manifestè perceptam veritatem , ex malitia & obfirmatione animi , convitiis insectatur , & hostiliter insequitur . Atque hujusmodi , quia maledicto sunt obnoxii , gravissimo sese astringunt scelere , unde peccati hoc genus irremissibile à Domino appellatur & affirmatur Artic. 16. Edvardi . 6.

16. Of sin after Baptisme .

NOt every deadly sin willingly committed after Baptisme , is sin against the holy Ghost , and unpardonable . Wherefore the grant of repentance is not to be denyed to such as fal into sin after Baptisme . After we have received the holy Ghost , we may depart from grace given , and fall into sin , and by the grace of God ( we may arise again , and amend our lives . And therefore they are to be condemned , which say they can no more sin as long as they live here , to deny the place of forgivenesse to such as truely repent .

17. Of Predestination and Election .

PRedestination to life , is the everlasting purpose of God , whereby ( before the foundations of the world were laid ) he hath constantly decreed by his counsel , secret to us , to deliver from curse and damnation , those whom he hath chosen in Christ out of mankinde , and to bring them by Christ to everlasting salvation , as vessels made to honour . Wherefore they which be indued with so excellent a benefit of God , be called according to Gods purpose by his Spirit working in due season : they through grace obey the calling : they be justified freely : they be made sons of God by adoption : they be made like the Image of his only begotten Son Iesus Christ : they walk religiously in good works , and at length by Gods mercy they attain to everlasting felicity .

As the godly consideration of Predestination and our Election in Christ , is full of sweet , pleasant , and unspeakable comfort to godly persons , and such as feel in themselves the working of the Spirit of Christ , mortifying the works of the flesh , and their earthly members , and drawing up their minde to high and heavenly things , as well because it doth greatly establish and confirm their faith of eternal salvation , to be enjoyed through Christ , as because it doth frequently kindle their love towards God : so , for curious and carnal persons , lacking the Spirit of Christ , to have continually before their eyes the sentence of Gods predestination , is a most dangerous downfall , whereby the Devil doth thrust them either into desperation , or into wretchlesness of most unclean living , no less perillous then desperation .

Furthermore , we must receive Gods promises , in such wise as they be generally set forth to us in holy Scripture : and in our doings , that will of God is to be followed , which we have expresly declared unto us in the Word of God .

Omnes obligantur ad moralia legis praecepta servanda .

LEx à Deo data per Mosen , licet quoad ceremonias & ritus Christianos non astringat , neque civilia eis praecepta in aliqua Repub. necessario recipi debeant , nihilominus ab obedientia mandatorum quae moralia vocantur , nullus quantumvis Christianus est solutus : quare illi non sunt audiendi qui sacras literas tantum infirmis datas esse perhibent , & spiritum perpetuo jactant à quo sibi quae praedicant , suggeri asserunt : quanquam cum S. Scripturis apertissime pugnent . Art. Edvard. 6. 19.

18. Of obtaining eternal salvation only by the Name of Christ .

THey also are to be had accursed , that presume to say , that every man shall be saved by the law or sect which he professeth , so that he be diligent to frame his life according to that law , and the light of nature . For holy Scripture doth set out unto us only the name of Iesus Christ , whereby men must be saved .

19. Of the Church .

THe visible Church of Christ is a congregation of faithful men , in the which the pure word of God is preached , and the Sacraments be duely ministred , according to Christs Ordinance , in all those things that of necessity are requisite to the same .

As the Church of Ierusalem , Alexandria , and Antioch have erred : So also the Church of Rome hath erred , not onely in their living and manner of ceremonies , but also in matters of faith .

20. Of the authority of the Church .

THe Church hath power to decree Rites or Ceremonies , and authority in controversies of faith : And yet it is not lawful for the Church to ordain any thing that is Contrary to Gods word written , neither may it so expound one place of Scripture , that it be repugnant to another . Wherefore although the Church be a witnesse and a keeper of holy Writ , yet as it ought not to decree any thing against the same , so besides the same ought it not to enforce any thing to be believed for necessity of Salvation .

21. Of the authority of general Councels .

GEneral Councels may not be gathered together without the commandment and will of Princes ; and when they be gathered together ( for as much as they be an assembly , of men , whereof all be not governed with the Spirit and Word of God ) they may erre , and sometime have erred , even in things pertaining unto God . Wherefore things ordained by them as necessary to salvation , have neither strength nor authority , unlesse it may be declared that they be taken out of holy Scripture .

22. Of Purgatory .

THe Romish doctrine concerning Purgatory , Pardons , worshipping and adoration , aswell of Images , as of Reliques , and also invocration of Saints is a fond thing , vainly invented , and grounded upon no warranty of Scripture , but rather repugnant to the Word of God .

23. Of ministring in the Congregation .

IT is not lawful for any man to take upon him the Office of publick preaching , or ministring the Sacraments in the Congregation , before he be lawfully called and sent to execute the same . And those we ought to judge lawfully called and sent , which be chosen and called to this work by men , who have publick authority given unto them in the Congregation , to call and send Ministers into the Lords vineyard .

24. Of speaking in the Congregation , in such a tongue as the people understandeth .

IT is a thing plainly repugnant to the word of God . Haec clausula non habetur in Edvard . 6. Artic. [ and the custome of the Primitive Church , ] to have publick prayer in the Church , or to minister the Sacraments in a tongue not understanded of the people .

25. Of the Sacraments .

SAcraments ordained of Christ be not onely badges or tokens of Christian mens profession : Dominus noster Iesus Christus , Sacramentis numero paucissimis , observatu facillimis , significatione praestantissimis , societatem novi populi colligavit , sicut est Baptismus & Coena Domini but rather they be certain sure witnesses , and effectual signes of grace and Gods good will towards us , by the which he doth work invisibly in us , and doth not onely quicken , but also strengthen and confirm our faith in him .

There are two Sacraments ordained of Christ our Lord in the Gospel , that is to say , Baptisme , and the Supper of the Lord .

Those five commonly called Sacraments , that is to say , confirmation , Penance orders , Matrimony , and extream Vnction , are not to be counted for Sacraments of the Gospel , being such as have grown , Haec notata non habentur in Edv. 6 , Artic. partly of the corrupt following of the Apostles , partly are states of life allowed in the Scriptures but yet have not like nature of Sacraments with Baptisme and the Lords Supper , for that they have not any visible signe or ceremony ordained of God .

The Sacraments were not ordained of Christ to be gazed upon , or to be carried about , but that we should duely use them . And in such onely , as worthily receive the same , † † Idque non ex opere ( ut quidam loquuntur ) operato : quae vox ut peregrina est , Sacris literis ignota , sic parit sensum minimè pium sed admodum superstitiosum . Artic. Edvard . 6. they have a wholesome effect or operation : but they that receive them unworthily , purchase to themselves damnation , as S. Paul saith .

26. Of the unworthinesse of the Ministers , which hinder not the effect of the Sacraments .

ALthough in the visible Church the evil be ever mingled with the good , and sometime the evil have chief authority in the ministration of the Word and Sacraments : yet forasmuch as they do not the same in their own name , but in Christs , and do minister by his commission and authority , we may use their ministery , both in hearing the Word of God , and in the receiving of the Sacraments . Neither is the effect of Christs ordinance taken away by their wickednesse , nor the grace of Gods gifts diminished from such , as by faith , and rightly do receive the Sacraments ministred unto them , which be effectual , because of Christs institution and promise , although they be ministred by evil men .

Neverthelesse , it appertaineth to the discipline of the Church , that enquiry be made of evil Ministers , and that they be accused by those that have knowledge of their offences : and finally being found guilty , by just judgement be deposed .

27. Of Baptisme .

BAptisme is not onely a signe of profession , and mark of difference , whereby Christian men are discerned from others that be not Christened : but it is also a signe of Regeneration or new birth , whereby , as by an instrument , they that receive Baptisme rightly , are & grafted into the Church : the promises of the forgiveness of sin , of our adoption to be the sons of God , by the holy Ghost , are visibly signed and sealed : faith is confirmed , and grace increased by vertue of prayer unto God . The Baptisme of yong children is in any wise to be retained in the Church , as most agreeable with the institution of Christ .

28. Of the Lords Supper .

THe Supper of the Lord is not onely a signe of the love that Christians ought to have among themselves one to another : but rather it is a Sacrament of our Redemption by Christs death . Insomuch that to such as rightly , worthily , and with faith receive the same , the bread which we break , is a partaking of the body of Christ : and likewise the Cup of blessing is a partaking of the blood of Christ .

Transubstantiation ( or the change of the substance of Bread and Wine ) in the supper of the Lord , cannot be proved by holy Writ : Quum naturae humanae veritas requirat , ut unius ejusdemque hominis Corpus in multis locis simul esse non possit , sed in uno aliquo & definito loco esse oporteat , idcirco Christi corpus in multis & diversis locis eodem tempore praesens esse non potest . Et quoniam ut tradunt sacrae literae , Christus in coelum fuit sublatus , & ibi usque ad finem seculi est permansurus , non debet quisquam fidelium carnis ejus & fanguinis Realem & corporalem ( ut loquuntur ) praesentiam in Eucharistiâ vel credere vel profiteri R. Edvardi 6. Artic. but it is repugnant to the plain words of Scripture , overthroweth the nature of a Sacrament , and hath given occasion to many superstitions .

The body of Christ is given , taken , and eaten , Haec notata non habentur in Reg. Edvard . 9. Artic. in the Supper onely after an heavenly and spiritual manner , And the meane whereby the body of Christ is received and eaten in the Supper , is Faith .

The Sacrament of the Lords Supper was not by Christs ordinance reserved , carried about , lifted up , and worshipped .

29. Of the wicked which eat not the body of Christ in the use of the Lords Supper .

Non habetur hie Artic. in R. Edv. sexti . THe wicked , and such as be void of a lively faith , although they do carnally and visibly press with their teeth ( as St. Augustine saith ) the Sacrament of the body and blood of Christ : yet in no wise are they partakers of Christ , but rather to their condemnation do eat and drink the signe or Sacrament of so great a thing .

30. Of both kindes .

THe Cup of the Lord is not to be denied to the Lay-people . For both the parts of the Lords Sacrament , by Christs ordinance and commandment , ought to be ministred to all Christian men alike .

31. Of the one oblation of Christ finished upon the Cross .

THe offering of Christ once made , is that perfect redemption , propitiation , and satisfaction for all the sins of the whole world , both original and actual , and there is none other satisfaction for sin , but that alone . Wherefore the sacrifices of Masses , in the which it was commonly said , that the Priest did offer Christ for the quick and the dead , to have remission of pain or guilt , were blasphemous fables , and dangerous deceits .

32. Of the marriage of Priests

Non habentur haec notata in R. Edvard . 6. Artic. BIshops , Priests and Deacons are not commanded by Gods law , either to vow the estate of single life , or to abstain from marriage : " therefore it is lawful also for them , as for all other Christian men , to marry at their own discretion , as they shall judge the same to serve better to godliness .

33. Of excommunicate persons , how they are to be avoided .

THat person which by open denunciation of the Church , is rightly cut off from the unity of the Church , and excommunicated , ought to be taken of the whole multitude of the faithful as an Heathen and Publican , untill he be openly reconciled by Penance , and received into the Church by a Iudge that hath authority thereunto .

34. Of the traditions of the Church .

IT is not necessary that Traditions and ceremonies be in all places one or utterly like , for at all times they have been divers , and may be changed according to the diversity of countries , times , and mens manners , so that nothing be ordained against Gods Word . Whosoever through his private judgement , willingly and purposely doth openly break the Traditions and Ceremonies of the Church , which be not repugnant to the Word of God , and be ordained and approved by common authority , ought to be rebuked openly , ( that other may fear to do the like ) as he that offendeth against the common order of the Church , and hurteth the authority of the Magistrate , and woundeth the consciences of the weak brethren .

Every particular or national Church , hath authority to ordain , Non habentur haec notata in Edv. 6. Artic. change and abolish Ceremonies or Rites of the Church , ordained only by mans authority , so that all things be done to edifying .

35. * * Homiliae nuper Ecclesiae Anglicanae per injunctiones Regias editae atque commendatae piae sunt atque salutares , doctrinamque ab omnibus amplectendam continent . Of Homilies .

THe second Book of Homilies , the several titles whereof we have joyned under this Article , doth contain a godly and wholsome Doctrine , and necessary for these times , as doth the former book of Homilies , which were set forth in the time of Edward the sixth : and therefore we judge them to be read in Churches by the Ministers diligently and distinctly , that they may be understanded of the people .

Of the names of the Homilies . 1 OF the right use of the Church . 2 Against peril of Idolatry . 3 Of repairing and keeping clean of Churches . 4 Of good works , first of Fasting . 5 Against gluttony and drunkennesse . 6 Against excesse of apparel . 7 Of Prayer , 8 Of the place and time of prayer . 9 That common Prayers and Sacraments ought to be ministred in a known tongue . 10 Of the reverent estimation of Gods Word . 11 Of almes doing . 12 Of the nativity of Christ . 13 Of the Passion of Christ . 14 Of the Resurrection of Christ . 15 Of the worthy receiving of the Sacrament of the Body and Blood of Christ . 16 Of the gifts of the holy Ghost . 17 For the Rogation dayes . 18 Of the state of Matrimony . 19 Of Repentance . 20 Against Idleness . 21 Against Rebellion .
De libro precationum & ceremoniarum Ecclesiae Anglicanae .

LIber qui nuperrime authoritate Regis & Parliamenti Ecclesiae Anglicanae traditus est , continens modum & formam orandi & Sacramenta administrandi in Ecclesiâ : similiter & libellus eadem autoritate editus de ordinatione ministrorum Ecclesiae , quoad doctrinae veritatem , pii sunt , & salutari doctrinae Evangelii in nullo repugnant sed congruunt , & eandem non parum promovent & illustrant , atque ideo ab omnibus Ecclesiae Anglicanae fidelibus membris , & maxime à ministris verbi cum omni promptitudine animorum & gratiarum actione ; recipiendi , approbandi , & populo Dei commendandi sunt . Artic. R. Edvard . 6.

36. Of Consecration of Bishops and Ministers .

THe book of Consecration of Archbishops , and Bishops , and ordering of Priests , and Deacons , lately set forth in the time of Edward the sixt , and confirmed at the same time by authority of Parliament , doth contain all things necessary to such Consecration and ordering : neither hath it any thing , that of it self is superstitious and ungodly . And therefore , whosoever are consecrated or ordered according to the Rites of that book , since the second year of the afore-named King Edward , unto this time , or hereafter shall be consecrated , or ordered according to the same Rites , we decree all such to be rightly , orderly , and lawfully consecrated and ordered .

37. Of the civil Magistrates .

THe Queens Majesty hath the chief power in this Realm of England , and other her Dominions , Rex Angliae est supremum caput in terris post Christum Ecclesiae Anglicanae & Hiberniae Artic. Edv. 6. Haec notata non habentur in Artic. Edverd . 6. unto whom the chief government of all estates of this Realm , whether they be Ecclesiastical or Civil , in all causes doth appertain , and is not , nor ought to be subject to any forreigne Iurisdiction .

Where we attribute to the Queens Majesty the chief government , by which titles we understand the minds of some dangerous folkes to be offended : we give not our Princes the ministring , either of Gods word , or of the Sacraments , the which thing the Injunctions also lately set forth by Elizabeth out Queen do most plainly testifie : but that onely prerogative which we see to have been given alwayes to all godly Princes in holy Scriptures by God himself , that is , that they should rule all estates and degrees committed to their charge by God , whether they be Ecclesiastical or Temporal , and restrain with the civil sword the stubborn and evil doers .

Magistratus eivilis est à Deo ordinatus atque probatus , quamobrem illi non solum propter iram , sed etiam propter conscientiam obediendum est . Artic. R. Edv. 6. The Bishop of Rome hath no jurisdiction in this Realm of England .

The Laws of the Realm may punish Christian men with death , for heinous and grievous offences .

The Laws of the Realm may punish Christian men with death , for heinous and grievous offences .

It is Lawful for Christian men , at the commandment of the Magistrate , to wear weapons , and serve in the wars .

38. Of Christian mens goods , which are not common .

THe riches and goods of Christians are not common , as touching the right , title and possession of the same , as certain Anabaptists do falsly boast . Notwithstanding every man ought of such things as he possesseth , liberally to give almes to the poor , according to his ability .

39. Of a Christian mans oath .

AS we confesse that vain and rash swearing is forbidden Christian men by our Lord Iesus Christ , and Iames his Apostle : So we judge that Christian Religion doth not prohibit , but that a man may sweare when the Magistrate requireth in a cause of faith and charity , so it be done according to the Prophets teaching , in justice , judgement and truth .

R. Edv. 6. Art. 39. Resurrectio mortuorum nondum est facta .

REsurrectio mortuorum non adhuc facta est , quasi tantum ad animum pertineat , qui per Christi gratiam à morte peccatorum excitetur , sed extremo die quoad omnes qui obieruut , expectanda est : tunc enim vita defunctis ( ut scripturae manifestissime testantur ) propria corpora , carnes & ossa restitnentur , ut hemo integer , prout vel recte vel perdite vixerit , juxta sua opera , sive praemia sive poenas reportet . Art. R. Ed. 6.

R. Ed. 6. Art. 40. Defunctorum animae neque cum corporibus intereunt , neque otiose dormiunt .

QUi animas defunctorum praedicant usque ad diem judieii absque omni sensu dormire , aut illas asserunt una cum corporibut mori , et extrema die cum illis excitandas , ab orthodoxa fide , quae nobis in sacris literis traditur , prorsus dissentiunt .

R. Edv. 6. Art. 41. Millenarii .

QUi Millenariorum fabulam revocare conantur , sacris literis adversantur , & in Judaica deliramenta sese praecipitant .

R. Edv. Art. 42. Non omnes tandem servandi sunt .

HIi quoque damnatione digni sunt , qui conantur hodie perniciosam opinionem instaurare , quod omnes , quantum vis impii , servandi sunt tandem , cum definito tempore à justitia divina poenas de admissis flagitiis luerunt .

The Ratification .

THis Book of Articles before rehearsed , is again approved , and allowed to be holden and executed within the Realm , by the assent and consent of our Soveraign Lady Elizabeth by the grace of God of England , France and Ireland Queen , Defender of the Faith , &c. Which Articles were deliberately read , and confirmed again by the subscription of the hand of the Arch-Bishop and Bishops of the upper House , and by the subscription of the whole Cleargie in the neither house in their Convocation , in the year of our Lord 1571.

THE TABLE . 1 OF faith in the Trinity . 2 Of Christ the Son of God . 3 Of his going down into hell . 4 Of his Resurrection . 5 Of the holy Ghost . 6 Of the sufficiency of the Scripture . 7 Of the old Testament . 8 Of the three Creeds . 9 Of the original sin . 10 Of free-will . 11 Of Iustification . 12 Of good works . 13 Of works before justification . 14 Of works of supererogation . 15 Of Christ alone without sin . 16 Of sin after Baptisme . 17 Of Predestination and Election . 18 Of obtaining salvation by Christ . 19 Of the Church . 20 Of the authority of the Church . 21 Of the authority of the General councels . 22 Of purgatory : 23 Of ministring in the Congregation . 24 Of speaking in the Congregation . 25 Of the Sacraments . 26. Of the worthinesse of Ministers . 27 Of Baptisme . 28 Of the Lords Supper . 29 Of the wicked which eat not the body of Christ . 30 Of both kindes . 31 Of Christs one oblation . 32 Of the marriage of Priests . 33 Of excommunicate Persons . 34 Of traditions of the Church . 35 Of Homilies . 36 Of consecration of Ministers . 37 Of civil Magistrates . 38 Of Christian mens goods . 39 Of a Christian mans oath . 40 Of the Ratification .
Anno primo Reginae Eliz. cap. 2. There shall be Uniformity of Prayer , and Administration of Sacraments .

WHere at the death of our late Soveraign Lord King Edward the 6th . there remained one uniform Order of Common Service and Prayer , and of the Administration of Sacraments , Rights and Ceremonies in the Church of England , which was set forth in one Book , entituled , The Book of Common Prayer & Administration of Sacraments , and other Rites and Ceremonies in the Church of England , authorized by Act of Parliament , holden in the 5th . and 6th . years of our said late Sovereign Lord King Edward the 6th . entituled An Act for the Uniformity of Common Prayer , Stat. 5. & . 6. Ed. 6. 1. and Administration of the Sacraments ; the which was repealed and taken away by Act of Parliament , in the first year of the reign of our late Soveraign Lady Queen Mary , to the great decay of the due honour of God , Stat. 1. M. 2. and discomfort to the professors of the truth of Christs Religion : A Repeal of the Statute 1 M. 2. & the book of Common Prayer shall be of effect .

Be it therefore enacted by the Authority of this present Parliament , That the said Statute of repeal , and every thing therein contained , only concerning the said Book , and the Service , Administration of the Sacraments , Rites and Ceremonies , contained or appointed in or by the said Book , shall be void and of none effect , from and after the feast of the Nativity of St. John Baptist next coming , And that the said Book , with the Order of Service , and of the administration of Sacraments , Rites and Ceremonies , with the Alteration and Additions therein added and appointed by this Estatute , shall stand and be from and after the said feast of the Nativity of St John Baptist , in full force and effect , according to the Tenour and effect of this Estatute ; any thing in the foresaid Estatute of repeal to the contrary notwithstanding .

And be it further enacted by the Queens Highnesse , with the assent of the Lords and Commons in this present Parliament assembled , and by the Authority of the same , That all and singular Ministers in any Cathedral or Parish or Church , or other place within this Realm of England , The Book of Common Prayer shall be used , 8. Eliz. Wales , & the Marches of the same , or other the Queens Dominions , shall from and after the feast of the Nativity of St. John Baptist next coming , be bounden to say and use the Mattens , Evensong , Celebration of the Lords Supper , and Administration of each of the Sacraments , and all the Common and open Prayer , in such order and form as is mentioned in the said Book so authorized by Parliament , in the said 5. and 6. years of the reign of King Edward the 6th . with one alteration or addition of certain Lessons , The alteration of the book set forth 5 , & 6. Ed. 6.1 . to be used on every Sunday in the year , and the form of the Letanie altered and corrected , and two sentences onely added in the delivery of the Sacrament to the Communicants , and none other , or otherwise .

The forfeiture of those which use any other Service than the Book of Common Prayer . And that if any manner of Parson , Vicar , or other whatsoever Minister , that ought or should sing or say Common Prayer mentioned in the said Book , or Minister the Sacraments from and after the feast of the Nativity of St. John Baptist next coming refuse to use the said Common Prayer or to Minister the Sacraments in such Cathedral or Parish Church , or other places , as he should use to minister the same , in such order or form as they be mentioned and set forth in the said Book , or shall wilfully or obstinately , standing in the same , use any other Rite , Ceremony , Order , Form or manner of Celebrating the Lords Supper , openly or privily , or Mattens , Evensong , Administration of the Sacraments , or other open Prayers , then is mentioned and set forth in the said Book , ( open Prayer in and throughout this Act , is meant that Prayer which is for others to come unto , or hear , either in Common Churches , or private Chappels , or Oratories , Commonly called the Service of the Church ) or shall preach , The penalty for depraving the Book of Common Prayer . declare or speak any thing in the derogation or depraving of the said Book , or any thing there in contained , or of any part thereof , and shall be thereof lawfully convicted , according to the Laws of this Realm , by verdict of 12. men , or by his own Confession , or by the Notorious evidence of the Fact , shall lose and forfeit to the Queens Highnesse , her Heirs and successors , for his first offence , the profit of all his spiritual Benefices or Promotions , coming or arising in one whole year next after his conviction . And also that the person so convicted , shall for the same offence , suffer imprisonment for the space of 6. months without Bail or mainprise .

And if any such person once convict of any offence concerning the premisses , shall after this first conviction eftsoons offend , The penalty for the second offence . and be thereof in form aforesaid lawfully convict , that then the same person shall for his second offence suffer imprisonment by the space of one whole year , and also shall therefore be deprived , ipso facto , of all his spiritual Promotions , and that it shall be lawful to all Patrons or Donors of all and singular the same spiritual Promotions , or of any of them , to present or collate to the same , as though the person or persons so offending were dead .

And that if any such person or persons , The penalty for the third offence . after he shall be twice convicted in form aforesaid , shall offend against any of the premisses the third time , and shall be thereof in form aforesaid lawfully convicted , that then the person so offending , and convicted the third time , shall be deprived , ipso facto , of all his spiritual Promotions , and also shall suffer Imprisonment during his life .

And if the person that shall offend , The penalty of an offender having no spiritual Promotion . and be convicted in form aforesaid , concerning any of the premisses , shall not be Beneficed , nor have any spiritual Promotion , that then the same person so offending and convict , shall for the first offence suffer Imprisonment during one whole year next after his said conviction , without Baile or Mainprise .

And if any person , not having any spiritual Promotion , after his first conviction shall eftsoons offend in any thing concerning the premisses , and shall in form aforesaid be thereof lawfully convicted , that the same person shall for his second offence suffer Imprisonment during his life .

And it is ordained and enacted by the Authority aforesaid , The forfeiture of them which do any thing or speak in the derogation of the book of Common Prayer . That if any person or persons whatsoever , after the said Feast of the Nativity of St. John Baptist next coming , shall in any Enterludes , Playes , Songs , Rymes , or by other open words , declare or speak any thing in the derogation , depraving or despising of the same book , or of any thing therein contained , or any part thereof , or shall by open fact , deed , or by open threatnings , compel or cause , or otherwise procure or maintain any Parson , Vicar or other Minister , in any Cathedral or Parish Church , or in Chappel , or in any other place , to sing or say any Common or open prayer , or to minister any Sacrament , otherwise , Causing other Prayer to be said or sung , Coke pla. fol. 312. or in any other manner and form than is mentioned in the said book , or that by any of the said means shall unlawfully interrupt , or let any Parson , Vicar , or other Minister in any Cathedral or Parish Church , Chappel , or any other place , to sing or say common and open prayer , or to Minister the Sacraments , or any of them in such manner and form , The forfeiture of an hundred Marks for the first offence Dyer fol. 203.231.323 . The forfeiture of four hundred marks for the second offence . as is mentioned in the said book : That then every such person being thereof lawfully convicted , in form above said , shall forfeit to the Queen our Sovereign Lady , her Heires and Successors , for the first offence an hundred marks .

And if any person or persons being once convict of any such offence , eftsoones offend against any of the last recited offences , and shall in form aforesaid be thereof lawfully convict , That then the same person so offending and convict , shall for the second offence forfeit to the Queen our Sovereign Lady , her Heirs and Successors , four hundred marks .

And if any person , after he in form aforesaid shall have been twice convict of any offence , The forfeiture of the third offence . concerning any of the last recited offences , shall offend the third time , and be thereof in form abovesaid lawfully convict , That then every person so offending and convict , shall for his third offence forfeit to our Sovereign Lady the Queen , all his goods and Chattels , and shall suffer Imprisonment during his life .

And if any person or persons , that for his first offence concerning the premisses shall be convict in form aforesaid , The penalties if the party convicted do not pay his forfeiture within the time limited . do not pay the sum to be paid by vertue of his conviction , in such manner and form as the same ought to be paid , within six weeks next after his conviction , That then every person so convict , and so not paying the same , shall for the same first offence , in stead of the said sum , suffer Imprisonment by the space of six monthes without Bayle or mainprize .

And if any person or persons , that for his second offence concerning the premisses shal be convict in form aforesaid , do not pay the said sum , to be paid by vertue of his Conviction and this Estatute , in such manner and form as the same ought to be paid , within six weeks next after his said second conviction , that then every person so convicted , and not so paying the same , shall for the same second offence , in the stead of the said sum , suffer Imprisonment during twelve months without bayle or mainprize .

And that from and after the said Feast of the Nativity of St. John Baptist next coming , Every person shall resort to the Church upon the Holy dayes . all and every person and persons , inhabiting within this Realm , or any other the Queens Majesties Dominions , shall diligently and faithfully , having no lawfull or reasonable excuse to be absent , endeavour themselves to resott to their Parish Church , or Chapel accustomed , or upon reasonable let thereof , to some usual place where Common Prayer and such service of God shall be used , in such time of let upon every Sunday , and other dayes ordained and used to be kept as holy dayes , and then and there to abide orderly and soberly , during the time of the Common Prayer , Preaching or other service of God , there to be used and ministred , The forfeiture for not coming to Church 32. Eliz. 1. upon pain of punishment by the censures of the Church . And also upon pain that every person so offending , shall forfeit for such offence twelvepence , to be levied by the Church-wardens of the Parish where such offence shall be done , to the use of the poor of the same Parish , of the goods , lands and tenements of such offender , by way of distresse .

And for due Execution hereof , the Queens most excellent Majesty , the Lords Spiritual , and all the Commons in this present Parliament assembled , do in Gods name earnestly require and charge all the Archbishops , Bishops and other Ordinaries , that they shall endeavour themselves to the uttermost of their knowledges , that the due and true Execution hereof may be had throughout their Diocesse and Charges , as they will answer before God , for such evils and plagues wherewith Almighty God may justly punish his people , for neglecting this good and wholsome Law .

And for their Authority in this behalf , The Ordinary may punish Offenders by the Censures of the Church be it further enacted by the Authority aforesaid , That all and singular the said Archbishops , Bishops , and all other their Officers , exercising Ecclesiastical Iurisdiction , as well in place exempt , as not exempt , within their Diocesse , shall have full power and authority by this Act , to reform , correct and punish by Censures of the Church , all and singular persons which shall offend within any their Iurisdictions or Diocesse , after the said Feast of the Nativity of St. John Baptist next coming , against this Act and Statute : any other Law , Statute , Privilege , Liberty or Provision , heretofore made , had or suffered , to the contrary notwithstanding .

And it is Ordained and enacted by the Authority aforesaid , Which Justices may punish their offences . That all and every Iustices of Oyer and Determiner , or Iustices of Assize , shall have full power and Authority in every of their Open and general Sessions , to enquire , hear and determine , all and all manner offences , that shall be committed or done , contrary to any Article contained in this present Act , within the limits of the Commission to them directed , and to make Processe for the Execution of the same , as they may do against any person being indicted before them of trespasse , or lawfully convicted thereof .

A Bishop may joyn with the Iustices to enquire of offenders . Provided alwayes , and be it enacted by the Authority aforesaid , that all and every Archbishop and Bishop , shall or may at all time and times , at his liberty and pleasure , joyn and associate himself by vertue of this Act , to the said Iustices of Oyer and Determiner , or to the said Iustices of Assize , at every of the said open and General Sessions to be holden in any place within his Diocesse , for and to the enquiry , hearing and determining of the offences aforesaid .

At whose charges the books of Common prayer shall be gotten . Provided also and be it enacted by the Authority aforesaid , That the books concerning the said Services , shall at the Costs and charges of the Parishioners of every Parish and Cathedral Church , be attained and gotten before the said Feast of the Nativity of St. Iohn Baptist next following ; and that all such Parishes and Cathedral Churches , or other places , where the said books shall be attained and gotten before the said Feast of the Nativity of Saint Iohn Baptist , shall within three weeks next after the said books so attained and gotten , use the said Service , and put the same in Vre , according to this Act.

And be it further enacted by authority aforesaid , That no person or persons shall be at any time hereafter Impeached , Within what time offenders shall be Impeached . or otherwise molested , of , or for any of the offences above-mentioned , hereafter to be committed or done contrary to this Act , unlesse he or they so offending be thereof Indicted at the next General Sessions to be holden before any such Iustices of Oyer and Determiner , or Iustices of Assize , next after any offence committed or done contrary to the tenour of this Act ,

Trial of Peers Provided alwayes , and be it ordained and enacted by the Authority aforesaid , That all and singular Lords of the Parliament , for the third offence above mentioned , shall be tryed by their Peers .

Chief Officers of Cities and Boroughs shall enquire of offenders . Provided also , and be it Ordained and Enacted by the Authority aforesaid , That the Major of London , and all the Majors , Bayliffs , and other head Officers , of all and singular Cities , Boroughs , and Towns Corporate , within this Realm , Wales , and the Marches of the same , to the which Iustices of Assize , do not commonly repaire , shall have full power and authority by vertue of this Act , to enquire , hear and determine the offences abovefaid , and every of them , yearly within fifteen dayes after Easter , and St. Michael the Archangel , in like manner and form as Iustices of Assize , and Oyer and Determiner may do .

The Ordinaries Iurisdiction in their Cases . Provided alwayes , and be it Ordained and Enacted by the Authority aforesaid , that all and singular Arch-bishops and Bishops , and every of their Chancellours , Commissaries , Archdeacons , and other Ordinaries having any peculiar Ecclesiastical Iurisdiction , shall have ful power and authority by vertue of this Act , as well to enquire in their Visitation , and elsewhere within their Iurisdiction at any other time and place , to take accusations , and informations , of all and every the things above mentioned , done , committed , or perpetrated within the Limits of their Iurisdictions and authority , and to punish the same by Admonition , Excommunication , Sequestration or Deprivation , and other Censures and Processe , in like form as heretofore hath been used in like Cases , by the Queens Ecclesiastical Laws .

Provided alwayes and be it Enacted , None shall be punished above once for one offence . that whatsoever persons offending in the Premises , shall for their offences , first receive a punishment of the Ordinary , having a Testimonial thereof under the said Ordinaries seal , shall not for the same offence eftsoons be convicted before the Iustices ; And likewise receiving for the said first offence , punishment by the Iustices , shall not for the same offence eftsoones receive punishment of the Ordinary : Any thing contained in this Act to the contrary notwithstanding .

Provided alwayes , and be it Enacted , Ornamens of the Church and Ministers that such ornaments of the Church , and of the Ministers thereof , shall be retained and be in use , as was in this Church of England , by Authority of Parliament , in the second year of the Reign of King Edward the sixt , until other order shall be therein taken by the Authority of the Queenes Majesty , with the advice of her Commissioners appointed and Authorized under tho Great Seal of England for causes Ecclesiastical , or of the Metropolitan of this Realm .

And also , that if there shall happen any contempt or irreverence to be used in the Ceremonies or Rites of the Church , by the misusing of the orders appointed in this book , the Queens Majesty may by the like advice of the said Commissioners or Metropolitan , ordain and publish such farther Ceremonies or Rites , as may be most for the advancement of Gods Glory , the edifying of his Church , and the due reverence of Christs holy mysteries and Sacraments .

And be it further Enacted by the Authority aforsaid , All Lawes & Ordinances made for other service , shall be void . That all Laws , statutes , and ordinances wherein or whereby any other service , administration of Sacraments , or Common Prayer , is limited , established , or set forth to be used within this Realm , or any other the Queens Dominions or Countryes , shall from henceforth be utterly void and of none effect Coke pla. fol 352.

A Clause Anno 8. Eliz. cap. 1.

A confirmation of the Stat. of 1 Eliz. 2. touching the book of Common Prayer , & Administration of the Sacraments . WHerefore , for the plain declaration of all the premisses , and to the intent that the same may the better be known to every of the Queens Majesties subjects , whereby such evil speech , as heretofore hath been used against the High state of Prelacy , may hereafter cease ; Be it now declared and enacted by the Authority of this present Parliament , that the said Act and Statute made in the first year of the reign of our said Soveraign Lady the Queens Majesty , whereby the said book of Common-prayer , and the Administration of Sacraments , with other Rites and Ceremonies , is authorized and allowed to be used , shall stand and remain good and perfect to all respects and purposes : And that such order and form for the Consecrating of Archbishops , A Confirmation of the Stat. of 5. & 6. Ed. 6. 1 : touching the form of consecrating Archbishops , &c. and Bishops , and for the making of Priests , Deacons , and Ministers , as was set forth in the time of the said late King Edward the sixth , and added to the said Book of Common-prayer , and authorised by Parliament in the fifth and sixth years of the said late King , shall stand and be in full force and effect , and shall from henceforth be used and observed in all places within this Realm , and other the Queens Majesties Dominions and Countries .

Anno 13. Eliz. cap. 12. Reformation of Disorders in the Ministers of the Church , &c.

THat the Churches of the Queens Majesties Dominions , may be served with Pastors of sound Religion : Be it enacted by the Authority of this present Parliament , That every person under the degree of a Bishop , which doth or shall pretend to be a Priest , or Minister of Gods holy Word and Sacraments , by reason of any other form of Institution , Consecration , or ordering , than the form set forth by Parliament in the time of the late King of most Worthy Memory , King Edward the sixth , 3. Edw. 6.12 . 5. Edw. 6.1 . Dyer f. 377. or now used in the Reigne of our most gracious Soveraigne Lady , before the Feast of the Nativity of Christ next following , shall in the presence of the Bishop or Guardian of the Spiritualities of some one Diocesse where he hath or shall have Ecclesiastical living , declare his assent , Every Ecclesiastical person shall subscribe to the Articles touching the Confession of the Faith , and declare his assent thereunto . and subscribe to all the Articles of Religion , which only concern the Confession of the true Christian Faith , and the Doctrine of the Sacraments , comprised in a book imprinted , entituled , Articles ; Whereupon it was agreed by the Archbishops and Bishops of both Provinces , and the whole Clergy in the Convocation holden at London in the year of our Lord God a thousand five hundred sixty and two , according to the computation of the Church of England , for the avoiding of the diversities of opinions , and for the establishing of consent touching true Religion , put forth by the Queens Authority ; and shall bring from such Bishop or Guardian of Spiritualties , in writing under his Seal Authentick , a testimonial of such assent and subscription , and openly on some Sunday in the time of some publick service afternoon , Reading of the Articles & testimonial . in every Church where by reason of any Ecclesiastical living he ought to attend , read both the said testimonial , and the said Articles , upon pain that every such person which shall not before the said Feast do as is above appointed , shall be ( ipso facto ) deprived , and all his Ecclesiastical promotions shall be void , as if he were then naturally dead .

And that if any person Ecclesiastical , or which shall have Ecclesiastical livings , shall advisedly maintain or affirm any Doctrine directly contrary or repugnant to any of the said Articles , The penaltie of maintaining of Doctrine against the Articles . and being convented before the Bishop of the Diocesse , or the Ordinary , or before the Queens Highnesse Commissioners in causes Ecclesiastical shall persist therein , or not revoke his error , or after such revocation eftsoones affirm such untrue Doctrine : such maintaining or affirming , and persisting , or such eftsoone affirming shall be just cause to deprive such person of his Ecclesiastical promotions : And it shall be lawful to the Bishop of the Diocess , or the Ordinary , or the said Commissioners , to deprive such persons so persisting , or lawfully convicted of such eftsoones affirming , and upon such sentence of deprivation pronounced , he shall be indeed deprived .

Several things required in him which shall be admitted to a Benefice . And that no person shall hereafter be admitted to any Benefice with Cure , except he then be of the age of three and twenty years at the least , and a Deacon , and shall first have subscribed the said Articles in presence of the Ordinary , and publickly read the same in the Parish Church of that Benefice , with declaration of his unfeigned assent to the same . And that every person after the end of this Session of Parliament to be admitted to a Benefice with Cure , except that within two moneths after his Induction he do publickly read the said Articles in the same Church whereof he shall have Cure , in the time of Common Prayer there , with declaration of his unfeigned assent thereto , and be admitted to minister the Sacraments within one year after his Induction , if he be not so admitted before , shall be upon every such default , ipso facto , immediately deprived .

And that no person now permitted by any dispensation , or otherwise , shall retain any Benefice with Cure , being under the age of One and Twenty years , or not being Deacon at the least , or which shall not be admitted , as is aforesaid , within one year next after the making of this Act , or within six moneths after he shall accomplish the age of twenty four years , on pain that such his dispensation shall be meerly void .

The age of a Minister or Preacher , and his testimoniall . And that none shall be made Minister , or admitted to Preach or Administer the Sacraments , being under the age of four and twenty years , nor unlesse he first bring to the Bishop of that Diocess from men known to the Bishop to be of sound Religion , a testimonial , both of his honest life , and of his professing the Doctrine expressed in the said Articles ; nor unless he be able to answer and render to the Ordinary an account of his faith in Latine , accord-to the said Articles , or have special gift and ability to be a Preacher : nor shall be admitted to the Order of Deacon or Ministry , unless he shall first subscribe to the said Articles .

And that none hereafter ,

Who may have a Benefice of the yearly value of xxxl . All Admissions , Inductions , Tolerations .

No Lapse upon deprivation but after . notice . Dyer . fo. 377. 346. 369. Cok. li. 6. fol 29.

shall be admitted to any Benefice with Cure , of or above the value of thirty pounds yearly in the Queens books , unlesse he shall then be a Batchellour of Divinity , or Preacher lawfully allowed by some Bishop within this Realm , or by one of the Vniversities of Cambridge or Oxford .

And that all Admissions to Benefices , Institutions , and Inductions to be made of any person contrary to the form or any Provision of this Act , and all tolerations , dispensations , qualifications , and licences whatsoever to be made to the contrary hereof , shall be meerly void in Law , as if they never were .

Provided alway , That no title to confer or present by a Lapse , shall accrue upon any deprivation , ipso facto , but after six moneths notice of such deprivation given by the Ordinary to the Patron .

ADVERTISMENTS partly for due order IN THE PUBLICK ADMINISTRATION OF THE HOLY SACRAMENTS , AND Partly for the apparel of all persons Ecclesiastical , by vertue of the Queens Majesties letters commanding the same ; the 25. day of January in the seventh year of the reign of our Soveraign Lady ELIZABETH , by the grace of God , of England , France and Ireland Queen , defender of the Faith &c.

LONDINI , Cum privilegio ad imprimendum solum . Anno Dom. 1564. Anno 7. Eliz. R.

The Preface .

THe Queens Majesty of her godly Zeal calling to remembrance how necessary it is to the advancement of Gods glory and to the establishment of Christs pure Religion , for all her loving subjects , especially the state Ecclesiastical , to be knit together in one perfect unity of doctrine , and to be conjoyned in one uniformity of Rites and manners in the ministration of Gods holy word , in open prayer and ministration of Sacraments , as also to be of one decent behaviour in their outward apparel , to be known partly by their distinct habits to be of that vocation ( who should be reverenced the rather in their offices as Ministers of the holy things whereto they be called ) hath by her letters directed unto the Arch-Bishop of Canterbury and metropolitane , required , enjoyned and straightly charged , that with assistence and conference had with other Bishops , namely such as be in commission for causes Ecclesiastical , some orders might be taken , whereby all diversities and varieties among them of the Clergy and the people ( as breeding nothing but contention , offence and breach of common charity , and he against the laws , good usage and ordinances of the Realm ) might be reformed and repressed , and brought to one manner of uniformity throughout the whole Realm , that the people may thereby quietly honour and serve almighty God in truth , concord , unity , peace , and quietness , as by her Majesties said letters more at large doth appeare . Whereupon by diligent conference and communication in the same , and at last by assent and consent of the persons beforesaid , these orders and rules ensuing , have been thought meet and convenient to be used and followed : not yet prescribing these rules as laws equivalent with the eternal word of God , and as of necessity to binde the consciences of her subjects in the nature of them considered in themselves : Or as they should adde any efficacy , or more holinesse to the vertue of publick prayer and to the Sacraments , but as temporal orders meer Ecclesiastical , without any vain superstition , and as rules in some part of discipline concerning decency , distinction and order for the time .

Articles for Doctrine and preaching .

FIrst , that all they which shall be admitted to preach shall be diligently examined for their conformity in unity of doctrine , established by publick authority : and admonished to use sobriety and discretion in teaching the people , namely in matters of controversie , and to consider the gravity of their office , and to foresee with diligence the matters , which they will speak , to utter them to the edification of the audience .

Item , That they set out in their preaching the reverent estimation of the holy Sacraments of Baptisme and the Lords Supper , exciting the people to the often and devout receiving of the holy Communion of the body and blood of Christ , in such form as is already prescribed in the book of Common Prayer , and as it is further declared in an Homily concerning the vertue and efficacy of the said Sacraments .

Item , That they move the people to all obedience , as well in observation of the orders appointed in the book of Common service , as in the Queens Majesties injunctions . as also of all other civil duties due for subjects to do .

Item , That all licences for preaching , granted out by the Arch-Bishop and Bishops within the province of Canterbury , bearing date before the first day of March 1564 be void & of none effect : and neverthelesse all such as shall be thought meet for the office , to be admitted again without difficulty or charge , paying no more but iiii . pence for the writing , parchment and wax .

Item , If any Preacher or Parson , Vicar or Curate so licensed , shall fortune to preach any matter tending to dissention , or to the derogation of the Religion and Doctrine received , that the hearers denounce the same to the Ordinaries , or the next Bishop of the same place : but no man openly to contrary or to impugne the same speech so disorderly uttered : whereby may grow offence and disquiet of the people , but shall be convinced and reproved by the Ordinary after such agreeable order , as shall be seen to him according to the gravity of the offence . And that it be presented within one moneth after the words spoken .

Item , That they use not to exact or receive unreasonable rewards or stipends of the poor Pastors , coming to their Cures to preach , whereby they might be noted as followers of filthy lucre , rather then use the office of preaching of charity and good zeal , to the salvation of mens souls .

Item , If the Parson be able , he shall preach in his own person every three moneths , or else shall preach by an other , so that his absence be approved by the Ordinary of the Dioces in respect of sickness , service , or study at the Vniversities Neverthelesse yet for want of able Preachers and Parsons , to tolerate them without penalty , so that they preach in their own persons , or by a Learned substitute , once in every three moneths of the year .

Articles for Administration of Prayer and Sacraments .

FIrst , That the Common prayer be said or sung decently and distinctly , in such place as the Ordinary shall think meet for the largenesse and streightnesse of the Church and quire , so that the people may be most edified .

Item , That no Parson or Curate not admitted by the Bishop of the Dioces to preach , do expound in his own Cure or other where , any Scripture or matter of doctrine or by the way of exhortation , but onely study to read gravely and aptly , without any glossing of the same , or any additions , the Homilies already set out , or other such necessary doctrine as is or shall be prescribed for the quiet instruction and edification of the people .

Item , That in Cathedral Churches and colledges the holy Communion be ministred upon the first or second Sunday of every moneth at the least . So that both Dean , Prebendaries , Priests and clerks do receive : and all other of discretion of the foundation , do receive four times in the year at the least .

Item , In the ministration of the holy Communion in Cathedral and collegiat Churches , the principal Minister shall use a cope , with gospeller and epistoler agreeably , and at all other prayers to be said at that Communion table , to use no copes but Surplesses .

Item , That the Dean and Prebendaries wear a surples with a silk hood in the quire : and when they preach in the Cathedral or Collegiat Church , to wear their hood .

Item , that every minister saying any publick prayers or ministring the Sacraments or other Rites of the Church , shall wear a comly surples with sleeves , to be provided at the charges of the Parish : and that the Parish provide a decent table standing on a frame , for the Communion table .

Item , They shall decently cover with Carpet , silk or other decent covering , and with a fair linen cloth at the time of the ministration , the Communion table , and to set the ten Commandements upon the East w●ll over the said table .

Item , That all Communicants do receive kneeling , and as is appointed by the laws of the Realm , and the Queens Majesties Injunctions .

Item , That the font be not removed , nor that the Curate do baptize in parish Churches in any Basons , nor in any other form then is already prescribed , without charging the parent to be present or absent at the Christning of his childe , although the Parent may be present or absent , but not to answer as Godfather for his childe .

Item , That no childe be admitted to answer as Godfather or Godmother , except the childe hath received the Communion .

Item , that there be none other holydayes observed besides the Sundayes , but only such as be set out for holydayes , as in the Statute Anno quinto & sexto Edwardi sexti , and in the new Kalender authorised by the Queens Majesty .

Item , That when any Christian body is in passing , that the Bell be tolled , and that the Curate be specially called for to comfort the sick person : and after the time of his passing , to ring no more but one short peal : and one before the burial , and another short peal after the burial .

Item , That on Sundayes there be no shops open , nor artificers commonly going about their affaires worldly . And that in all Faires and common Markets , falling upon the Sunday , there be no shewing of any wares before the Service be done .

Item , That in the Rogation dayes of procession they sing or say in English the two Psalms beginning Benedic anima mea , &c. with the Letany and suffrages thereunto , with one Homily of thanksgiving to God , already devised and divided into foure parts , without addition of any superstitious ceremonies heretofore used .

Articles for certain orders in Ecclesiastical policy .

FIrst , against the day of giving of orders appointed , the Bishop shall give open monitions to all men to except against such as they know not to be worthy , either for life or conversation . And there to give notice , that none shall sue for Orders , but within their own Diocess where they were born , or had their long time of dwelling , except such as shall be of degree in the Vniversities .

Item , That no Curate or Minister be permitted to serve without examination and admissidn of the Ordinary or his deputy , in writlng , having respect to the greatness of the Cure , and the meetness of the party : and that the said Ministers if they remove from one Diocess to another , be by no means admitted to serve , without testimony of the Diocesan from whence they come , in writing of their honesty and ability .

Item , That the Bishop do call home once in the year any Prebendary in his Church , or beneficed in the Diocess which studieth at the Vniversities , to know how he profiteth in learning : and that he be not suffered to be a serving or waiting man dissolutely .

Item , That at the Archdeacons visitation , the Archdeacon shall appoint the Curate to certain taxes of the New Testament , to be con'd without book . And at their next Synod to exact a rehearsal of them .

Item , That the Church wardens once in the quarter declare by their Curates in bills subscribed with their hands to the Ordinary or to the next officer under him , who they be which will not readily pay their penalties for not coming to Gods divine service accordingly .

Item , That the Ordinaries do use good diligent examination , to foresee all Simonical pacts or covenants with the Patrons or presenters for the spoil of their glebe , tithes or mansion houses .

Item , That no persons be suffered to marry within the Levitical degrees mentioned in a table set forth by the Archbishop of Canterbury in that behalf , Anno Domini 1563. and if any such be , to be separated by order of law .

Articles for outward apparel of persons Ecclesiastical .

FIrst , that all Archbishops and Bishops do use and continue their accustomed apparel .

Item , That all Deans of Cathedral Churches , Masters of Colledges , all Archdeacons and other dignities in Cathedral Churches : Doctors , Bachilers of Divinity and Law , having any Ecclesiastical living , shall wear in their common apparel abroad , a side gown with slieves streight at the hand , without any cuts in the same . And that also without any falling cape : and to wear tippets of Sacrenet , as is lawful for them by that act of Parliament , Anno 24. Henrici octavi .

Item , That all Doctors of Physick , or of any other faculty , having any living Ecclesiastical , or any other that may dispend by the Church one hundred marks , so to be esteemed by the fruits or tenths of their promotions : and all Prebendaries whose promo●ions be valued at twenty pound or upward , wear the like apparel .

Item , That they and all Ecclesiastical persons , or other having any Ecclesiastical living , do wear the cap appointed by the Injunctions . And they to wear no hats but in their journying .

Item , That they in their journying do wear their cloaks with sieeves put on , and like in fashion to their gowns , without gards , welts or cuts .

Item , That in their private houses and studies , they use their own liberty of comely apparel .

Item , That all inferiour Ecclesiastical persons shall wear long gowns of the fashion aforesaid , and caps as afore is prescribed .

Item , That all poor Parsons , Vicars and Curates do endeavour themselves to conform their apparel in like sort , so seon and as conveniently as their ability will serve to the same . Provided that their ability be judged by the Bishop of the Dioces . And if their ability will not suffer to buy them long gowns of the form afore prescribed , that then they shall wear their short gowns , agreeable to the form before expressed .

Item , That all such persons as have been or be Ecclesiastical , and serve not the ministery , or have not accepted or shall refuse to accept the oath of obedience to the Queens Majesty , do from henceforth abroad wear none of the said apparel of the form and fashion aforesaid , but to go as meer lay men , till they be reconciled to obedience : and who shall obstinately refuse to do the same , that they be presented by the Ordinary to the Commissioners in causes Ecclesiastical , and by them to be reformed accordingly .

Protestations to be made , promised and subscribed by them that shall hereafter be admitted to any office , room or Cure in any Church , or other place Ecclesiastical .

IN primis , I shall not preach or publickly interpret , but only read that which is appointed by publick authority , without special licence of the Bishop under his seal .

I shall read the service appointed , plainly , distinctly and audibly , that all the people may hear and understand .

I shall keep the Register book according to the Queens Majesties Injunctions .

I shall use sobriety in apparel , and specially in the Church at Common prayers , according to order appointed .

I shall move the Parishioners to quiet and concord , and not give them cause of offence , and shall help to reconcile them which be at variance , to my uttermost power .

I shall read daily at the least one Chapter of the old Testament , and an other of the New , with good advisement , to the increase of my knowledge .

I do also faithfully promise in my person , to use and exercise my office and place to the honour of God , to the quiet of the Queens subjects within my charge , in truth concord and unity . And also to observe , keep and maintain such order and uniformity in all external policy , rites and ceremonies of the Church , as by the Laws , Good usuages and orders are already well provided and established .

I shall not openly intermeddle with any artificers occupations , as covetously to seek a gain thereby , having in Ecclesiastical living to the sum of twenty nobles or above by year .

Agreed upon and subscribed by , Commissioners in causes Ecclesiastical . Matthaeus Cantuariensis . Edmondus Londoniensis . Richardus Eliensis . Edmondus Roffensis . Robertus Wintoniensis . Nicolaus Lincolniensis . With others .

Imprinted at LONDON by Reginald Wolfe .

The OATHS of ALLEGIANCE , SUPREMACY , AND Canonical Obedience .
The Oath of ALLEGIANCE .

I A. B. Do truely and sincerely acknowledge , professe , testifie and declare in my conscience before God and the World , that our Soveraign Lord King Charles is lawful and rightful King of this Realm , and of all other his Majesties Dominions and Countries ; and that the Pope , neither of himself , nor by any authority of the Church or Sea of Rome , or by any other means with any other , hath any power or authority to depose the King , or to dispose any of his Majesties Kingdoms or Dominions or to authorize any Foraign Prince to invade or annoy him or his Countries , or to discharge any of his Subjects of their Allegiance and obedience to his Majesty , or to give license or leave to any of them to bear Armes , raise Tumults , or to offer any violence or hurt to his Majesties Royal Person , State or Government , or to any of his Majestyes Subjects within his Majesties Dominions .

Also I do swear from my heart , that notwithstanding any declaration or sentence of Excommunication or Deprivation made or granted , or to be made or granted by the Pope or his Successours , or by any Authority derived or pretended to be derived from him or his Sea , against the said King , his Heirs or Successours , or any Absolution of the said Subjects from their Obedience ; I will bear faith and true Allegiance to his Majesty , his Heirs and Successours , and him and them will defend to the uttermost of my power , against all conspiracies and attempts whatsoever which shall be made against his or their Persons , their Crown and Dignity , by reason or colour of any such Sentence or Declaration or otherwise ; and will do my best endeavour to disclose and make known unto his Majesty , his Heires and Successours all Treasons and Traiterous Conspiracies which I shall know or hear of , to be against him or any of them .

And I do further swear , That I do from my heart abhor , detest and abjure , as impious and heretical , this damnable Doctrine and Position , That Princes which be excommunicated or deprived by the Pope , may be deposed or murthered by their Subjects , or any other whatsoever .

And I do believe and in [ Conscience am ] resolved , that neither the Pope nor any person whatsoever hath power to absolve me of this Oath , or any part thereof which I acknowledge by good and full authority to be lawfully administred unto me , and do renounce all pardons and dispensations to the contrary . And all these things I do plainly and sincerely acknowledge , and swear according to these expresse words by me spoken , and according to the plain and common sense and understanding of the same words , without any equivocation , or mental evasion , or secret reservation whatsoever : And I do make this Recognition and acknowledgement heartily , willingly and truely , upon the true faith of a Christian . So help me God . &c.

The Oath of SVPREMACY .

I A B. Do utterly testifie and declare in my conscience , that the Kings highnesse is the onely supreme Governour of this Realm , and of all other his Highnesse Dominions and Countries , as well in all Spiritual or Ecclesiastical things or causes , as Temporal ; And that no Foraign Prince , Person Prelate , State or Potentate , hath or ought to have any Jurisdiction , Power Superiority , Preeminence or Authority Ecclesiastical or Spiritual with in this Realm : And therefore I do utterly renounce and forsake all Foraign Jurisdictions , Powers , Superiorities and authorities , and do promise from henceforth I shall bear faith and true Allegiance to the Kings Highnesse , his Heires and lawful Successours , and to my power shall assist and defend all Jurisdictions , Priviledges , Preeminences and Authorities granted , or belonging to the Kings Highness , his Heirs and Successours , or united and annexed to the Imperial Crown of this Realm . So help me God , and by the Contents of this book .

The Oath of SIMONY .

I A. B. do swear that I have made no Simoniacal payment , contract , or promise directly or indirectly by my self , or by any other to my knowledge , or with my consent to any person or persons whatsoever for , or concerning the procuring or obtaining of the R. or V. of A in the Dioces of London . Nor will at any time hereafter perform or satisfie any such kinde of payment , contract or promise made by any other without my knowledge or consent . So help me God through Jesus Christ .

Juramentum de CANONICA OBEDIENTIA .

EGO A. B. juro quod praestabo veram & Canonicam Obedientiam Episcopo Londinensi ejusque successoribus in omnibus Licitis & honestis . Sic me Deus adjuvet .

Juramentum de continuâ Residentiâ in Vicariâ .

EGO A. B. Juro quod ero residens in Vicariâ meâ nisi alitèr dispensatum fuerit a Diocesano meo .

By the KING A PROCLAMATION Declaring That the proceedings of his Majesties Ecclesiastical Courts and Ministers , are according to the Lawes of the Realm .

WHereas in some of the Libellous books and Pamphlets lately published , The most Reverend Father in God , the Lord Arch-bishop and Bishops of this Realm , are said to have usurped upon his Majesties Prerogative Royal , and to have proceeded in the high Commission and other Ecclesiastical Courts , contrary to the Laws and statutes of this Realm ; It was ordered by his Majesties high Court of Star-Chamber , the Twelfth day of June last , that the opinion of the two Lords chief Justices , the Lord chief Baron , and the rest of the Judges and Barons should be had and certified in those particulars . viz. Whether Processes may not issue out of the Ecclesiastical Courts in the Name of the Bishops ? Whether a Patent under the great Seal be necessary for the keeping of the Ecclesiastical Courts , and enabling Citations , Suspensions , Excommunications and other censures of the Church . And whether Citations ought to be in the Kings name , and under his Seal of Armes , and the like for Institutions and Inductions to Benefices , and correction of Ecclesiastical offences ? Whether Bishops , Arch-Deacons and other Ecclesiastical persons may or ought to keep any visitation at any time unlesse they have expresse Commission or Patent under the great Seal of England to do it , and that as his Majesties Visitors onely , and in his name and Right alone .

Whereupon , his Majesties said Judges haveing taken the same into their serious consideration , did unanimously concur and agree in opinion , and the first day of July last certified under their hands as followeth , That processes may issue out of the Ecclesiastical Courts in the name of the Bishops ; and that a Patent under the great Seal is not necessary for the keeping of the said Ecclesiastical Courts , or for enabling of Citations ; Suspensions , Excommunications and other Censures of the Church ; And that it is not necessary that Summons , Citations , or other Processes Ecclesiastical in the said Courts , or Institutions , or Inductions to Benefices , or correction of Ecclesiastical offences by Censure in those Courts , be in the Kings name or with the style of the King , or under the Kings Seal , or that their Seals of office have in them the Kings Armes ; And that the statute of Primo Edvardi sexti , cap. secundo , which enacted the Contrary , is not now in force : And that the Bishops , Arch-Deacons and other Ecclesiastical persons , may keep their Visitations as usually they have done , without Commission under the great Seal of England so to do : which opinions and resolutions being declared under the hands of all his Majesties said Judges and so certified into his Court of Starchamber , were there recorded : and it was by that Court further ordered the fourth day of the said month of July , that the said certificate should be enrolled in all other his Majesties Courts at Westminster , and in the High Commission , and other Ecclesiastical Courts , for the satisfaction of all men , That the proceedings in the high Commission and other Ecclesiastical Courts are agreeable to the Laws and Statutes of the Realm .

And his Royal Majesty hath thought fit , with advice of his Councel , that a publick Declaration of these the opinions and resolutions of his Reverend and Learned Judges , being agreeable to the Judgment and resolutions of former times , should be made known to all his Subjects , as well to vindicate the legal proceedings of His Ecclesiastical Courts and Ministers , from the Unjust and scandalous imputation of Invading or entrenching on his Royal prerogative , as to settle the minds and stop the mouths of all unquiet Spirits , that for the future they presume not to censure His Ecclesiastical Courts or Ministers in these their Just and warranted proceedings : And hereof his Majesty admonisheth all his Subjects to take warning as they shall answer the contrary at their perils .

Given at the Court at Lyndhurst , the 18th . day of August , in the 13th . year of his Majesties Reign . God save the King .

Imprinted at London by Robert Barker , Printer to the Kings most Excellent Majesty and by the Assignes of John Bill . 1637.

THE FORM and MANNER OF MAKING & CONSECRATING BISHOPS , PRIESTS , AND DEACONS : According to the APPOINTMENT OF THE Church of England .

LONDON , Printed by Bonham Norton and John Bill , Printers to the Kings most Excellent Majesty 1629.

THE PREFACE .

IT is evident unto all men , diligently reading holy Scripture , and ancient Authors , that from the Apostles time , there hath been these Orders of Ministers in Christs Church , Bishops , Priests and Deacons : which Offices were evermore had in such reverent estimation , that no man by his own private authority might presume to execute any of them , except he were first called , tried , examined and known to have such qualities , as were requisite for the same , and also by publick prayer , with imposition of hands , approved and admitted thereunto . And therefore , to the intent these orders should be continued , and reverently used and esteemed in this Church of England , it is requisite that no man , ( not being at this present Bishop , Priest , nor Deacon ) shall execute any of them , except he be called , tried , examined and admitted , according to the Form hereafter following . And none shall be admitted a Deacon , except he be twenty one years of age at the least . And every man which is to be admitted a Priest , shall be full four and twenty years old . And every man which is to be consecrated a Bishop , shall be fully thirty years of age . And the Bishop knowing either by himself , or by sufficient testimony , any person to be a man of vertuous conversation , and without crime , and after examination and trial , finding him learned in the Latine tongue , and sufficiently instructed in holy Scripture , may upon a Sunday or Holiday , in the face of the Church , admit him a Deacon , in such manner and form as hereafter followeth .

The form and manner of ordering DEACONS .

FIft , When the day appointed by the Bishop is come , there shall be an Exhortation , declaring the duty and office of such as come to be admitted Ministers , how necessary such Orders are in the Church of Christ , and also how the people ought to esteem them in their Vocation .

After the Exhortation ended , the Archdeacon or his Deputy , shall present such as shall come to the Bishop to be admitted , saying these words .

REverend Father in God , I present unto you these persons present , to be admitted Deacons .

The Bishop .

TAke heed that the persons whom ye present unto us , be apt and meet , for their learning and godly conversation , to exercise their ministry duly , to the honour of God , and edifying of his Church .

The Archdeacon shall answer .

I Have enquired of them , and also examined them , and think them so to be .

And the Bishop shall say unto the people .

BRethren , if there be any of you , who knoweth any impediment , or notable 〈◊〉 , in any of these persons presented to be ordered Deacons , for the which he ought not to be admitted to the same , let him come forth in the Name of God , and shew what the crime or impediment is .

And if any great crime or impediment be objected , the Bishop shall surcease from Ordering that person , until such time as the party accused shall try himself clear of that crime .

Then the Bishop commending such as shall be found meet to be Ordered , to the prayers of the Congregation , with the Clerks and people present , shall say or sing the Letany , as followeth , with the prayers .

The Letany and Suffrages .

O God the Father of heaven : have mercy upon us miserable sinners .

O God the Father of heaven : have mercy upon us miserable sinners .

O God the Son Redeemer of the world : have mercy upon us miserable sinners .

O God the Son Redeemer of the world : have mercy upon us miserable sinners .

O God the holy Ghost proceeding from the Father and the Son : have mercy upon us miserable sinners .

O God the holy Ghost proceeding from the Father and the Son : have mercy upon us miserable sinners .

O holy , blessed and glorious Trinity , three Persons and one God : have mercy upon us miserable sinners .

O holy , blessed and glorious Trinity , three persons and one God : have mercy upon us miserable sinners .

Remember not Lord our offences , nor the offences of our forefathers , neither take thou vengeance of our sins : Spare us good Lord , spare thy people whom thou hast redeemed with thy most precious blood , and be not angry with us for ever .

Spare us good Lord

From all evil and mischief , from sin , from the crafts and assaults of the devil , from thy wrath , and from everlasting damnation .

Good Lord deliver us .

From all blindnesse of heart , from pride , vain-glory , and hypocrisy , from envy , hatred , and malice , and all uncharitablenesse .

Good Lord deliver us .

From fornication and all other deadly sin , and from all the deceits of the world , the flesh and the devil .

Good Lord deliver us .

From lightning and tempest , from plague , pestilence and famine , from battle and murder , and from sudden death .

Good Lord deliver us .

From all sedition and privie conspiracy , from all false doctrine and heresie , from heardnesse of heart , and contempt of thy word and commandment .

Good Lord deliver us .

By the mystery of thy holy Incarnation , by thy holy Nativity and Circumcision , by thy Baptisme , Fasting and Temptation .

Good Lord deliver us .

By thine Agony and bloody Sweat , by thy Crosse and Passion , by thy precious death and burial , by thy glorious resurrection and ascenson , and by the coming of the holy Ghost .

God Lord deliver us .

In all time of our tribulation , in all time of our wealth , in the hour o●… death , and in the day of judgement .

Good Lord deliver us .

We sinners do beseech thee to hear us ( O Lord God ) and that it may please thee to rule and govern thy holy Church universally in the right way .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to keep and strengthen in the true worshiping of thee , in righteousnesse and holinesse of life , thy servant CHARLES , our most gracious King and Governour .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to rule his heart in thy faith , fear , and love , and that he may evermore have affiance in thee , and ever seek thy honour and glory .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to be his defender and keeper , giving him the victory over all his enemies .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord ,

That it may please thee to blesse and preserve our gracious Queen Mary , Prince James Duke of York , and the rest of the Royal Progeny .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to illuminate all Bishops , Pastors , and Ministers of the Church , with true knowledge and understanding of thy Word , and that both by their preaching and living , they may set it forth , and shew it accordingly .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to edue the Lords of the Councel and all the Nobility , with grace , wisdome and understanding .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to blesse and keep all the Magistrates , giving them grace to execute Iustice and to maintain truth .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to blesse and keep all thy people .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to give to all Nations , unity , peace and concord .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to give us an heart to love and dread thee , and diligently to live after thy commandments .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to give to all thy people increase of grace to hear meekly thy Word , and to receive it with pure affection , and to bring forth the fruits of the Spirit .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to bring into the way of truth , all such as have erred and are deceived .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to strengthen such as do stand , and to comfort and help the weak hearted , and to raise vp them that fall , and finally to beat down Satan under our feet .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to succour , help and comfort all that be in danger , necessity , and tribulation .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to preserve all that travel by land or by water , all women labouring of childe , all sick persons and young children , and to shew thy pity upon all prisoners and captives ,

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to defend and provide for the fatherless children and widows , and all that be desolate and oppressed .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to have mercy upon all men .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to forgive our enemies , persecuters and slanderers , and to turn their hearts .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to give and preserve to our use the kindly fruits of the earth , so as in due time we may enjoy them .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

That it may please thee to give us true repentance , to forgive us all our sins , negligences , & ignorances , and to endue us with the grace of thy holy Spirit , to amend our lives according to thy holy Word .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord .

Son of God : we beseech thee to hear us .

Son of God : we beseech thee to hear us .

O Lamb of God , that takest away the sins of the world .

Grant us thy peace .

O Lamb of God : that takest away the sins of the world .

Have mercy upon us .

O Christ hear us .

O Christ hear us .

Lord have mercy upon us .

Lord have mercy upon us .

Christ have mercy upon us .

Christ have mercy upon us .

Lord have mercy upon us .

Lord have mercy upon us .

Our Father which art in heaven , &c.

And lead us not into temptation .

But deliver us from evil . Amen .

The Versicle .

O Lord deal not with us after our sins .

Answer .

Neither reward us after our iniquities .

Let us pray .

O God merciful Father , that despisest not the sighing of a contrite heart , nor the desire of such as be sorrowful , mercifully assist , our prayers that we make before thee in all our troubles and adversities , whensoever they oppresse us , and graciously hear us , that those evils which the craft and subtilty of the devil or man worketh against us , be brought to nought , and by the providence of thy goodnesse they may be dispersed , that we thy servants being hurt by no persecutions , may evermore give thanks unto thee in thy holy Church , through Iesus Christ our Lord .

O Lord arise , help us , and deliver us for thy names sake .

O God , we have heard with our ears , and our Fathers have declared unto us , the noble works that thou didest in their dayes , and in the old time before them .

O Lord arise , help us , and deliver us for thine honour .

Glory be to the Father , and to the Son , &c.

As it was in the beginning , is now , &c.

From our enemies defend us , O Christ .

Graciously look upon our afflictions .

Pitifully behold the sorrows of our hearts .

Mercifully forgive the sins of thy people .

Favourably with mercy hear our prayers .

O Son of David have mercy upon us .

Both now and ever vouchsafe to hear us , O Christ .

Graciously hear us , O Christ , graciously hear us , O Lord Christ .

The Versicle .

O Lord , let thy mercy be shewed upon us .

Answer .

As we do put our trust in thee .

Let us pray .

WE humbly beseech thee , O Father , mercifully to look upon our infirmities , and for the glory of thy Names sake turn from us all those evils that we most righteously have deserved : and grant that in all troubles we may put our whole trust and confidence in thy mercy , and evermore serve thee in holinesse and purenesse of living , to thy honour and glory , through our onely Mediator and Advocate , Iesus Christ our Lord . Amen .

ALmighty God , which hast given us grace at this time with one accord to make our common supplications unto thee , and doest promise that when two or three be gathered together in thy Name , thou wilt grant their requests : fulfil now , O Lord , the desires and petitions of thy servants , as may be most expedient for them , granting us in this world knowledge of thy truth , and in the world to come life everlasting . Amen .

Then shall be said also this that followeth .

ALmighty God , which by thy divine providence hast appointed divers orders of ministers in the Church , and didst inspire thine holy Apostles , to chuse unto this Order of Deacons , the first Martyr S. Stephen with other : mercifully behold these thy servants now called to the like office and administration , replensh them so with the truth of thy doctrine , and innocency of life , that both by word and good example , they may faithfully serve thee in this office , to the glory of thy Name , and profit of the Congregation , through the merits of our saviour Iesu Christ , who liveth and reigneth with thee and the holy Ghost , now and for ever . Amen .

Then shall be sung or said the Communion of the day , saving the Epistle shall be read out of Timothy , as followeth .

LIkewise must the ministers be honest , not double-tongued , not given unto much wine , neither greedy of filthy lucre , but holding the mystery of the faith , with a pure conscience : and let them first be proved , and then let them minister , so that no man be able to reprove them . Even so must their wives be honest , not evil speakers , but sober , and faithful in all things . Let the Deacons be the husbands of one wife , and such as rule their children well , and their own housholds : For they that minister well , get themselves a good degree , and a great liberty in the faith which is in Christ Iesu .

These things write I unto thee , trusting to come shortly unto thee : but and if I tarry long , that then thou mayest yet have knowledge how thou oughtest to behave thy self in the house of God , which is the congregation of the living God , the pillar and ground of truth . And without doubt , great is that mystery of godlinesse , God was shewed in the flesh , was justified in the spirit , was seen among the angels , was preached unto the Gentiles , was believed on in the world , and received up in glory ,

Or else this out of the sixth of the Acts.

THen the twelve called the multitude of the disciples together , and said , It is not meet that we should leave the word of God , and serve tables : Wherefore brethren , look you out among you seven men of honest report , and full of the holy Ghost and wisdom , to whom we may commit this businesse : but we will give our selves continually to prayer , and to the administration of the word . And that saying pleased the whole multitude . And they chose Stephen , a man full of faith , and full of the holy Ghost , and Philip , and Prochorus , and Nicanor , and Timon , and Parmenas , and Nicholas , a convert of Antioch . These they set before the Apostles , and when they had prayed , they laid their hands on them . And the word of God encreased , and the number of the disciples multiplied in Ierusalem greatly , and a great company of the Priests were obedient unto the faith .

And before the Gospel , the Bishop sitting in a chair , shall cause the Oath of the Kings supremacy , and against the power and authority of all forreign Potentates , to be ministred unto every of them that are to be ordered .

The Oath of the Kings Soveraignty .

I A. B. do utterly testifie and declare in my conscience , that the Kings Highnesse is the onely supreme governour of this Realm , and of all other his Highnesse dominions and Countries , as well in all spiritul or Ecclesiastical things or causes , as temporal , and that no forraign Prince , Person , Prelate , State or Potentate , hath or ought to have any jurisdiction , power , superiority , preeminence , or authority Ecclesiastical , or Spiritual within this Realm , & therefore I do utterly renounce and forsake all forreign jurisdictions , powers , superiorities , and authorities , and do promise that from henceforth I shall bear faith and true Allegiance to the Kings Highnesse , his Heires and lawful Successors , and to my power shall assist and defend all jurisdictions , priviledges , preeminences and authorities , granted or belonging to the Kings Highnesse his Heirs , and Successors , or united and annexed to the Imperial Crown of this Realm , so help me God , and the Contents of this Book .

Then shall the Bishop examine every one of them that are to be ordered , in the presence of the people , after this manner following .

DO you trust that you are inwardly moved by the holy Ghost to take upon you this office and ministration , to serve God , for the promoting of his glory , and the edifying of his people ?

Answer .

I trust so .

The Bishop .

DO you think that ye truely be called according to the will of the Lord Iesus Christ , and the due order of this Realm , to the Ministery of the Church ?

Answer .

I think so :

The Bishop .

DO you unfeignedly beleive all the Canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testament ?

Answer .

I do believe .

The Bishop .

WIll you diligently read the same unto the people assembled in the Church where you shall be appointed to serve ?

Answer .

I will .

The Bishop .

IT appertaineth to the office of a Deacon in the Church , where he shall be appointed , to assist the Priest in Divine service , and specially when he Ministreth the holy Communion , and to help him in distribution thereof , and to read holy Scriptures and Homilies in the Congregation , and to instruct the youth in the Catechisme , to Baptize and to Preach , if he be admitted thereto by the Bishop . And furthermore , it is his office , where provision is so made , to search for the sick , poor , and impotent people of the parish , to intimate their estates , names , and places where they dwell unto the Curate , that by his exhortation they may be relieved by the Parish , or other convenient almes : will you do this gladly and willingly ?

Answer .

I will do so by the help of God .

The Bishop .

WIll you apply all your diligence to frame and fashion your own lives , and the lives of your familie , according to the doctrine of Christ , and to make both your selves and them , as much as in you lieth , wholesome examples of the flock of Christ ?

Answer .

I will so do , the Lord being my helper .

The Bishop .

WIll you reverently obey your Ordinary and other chief Ministers of the Church , and them to whom the government and charge is committed over you , following with a glad minde and will their godly admonitions ?

Answer .

I will endeavour my self , the Lord being my helper .

Then the Bishop laying his hands severally upon the head of every of them , shall say ,

Take thou authority to execute the office of a Deacon in the Church of God committed unto thee : In the Name of the Father , the Son , and the holy Ghost . Amen .

Then shall the Bishop deliver to every one of them the new Testament , saying ,

Take thou authority to read the Gospel in the Church of God , and to preach the same , if thou be thereto ordinarily commanded ,

Then one of them appointed by the Bishop , shall read the Gospel of that day .

Then shall the Bishop proceed to the Communion , and all that are ordered , shall tarry and receive the holy Communion the same day with the Bishop .

The Communion ended , after the last Collect , and immediatly before the Benediction , shall be said this Collect following .

ALmighty God , giver of all good things , which of thy great goodnesse hast vouchsafed to accept and take these thy servants unto the Offices of Deacons in thy Church : make them we beseech thee ( O Lord ) to be modest , humble and constant in their ministration , to have a ready will to observe all spiritual discipline , that they having alwayes the testimony of a good conscience , and continuing ever stable and strong in thy Son Christ , may so well use themselves in this inferiour Office , that they may be found worthy to be called unto the higher Ministeries in thy Church , through the same thy Son our Saviour Christ , to whom be glory and honour world without end . Amen .

And here it must be shewed unto the Deacon , that he must continue in that Office of a Deacon , the space of a whole year at the least ( except for reasonable causes it be otherwise seen to his Ordinary ) to the intent he may be perfect , and well expert in the things appertaining to the Ecclesiastical administration , in executing whereof , if he be found faithful and diligent , he may be admitted by his Diocesan to the Order of Priesthood .

❧ The form of ordering of Priests .

When the exhortation is ended , then shall follow the Communion . And for the Epistle shall be read out of the twentieth Chapter of the Acts of the Apostles , as followeth .

FRom Mileto Paul sent messengers to Ephesus , and called the elders of the congregation : which when they were come to him , he said unto them , Ye know that from the first day that I came into Asia , after what manner I have been with you at all seasons serving the Lord with all humblenesse of minde , and with many tears and temptations , which happened unto me by the lying in wait of the Iews , because I would keep back nothing that was profitable unto you , but to shew you , and teach you openly throughout every house , witnessing both to the Iews and also to the Greeks , the repentance that is toward God , and the faith that is toward our Lord Iesus . And now behold , I go bound in the spirit unto Ierusalem , not knowing the things that shall come on me there , but that the holy Ghost witnesseth in every City , saying , that bands and trouble abide me . But none of these things move me , neither is my life dear unto my self , that I might fulfil my course with joy , and the ministration of the word which I have received of the Lord Iesus , to testifie the Gospel of the grace of God . And now behold I am sure that henceforth ye all ( through whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God ) shall see my face no more . Wherefore I take you to record this day , that I am pure , from the blood of all men : For I have spared no labour : but have shewed you all the counsel of God . Take heed therefore unto your selves , and to all the flock among whom the holy Ghost hath made you overseers , to rule the congregation of God , which he hath purchased with his blood , For I am sure of this , that after my departure shall grievous wolves enter in among you , not sparing the flock . Moreover , of your own selves shall men arise , speaking perverse things to draw disciples after them .

Therefore awake , and remember that by the space of three years , I ceased not to warn every one of you night and day with tears .

And now brethren I commend you to God , and to the word of his grace which is able to build further , and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified . I have desired no mans silver , gold or vesture : Yea , you know your selves , that these hands have ministred unto my necessities , and unto them that were with me . I have shewed you all things , how that so labouring ye ought to receive the weak , and to remember the words of our Lord Iesus , how that he said , It is more blessed to give then to receive .

Or else this third Chapter of the first Epistle to Timothy .

1 Tim. 3. This when Deacons and Priests are made both in one day . THis is a true saying , If any man desire the Office of a Bishop , he desireth an honest work . A Bishop therefore must be blamelesse , the husband of one wife , diligent , sober , discreet , a keeper of hospitality , apt to teach , not given to overmuch wine , no fighter , not greedy of filthy lucre , but gentle , abhorring fighting , abhoring covetousnesse , one that ruleth well his own house , one that hath children in subjection with all reverence . for if a man cannot rule his own house , how shall he care for the congregation of God ? he may not be a young scholar , lest he swell , and fall into the judgement of the evil speaker . He must also have a good report of them which are without , lest he fall into rebuke and snare of the evil speaker .

Likewise must the Ministers be honest ; not double tongued , not given to much wine , neither greedy of filthy lucre , but holding the mystery of the faith , with a pure conscience : and let them first be proved , and then let them minister , so that no man be able to reprove them .

Even so must their wives be honest , not evil speakers : but sober and faithful in all things . Let the Deacons be the husbands of one wife , and such as rule their children well , and their own housholds : For they that minister well , get themselves a good degree , and great liberty in the faith , which is in Christ Iesus . These things write I unto thee , trusting to come shortly unto thee : but if I tarry long , that then thou mayest have yet knowledge , how thou oughtest to behave thy self in the house of God , which is the congregation of the living God , the pillar and ground of truth .

And without doubt , great is that Mystery of godlinesse : God was shewed in the flesh , was justified in the spirit , was seen among the angels , was precahed unto the Gentiles , was believed on in the world , and received up in glory .

After this shall be read for the gospel , a piece of the last Chapter of Matthew , as followeth .

JEsus came and spake unto them , saying , All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth : go ye therefore , and teach all nations , baptizing them in the Name of the Father , and of the Son , and of the holy Ghost , teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you : and lo , I am with you alway , even to the end of the world .

Or else this that followeth out of the tenth Chapter of Saint John .

VErily verily I say unto you , He that entreth not in by the door into the sheepfold , but climbeth up some other way , the same is a thief and a murderer . But he that entreth in by the door , is the shepherd of the sheep : to him the porter openeth , and the sheep hear his voice , and he calleth his own sheep by name , and leadeth them out . And when he hath sent forth his own sheep he goeth before them , and the sheep follow him , for they know his voice . A stranger will they not follow , but will flee from him , for they know not the voice of strangers , This Proverb spake Iesus unto them , but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them . Then said Iesus unto them again , Verily , verily I say unto you , I am the door of the sheep : and all ( even as many as came before me ) are thieves and murderers , but the sheep did not hear them . I am the door : by me if any man enter in , he shall be safe and go in and out , and finde pasture . A thief cometh not but for to steal , kill , and to destroy . I am come that they might have life , and that they might have it more abundantly . I am the good shepherd . A good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep . An hired servant and he which is not the shepherd ( neither the sheep are his own ) seeth the wolf coming , and leaveth the sheep and fleeth , and the wolf catcheth and scattereth the sheep . The hired servant fleeth because he is an hired servant and careth not for the sheep . I am the good shepherd and know my sheep , and am known of mine . As my Father knoweth me , even so know I also my Father . And I give my life for the sheep . And other sheep I have , which are not of this fold : them also must I bring , and they shall hear my voice , and there shall be one fold and one shepherd .

Or else this , of the 20. Chapter of John .

THe same day at night , which was the first day of the Sabboths , when the doors were shut ( where the disciples were assembled together , for fear of the Iews ) came Iesus , and stood in the midst , and said unto them , Peace be unto you . And when he had so said , he shewed unto them his hands and his side . Then were the disciples glad when they saw the Lord . Then said Iesus unto them again , Peace be unto you : As my Father sent me , even so send I you also . And when he had said those words , he breathed on them , and said unto them , receive ye the holy Ghost . Whosoevers sins ye remit , they are remitted unto them : and whosoevers sins ye retain , they are retained .

When the Gospel is ended , then shall be said or sung , COme holy Ghost , eternal God , proceeding from above : Both from the Father and the Son , the God of peace and love . Visit our minds , and into us thy heavenly grace inspire , That in all truth and godliness , we may have true desire . Thou art the very Comforter , in all wo and distress : The heavenly gift of God most high , which no tongue can express . The fountain and the lively spring , of joy celestial ; The fire so bright , the love so clear , and unction spiritual . Thou in thy gifts art manifold , whereby Christs Church doth stand , In faithful hearts writing thy law , the finger of Gods hand . According to thy promise made , thou givest speech of grace : That through thy help the praise of God may found in every place . O holy Ghost into our wits send down thy heavenly light , Kindle our hearts with fervent love to serve God day and night . Strength and stablish all our weakness , so feeble and so frail : That neither flesh , the world , nor devil , against us do prevail . Put back our enemy far from us , and grant us to obtain Peace in our hearts with God and man , without grudge or disdain . And grant O Lord , that thou being our leader and our guide , We may eschew the snares of sin , and from thee never slide . To us such plenty of thy grace , good Lord , grant we thee pray : That thou mayest be our Comforter at the last dreadful day . Of all strife and dissension , O Lord dissolve the bands : And make the knots of peace and love , throughout all Christian lands . Grant us O Lord , through thee to know , the Father most of might . That of his dear beloved Son , we may attain the sight . And that with perfect faith also we may acknowledge thee : The Spirit of them both alway , one God in persons three . Laud and praise be to the Father , and to the Son equal : And to the holy Spirit also , one God coeternal . And pray we that the onely Son , vouchsafe his Spirit to send . To all that do professe his Name , unto the worlds end . Amen .
And then the Arch-deacon shall present unto the Bishop , all them that shall receive the Order of Priesthood that day , the Arch-deacon saying ,

REverend Father in God , I present unto you these persons present , to be admitted to the Order of Priesthood .

Cum interrogatione & responsione , ut in ordine Diaconatus .

And then the Bishop shall say to the people .

GOod people , these be they whom we purpose , God willing , to receive this day unto the holy office of Priesthood : For after due examination , we finde not to the contrary , but that they be lawfully called to their function and ministery , and that they be persons meet for the same : But yet if there be any of you which knoweth any impediment or notable crime of any of them , for the which he ought not to be received into this holy ministery , now in the name of God declare the same .

And if any great crime or impediment be objected ,

Vt supra in Ordine Diaconatus , usque ad finem Litaniae , cum hac Collecta .

ALmighty God giver of all good things , which by thy holy Spirit hast appointed divers Orders of Ministers in the Church , mercifully behold their thy servants now called to the office of Priesthood , and replenish them so with the truth of thy doctrine and innocency of life , that both by word and good example , they may faithfully serve thee in this office to the glory of thy Name , and profit of thy congregation , through the merits of our Saviour Iesus Christ , who liveth and reigneth with thee and the holy Ghost , world without end . Amen .

Then the Bishop shall minister unto every one of them the Oath concerning the Kings supremacy , as it is set forth in the Order of Deacons . And that done , he shall say unto them which are appointed to receive the said office , as hereafter followeth .

YOu have heard , brethren , as well in your private examination , as in the exhortation , and in the holy lessons taken out of the Gospel , and of the writings of the Apostles , of what dignity , and of how great importance this office is ( whereunto ye be called . ) And now we exhort you in the Name of our Lord Iesus Christ , to have in remembrance into how high a dignity , and to how chargeable an office ye be called , that is to say , the messengers , the watchmen , the pastors and the stewards of the Lord , to teach , to premonish , to feed and provide for the Lords family , to seek for Christs sheep that be dispersed abroad , and for his children which be in the midst of this naughty world , to be saved through Christ for ever . Have alwayes therefore printed in your remembrance , how great a treasure is committed to your charge : for they be the sheep of Christ , which he bought with his death , and for whom he shed his blood . The Church and Congregation whom you must serve , is his Spouse and his body .

And if it shall chance the same Church , or any member thereof , to take any hurt or hinderance , by reason of your negligence , you know the greatnesse of the fault , and also of the horrible punishment which will ensue . Wherefore consider with your selves the end of your ministery towards the children of God , towards the spouse and body of Christ , and see that you never cease your labour , your care and diligence , until you have done all that lieth in you , according to your bounden duty , to bring all such as are , or shall be committed to your charge , unto that agreement in faith and knowledge of God , and to that ripenesse and perfectnesse of age in Christ , that there be no place left among you either of errour in religion or for viciousnesse of life .

Then for as much as your office is both of so great excellencie , and of so great difficultie , ye see with how great care and study ye ought to apply your selves as well that ye may shew your selves kinde to that Lord who hath placed you in so high a dignity , as also to beware that neither you your selves offend , neither be occasion that other offend . Howbeit , ye cannot have a minde and a will thereto of your selves , for that power and ability is given of God alone . Therefore ye see how ye ought and have need earnestly to pray for his holy Spirit . And seeing that you cannot by any other means compass the doing of so weighty a work pertainig to the salvation of man , but with doctrine and exhortation taken out of the holy Scriptures , and with a life agreeable unto the fame : Ye perceive how studious ye ought to be in reading and in learning the Scriptures , and in framing the manners both of your selves , and of them that specially pertain unto you , according to the rule of the same Scriptures : And for this self-same cause , ye see how ye ought to forsake and set aside ( as much as you may ) all worldly cares and studies .

We have good hope , that you have well weighed and pondered these things with your selves , long before this time , and that you have clearly determined by Gods grace , to give your selves wholly to this vocation , whereunto it hath pleased God to call you ; so that ( as much as lieth in you ) you apply your selves wholly to this one thing , and draw all your cares and studies this way , and to this end . And that you will continually pray for the heavenly assistance o the holy Ghost from God the Father , by the mediation of our onely Mediato● and Saviour Iesus Christ , that by dayly reading and weighing of the Scriptures , ye may so wax riper and stronger in your ministery : and that ye may so endeavour your selves from time to time , to sanctifie the lives of you and yours , and to fashion them after the rule and doctrine of Christ : And that ye may be wholsome and godly examples and patterns for the rest of the Congregation to follow : and that this present Congregation of Christ here assembled , may also understand your minds and wills in these things : and that this your promise shall more move you to do your duties , ye shall answer plainly to these things , which we in the name of the Congregation demand of you touching the same .

Do you think in your heart that you be truely called according to the will of our Lord Iesu Christ , and the Order of this Church of England , to the Ministery of Priesthood ?

Answer .

I think it .

The Bishop .

BE you perswaded that the holy Scriptures contain sufficiently all doctrine required of necessity for eternal salvation , through faith in Iesu Christ ? And are you determined with the said Scriptures to instruct the people committed to your charge , and to teach nothing ( as required of necessity to eternal salvation ) but that you shall be perswaded may be concluded and proved by the Scripture ?

Answer .

I am so perswaded , and have so determined by Gods grace .

The Bishop .

WIll you then give your faithful diligence alwayes so to Minister the doctrine and Sacraments , and the Discipline of Christ , as the Lord hath commanded , and as this realm hath received the same , according to the Commandements of God , so that you may teach the people committed to your cure and charge , with all diligence to keep and observe the same ?

Answer .

I will do so by the help of the Lord .

The Bishop .

WIll you be ready with all faithfull diligence to vanish and drive away all erroneous and strange doctrines , contrary to Gods word and to use both publick and private monitions and exhortations , as well to the sick as to the whole , within your Cures , as need shall require , and occasion be given ?

Answer .

I will , the Lord being my helper .

The Bishop .

WIll you be diligent in prayers , and in reading of the holy Scriptures , and in such studies as help to the knowledge of the same , laying aside the study of the world and the flesh ?

Answer .

I will endeavour my self so to do , the Lord being my helper .

The Bishop .

WIll you be diligent to frame and fashion your own selves , and your families according to the doctrine of Christ , and to make both your selves and them ( as much as in you lieth ) wholsom examples and spectacles to the flock of Christ ?

Answer .

I will apply my self , the Lord being my helper .

The Bishop .

WIll you maintain and set forwards ( as much as lieth in you ) quietnesse , peace and love among all Christian people , and specially among them that are , or shall be committed to your charge ?

Answer .

I will so do , the Lord being my helper .

The Bishop .

WIll you reverently obey your Ordinary and other chief ministers , unto whom the government and charge is committed over you , following with a glad minde and will their godly admonitions , and submitting your selves to their godly judgements ?

Answer .

I will so do , the Lord being my helper .

Then shall the Bishop say .

ALmighty God , who hath given you this will to do all these things , grant also unto you strength and power to perform the same , that he may accomplish his work which he hath begun in you , until the time he shall come at the latter day to judge the quick and the dead .

After this , the Congregation shall be desired secretly in their prayers , to make humble supplications to God for the foresaid things : for the which prayers there shall be a certain space kept in silence .

That done , the Bishop shall pray in this wise , Let us Pray .

ALmighty God , and heavenly Father , which of thine infinite love and goodnesse towards us , hast given to us thy onely and most dearly beloved Son Iesus Christ to be our redeemer , and author of everlasting life , who after he had made perfect our redemption by his death , and was ascended into heaven , sent abroad into the world his Apostles , Prophets , Evangelists , Doctors , and Pastors , by whose labour and ministery he gathered together a great flock in all the parts of the world , to set forth the eternal praise of thy holy Name . For these so great benefits of thy eternal goodnesse , and for that thou hast vouchsafed to call these thy servants here present , to the same office and ministery of salvation of mankinde ; we render unto thee most hearty thanks , we worship and praise thee , and we humbly beseech thee , by the same thy Son , to grant unto all , which either here or elsewhere call upon thy Name , that we may shew our selves thankful to thee for these and all other thy benefits , and that we may dayly increase and go forwards , in the knowledge and faith of thee and thy Son , by the holy Spirit . So that as well by these thy Ministers , as by them to whom they shall be appointed Ministers , thy holy Name may be alwayes glorified , and thy blessed kingdom enlarged , through the same thy Son our Lord Iesus Christ , which liveth and reigneth with thee , in the unity of the same holy Spirit , world without end . Amen .

When this prayer is done , the Bishops with the Priests present , shall lay their hands severally upon the head of every one that receiveth Orders : the receivers humbly kneeling upon their knees , and the Bishop saying ,

REceive the holy Ghost : Whose sins thou doest forgive , they are forgiven : and whose sins thou doest retain , they are retained : and be thou a faithful dispenser of the word of God , and of his holy Sacraments . In the Name of the Father , and of the Son , and of the holy Ghost . Amen .

The Bishop shall deliver to every one of them the Bible in his hand saying ,

TAke thou Authority to preach the word of God , and to minister the holy Sacraments in this Congregation , where thou shalt be so appointed .

When this is done , the Congregation shall sing the Creed , and also they shall go to the Communion , which all they that receive Orders , shall take together , and remain in the same place where the hands were laid upon them , until such time as they have received the Communion .

The Communion being done , after the last Collect , and immediatly before the Benediction , shall be said this Collect.

MOst merciful Father , we beseech thee to send upon these thy servants thy heavenly blessing , that they may be clad about with all justice , and that thy word spoken by their mouthes , may have such successe , that it may never be spoken in vain . Grant also that we may have grace to hear and receive the same as thy most holy word , and the means of our salvation , that in all our words and deeds we may seek thy glory , and the encrease of thy Kingdom , through Iesus Christ our Lord . Amen .

And if the order of Deacons and Priesthood be given both upon one day , then shall all things at the holy Communion be used , as they are appointed at the ordering of Priests , saving that for the Epistle , the whole third Chapter of the first to Timothy shal be read , as it is set out before in the order of Priests . And immediatly after the Epistle the Deacons shall be ordered . And it shall suffice the Letany to be said once .

❧ The form of Consecrating of an Arch-Bishop , or Bishop . At the Communion .
The Epistle .

THis is a true saying , If a man desire the office of a Bishop , he desireth an honest work . A Bishop therefore must be blamelesse , the husband of one wife , diligent , sober , discreet , a keeper of hospitality , apt to teach , not given to over much wine , no fighter , not greedy of filthy lucre , but gentle , abhorring fighting , abhoring covetousnesse , one that ruleth well his own house , one that hath children in subjection with all reverence . For if a man cannot rule his own house , how shall he care for the congregation of God ? He may not be a young scholar , lest he swell , and fall into the judgement of the evil speaker . He must also have a good report of them which are without , lest he fall into rebuke and the snare of the evil speaker .

The Gospel .

JEsus said to Simon Peter , Simon Iohanna , lovest thou me more then these ? He said unto him , Ye Lord , thou knowest that I love thee : he said unto him , Feed my Lambs . He said to him again the second time , Simon Iohanna , lovest thou me ? He said unto him , Yea Lord , thou knowest that I love thee : he said unto him , Feed my sheep . He said unto him the third time , Simon Iohanna , lovest thou me ? Peter was sorry because he said unto him the third time , Lovest thou me . And he said unto him , Lord thou knowest all things , thou knowest that I love thee . Iesus said unto him , Feed my sheep .

Or else out of the tenth Chapter of John , as before in the Order of Priests .

After the Gospel and creed ended : first the elected Bishop shall be presented by two Bishops , unto the Arch-Bishop of that Province , or to some other Bishop appointed by his commission : the Bishops that present him , saying ,

MOst reverend Father in God , we present unto you this godly and well learned man to be consecrated Bishop .

Then shall the Arch-Bishop demand the Kings mandate for the Consecration , and cause it to be read , and the Oath touching the knowledge of the Kings Supremacy , shall be ministred to the persons elected ; as it is set out in the order of Deacons . And then shall be ministred the Oath of due obedience unto the Archbishop , as followeth .

The Oath of due obedience to the Arch-Bishop .

IN the Name of God , Amen . I. N. chosen Bishop of the Church or See of N. do professe and promise all due reverence and obedience to the Archbishop , and to the Metropolitical Church of N. and to their successors : so help me God through Iesus Christ .

This Oath shall not be made at the Consecration of an Archbishop .

Then the Archbishop shall move the Congregation present , to pray , saying thus to them .

BRethren , it is written in the Gospel of St. Luke , that our Saviour Christ continued the whole night in prayer , or ever that he did chuse and send forth his twelve Apostles . It is written also in the Acts of the Apostles , that the disciples which were at Antioch did fast and pray , or ever they laid hands upon , or sent forth Paul and Barnabas . Let us therefore , following the example of our Saviour Christ and his Apostles , first fall to prayer , or that we admit and send forth this person presented unto us , to the work whereunto we trust the holy Ghost hath called him .

And then shall be said the Letany as afore in the Order of Deacons .

And after this place , That it may please thee to illuminate all Bishops , &c.

That it may please thee to blesse this our brother elected , and to send thy grace upon him , that he may duly execute the office whereunto he is called , to the edifying of the Church , and to the honour , praise , and glory of thy Name .

Answer .

We beseech thee to hear us good Lord ,

Concluding the Letany in the end with this prayer .

Almighty God , giver of all good things , which by thy holy Spirit hast appointed divers orders and Ministers in thy Church , mercifully behold this thy servant now called to the work and ministry of a Bishop , and replenish him so with the truth of thy doctrine , and innocency of life , that both by word and deed he may faithfully serve thee in this Office , to the glory of thy Name , and profit of thy Congregation , through the merits of our Saviour Iesus Christ , who liveth and reigneth with thee and the holy Ghost , world without end Amen .

Then the Archbishop sitting in a chair , shall say to him that is to be consecrated .

BRother , forasmuch as holy Scripture , and the old Canons commandeth , that we should not be hasty in laying on hands and admitting of any person to the goverment of the Congregation of Christ , which he hath purchased with no less price than the effusion of his own blood : afore I admit you to this administration , whereunto you are called , I will examine you in certain articles , to the end the Congregation present may have a trial , and bear witnesse how you be minded to behave your self in the Church of God .

Are you perswaded that you be truely called to this ministration according to the will of our Lord Iesus Christ , and the order of this Realm ?

Answer .

I am so perswaded .

The Archbishop .

ARe you perswaded that the holy Scriptures contain sufficiently all doctrine , required of necessity for eternal salvation through the faith in Iesus Christ ? And are you determined with the same holy Scriptures , to instruct the people committed to your charge , and to teach or maintain nothing as required of necessity to eternal salvation , but that you shall be perswaded may be concluded and proved by the same ?

Answer .

I am so perswaded , and determined by Gods grace .

The Archbishop .

WIll you then faithfully exercise your self in the said holy Scriptures , and call upon God by prayer for the true understanding of the same , so as ye may be able by them to teach and exhort with wholsome doctrine , and to withstand and convince the gainsayers ?

Answer .

I will so do , by the help of God .

The Archbishop .

BE you ready with all faithful diligence to banish and drive away all erronious and strange doctrine contrary to Gods word , and both privately and openly to call upon and encourage others to the same ?

Answer .

I am ready the Lord being my helper .

The Archbishop .

WIll you deny all ungodlinesse and worldly lusts , and live soberly , righteously , and godly in this world , that you may shew your self in all things an example of good works unto others , that the adversary may be ashamed , having nothing to lay against you ?

Answer .

I will so do , the Lord being my helper .

The Archbishop .

WIll you maintain and set forward ( as much as shall lie in you ) quietnesse , peace and love among all men : and such as be unquiet , disobedient and criminous within your Diocesse , correct and punish according to such authority as ye have by Gods word , as to you shall be committed by the ordinance of this Realm ?

Answer .

I will so do , by the help of God .

The Archbishop .

WIll you shew your self gentle , and be merciful for Christs sake to poor and needy people , and to all strangers destitute of help ?

Answer .

I will so shew my self by Gods help .

The Archbishop .

ALmighty God our heavenly Father , who hath given you a good will to do all these things : grant also unto you strength and power to perform the same , that he accomplishing in you the good work which he hath begun , ye may be found perfect and irreprehensible at the latter day , through Iesus Christ our Lord . Amen .

Then shall be sung or said , Come holy Ghost , &c.

As it is set out in the Order of Priests .

That ended , the Archbishop shall say ,

Lord hear our prayer .

Answer .

And let our cry come unto thee .

Let us Pray .

ALmighty God , & most merciful Father , which of thine infinite goodness hast given thy only and most dear beloved Son Iesus Christ to be our Redeemer and author of everlasting life , who after that he had made perfect our Redemption by his death , and was ascended into heaven , poured down his gifts abundantly upon men , making some Apostles , some Prophets , some Evangelists , some Pastours and Doctors , to the edifying and making perfect his Congregation : grant we beseech thee , to this thy servant such grace , that he may evermore be ready to spread abroad thy Gospel , and glad tidings of reconcilement to God , and to use the authority given to him , not to destroy but to save , not to hurt but to help : so that he as a wise and faithful servant giving to thy family meat in due season , may at the last be received into joy , through Iesu Christ our Lord , who with thee and the holy Ghost , liveth and raigneth one God world without end , Amen .

Then the Archbishop and Bishops present , shall lay their hands upon the head of the elected Bishop , the Archbishop saying ,

TAke the holy Ghost , and remember that thou stir up the grace of God which is in thee , by imposition of hands : for God hath not given us the spirit of fear , but of power and love , and soberness .

Then the Archbishop shall deliver him the Bible , saying ,

GIve heed unto reading , exhortation and doctrine . Think upon these things contained in this book . Be diligent in them , that the increase coming thereby , may be manifest unto all men . Take heed unto thy self , and unto teaching , and be diligent in doing them : for by doing this thou shalt save thy self , and them that hear thee . Be to the flock of Christ a shepherd , not a wolf : feed them , devour them not : hold up the weak , heal the sick , bind together the broken , bring again the outcasts , seek the lost , be so merciful , that ye be not too remiss : so minister discipline , that you forget not mercy , that when the chiefe Shepherd shall come , you may receive the immarcescible crown of glory , through Iesus Christ our Lord , Amen .

Then the Archbishop shall proceed to the Communion , with whom the new consecrated Bishop , with other shall also Communicate . And for the last Collect immediately before the Benediction , shall be said this Prayer .

MOst merciful Father , we beseech thee to send upon this thy servant thy heavenly blessing , and so endue him with thy holy Spirit , that he preaching thy word , may not onely be earnest to reprove , beseech , and rebuke , with all patience and doctrine , but also may be , to such as believe , an wholsome example , in word , in conversation , in love , in faith , in chastity , and purity : that faithfully fulfilling his course , at the latter day he may receive the crown of righteousnesse laid up by the Lord the righteous Iudge , who liveth and reigneth , one God with the Father and the holy Ghost , world without end . Amen .

AT THE HEALING .
THE GOSPEL Written in the XVI . Chapter of St. MARK , beginning at the 14. verse .

IESUS appeared unto the Eleven as they sate at meat , and cast in their teeth their unbelief and hardnesse of heart , because they believed not them which had seen that He was Risen again from the dead . And he said unto them , Go ye into all the world , and preach the Gospel to all Creatures : He that believeth and is Baptized , shall be Saved : but he that believeth not , shall be damned ; And these Tokens shall follow them that believe : In my Name they shall cast out divels , they shall speak with new tongues , they shall drive away serpents , and if they drink any deadly thing , it shall not hurt them : * * Here the infirm persons are presented to the KING upon their knees , and the King layeth his Hands upon them . They shall lay their hands on the Sick , and they shall recover . So when the Lord had spoken unto them , he was received into Heaven , and is on the right hand of God . And they went forth , and preached every where , the Lord working with them , and confirming the word with Miracles following .

THE GOSPEL Written in the I. Chapter of St. JOHN , beginning at the first verse .

IN the beginning was the Word , and the Word was with God , and God was the Word . The same was in the beginning with God . All things were made by it , and without it was made nothing that was made . In it was Life , and the Life was the Light of men , and the Light shined in the Darknesse , and the darkness comprehended it not . There was sent from God a man whose name was JOHN . The same came as a witnesse , to bear witnesse of the Light , that all men through him might believe . He was not that Light , but was sent to bear witness of the Light . * * Here they are again presented unto the KING upon their knees , & the KING putteth his Gold about their necks . That light was the true light , which lighteth every man that cometh into the world . He was in the World and the world was made by him , and the World knew him not . He came among his own , and his own received him not . But as many as received him , to them gave he power to be made Sons of God , even them that believed on his Name : which were born not of blood , nor of the will of the flesh , nor yet of the will of man , but of God . And the same Word became Flesh , and dwelt among us , and we saw the Glory of it , as the Glory of the onely begotten Son of the Father , full of grace and truth .

THE PRAYERS .

Vers . Lord have mercy upon us .

Resp. Lord have mercy upon us .

Vers . Christ have mercy upon us .

Resp. Christ have mercy upon us .

Vers Lord have mercy upon us .

Resp. Lord have mercy upon us .

OUr Father which art in heaven , hallowed be thy Name . Thy kingdom come . Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven . Give us this day our daily bread , And forgive us our trespasses as we forgive them that trespass against us . And lead us not into temptation , but deliver us from evil , Amen .

These Answers are to be made by them that come to be Healed . Vers . O Lord Save thy Servants .

Resp. Which put their trust in thee .

Vers . Send help unto them from above .

Resp. And evermore mightily defend them .

Vers . Help us O God our Saviour .

Resp. And for the Glory of thy name deliver us , be merciful unto us sinners for thy Names sake .

Vers . O Lord hear our Prayer .

Resp. And let our Cry come unto thee .

O Almighty God , who art the Giver of all health , and the aid of them that seek to Thee for succour , we call upon thee for thy help and goodnesse mercifully to be shewed unto these thy servants , that they being Healed of their infirmity , may give thanks unto thee , in thy holy Church , through Iesus Christ our Lord , AMEN .

THe Grace of our Lord Iesus Christ , and the love of God , and the fellowship of the holy Ghost , be with us all evermore .

AMEN .

A copy of th acte made for th abrogacion of certayne holy dayes , accordyng to the transumpte late sent by the kyngs hyghnes to all bysshops with his graces strayght commaundement , to signifie his farther pleasure to all Colleges , religious houses and Curates , within theyr diocesse for the publicacion , and also effectuall & vniuersall obsercion of the same . Anno 1536.

FOr as moch as the nombre of holy dayes is so excessyuely growen and yet dayly more and more by mens deuocyon , yea rather supersticyon was lyke further to encrease , that the same was & sholde be not onely preiudiciall to the common weale , by reason that it is occasion as well of moche slouth and ydelnes , the very nouryshe of theues , vacaboundes , and of dyuers other unthryftynesse and inconuenyencies , as of decaye of good mysteryes and artes , vtyle and necessary fort the common welthe , and losse of mans fode many tymes , beynge clene destroyed through the supersticious obseruaunce of the said holydayes , in not takynge th oportunitie of good & serene wheather offered vpon the same in time of haruest , but also pernicyous to the soules of many men , whiche beyng entysed by the lycencyous vacacyon and libertye of those holy dayes , do vpon the same commonly vse and practyse more excesse , ryote and supersluite than upon any other dayes . And sith the Sabboth day was ordeyned for mans vse , and therefore ought to gyue place to the necessite and behoue of the same whan soever that shall occurre : mouche rather any other holyday institute by man . It is therefore by the kings hyghnes auctority , as supreme head in earth of the Church of Englande , with the Common assente and consent of the prelates and clergy of this his realme in Convocacyon laufully assembled and congregate , among other thynges decreed ordeyned and establyshed .

Fyrst that the feest of Dedicacyon of the church shall in all places throughout this realm be celebrated and kepte on the fyrst sonday of the moneth of Octobre for ever , and vpon none other day . Item that the feest of the patrone of every church within this realm , called commonly the Church holyday , shall not from henceforth be kepte or obserued as a holyday , as heretofore hath been vsed , but that it shall be laufull to all and singular persons , resydent or dwellynge within this realme to go to their work , occupacyon or mystery , and the same truely to excercyse and occupy upon the said feest , as vpon any other workyeday , excepte the said feest of the Church holyday be such as must be ells vniversally observed , as a holy day by this ordynaunce following .

Also that all those feestes or holy days , which shall happen to occurre , eyther in the haruest time which is to be compted from the fiyst day of Iuly unto the xxix . day of Septembre , or elles in the terme time at westmynster , shall not be kepte or obserued from henceforth as holydayes , but that it may be laufull for every man to go to his work or occupacion vpon the same as vpon any other workyeday , except alwayes the feestes of the apostles , of our blessed lady , and of saynt George . And also such feesles as wherein the kings Iudges at westmynster hall do not vse to sytte in Iudgement , all which shall be kepte holy and solempne of every man , as in tyme past have been accustomed . Prouyded alwayes , that it may be laufull vnto all preestes and clerkes , as well secular as regular in the foresayd holydayes now abrogate , to synge or saye their accostomed seruyce for those holydayes in their churches : so that they do not the same solempnely , nor do rynge to the same after the maner vsed in hygh holydayes , ne do commaunde or indict the same to be kepte or obserued as holydayes .

Finally , that the feest of the Natiuitie of our lord , of Easter , of the Natiuitie of saynt Iohn the baptyste , and of saynt Mychaell , shall be frome henceforth compted , and accepted and taken for the iiij . generall offering dayes .

And for further declaracyon of the premysses , be it knowen that Easter terme begyneth alwayes the xviii day after Easter , reckenyng Easter day for one , and endeth the monday next after th ascencyon day . Trinitie terme begynneth alwayes the wednesday next after thoctaues of Trinitie sonday , and endeth the xi . or xii . day of Iuly . Myhgelmas terme beginneth the ix . or x. day of October , and endeth the xxviii . or xxix . day of Nouember .

Hillary terme begynneth the xxiii . or xxiiii . day of Ianuary , and endeth the xii . or xiii day of February .

In Easter terme upon th ascencyon daye . In Trinite term upon the Nativity of saynt Iohn Baptyst . In Myghelmas terme vpon Alhallon day . In Hillary terme vpon Candelmas day , The kyngs Iudges at westmynster do not use to syt in Iudgement , nor vpon any sondayes .

Imprynted at London in Fletestrete . at the sygne of the Sonne , by me Iohn Byddell . Cum priuilegio . Anno 1536.

By the Queen . A Proclamation against the despisers or breakers of the orders prescribed in the book of Common prayer .

THE Queens Majesty being right sorry to understand that the order of common prayer , set forth by the common consent of the Realm , and by authority of Parliament in the first year of her reign , wherein is nothing conteined but the Scripture of God , and that which is consonant unto it , is now of late of some men despised , and spoken against , both by open preachings , and writings , and of some bold and vain curious men , new and other Rites found out and frequenced , whereupon contentions , sects , and disquietnesse doth arise among her people : and for one godly and uniform order , diversity of Rites and Ceremonies , disputations , and contentions , schismes , and divisions already risen , and more like to ensue . The cause of which disorders , Her Majesty doth plainly understand to be the negligence of the Bishops and other Magistrates , who should cause the good Laws and Acts of Parliament made in this behalf to be better executed , and not so dissembled and winked at , as hitherto ( it may appear ) that they have been .

For speedy remedy whereof , Her Majesty straightly chargeth and commandeth all Archbyshops and Bishops and all Iustices of Assises , and Oyer and Termyner , and all Majors , head officers of Cities and Towns corporate , and all other who have any authority to put in execution the Act for the uniformity of common prayer and the administration of the Sacraments made in the first year of Her gracious reign , with all diligence and severity , neither favouring , nor dissembling with one person nor other , who doth neglect , despise , or seek to alter the godly Orders and Rites set forth in the said Book : But if any person shall by publick preaching , writing or printing , contemn , despise , or dispraise the Orders contained in the said Book , they shall immediately apprehend him , and cause him to be imprisoned , until he hath answered to the Law , upon pain that the chief Officers , being present at any such preaching , and the whole Parish , do answer for their contempt and negligence . Likewise , if any shall forbear to come to the Common prayer , and receive the Sacraments of the Church , according to the order in the said book allowed , upon no just and lawful cause : all such persons they shall enquire of , present , and see punished , and ordered according as is prescribed in the said Act , with more care and diligence then heretofore hath been done : the which negligence hath been cause why such disorders have of late now so much and in so many places encreased and grown .

And if any persons shal either in private houses , or in publick places , make assemblies , and therein use other Rites of Common prayer and Administration of the Sacraments then is prescribed in the said Book , or shall maintain in their houses any persons being notoriously charged by Books or preachings to attempt the alteration of the said orders , they shall see such persons punished with all severity , according to the Laws of this Realm , by paines appointed in the said Act.

And because these matters do principally appertain to the persons Ecclesiastical , and to the Ecclesiastical government , her Majesty giveth a most special and earnest charge to all Arch-Bishops , Byshops , Archdeacons , and Deans , and all such as have ordinary jurisdiction , in such causes to have a vigilant eye and care to the observation of the Orders and Rites in the said book prescribed , throughout their cures and Diocesse , and to proceed from time to time by ordinary and Ecclesiastical jurisdiction , as is granted th●m in the said Act , with all celerity and severity , against all persons who shall offend against any of the Orders in the said Book prescribed , upon pain of her Majesties high displeasure for their negligence , and deprivation from their dignities and benefices , or other censures to follow , according to their demerits .

Given at Grenewich the 20. day of October 1573. in the fifteenth year of the Queens Majesties reign . God save the Queen .

Imprinted at London by Newgate Market , next unto Christs Church , by Richard Jugge , Printer to the Queens Majesty .

Cum privilegio Regiae Majestatis .

By the Queen . A Proclamation against the Sectaries of the Family of love

WHereas by report of sundry of the Bishops of this Realm , and others having cure of souls , the Qeens Majesty is informed , that in sundry places of Her said Realm , in their several Diocesses , there are certain persons which do secretly in corners , make privie assemblies of divers simple unlearned people , and after they have craftily and hypocritically assured them to esteem them to be more holy and perfect men then other are , they do then teach them damnable heresies , directly contrary to divers of the principal Articles of our Belief and Christian faith , and in some parts so absurd and fanatical , as by feigning to themselves a monstruous new kind of speech never found in the Scriptures , nor in ancient Father or Writer of Christs Church , by which they do move ignorant and simple people at the first rather to marvel at them , then to understand them : but yet to colour their sect withal , they name themselves to be of the family of love , and then as many as shall be allowed by them to be of that family , to be elect and saved , and all others of what Church soever they be , to be rejected and damned : And for that upon conventing of some of them before the Bishops and Ordinaries , it is found that the ground of their sect is maintained by certain lewd , heretical and seditious books first made in the Dutch tongue , and lately translated into English , and printed beyond the seas , and secretly brought over into the Realm , the author whereof they name H. N , without yielding to him upon their examination , any other name , in whose name they have certain Books set forth , called Evangelium Regni , or a joyful Message of the Kingdom . Documental sentences . The prophecie of the spirit of love . A publishing of the peace upon the earth , and such like . And considering also it is found , that these Sectaries hold opinion , that they may before any Magistrate Ecclesiastical or Temporal , or any other person not being professed to be of their sect ( which they tearm the family of love ) by oath or otherwise deny any thing for their advantage , so as though many of them are well known to be teachers and spreaders abroad of these dangerous and damnable sects , yet by their own confession they cannot be condemned , whereby they are more dangerous in any Christian Realm : Therefore Her Majesty being very sorry to see so great an evil by the malice of the Devil first begun and practised in other countries , to be now brought into this Her Realm , and that by her Bishops and Ordinaries , She understandeth it very requisite , not onely to have these dangerous Hereticks , and Sectaries to be severely punished , but that also all other means be used by Her Majesties Royal authority , which is given Her of God to defend Christs Church , to root them out from further infecting of Her Realm , She hath thought meet and convenient , and so by this Her Proclamation , She willeth and commandeth that all Her Officers and Ministers temporal , shall in all their several vocations , assist the Archbishops and Bishops of Her Realm , and all other persons Ecclesiastical , having cure of souls , to search out all persons duely suspected to be either teachers or professors of the foresaid damnable Sects , and by all good , means to proceed severely against them being found culpable , by order of the Laws either Ecclesiastical or Temporal , and that also search be made in all places suspected for the books and writings maintaining the said Heresies and Sects , and them to destroy and burn . And wheresoever such books shall be found after the publication hereof , in custody of any person , other then such as the Ordinaries shall permit , to the intent to peruse the same for confutation thereof , the same persons to be attached and committed to close prison , there to remain , or otherwise by Law to be condemned , until the same shall be purged and cleared of the same Heresies , or shall recant the same and be thought meet by the Ordinary of the place to be delivered . And that whosoever in this Realm shall either print , or bring , or cause to be brought into this Realm , any of the said books , the same persons to be attached and committed to prison , and to receive such bodily punishment and other mulct , as fautors of damnable Heresies . And to the execution hereof , Her Majesty chargeth all Her Officers and Ministers both Ecclesiastical and Temporal , to have special regard , as they will answer not onely afore God , whose glory and truth is by these damnable Sects greatly sought to be defaced , but also will avoid Her Majesties indignation , which in such cases as these are , they ought not escape , if they shall be found negligent and carelesse , in the Execution of their authorities . Given at Our Manour of Richmond the third of October , in the two and twentieth year of our Reign .

God save the Queen .

Imprinted at London by Christopher Barker , Printer to the Queens most Excellent Majesty .

By the Queen . A Proclamation against certain seditious and schismatical Books and Libels &c.

THe Queens most excellent Majesty , considering how within these few yeers past , and now of late , certain seditious , and evil disposed persons towards her Majesty , and the Government established for causes Ecclesiastical within Her Majesties Dominions , have divised , written , printed , or caused to be seditiously and secretly published and dispersed , sundry Schismatical and seditious books , diffamatory Libels , and other phantastical writings amongst her Majesties Subjects , containing in them doctrine very erroneous , and other matters notoriously untrue , and slanderous to the State , and against the godly reformation of Religion and Government Ecclesiastical established by Law , and so quietly of long time continued , and also against the persons of Bishops , and others placed in authority Eccesiastical under Her Highnesse by her authority , in rayling sort , and beyond the bounds of all good humanity : All which Books , Libels and writings tend by their scope , to perswade and bring in a monstrous and apparent dangerous Innovation within Her Dominions and Countries , of all manner of Ecclesiastical Government now in use , and to the ab●idging , or rather to the overthrow of her Highnesse lawful Prerogative , allowed by Gods Law , and established by the Laws of the Realm , and consequently to reverse , dissolve , and set at liberty the present Government of the Church , and to make a dangerous change of the form of Doctrine , and use of Divine service of God , and the ministration of the Sacraments now also in use , with a rash and malicious purpose also to dissolve the Estate of the Prelacy , being one of the three ancient estates of this Realm under her Highnesse , whereof her Majesty mindeth to have such a reverend regard , as to their places in the Church and Common wealth appertaineth . All which said lewd and seditious practises do directly tend to the manifest willful breach of great number of good Laws and Statutes of this Realm , inconveniencies nothing regarded by such Innovations .

In consideration whereof , her Highness graciously minding to provide some good and speedy remedy to withstand such notable dangerous and ungodly attemps , and for that purpose to have such enormous malefactors discovered and condignely punished , doth signifie this her Highnesse misliking and indignation of such dangerous and wicked enterprises , and for that purpose doth hereby will and also straightly charge and command , that all persons whatsoever , within any her Majesties Realms and Dominions , who have or hereafter shall have any of the said seditious Books , Pamphlets , Libels or Writings , or any of like nature already published , or hereafter to be published , in his or their custody , containing such matters as above are mentioned , against the present Order and Government of the Church of England , or the lawful Ministers thereof , or against the Rites and Ceremonies used in the Church , and allowed by the Laws of the Realm : That they , and every of them do presently after , with convenient speed bring in , and deliver up the same unto the Ordinary of the Diocesse , or of the place where they inhabit , to the intent they may be utterly defaced by the said Ordinary , or otherwise used by them . And that from henceforth no person or persons whatsoever , be so hardy , as to write , contrive , print , or cause to be published or distributed , or to keep any of the same , or any other Books , Libels , or Writings of like nature and quality , contrary to the true meaning and intent of this ●…er Majesties Proclamation . And likewise , that no man hereafter , give any instruction , direction , favour , or assistance , to the contriving , writing , printing , publishing , or dispersing of the same , or such like Books , Libels , or Writings whatsoever , as they tender her Majesties good favour , will avoid Her high displeasure , and as they will answer the contrary at their uttermost perils : and upon such pains and penalties , as by the Law any way may be inflicted upon the offenders , in any of these behalfs , as persons maintaining such seditious actions , which her Majesty mindeth to have severally executed . And if any person have had knowledge of the Authors , Writers , Printers , or dispersers thereof which shall within one moneth after the publication hereof , discover the same to the Ordinary of the place where he had such knowledge , or to any of her Majesties privie Councel : the same person shall not for his former concealment be hereafter molested or troubled . Given at her Majesties Palace at Westminster , the xiii . of February , 1588. In the xxxi . year of her Highnesse reign .

God save the Queen .

Imprinted at London by the Deputies of Christopher Barker , Printer to the Queens most excellent Majestie 1588.

ARTICLES to be enquired in the VISITATION , IN THE First year of the reign of our most dread Sovereign LADY ELIZABETH , By the grace of God , Of England , France , and Ireland , Queen , defender of the Faith &c.

Anno Domini 1559.

Articles &c. Anno 1559.

FIrst , whether any Parson , Residency . Vicar or Curate be resident continually upon his Benefice , doing his duty in preaching , reading , and duly ministring the holy Sacraments .

Item , Whether in their Churches and Chappels , all Images , False miracles Shrines , all Tables , Candlesticks , Trindals , and rolls of Wax , Pictures , paintings , and all other monuments of feigned and false miracles , Pilgrimages , Idolatry , and Superstition , be removed , abolished , and destroyed .

Item , Whether they do not every holy day , The Lords prayer . when they have no Sermon , immediatly after the Gospel , openly plainly , and distinctly , recite to their Parishioners in the Pulpit , the Lords prayer , the Belief , and the ten Commandments in English .

Item , Whether they do charge Fathers and Mothers , Masters , To bring up youth . and Governours of youth , to bring them up in some vertuous studie and Occupation .

Item , Whether , such beneficed men , Curates . as be lawfully absent from their Benefices , do leave their cures to a rude and unlearned person , and not to an honest , well-learned , and expert Curate , which can and will teach you wholesome doctrine .

Item , Reading the Scriptures . Whether they do discourage any person from reading of any part of the Bible , either in Latine or English , and do not rather comfort and exhort every person to read the same at convenient times , as the very lively word of God , and the special food of mans soul .

Item , Whether Parsons , Vicars , Curates , and other Ministers , Taverns and games . be common haunters and resorters to Taverns or Alehouses , giving themselves to drinking , rioting , and playing at undlawful games , and do not occupie themselves in the reading or hearing of some part of holy Scripture , or in some other godly exercise .

Item , Preachers . Whether they have admitted any man to preach in their cures , not being lawfully licenced thereunto , or have been licenced accordingly .

Item , Whether they use to declare to their Parishioners , Superstition . any thing to the extolling or setting forth of vain and supersticious Religion , Pilgrimages , Relicks , or Images , or lighting of Candles , kissing , kneeling , or decking of the same Images .

Register . Item , Whether they have one book or register kept , wherein they write the day of every Wedding , Christning and Burying .

Obedience Item , Whether they have exhorted the people to obedience to the Queens Majesty , and Ministers , and to charity and love one to another .

The Sacrament . Item , Whether they have admonished their Parishioners , that they ought not to presume to receive the Sacrament of the body and blood of Christ , before they can say perfectly the Lords prayer , the Articles of the faith , and the ten Commandements in English .

Hospitality . Item , Whether they be resident upon their Benefices , and keep hospitality , or no ; whether they do relieve their Parishioners , and what they give them .

Reparations . Item , Whether Proprietaries , Parsons , Vicars and Clarks , having Churches , Chappels and Mansions , do keep their Chancels , Rectories , Vicarages , and all other houses appertaining to them , in due reparations .

Prayer in English . Item , Whether they do counsel or move their Parishioners , rather to pray in a tongue not known , then in English , or put their trust in any certain number of prayers , as in saying over a number of Beads , Beads . or other like .

Defamed persons . Item , Whether they have received any persons to the Communion , being openly known to be out of charity with their neighbours , or defamed with any notorious crime , and not reformed .

Poor mens box . Item , Whether they have provided , and have a strong chest for the poor mens box , and set and fastned the same in a place of the Church most convenient .

Testament . Item , Whether they have diligently called upon , exhorted and moved their parishioners , and especially when they make their Testaments , to give to the said poor mens Box , and to bestow that upon the poor , which they were wont to bestow upon Pilgrimages , Pardons , Trentalls , and upon otherlike blinde devotions .

Sick . Burial . Item , Whether they have denied to visit the sick , or bury the dead being brought to the Church .

Simony , Item , Whether they have bought their Benefices , or come to them by fraud , guile , deceit , or Simony .

Adulterers . Item , Whether they have given open monition to their Parishioners , to detect and present to their Ordinary all Adulterers and Fornicators , and such men as have two wives living within their Parishes .

Item , Whether they have monished their parishioners openly , Church goods that they should not sell , give , nor otherwise alienate any of their Church goods .

Item , Whether they , Many Benefices . or any of them do keep moe Benefices and other Ecclesiastical promotions then they ought to do , not having sufficient licences , and dispensations thereunto , and how many they be , and their names .

Item , Whether they minister the holy Communion any otherwise , Communion . then onely after such form and manner , as it is set forth by the common authority of the Queens Majesty and the Parliament .

Item , Letters of the word or preaching . Whether you know any person within your Parish or else where , that is a letter of the word of God to be read in English , or sincerely preached in place and times convenient .

Item , Whether in the time of the Letany , Goers out of the church . or any other Common prayer , in the time of the Sermon or Homily , and when the Priest readeth the Scriptures to the Parishioners , any person have departed out of the Church without just and necessary cause , or disturbed the minister otherwise .

Item , Whether the money coming and rising of any Cattel , Church money . or other moveable stocks of the Church , and money given and bequeathed to the finding Torches , Lights , Tapers , or Lamps , not paid out of any lands , have not been imployed to the poor mens chest .

Item , Who hath the said stocks and money in their hands , Keepers of the Church money . and what be their names .

Item , Contempt of Priests . Whether any undiscreet person do uncharitably contemn and abuse Priests and Ministers of the Church .

Item , The Kings Grammar . Whether there be any other Grammar taught in any School within this Diocesse , then that which is set forth by the authority of King Henry the eight .

Item , The time of Service . Whether the service of the Church be done at due and convenient houres .

Item , Whether any have used to commune , jangle , Talkers in the Church . and talke in the Church in the time of the prayer , reading of the Homily , preaching , reading or declaring of the Scripture .

Item , Heresies . Whether any have wilfully maintained and defended any Heresies , errors , or false opinions , contrary to the faith of Christ and holy Scripture .

Item , Whether any be common drunkards , Drunkards . swearers or blasphemers of the name of God .

Adulterers . Item , Whether any have committed Adultery , fornication , or incest , or be common Bawds , or receivers of such evil persons , or vehemently suspected of any of the premisses .

Brawlers . Item , Whether any be brawlers , slanderes , chiders , scolders , and sowers of discord between one person and another .

Sorcerers . Item , Whether you know any that do use Charmes , Sorceries Inchantments , Invocations , Circles , Witchcrafts , Soothsaying , or any like crafts or imaginations invented by the Devil , and specially in the time of womens travel .

Pulpits . Item , Whether Churches , Pulpits , and other necessaries appertaining to the same , be sufficiently repaired , and if they be not , in whose default the same is .

Resorters to other Churches . Item , Whether you know any , that in contempt of their own Parish Church do resort to any other Church .

Inholders Item , Whether any Inholders , or Alehouse keepers , do use commonly to sell meat and drink in the time of common prayer , preaching , reading of the Homilies , or Scripture .

Divorce . Item , Whether you know any to be married within the degrees prohibited by the laws of God , or that be separated or divorced without the degrees prohibited by the law of God , and Whether any such have married again .

Privie contracts . Item , Whether you know any to have made privie contracts of Matrimony , not calling two or moe witnesses thereunto , nor having thereto the consent of their parents .

Banes : Item , Whether they have married solemnly the banes not first lawfully asked .

Executors . Item , Whether you know any Executors , or Administrators of dead mens goods , which do not onely bestow such of the said goods , as were given and bequeathed , or appointed to be distributed among the poor people , repairing of High wayes , finding of poor scholars , or marrying of poor maidens , or such other like charitable deeds .

Images . Item , Whether you know any that keep in their houses any undefaced Images , Tables , Pictures , Paintings , or other Monuments of feigned and false miracles , Pilgrimages , Idolatry and superstition , and do adore them , and specially such as have been set up in Churches , Chappels and Oratories .

Books . Item , What books of holy Scripture you have delivered to be burnt , or otherwise destroyed , and to whom ye have delivered the same .

Bribes . Item , What bribes the Accusers , Promoters , Persecutors , Ecclesiastical Iudges , and other the Commissioners appointed within the several Diocesses of this Realm , have received by themselves or other , of those persons which were in trouble , apprehended , or imprisoned for Religion .

Item , What goods moveable , ●…ands , fees , offices , Loss of goods or promotions , have been wrongfully taken away in the time of Queen Maries Reign , from any person which favoured the Religion now set forth .

Item , How many persons for Religion have died by fire , How many burnt . famine , or otherwise , or have been imprisoned for the same .

Item , Certificat of the dead . That you make a true presentment of the number of all the persons , which died within your Parishes , sithence the feast of St. Iohn the Baptist , which was in the year of our Lord God One thousand five hundred fifty and eight , unto the feast lost past , making therein a plain distinct declaration , how many men , women , and men-children the same were , and the names of the men .

Item , Whether you know any man in your Parish , secretly , Secret Masses . or in unlawful conventicles , say or hear Masse , or any other service prohibited by the Law .

Item , Whether you know any person in your Parish , False rumors . Unlawful books . to be a slanderer of his neighbours , or a sower of discord between party and party , man and wife , parents and their children , or that hath invented , bruted , or set forth any rumours , false and seditious tales , slanders , or makers , bringers , buyers , sellers , keepers or conveyers of any unlawful books , which might stir and provoke sedition , or maintain superstious service within this Realm , or any Aiders , Counsellers , Procurers or maintainers thereunto .

Item , Patron . Tithes . Vacation . Whether the Church of your Parish be now vacant or no , who is the Patron thereof , how long it hath been vacant , who doth receive the tithes , oblations and other commodities , during the time of the vacation , and by what authority , and in what estate the said Church is at this time , and how long the Parson or Vicar hath had that Benefice .

Item , Whether any Minstrels , Minstrels . or any other persons do use to sing or say any songs , or Ditties that be vile or unclean , and especially in derision of any godly order now set forth and established .

Item , Letany in English . Whether the Letany in English with the Epistle and Gospel which was by the Queens highness Proclamation willed to be read to the people , were put in use in your Churches , and if not , who were the letters thereof .

Distinct . Item , Whether the Curates and Ministers do leisurely plainly , and distinctly read the publick prayers , Chapters , and Homilies , as they ought to do .

God save the Queen .

Imprinted at London Anno 1559.

ARTICULI PER Archiepiscopum , Episcopos & reliquum Clerum Cantuariensis Provinciae in Synodo inchoata Londini vicesimo quarto die Mensis Novembris , Anno Domini 1584. Regnique Serenissimae in Christo Principis Dominae Elizabethae , Dei gratia Angliae , Franciae & Hyberniae Reginae , fidei Defensoris , &c. vicesimo septimo stabiliti , & Regia auctoritate approbati & confirmati .

LONDINI , in aedibus C. B.

Articuli pro Clero .
Vt homines idonei ad sacros ordines , & Beneficia ( uti vocant ) Ecclesiastica admittantur .

PRimo cantum est , ne quis posthàc ad sacros ordines suscipiatur , qui non eodem quoque tempore Praesentationem sui ipsius ad Beneficium aliquod intra dioecesim sive Jurisdictionem ejusdem Episcopi à quo sacros ordines perit , tunc vacans exhibuerit : vel qui non eidem Episcopo certum , verum & indubitatum Certificatorium attulerit de Ecclesia aliqua intra dioecesim sive Jurisdictionem dicti Episcopi , in qua curae animarum inservire possit : Vel qui in aliqua Cathedrali aut Collegiata Ecclesia , vel Collegio Cantabrigiensi aut Oxoniensi non suerit constitutus : Vel saltem , qui ab eodem Episcopo in Beneficium aliquod , sive ad Curam ( uti vocant ) inserviendam tunc etiam vacantem , non sit mox admittendus .

Deinde , ne quis Episcopus post hac aliquem in sacros ordines cooptet , qui non ex sua ipsius Dioecesi fuerit : nisi vel ex altera nostratium Academiarum prodierit : vel , nisi literas ( ut loquuntur ) Dimissorias ab Episcopo , cujus Dioecesanus existit , attulerit , & vicesimum quartum aetatis suae annum jam compleverit , ac etiam in altera dictarum Academiarum gradum aliquem scholasticum susceperit : Vel saltem , nisi rationem fidei suae juxta Articulos illos Religionis in Synodo Episcoporum & Cleri approbatos Latino sermone reddere possit , adeò ut sacrarum literarum testimonia , quibus eorundem Articulorum veritas innititur , recitare etiam valeat : Ac ulteriùs , de vita sua laudabili & morum integritate literas testimoniales sub Sigillo vel alicujus Collegii Cantabrigiensis aut Oxoniensis , ubi antea moram fecerit , vel alicujus Justiciarii ad pacem D. Reginae conservandam assignati , una cum subscriptione & testimonio aliorum proborum & fide dignorum hominum ejusdem Paroeciae , ubi per tres annos antè proximè elapsos commoratus est , exhibeat .

Quòd si verò aliquis Episcopus aliquem ad sacros ordines admiserit , qui praedictis qualitatibus non sit praeditus , is per Archiepiscopum , assidente sibi hac in parte uno alio Episcopo , ab ordinatione Ministrorum & Diaconorum per integrum biennium suspendatur , ac eam praeterea poenam incurrat , quae de jure in ejusmodi Episcopos , qui ad ordines Ecclesiasticos sine titulo aliquem promovebunt , statuitur .

Ad haec , nequis Episcopus aliquem in Beneficium ( uti vocant ) instituat , nisi qui praedictis conditionibus ornatus fuerit .

Quòd fi Curia de Arcubus aut Audientiae per viam duplicis querelae , seu alio quovis modo contra Episcopum hac in parte agat , quia homines minimè idoneos ac habiles admittere renuit : tunc licebit Archiepiscopo , vel auctoritate propria , vel gratia speciali ab Regia Majestate impetrata , ejusmodi processus amptutare , quò o laudabilis Episcopi industria debitum ea ratione sortiatur effectum .

Denique , ut quolibet anno ad festum S. Michaelis Archangeli , vel intra sex hebdomadas idem festum subsequentes , unusquisque Episcopus numerum , nomina , gradus & qualitates eorum omnium quos in sacros ordines , vel in aliqua Beneficia eodem anno praecedente promoverit , ad Archiepiscopum transmittat .

De moderanda solennis Poenitentiae commutatione .

NEqua fiat posthac solennis Poenitentiae commutatio , nisi rarioribus gravioribúsque de causis , atque adeò cum ipsi Episcopo constiterit , eam esse ad Reum reconciliandum & reformandum saniorem & tutiorem rationem .

Deinde , quòd mulcta illa pecuniaria vel in relevamen pauperum ejusdem Paroeciae , vel in alios pios usus erogetur , idque Ecclesiae solenniter & fideliter approbetur & innotescat .

Quod si verò crimen fuerit notorium ac publicum , Reus ipse vel in propria sua persona publicè in Ecclesia poenitentiam suam minimè fictam profitendo , laesae Ecclesiae satisfaciet , vel Ecclesiae minister in praesentia ipsius Rei , palam è suggestu , ejus submissionem , & poenitentiae suae coram Ordinario suo peractionem , atque etiam in verae suae resipiscentiae testimonium quantam pecuniarum summam in usus supradictos erogandam reddiderit , denunciabit .

De moderandis quibusdam indulgentiis , pro celebratione Matrimonii absque trinundina denunciatione , quam Bannos vocant Matrimoniales .

QUandoquidem honestae , clarae ac illustris conditionis homines , sive urgente aliqua necessitate , sive aliis non contemnendis rationibus , Matrimonium aliquando celebrandi causas habere possunt , facultate sibi de Bannis matrimonia libus aut non omninò , aut semel iterùmve denunciandis indulta , sine aliquo gravi scandalo seu detrimento : Idcircò ad evitanda generaliter quae hac in parte notantur incommoda , visum est caveri ne ullae facultates sive indulgentiae de celebrando absque Bannis Matrimonio concedantur , nisi idonea cautio priùs sub hisce conditionibus ineatur ; nimirum , Primò , quod nullum postea constabit impedimentum Praecontractus , Consanguinitatis , Affinitatis , vel ullius alterius legitimae causae cujuscunque ratione . Secundò , quòd eo tempore quo ejusmodi facultas sive indulgentia concedetur , nulla controversia , lis seu querela mota est , vel dependet coram aliquo Judice Ecclesiastico aut Civili , de ejuscemodi legitimo impedimento Matrimonii inter hujusmodi personas contrahendi aut contracti . Ac tertiò , quòd ad Nuptiarum solennizationem non accedent , nisi assensu & expresso consensu Parentum sive tutorum priùs impetrato . Et ulteriùs , quòd Matrimonii celebratio publicè ac tempestivè in facie Ecclesiae fiet . Cujus quidem cautionis formula seu exemplar in scriptis concipietur , ac unicuique Episcopo in sua cujusque Dioecesi imitanda proponetur .

Provisò semper , quòd quicunque contra hanc ordinationem deliquerit , ab executione officii per sex integros menses suspendetur .

De quibusdam circa Excommunicationem excessibus côercendis sive reformandis .

QUia Excommunicationis usus in Ecclesia perpetuae legis vigorem jam obtinuit , atque in omni jurisdictione Ecclesiastica exercenda hucusque retinetur , ideò absque grandi mutatione totius ejusce jurisdictionis & plurimarum hujus Regni legum , innovari vel alterari nequit . Nihilominùs , ut Excommunicatio ( quae auctoritatis ac disciplinae Ecclesiasticae quasi nervus quidam ac vinculum habendum est ) ad pristinum suum usum , decus & dignitatem reducatur : cautum est , ut quotiescunque Censura ista in immediatam poenam cujusvis notoriae Haereseos , Schismatis , Symoniae , Perjurii , Usurae , Incestus , Adulterii , seu gravioris alicujus criminis venerit infligenda , sententia ipsa vel per Archiepiscopum , Episcopum , Decanum , Archidiaconum , vel Praebendarium , ( modò sacris ordinibus & Ecclesiastica jurisdictione praeditus fuerit ) in propria persona pronunciabitur , unà cum ejusmodi frequentia & assistentia , quae ad majorem rei autoritatem conciliandam conducere videbitur .

Denique , quòd unusquisque Vicarius Generalis , Officialis seu Commissarius , qui ordines Ecclesiasticos non susceperit , eruditum aliquem Presbyterum sibi accerset & associabit , qui sufficienti auctoritate vel ab ipso Episcopo in jurisdictione sua , vel ab Archidiacono ( Presbytero existente ) in jurisdictione sua munitus , idque ex praescripto ipsius Judicis tunc praesentis , Excommunicationis sententiam pro contumacia denunciabit .

Volumus etiam , ut sicut constitutum est ejusmodi excommunicationem per Ministrum Ecclesiae denunciari : ita ipse Judex de absolutione ipsius Rei post satisfactionem suam peractam , eundem Ministrum certiorem faciet , qui eandem absolutionem populo publicè denunciabit : Ac interim quòd benè licebit dicto Ministro Reum à sacris arcere & repellere tanquam in Ecclesiam minimè recipiendum , donec ejusmodi Certificatorium ab ipso Judice exhibuerit .

De Beneficiorum pluralitate cohibenda .

QUòd nemini in posterum facultas sive indulgentia concedetur de pluribus Beneficiis simul retinendis , nisi hujusmodi tantùm , qui pro eruditione sua & maximè digni , & ad officium suum pleniùs praestandum maximè habiles & idonei censebuntur : nimirùm , ut is qui hujusmodi facultate fruiturus est , sit ad minimum Artium Magister , & publicus ac idoneus verbi Divini Concionator : Ita tamen , ut idonea etiam cautione obstrictus teneatur , de personali sua residentia in singulis beneficiis per bonam anni cujusque partem facienda , & quod ejusmodi Beneficia triginta milliarium spatio ad summum non distent ab invicem . Denique , quòd idoneum Curatum habeat , qui plebem ejus Paroeciae in qua non residebit , institutat ac informet , modò facultates ejusdem Beneficii talem commodè sustinere posse Archiepiscopo vel ejus Dioeceseos Episcopo videbuntur .

De feodis quae Officiariis Ecclesiasticis & eorum ministris debentur .

CAutum insuper volumus , quòd neque alia neque majora feoda ab Episcopo , Ordinario , Archidiacono , vel eorum ministris deinceps ulla de causa percipiantur , quàm ea quae ineunte hoc regnum Regia nunc Majestate percipi solebant . Quódque tabula quaedam singulorum hujusmodi feodorum summas continens , in quolibet Consistorio ante festum S. Johannis Baptistae proximè venturum figatur , cujus exemplar manu ipsius Ordinarii subsignatum intra tempus praedictum ad Archiepiscopum transmittetur .

Provisò semper , quòd neque Archiepiscopo , neque Episcopo , vel directè vel indirectè , aliquam pecuniarum summam pro admittendis ad sacros ordines hominibus accipere licebit , idque sub poena Juris .

De inquisitione per Episcopos ineunda .

QUam primùm commodè fieri poterit , vel ad summum intra unius anni spatium post hujus Synodi finem , quisque Episcopus de singulorum Ministrorum qui in sua dioecesi degunt conditione , moribus ac eruditione diligenter inquirat : per quos etiam & quo tempore ad sacros ordines admissi , quódque vitae genus sectati sint priusquam in ministerium sunt cooptati , ac de hisce omnibus ipsum Archiepiscopum intra dictum tempus debitè certiorem faciet .

Episcopi in sua quisque Dioecesi de omnium Rectoriarum , Vicariarum , ac caeterorum Ecclesiasticorum Beneficiorum suae Dioeceseos valore annuo , juxta censum libri illius qui Primitiarum dicitur , si modò ibidem censeantur : aliter verò , juxta communem eorum aestimationem : Quot item Appropriationes , cujus veri valoris annui , & qui sint earum Proprietarii : Necnon de Curatorum salariis annuis diligentem facient inquisitionem . Ac de hisce similiter omnibus intra tempus anteà praescriptum , dictum Archiepiscopum certiorem reddent .

FINIS

CELEBRATIO COENAE DOMINI IN FUNEBRIBUS , Si Amici & Vicini defuncti Communicare velint . &c.

Anno 2. Eliz. Regin. 1560.

LONDINI , Apud Reginaldum Wolfium . 1560.

ELIZABETH , Dei Gratia Angliae , Franciae , & Hiberniae Regina , Fidei Defensor , &c. Omnibus ad quos praesentes Literae pervenirint , Salutem .

Cum memores Officii nostri erga Deum Omnipotentem , ( cujus providentia principes regnant ) legibus quibusdam celeberrimis , consensu trium Regni nostri Statuum , sancitis , anno Regni nostri primo , Regium nostrum assensum libenter praebuerimus : inter quas una lex lata est , ut Preces publicae , una , & eadem certa , & praescripta precandi forma , lingua vulgari , & vernacula , passim in Ecclesia Anglicana haberentur , quo Subditi nostri quid orarent , facilius intelligerent : & absurdum illum , diuque in Ecclesia inveteratum errorem , tandem devitarent . Fieri enim non potest , ut precationes , supplicationes , aut gratiarum actiones non intellectae , mentis ardorem aliquando excitent & accendant , cum spiritu & veritate . Deus qui Spiritus est , non oris tantum strepitu adorari vult ; Cui rei etiam addi potest , quod hac caeca ignoratione , superstitiosae preces , aut res alienae , non satis idoneae quae Deo profunderentur , cordium humanorum scrutatori , saepenumero ore prophano offerebantur . Notum vobis esse volumus , quod , quoniam intelligimus Collegia utriusque Academiae , Cantabrigiensis & Oxoniensis : Collegium item novum prope Wintoniam & Etonense , bonis literis dicata , supplicibus votis petere , ut quo sacrarum literarum monumenta Latina , ad uberiorem Theologiae fructum eis reddantur magis familiaria , eis liceat eadem forma precum Latine uti . Omnibus Reipublicae nostrae membris , quantum in nobis est , consulere , & cum eorum necessitati , qui Latina non intelligunt , tum eorum voluntati qui utramque linguam percipiunt , consulere cupientes , constituimus per praesentes , licitum esse , & permissum nostra Authoritate & privilegio Regali , tam Decano & sodalitio Ecclesioe Christi in Academia nostra Oxoniae , quam Praesidibus , Custodibus , Rectoribus , Magirstis & Sodalitatibus omnium & singulorum Collegiorum Cantabrigiae , Oxoniae , Wintoniae Etonae , hoc modo precandi Latine , uti publice in Ecclesiis , & Sacellis suis quem nos per nostrum Typographum aedi curavimus in hoc praesenti volumine , convenientem cum Anglicano nostro publicarum precum libro , jam per universum nostrum Regnum recepto & usitato Cui item peculiaria quaedam in Christianorum funebribus & exequiis decantanda adjungi praecipimus , Statuto illo praedicto de Ritu publicarum precum ( cujus supra mentionem fecimus ) anno primo Regni nostri promulgato in contrarium non obstante .

Proviso semper , quod in ejusmodi Collegiis , quibus Laicorum parochiae annexae erunt , ac in reliquis etiam , ad quorum Templa Laici eorundem Collegiorum famuli & Ministri , sive alii quicunque sive Latinae linguae imperiti , necessario adire debent , his horoe aliquot opportunae & loca in dictis Ecclesiis aut Sacellis , assignentur , in quibus , Festis saltem diebus , preces matutinae & vespertinae legantur & recitentur : Et Sacramentorum administrationes suis temporibus Anglice , ad Laicorum aedificationem celebrari possint . Eadem etiam formula Latina precandi privatim uti , hortamur omnes reliquos Ecclesiae nostrae Anglicanae Ministros , cujuscunque gradus fuerint , iis diebus , quibus aut non solent , aut non tenentur Parochianis suis ad aedem sacram pro more accedentibus , publice preces vernacula lingua , secundum formam dicti Statuti recitare . In praemissorum autem fidem & Testimonium , has literas nostras fieri fecimus patentes .

Dat. apud Palatium nostrum de Westmonasterio Sexto die Aprilis . Anno regni nostri secundo . 1560.
In Commendationibus Benefactorum .

AD cujusque termini finem Commendatio fiat Fundatoris , aliorumque Clarorum virorum , quorum beneficentia Collegium locupletatur .

Ejus haec sit forma .

Primum recitetur clara voce Oratio Dominica .

Pater noster qui es in Coelis , &c.

Deinde recitentur tres Psalmi Exaltabo te Deus meus rex . Psalm . 144. Lauda anima mea Do. Psalm . 145. Laudate Dominum quoniam bonus , Ps. 146. Post haec legatur Cap. 44. Ecclesiastici .

Hiis finitis , sequatur Concio : in qua Concionator Fundatoris amplissimam munificentiam praedicet : quantus sit literarum usus ostendat : quantis laudibus afficiendi sunt qui literarum studia beneficentia sua excitent : quantum sit Ornamentum Regno doctos viros habere , qui de rebus controversis vere judicare possunt , quanta sit Scripturarum laus , & quantum iilae omni humani Authoritati antecedant , quanta sit ejus Doctrinae in vulgus utilitas , & quam late pateat : quam egregium & regium sit ( cui Deus universae plebis suae curam commisit ) de multitudine Ministrorum verbi laborare , atque hii ut honesti atque eruditi sint , curare : atque alia ejus generis , quae pii & docti viri cum laude illustrari possint .

Hac concione perorata decantetur .

Benedictus Dominus Israel .

Ad extremum haec adhibeantur .

Minister .

In memoriam aeternam erit justus .

Responsio .

Ab auditu malo non timebit .

Minister .

Justorum animae in manu Dei sunt .

Responsio .

Nec attingit illos cruciatus .

Oremus .

DOmine Deus , Resurrectio & Vita Credentium , qui semper es laudandus , tam in viventibus quam in defunctis , agimus tibi gratias , pro Fundatore nostro N. caeterisque Benefactoribus nostris , quorum beneficiis hic ad pietatem & studia literarum alimur : rogantes ut nos , hiis donis ad tuam gloriam recte utentes , una cum illis , ad resurrectionis gloriam immortalem perducamur : per Jesum Christum Dominum nostrum . Amen .

Celebratio Coenae Domini in Funebribus , si Amici & vicini defuncti communicare velint .
Collecta .

MIsericors Deus , pater Domini nostri Jesu Christi , qui es Resurrectio & vita , in quo qui credidit etiamsi mortuus fuerit , vivet ; & , in quo qui crediderit & vivit non morietur in aeternum : quique nos docuisti per sanctum Apostolum tuum Paulum , non debere maerere pro dormientibus in Christo , sicut ii qui spem non habent resurrectionis , humiliter petimus , ut nos a morte peccati resuscites ad vitam justititae , ut cum ex hac vita emigramus , dormiamus cum Christo , quemadmodum speramus hunc fratrem nostrum , & in generali resurrectione , extremo die , nos una cum hoc fratre nostro resuscitati , & , receptis corporibus , regnemus una tecum in vita aeterna : per Dominum nostrum Jesum Christum . Amen .

Epistola . 1 Thess. 4.

NOlo vos ignorare fratres de his qui obdormierunt , ne doleatis quemadmodum & caeteri non habentes spem . Nam si credimus quod Jesus mortuus est & resurrexit , sic & Deus eos qui obdormierunt , per Jesum , adducet cum illo . Hoc enim vobis dicimus in verbo Domini , quod nos qui vivimus , & reliqui erimus in adventum Domini , nequaquam praeveniemus eos qui dormiunt . Quoniam ipse Dominus cum hortatu & voce Archangeli , ac tuba Dei descendet de Coelo : & mortui in Christo resurgent primum : deinde nos qui vivemus , qui reliqui erimus , simul cum illis rapientur in nubibus in occursum Domini in aere , & sic semper cum Domino erimus . Proinde consolemini vos mutuo sermonibus his .

Evangelium . Joan. 6.

DIxit Jesus Discipulis suis , & Turbis Judaeorum . Omne quod dat mini pater ad me veniet : & eum qui venit ad me , non ejicio foras . Quia descendi de Coelo , ut faciam non quod ego volo , sed quod vult is qui misit me . Haec est autem voluntas ejus qui misit me , Patris , ne quid perdam ex omnibus quae dedit mihi , sed resuscitem illa in novissim ●…ie . Haec est autem voluntas ejus qui misit me , ut omnis qui videt filium & credit in eum , habeat vitam aeternam , & ego suscitabo eum in novissimo die .

Vel hoc Evangelium . Joan. 5.

DIxit Jesus discipulis suis & Turbis Judaeorum : Amen , Amen dico vobis , qui sermonem meum audit , & credit ei qui misit me , habet vitam aeternam , & in condemnationem non veniet , sed transivita morte in vitam . Amen , Amen dico vobis , quod veniet hora & nunc est , quando mortui audient votem filii Dei : & qui audierint , vivent . Sicut enim pater habet cviam in semetipso , sic de dit & filio habere vitam in semetipso : & potestatem dedit ei judicandi quoque , quia Filius hominis . Nolite mirari hoc : quia veniet hora , in qua omnes qui in monumentis sunt , audient vocem ejus , & prodibunt , qui bona secerunt in resurrectionem vitae : qui vero mala egerunt , in resurrectionem condemnationis .

FINIS .

ARTICULI De quibus convenit inter Archiepiscopos , ET EPISCOPOS Utriusque Provinciae , ET CLERUM UNIVERSUM In Synodo , Londini .

Anno 1562. secundum computationem Ecclesiae Anglicanae , ad tollendam opinionum dissentionem , & consensum in vera Religione firmandum .

Aediti authoritate serenissimae Reginae .

LONDINI , Apud JOHANNEM DAY , 1571.

De fide in sacro-sanctam Trinitatem .

UNus est vivus , & verus Deus , aeternus , incorporeus , impartibilis , impassibilis , immensae potentiae , sapientiae ac bonitatis , creator , & conservator omnium , tum visibilium , tum invisibilium . Et in unitate hujus divinae naturae , tres sunt personae , ejusdem essentiae , potentiae ac aeternitatis , Pater , Filius , & Spiritus sanctus .

De verbo , sive Filio Dei , qui verus homo factus est .

FIlius , qui est verbum patris , ab aeterno a patre genitus , verus & aeternus Deus , ac patri consubstantialis , in utero beatae virginis , ex illius substantia naturam humanam assumpsit : ita ut duae naturae , divina & humana , integre atque perfecte in unitate personae fuerint inseparabiliter conjunctae , ex quibus est unus Christus , verus Deus & verus homo , qui vere passus est , crucifixus , mortuus , & sepultus , ut patrem nobis reconciliaret , essetque hostia , non tantum pro culpa originis , verum etiam pro omnibus actualibus hominum peccatis .

De descensu Christi ad Inferos .

QUemadmodum Christus pro nobis mortuus est , & sepultus , ita est etiam credendus ad Inferos descendisse .

De resurrectione Christi .

CHristus vere a mortuis resurrexit , suumque corpus cum carne , ossibus , omnibusque ad integritatem humanae naturae pertinentibus , recepit : cum quibus in coelum ascendit , ibique residet , quoad extremo die ad judicandos homines reversurus sit .

De spiritu Sancto .

SPiritus sanctus a patre & filio procedens ejusdem est cum patre , & filio essentiae , majestatis , & gloriae , verus ac aeternus Deus .

De divinis Scripturis , quod sufficiant ad salutem .

SCriptura sacra continet omnia , quae ad salutem sunt necessaria , ita , ut quicquid in ea nec legitur , neque inde probari potest , non sit a quonam exigendum , ut tanquam articulus fidei credatur , aut ad salutis necessitatem requiri putetur .

Sacrae Scripturae nomine , eos Canonicos libros veteris , & novi Testamenti intelligimus , de quorum authoritate , in Ecclesia nunquam dubitatum est .

De nominibus , & numero librorum sacrae Canonicae Scripturae veteris Testamenti . Genesis . Exodus . Leviticus . Numeri . Deuteron . Josuae . Judicum . Ruth . Prior liber Samuelis . Secundus liber Samuelis . Prior liber Regum . Secundus liber Regum . Prior liber Paralipom . Secundus liber Paralipomen . Primus liber Esdrae . Secundus liber Esdrae . Liber Hester . Liber Job . Psalmi . Proverhia . Ecclesiastes vel Concionator . Cantica Solomonis . 4. Prophetae Majores . 12. Prophetae minores . Alios autem libros ( ut ait Hieronimus ) legit quidam Ecclesia , ad exempla vitae , & formandos mores : illos tamen ad dogmata confirmanda non adhibet , ut sunt Tertius liber Esdrae . Quartus liber Esdrae . Liber Tobiae . Liber Judith . Reliquum libri Hester . Liber sapientiae . Liber Jesu filii Sirach . Baruch propheta . Canticum trium puerorum . Historia Susannae . De Bel & Dracone . Oratio Manasses . Prior lib. Machabeorum . Secundus liber Machabeorum .

Novi Testamenti omnes libros ( ut vulgo recepti sunt ) recipinius , & habenius pro Canonicis .

De veteri Testamento .

TEstamentum vetus , novo contrarium non est , quandoquidem tam in veteri , quam in novo , per Christum , qui unicus est Mediator Dei , & hominum , Deus & homo , aeterna vita , humano generi est proposita . Quare male sentiunt , qui veteres tantum in promissiones temporarias sperasse confingunt . Quanquam lex a Deo data per M●…sen ( quoad ceremonias & ritus ) Christianos non astringat , neque civilia ejus praecepta in aliqua republica necessario recipi debeant , nihilominus tamen ab obedientia mandatorum ( quae moralia vocantur ) nullus ( quantumvis Christianus ) est solutus :

De tribus Symbolis .

SYmbola tria , Nycoenum , Athanasii , & quod vulgo Apostolorum appellatur , omnino recipienda sunt , & credenda , nam firmissimis Scripturarum Testimoniis probari possunt .

De peccato originali .

PEccatum originis non est ( ut fabulantur Pelagiani ) in imitatione Adami situm , sed est vitium , & depravatio naturae , cujuslibet hominis ex Adamo naturaliter propagati : qua fit , ut ab originali justitia quam longissime distet , ad malum sua natura propendeat , & caro semper adversus spiritum concupiscat , unde in unoquoque nascentium , iram Dei , atque damnationem meretur . Manet etiam in renatis haec naturae depravatio . Qua fit ut affectus carnis Graece 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 quod alii sapientiam , alii sensum , alii affectum , alii studium carnis interpretantur , ) legi Dei non subjiceatur . Et quanquam renatis & credentibus , nulla propter Christum est condemnatio , peccati tamen in sese rationem habere concupiscentiam , fatetur Apostolus .

De libero arbitrio .

EA est hominis post lapsum Adae conditio , ut sese naturalibus suis viribus , & bonis operibus , ad fidem , & invocationem Dei convertere , ac preparare non possit . Quare absque gratia Dei ( quae per Christum est ) nos praeveniente , ut velimus , & cooperante , dum volumus , ad pietatis opera facienda , quae Deo grata sunt , & accepta , nihil valemus .

De hominis justificatione .

TAntum propter meritum Domini , ac Servatoris nostri Jesu Christi , per fidem , non propter opera , & merita nostra , justi coram Deo reputamur . Quare sola fide nos justificari doctrina est saluberrima , ac consolationis plenissima , ut in homilia de justificatione hominis , fusius explicatur .

De bonis operibus .

BOna opera quae sunt fructus fidei , & justificatos sequuntur , quanquam peccata nostra expiare , & divini judicii severitatem ferre non possunt : Deo tamen grata sunt , & accepta in Christo , atque ex vera & viva fide necessario profluunt , ut plane ex illis , aeque fides viva cognosci possit , atque arbor ex fructu judicari .

De operibus ante justificationem .

OPera quae fiunt , ante gratiam Christi , & spiritus ejus afflatum , cum ex fide Jesu Christi non prodeant , minime Deo grata sunt , neque gratiam ( ut multi vocant ) de congruo merentur . Immo cum non sunt facta , ut Deus illa fieri voluit & praecepit , peccati rationem habere non dubitamus .

De operibus supererogationis .

OPera quae supererogationis appellant , non possunt sine arrogantia , & impietate praedicari . Nam illis declarant homines , non tantum se Deo reddere , quae tenentur , sed plus in ejus gratiam facere , quam deberent , cum aperte Christus dicat : Cum feceritis omnia quaecunque praecepta sunt vobis , dicite , servi inutiles sumns .

De Christo qui solus est sine peccato .

CHristus , in nostrae naturae veritate , per omnia similis factus est nobis , excepto peccato , a quo prorsus erat immunis , tum in carne , tum in spiritu . Venit ut agnus , absque macula , qui mundi peccata per immolationem sui semel factam , tolleret , & peccatum ( ut inquit Johannes ) in eo non erat : sed nos reliqui etiam baptizati , & in Christo regenerati , in multis tamen offendimus omnes . Et si dixerimus , quia peccatum non habemus , nos ipsos seducimus , & veritas in nobis non est .

De peccato post Baptismum .

NOn omne peccatum mortale post Baptismum voluntarie perpetratum , est peccatum in Spiritum sanctum , & irremissibile . Proinde lapsis a Baptismo in peccata , locus poenitentiae non est negandus , post acceptum spiritum sanctum possumus a gratia data recedere , atque peccare denuoque per gratiam Dei resurgere , ac resipiscere : ideoque illi damnandi sunt , qui se quamdiu hic vivant , amplius non posse peccare affirmant , aut vere resipiscentibus , veniae locum denegant .

De praedestinatione , & electione .

PRaedestinatio ad vitam , est aeternum Dei propositum , quo ante jacta mundi fundamenta , suo confilio , nobis quidem occulto constanter decrevit , eos quos in Christo elegit ex hominum genere , a maledicto & exitio liberare , atque ( ut vasa in honorem efficta ) per Christum , ad aeternam salutem adducere . Unde qui tam praeclaro Dei beneficio sunt donati , illi spiritu ejus , opportuno tempore operante , secundum propositum ejus , vocantur , vocationi per gratiam parent , justificantur gratis , adoptantur in filios Dei , unigeniti ejus Jesu Christi imagini efficiuntur conformes , in bonis operibus sancte ambulant , & demum ex Dei misericordia pertingunt ad sempiternam foelicitatem .

Que madmodum praedestinationis & electionis nostrae in Christo pia consideratio , dulcis , suavis & ineffabilis consolationis plena est , vere piis , & hiis qui sentiunt in se vim spiritus Christi , facta carnis , & membra , quae adhuc sunt super terram , mortificantem , animumque ad coelestia , & superna rapientem . Tum quia fidem nostram de aeterna salute consequenda per Christum plurimum stabilit , atque confirmat , tum quia amorem nostrum in Deum vehementer accendit . Ita hominibus curiosis , carnalibus , & Spiritu Christi destitutis , ob oculos perpetuo versari praedestinationis Dei sententiam , pernitiosissimum est praecipitium , unde illos diabolus protrudit , vel in desperationem vel in aeque pernitiosam impurssimae vitae securitatem , deinde promissiones divinas sic amplecti oportet , ut nobis in sacris literis generaliter propositae sunt , & Dei voluntas in nostris actionibus ea sequenda est , quam in verbo Dei habemus , diserte revelatam .

De speranda aeterna salute tantum in nomine Christi .

SUnt & illi Anathematizandi , qui dicere audent unumquemque in lege , aut secta quam profitetur esse servandum , modo juxta illam , & lumen naturae accurate vixerit , cum sacrae literae tantum Jesu Christi nomen praedicent , in quo salvos fieri homines oporteat .

De Ecclesia .

ECclesia Christi visibilis est coetus fidelium , in quo verbum Dei purum praedicatur , & sacramenta , quoad ea quae necessario exigantur , juxta Christi institutum recte administrantur . Sicut erravit Ecclesia Hierosolymitana , Alexandrina , & Antiochena : ita & erravit Ecclesia Romana , non solum quoad agenda , & caeremoniarum ritus , verum in hiis etiam quae credenda sunt .

De Ecclesiae Authoritate .

HAbet Ecclesia Ritus sive Caeremonias statuendi jus , & in fidei controversiis authoritatem ; quamvis Ecclesia non licet quicquam instituere quod verbo Dei scripto adversetur , nec unum scripturae locum sic exponere potest , vt alteri contradicat . Quare licet Ecclesia sit divinorum librorum testis , & conservatrix , attamen ut adversus eos nihil decernere , ita praeter illos , nihil credendum de necessitate salutis debet obtrud●…re .

De authoritate Conciliorum generalium .

GEneralia Concilia , sine jussu , & voluntate principum congregari non possunt , & ubi convenerint , quia ex hominibus constant , qui non omnes spiritu , & verbo Dei , reguntur , & errare possunt , & interdum errarunt etiam in his quae ad Deum pertinent : ideoque quae ab illis constituuntur , ut ad salutem necessaria , neque robur habent , neque authoritatem , nisi ostendi possint e sacris literis esse desumpta .

De purgatorio .

DOctrina Romanensium de purgatorio , de indulgentiis , de veneratione , & adoratione , tum imaginum , tum relinquiarum nec non de invocatione sanctorum , res est futilis , inaniter conficta , & nullis Scripturarum testimoniis innititur : immo verbo Dei contradicit .

De Ministrando in Ecclesia .

Non licet cuiquam sumere sibi munus publice praedicandi , aut administrandi Sacramenta in Ecclesia , nisi prius fuerit ad haec obeunda legitime vocatus & missus . Atque illos legitime vocatos & missos existimare debemus , qui per homines , quibus potestas vocandi ministros , atque mittendi in vineam Domini , publice concessa est in Ecclesia , co-optati fuerint , & asciti in hoc opus .

De loquendo in Ecclesia lingua quam populus intelligit .

LIngua populo non intellecta , publicas in Ecclesia preces peragere , aut Sacramenta administrare , verbo Dei , & primitivae Ecclesiae consuetudini plane repugnat ,

De Sacramentis .

SAcramenta a Christo instituta , non ta●tum sunt notae professionis Christianorum , sed certa quaedam potius testimonia , & efficacia signa gratiae atque bonae in nos voluntatis Dei , per quae invisibiliter ipse in nos operatur , nostramque fidem in se non solum excitat , verumetiam confirmat .

Duo a Christo Domino nostro in Evangelio instituta sunt Sacramenta , scilicet : Baptismus , & Coena Domini .

Quinque illa vulgo nominata Sacramenta : scilicet , confirmatio , poenitentia , ordo , matrimonium , & extrema unctio , pro Sacramentis Evangelicis habenda non sunt , ut quae , partim a prava Apostolorum imitatione profluxerunt , partim vitae status sunt in Scripturis quidem probati : sed Sacramentorum eandem cum Baptismo , & Caena Domini rationem non habentes , ut quae signum aliquod visibile , seu caeremoniam , a Deo institutum , non habeant .

Sacramenta non in hoc instituta sunt a Christo ut spectarentur , aut circumferrentur , sed ut rite illis uterentur , & in hiis duntaxat qui digne percipiunt salutarem habent effectum : Qui vero indigne percipiunt , damnationem ( ut inquit Paulus ) sibi ipsis acquirunt .

De vi institutionum divinarum quod eam non tollat malitia Ministrorum .

QVamvis in Ecclesia visibili , bonis mali semper sunt admixti , atque interdum ministerio verbi , & Sacramentorum administrationi praesint , tamen cum non suo , sed Christi nomine a gant , ejusque mandato , & authoritate ministrent , illorum ministerio uti licet , cum in verbo Dei audiendo , tum in Sacramentis percipiendis . Neque per illorum malitiam , effectus institutorum Christi tollitur , aut gratia donorum Dei minuitur , quoad eos qui fide , & rite sibi oblata percipiunt , quae propter institutionem Christi , & promissionem efficacia sunt , licet per malos administrentur .

Ad Ecclesiae tamen disciplinam pertinet , ut in malos ministros inquiratur , accusenturque ab his , qui eorum flagitia noverint , atque tandem justo convicti judicio deponantur .

De Baptismo .

BAptismus non est tantum professionis signum , ac discriminis nota , qua Christiani a non Christianis discernantur , sed etiam est signum regenerationis , per quod , tanquam per instrumentum , recte baptismum suscipientes , Ecclesiae inseruntur , promissiones de remissione peccatorum , atque adoptione nostra in filios Dei per Spiritum sanctum visibiliter obsignantur , fides confirmatur , & vi divinae invocationis gratia augetur .

Baptismus parvulorum omnino in Ecclesia retinendus est , ut qui cum Christi institutione optime congruat .

De Coena Domini .

COena Domini non est tantum signum mutuae benevolentiae Christianorum inter sese , verum potius est Sacramentum nostrae per mortem Christi redemptionis .

Atque adeo , rite , digne , & cum fide sumentibus , panis quem frangimus est communicatio corporis Christi : similiter poculum benedictionis , est communicatio sanguinis Christi .

Panis & Vini Transubstantiatio in Eucharistia , ex sacris literis probari non potest . Sed apertis Scripturae verbis adversatur , Sacramenti naturam evertit , & multarum superstitionum dedit occasionem .

Corpus Christi datur , accipitur , & manducatur in Coena , tantum coelesti , & spirituali ratione . Medium autem quo corpus Christi accipitur , & manducatur in Caena , fides est .

Sacramentum Eucharistiae , ex institutione Christi non servabatur , circumferebatur , elevebatur , nec adorabatur .

De manducatione corporis Christi , & impios illos non manducare .

IMpij , & fide viva destituti , licet carnaliter , & visibiliter ( ut Augustinus loquitur ) corporis , & sanguinis Christi Sacramentum , dentibus premant , nullo tamen modo Christi participes efficiuntur . Sed potius tantae rei Sacramentum , seu Symbolum , ad judicium sibi manducant , & bibunt .

De utraque specie .

CAlix Domini laicis non est denegandus , utraque enim pars Dominici Sacramenti , ex Christi institutione , & praecepto , omnibus Christianis ex aequo administrari debet .

De unica Christi oblatione in cruce perfecta .

OBlatio Christi semel facta , perfecta est redemptio , propitiatio , & satisfactio pro omnibus peccatis totius mundi , tam originalibus , quam actualibus . Neque praeter illam unicam , est ulla alia pro peccatis expiatio , unde missarum sacrificia , quibus , vulgo dicebatur , sacerdotem offerre Christum in remissionem poenae , aut culpae , pro vivis & defunctis , blasphema figmenta sunt , & perniciosae imposturae .

De conjugio Sacerdotum .

EPiscopis , presbyteris , & diaconis nullo mandato divino praeceptum est , ut aut coelibatum voveant , aut a matrimonio abstineant . Licet igitur etiam illis , ut caeteris omnibus Christianis , ubi hoc ad pietatem magis facere judicaverint , pro suo arbitratu matrimonium contrahere .

De excommunicatis vitandis .

QVi per publicam Ecclesiae denuntiationem rite ab unitate ecclesiae praecisus est , & excommunicatus , is ab universo fidelium multitudine ( donec per poenitentiam publice reconciliatus fuerit arbitrio Judicis competentis ) habendus est tanquam Ethnicus & publicanus .

De traditionibus Ecclesiasticis .

TRaditiones atque caeremorias easdem , non omnino necessarium est esse ubique , aut prors●… consimiles . Nam ut variae semper fuerunt , & mutari possunt , pro Regionum , temporum , & morum diversitate , modo nihil contra verbum Dei instituatur ,

Traditiones , & caeremonias Ecclesiasticas quae cum verbo Dei non pugnant , & sunt authoritate publica institutae , atque probatae , quisquis privato consilio volens , & data opera , publice violaverit , is ut qui peccat in publicum ordinem Ecclesiae , quique laedit authoritatem Magistratus , & qui infirmorum fratrum conscientias vulnerat , publice ut coeteri timeant , arguendus est .

Quaelibet Ecclesia particularis , sive Nationalis , authoritatem habet instituendi , mutandi aut abrogandi Caeremonias , aut ritus Ecclestasticas , humana tantum authoritate institutos , modo omnia ad aedificationem fiant .

De Homiliis .

TOmus secundus Homiliarum , quarum singulos titulos huic articulo subiunximus , continet piam & salutarem doctrinam , & hiis temporibus necessariam , non minus quam prior Tomus Homiliarum , quae editae sunt tempore Edwardi sexti : Itaque eas in Ecclesiis per ministros diligenter , & clare , ut a populo intelligi possint , recitandas esse judicavimus .

De nominibus Homiliarum . Of the right use of the Church . Against perill of idolatry . Of repairing and keeping clean of Churches . Of good works . First of fasting . Against gluttony and drunkennesse . Against excess of apparell . Of prayer . Of the place and time of prayer . That common prayers & Sacraments ought to be ministred in a known toung . Of the reverent estimation of Gods word . Of almes doing . Of the Nativity of Christ . Of the passion of Christ . Of the Resurrection of Christ . Of the worthy receiving of the Sacrament of the body and blood of Christ . Of the gifts of the holy Ghost . For the Rogation dayes . Of the State of Matrimony . Of Repentance . Against idleness . Against rebellion .
De Episcoporum & Ministrorum consecratione .

LIbellus de consecratione Archiepiscoporum , & Episcoporum , & de ordinatione praesbyterorum , & diaconorum , editus nuper temporibus Edwardi VI. & authoritate Parliamenti illis ipsis temporibus confirmatus , omnia ad ejusmodi consecrationem , & ordinationem necessaria continet , & nihil habet , quod ex se sit , aut superstitiosum , aut impium : itaque quicunque juxta ritus illius libri consecrati , aut ordinati sunt , ab anno secundo praedicti regis Edwardi , usque ad hoc tempus , aut imposterum juxta eosdem ritus consecrabuntur , aut ordinabuntur , rite atque ordine , atque legitime statuimus esse , & fore consecratos , & ordinatos .

De civilibus Magistratibus .

REgia Majestas in hoc Angliae regno , ac caeteris ejus dominiis , summam habet potestatem , ad quam , omnium statuum hujus regni , sive illi Ecclesiastici sint , sive civiles , in omnihus causis , suprema gubernatio pertinet , & nulli externae jurisdictioni est subjecta , nec esse debet .

Cum Regiae Majestati summam gubernationem tribuimus , quibus titulis intelligimus , animos quorundam calumniatorum offendi , non damus Regibus nostris , aut verbi Dei , aut Sacramentorum administrationem , quod etiam Injunctiones ab Elizabetha Regina nostra , nuper editae , a●ertissime testantur . Sed eam tantum prerogativam , quam in sacris Scripturis a Deo ipso , omnibus piis Principibus , videmus semper fuisse attributam , hoc est , ut omnes status , atque ordines fidei suae a Deo commissos , sive illi Ecclesiastici sint , sive civiles , in officio contineant , & contumaces , ac delinquentes gladio civili coerceant .

Romanus pontifex nullam habet jurisdictionem in hoc regno Angliae .

Leges Regni possunt Christianos propter capitalia , & gravia crimina , morte punire .

Christianis licet , ex mandato Magistratus , arma portare & justa bella administrare .

De illicita bonorum communicatione .

FAcultates & bona Christianorum non sunt communia , quoad jus & possessionem ( ut quidam Anabaptistae falso jactant ) debet tamen quisque de his quae possidet , pro facultatum ratione , pauperibus eleemosinas benigne distribuere .

De jurejurando .

QVemadmodum juramentum vanum , & temerarium a Domino nostro Jesu Christo , & Apostolo ejus Jacobo , Christianis hominibus interdictum esse fatemur : ita Christianorum Religionem minime prohibere censemus , quin jubente magistratu in causa fidei , & charitatis jurare liceat modo id fiat juxta Prophetae doctrinam , in justitia , in judicio & veritate .

Confirmatio Articulorum .

HIc liber antedictorum Articulorum jam denuo approbatus est , per assensum & consensum Serenissimae Reginae Elizabethae Dominae nostrae , Dei gratia Angliae , Franciae , & Hiberniae Reginae defensoris fidei , &c. retinendus , & per totum Regnum Angliae exequendus . Qui Articuli , & lecti sunt , et denuo confirmati , subscriptione D. Archiepiscopi & Episcoporum superioris domus , & totius Cleri inferioris domus in Convocatione Anno Domini . 1571.

FINIS .

LIBER QUORUNDAM CANONUM DISCIPLINAE Ecclesiae Anglicanae . ANNO MDLXXI .

De Episcopis . De Decanis Ecclesiarum . De Archidiaconis . De Cancellariis , &c. De Aedituis Aecclesiarum . De Concionatoribus . De Residentia . De Pluralitatibus . De Ludimagistris . De Patronis , &c.

LONDINI , Apud Johannem Day . 1571.

DE EPISCOPIS .

Sequuntur in hoc libello certi quidam articuli de sacro ministerio , & procuratione Ecclesiarum , in quos plene consensum est in Synodo a Domino Mathaeo Archiepis . Cantuar. & totius Angliae Primate & Metopolitano , et reliquis omnibus ejus Provinciae Episcopis , partim personaliter praesentibus , partim procuratoria manu subscribentibus in synodo inchoata Londini in aede Divi Pauli , tertio die Aprilis . 1571.

OMNES EPISCOPI diligenter docebunt Evangelium , non tantum in Ecclesiis Cathedralibus quibus praesunt , sed etiam passim , per omnes Ecclesias suae cujusque dioeceseos , ubi maxime putabunt expedire .

Imprimis autem cohortabuntur populum ad lectionem , & auditionem Sacrarum Scripturarum : utque statis temporibus conveniant ad suas quique Ecclesias , & diligenter auscultent Sacris Concionatoribus , utque submisse & audiant pias preces , quae a Ministro dicentur , & una precentur ipsi & coelestium Mysteriorum , ut nunc in Ecclesiis nostris authoritate , & jussu totius Regni legitime , & pie procurantur , sint participes .

Episcopus quisque ante Calendas Septembris proximas , advocabit ad se omnes publicos Concionatores , quicunque erunt in sua cujusque dioecesi , & ab illis repetet facultates concionandi , quas habent authentico sigillo consignatas , easque vel retinebit apud se vel extinguet . Deinde , delectu illorum prudenter facto , quoscunque ad illam tantam functionem , aetate , doctrina , judicio , innocentia , modestia , gravitate , pares invenerit , illis novas facultates ultro dabit : ita tamen ut prius subscribant articulis christianae religionis publice in synodo approbatis ) fidemque dent , se velle tueri , & defendere doctrinam eam , quae in illis continetur , ut consentients ; imam veritati divini verbi .

Episcopus etiam atque etiam confiiderabit , quod genus hominum admittat in famulitium . Fit enim interdum , ubi haec cautio & diligentia non adhibetur , ut homines impios & verae religionis inimicos , & criminosos , & tota vita impuros , & sceleratos admittamus . Ex eo adversarius facile capiet maledicendi occasionem .

Episcoporum famuli in omni vestis genere , ita se modeste & composite ornabunt , ut fratres suos , quos Paulus appellat domesticos fidei , non offendant .

Episcopus nemini posthac manum imponet , nisi instituto in bonis literis , vel in Academia , vel in inferiore aliqua schola : aut qui satis commode intelligat latinam linguam , & probe versatus sit in sacris literis : nec nisi attigerit aetatem illam legitimam , quae statutis & legibus est constituta ; nec nisi cujus vita et innocentia gravium , & piorum hominum , & Episcopo notorum fuerit testimonio commendata : nec si in agricultura , vel in vili aliquo & sedentario artificio suerit educatus : nec nisi qui titulum ( quem appellant ) aliquem habeat , ut sit unde vitam tueatur , si Dei permissu , vel in caecitatem , vel in gravem corporis infirmitatem , vel in morbum diuturnum incidat : nec nisi qui intra ipsius dioecesim sacro ministerio functurus sit , nec unquam nisi ubi sacrum aliquod ministerium in eadem dioecesi vacare contigerit . Neminem autem peregrinum , & ignotum vel ad sacerdotiorum proventus , vel ad Ecclesiasticum ministerium recipiet , nisi ab illo episcopo , e cujus dioecesi discessit , literas commendatitias , quas appellant dimissorias , secum afferat .

Episcopus praebendarum , & beneficiorum suorum proximas secundas aut tertias advocationes , quas vocant , nulli dabit . Sunt enim & a bonis moribus , & a Christiana charitate alienae : nec dimissiones fructuum , aut redditum cujuscunque rectoriae , aut Ecclesiastici beneficii quacunque ratione in plurimos annos confirmabit .

Episcopus neminem , qui se otioso nomine Lectorem vocet , & manus impositionem non acceperit in Ecclesiae ministerio , versari patietur .

Quivis Archiepiscopus , & Episcopus habebit domi suae sacra Biblia in amplissimo volumine , uti nuperrime Londini excusa sunt , & plenam illam historiam quae inscribitur Monumenta Martyrum , & alios quosdam similes libros ad religionem appositos . Locentur autem isti libri , vel in aula , vel in grandi coenaculo , ut & ipsorum famulis , & advenis usui esse possint .

Decani Ecclesiarum Cathedralium .

EOsdem illos libros quos proxime diximus , Decanus quisque curabit emi , & locari in Ecclesia sua Cathedrali , ejusmodi in loco , ut a Vicariis & minoribus canonicis , & Ministris Ecclesiae , & ab advenis , & peregrinis commode audiri , & legi possint .

Eosdem libros illos , Decanus & Primarius quisque residentarius , quos appellant Ecclesiae dignitates , ement suo quisque famulitio , eosque opportuno aliquo in loco , vel in aula , vel in coenaculo locabunt .

Decanus & Praebendarii diligenter docebunt sacrum Dei verbum , non tantum in Ecclesiis Cathedralibus ubi vivunt , sed etiam in aliis Ecclesiis in eadem dioecesi , maxime vero in illis locis , unde ipsis redditus annui , & stipendia suppeditantur . Quod nisi fecerint , pro Episcopi arbitrio puniantur .

Nullus nec Decanus , nec Archidiaconus , nec Residentarius , nec Praepositus , nec Custos , nec Praefectus , alicujus Collegii , aut Ecclesiae Cathedralis , nec Praeses , nec Rector , nec quisquam ex illo ordine , quocunque nomine censeatur , utetur posthac amictu illo quem appellant Graium Amicium , aut alia ulla veste simili superstitione contaminata . Sed in Ecclesiis quisque suis utentur tantum linea illa veste , quae adhuc Regio mandato retinetur ) & Scholastica Epomide , quae suo cujusque Scholastico gradui & loco conveniat .

Quivis Decanus in singulos annos ad minimum quater residebit in Ecclesia sua Cathedrali , ibique singulis hujusmodi vicibus mensem integrum ( si fieri potest ) docendo verbum Dei & hospitalitatem servando moram faciet , nisi forte gravibus , & urgentibus causis impedietur . Eas autem causas in singulas vices indicabit Episcopo suo . Ubi autem venerit , una cum Praebendariis residentibus curabit , ut statuta illius Ecclesiae , nisi contraria fint ( ut multa sunt ) verbo Dei , & statuta hujus regni quaecunque sunt , quae Ecclesiasticum ordinem attingunt , & sacrae Injunctiones , vel a Regia Majestate aeditae , vel ab Episcopo in visitationibus illius Ecclesiae Cathedralis impositae , diligenter observentur . Praeterea Decanus , & residentarii quantum maxime possint dabunt operam , ut minores Canonici , aut Vicarii & Ministri Ecclesiae , ne ignavi , & inutiles vitam ducant in ocio , & illicitis lusibus se exerceant , adigantur ad studia Scripturarum , utque illorum quisque habeat novum Testamentum , non tantum Latino sermone scriptum , sed etiam Anglico .

Decanus & Residentarii curabunt , ne qua alia forma observetur in canendis aut dicendis sacris precibus , aut in administratione sacramentorum , praeterquam quae proposita , & praescripta est in libro publicarum precum : nec ullum admittent peregrinum ad habendam sacram concionem ad populum nisi ei , aut Regia Majestas , aut Archiepiscopus illius Provinciae , aut illius dioeceseos Episcopus facultatem indulserit . Et si ejusmodi aliquis Concionator , ita vel a Regia Majestate , vel ab Archiepiscopo , vel ab Episcopo approbatus , publicabit ad populum pro concione droctrinam aliquam peregrinam , & impiam , & pugnantem , vel cum sacro Dei verbo , vel cum articulis religionis nostrae approbatis in Synodo , haud dubie cum eodem verbo Dei consentientibus , vel cum libro publicarum precum : Decanus aut Residentarii primo ; quoque tempore indicabunt id Episcopo literis suis , & eorum aliquot qui concionantem audiverunt manu consignatis , ut ille statuat quod videbitur .

Archidiaconi .

QUivis Archidiaconus habebit domi suae , & alios libros , & nominatim eos , qui inscribuntur Monumenta Martyrum .

Archidiaconus qui vel jure communi , vel praescriptione habet potestatem visitandi , semel in singulos annos in persona sua , visitabit Provinciam suam , neque quenquam sibi substituet officialem , nisi qui in Academia fuerit educatus , & juri civili operam dederit , & annum aetatis vicesimum quartum compleverit , & non solum doctrina , sed etiam gravitate , & modestia par sit , obeundo illi muneri .

Archidiaconi , & illorum substituti , quos appellant officiales , in visitationibus suis vocabunt clerum ad rationem , quantum quisque promoverit in studio scripturarum , & quicunque ex illo ordine Magisterium Artium in Academiis non attigerint , illis proponent partem aliquam novi Testamenti memoriter ediscendam , eosque in proxima synodo ad repetitionem adigent , & contumaces , & negligentes Episcopo indicabunt .

Peracta visitatione Archidiaconus significabit Episcopo , quos invenerit in quoque decanatu , ea doctrina , & judicio praeditos ut digni sint qui pro concione doceant populum , & praesint aliis . Ex illis Episcopus potest delectum facere , quos velit esse Decanos rurales .

Archidiaconi in omnes delinquentes severe , & graviter animadvertent , neque connivebunt ad vitia , aut quenquam quem constat offendisse , impune abire patientur .

Archidiaconi curabunt , ut forensium suorum actorum memoriae fideliter & tuto conserventer , & semel in singulos annos adferent ad Episcopum suum originalia exemplaria omnia Testamentorum , quae coram ipsis anno superiori probata fuerint , ut ea in Episcopi registro asseruenter , copias autem illorum testamentorum ad usum suum ipsi sibi describent , si velint .

Cancellarii , Commissarii , Officiales .

QUivis Cancellarius , Commissarius , & Officialis erit institutus in legibus Ecclesiasticis & civilibus , qui annum aetatis vicesimum sextum attigerit , & in scholis doctrinae nomine gradum aliquem susceperit , & in forensibus causis mediocriter versatus fuerit , de cujus vita & moribus nullus sinister sermo audiatur . Adhaec quivis horum , aut erit in sacro ministerio , aut si non erit , tamen animo toto & ferventi zelo erga religionem feretur , idque aperte & ingenue praese feret : & antequam in functionem ingrediatur , sacramento se obstringet , de authoritate & primatu Principis , atque etiam subscribet articulis de religione in Synodo Episcoporum approbatis .

Nullus horum , nec Cancellarius , nec Commissarius , nec Officialis in cognitione causarum procedet usque ad ferendam sententiam excummunicationis nifi tantum in causis instantiarum . In correctionis negotiis , alia quidem facient omnia quae de jure possint , & solent fieri .

Excommunicationis autem sententiam deferent tantum ad Episcopum : eamque aut ipse per se pronunciabit , aut gravi alicui viro in sacro ministerio constituto , pronunciandum committet . Postquam autem sententiam tulerit , addet insuper commonendi populi , & terroris causa , formulam illam verborum , quae postea suo loco subjicietur , atque etiam aliam formulam similem , quae servanda sit in denuncianda ad populum excommunicatione , curabit describi , & mittiad singulos Ecclesiarum praefectos , ut habeant quo utantur , si usus postulet . Commutationem autem injunctae poenitentiae , nec Cancellarius faciet , nec Archidiaconus , nec Officialis , nec Commissarius . Ea potestas multis gravibus de causis Episcopo soli reservabitur , aut si quem alium , Episcopus ad eum usum speciali mandato designabit .

Ecclesiasticus Judex cujuscunque loci aut ordinis , neminem excommunicatum absolvet Domi suae , aut alioqui in privatis aedibus : sed tantum publice , & pro tribunali .

Cancellarii , Officiales , Commissarii , omnem adhibebunt diligentiam , ut caeteri omnes qui ipsorum jurisdictioni subjiciuntur , officium faciant . Imprimis vero ut Rectores , Vicarii , & Ministri Ecclesiarum , studiose versenter in sacris literis , & sibi libros ordini & professioni suae congruentes , comparent , ut quicunque ad Magisterium Artium non accesserit , emat sibi duos libros novi Testamenti alterum Latine translatum , alterum Anglice , ut illorum quisque memoriter ediscat eam pensam Scripturarum quae illi vel ab Ecclesiastico Judice ordinario , vel ab alio cujus fidem & industriam , Episcopus eligere maluerit , fuerit imposita : ut observent ordines & ritus descriptos in libro Publicarum precum , tam in legendis sacris Scripturis , & precibus dicendis , quam etiam in administratione Sacramentorum , ut neve detrahant aliquid , neve addant , neve de materia , neve de forma : ut honeste se gerant , & in gravi vestitu , in libello admonitionum proposito , modeste & decenter ambulent : utque si familiam habeant , & uxores non habeant , mulierem aliam domi suae ne alant nisi aut matrem , aut sororem , aut neptem ex fratre aut sorore : quod si coelibes vivant & uxores non habeant , in taberna aut caupona cibum ne capiant , sed honesta aliqua in domo in eadem parochia , ubi fine suspitione possint vivere : ut ne ludant aleam , neve chartis , aut aliis improbatis lusibus se exerceant : ut arcu tantum utantur & sagittis , idque animi causa , ut modeste , & in tempore , ne vel ab officio faciendo , vel a sacrarum Scripturarum studiis auferantur .

Videbunt etiam ne Rector , Vicarius , aut Parochus uspiam inserviat , vel in capella , vel in oratorio , aut publicas preces dicat in cujusque privatis aedibus , nisi Episcopus illi autographo suo , & manus suae subscriptione ejus rei potestatem fecerit : Neve Rector aut Vicarius , aut Parochus inserviat plusquam uni Ecclesiae , aut Capellae uno die .

Quivis Minister Ecclesiae , antequam in sacram functionem ingrediatur , subscribet omnibus Articulis de Religione Christiana , in quos consensum est in Synodo : & publice ad populum , ubicunque Episcopus jusserit , patefaciet conscientiam suam quid de illis Articulis , & universa doctrina sentiat . Semel autem receptus in sacrum ministerium , ab eo imposterum non discedit , nec se aut vestitu , aut habitu , aut in ulla vitae parte geret pro Laico .

Quivis Rector Ecclesiae , Vicarius , aut Parochus , quotannis ante vicesimum diem a Paschate , exhibebit Episcopo , ejusve Cancellario aut Commissario , nomina & cognomina Parochianorum suorum tam marium quam foeminarum ( eorum inquam ) qui cum exegerint annum aetatis suae decimum quartum , tamen ad sacrosanctam Communionem ( uti statutis & legibus Ecclesiasticis hujus regni tenenter ) non accesserint , quique subire examen Ecclesiastici ministri de ediscendo Catechismo , & articulis Christianae religionis detractaverint : quique Parentes aut Domini , liberos aut famulos suos ad audiendum discendumque eundem illum Catechismum constitutis temporibus ad Ecclesiam mittere contempserint . Neminem autem patientur de sacro lavacro infantem suscipere , nisi qui ad mensam dominicam accesserit , & sanctorum mysteriorum particeps fuerit : ad mysteriorum autem Communionem neminem admittet , qui Catechismum , & articulos fidei non dedicerit .

Omnibus dominicis , & festis diebus , Rectores , Vicarii , 〈◊〉 Parochi ita mature & convenienter captato tempore ve●…ent ad Ecclesias , ut Parochiani confectis rebus suis , cum liberis & famulis possint eodem occurrere . Ibi vero reverenter ( uti par est ) & pie peragent sacrum mysterium , ita clare , aperte , distincte , ut populus audire , & intelligere possit quid dicatur , & ex eo consolationem , & fructum capere . Eandem pietatem & reverentiam in sacrosanctis etiam mysteriis retinebunt , modo ne ad superstitionem , aut adorationem , aut idolatricum cultum vergant . Quod si tempore sacrae Communionis nulla erit concio de scripto & e pulpito pronunciabunt unam aliquam , aut aliam ex illis homiliis , quas jam antea publicavimus in illum usum . Interim cohortabuntur populum , ut diligenter veniant ad Ecclesias , ut quae legantur , quaeque dicantur attente audiant , utque se toto illo tempore reverenter , & modeste gerant . Et ne piorum animi , insolentia & irreligiosa levitate offendantur , curabunt ne juvenes , praesertim rustici , quorum ingenia procliviora fere sunt ad neglectum pietatis , & nequitiam : neve pulsent campanas , neve per templum obambulent , neve inter se otiose colloquantur , neve aut risu , aut strepitu , aut scurrilibus ineptiis , vel ministrum impediant , vel offendant populum .

Admonebunt populum , ut frequentius accedant ad sacram communionem , utque jam antea tota mente ( uti par est ) sese praeparent . Et ut omnes intelligant quid debeant Deo optimo maximo , quid Principi , quem colere ac venerari debent ut Vicarium Dei : quid legibus : quid magistratibus : quid fratribus suis : quid populo Dei , omnibus dominicis & festis diebus statim a meridie praesto erunt in templis , ibique minimum ad duas horas legent , & docebunt Catechismum , & in eo instituent omnes suos omnium aetatum , atque ordinum , non tantum puellas aut pueros , sed etiam si opus erit grandiores . Imprimis vero admonebunt adolescentes & juvenes , non tantum mares , sed etiam foeminas , cautum esse legibus , ne quis illorum vel accedat ad sacram Communionem , vel contrahat nuptias , vel infantem e sacro fonte suscipiat , nisi antea didicerit rudimenta religionis Christianae & possit ad omnes partes Catechismi convenienter , & dextre respondere .

Quod si Rectores , Vicarii , Parochi , vel concionari non possint , vel facultatem concionandi ab Episcopo non acceperint , tamen docebunt pueros prima elementa legere , scribere , noscere officium suum , quid debeant Deo , quid parentibus , quidque aliis : & si quos ex illis viderint ea esse indole , ut possint institutione , atque cultu ad literarum cognitionem pervenire hortabuntur parentes , ut eos deducant ad Scholam , ut imbuti bonis disciplinis possint aliquando idonei esse ad sacrum Dei optimi maximi Ministerium ; quos autem hebetiores , & ingenio a literis alieniore esse senserint , ut eos curent , vel ad alias artes , vel etiam ad opus rusticum ablegari .

Admonebunt etiam Parochianos suos magnis & gravibus de causis , constitutum esse in Synodo a Reverendissimo Patre , Domino Mathaeo Archiepiscopo Cantuar. & aliis Episcopis , ne liberi contrahant Matrimonium sine consensu parentum , neve juvenis contrahendi potestatem habeat , ante annum aetatis suae decimum sextum , neve Puella ante decimum quartum .

Aeditui Ecclesiarum & alii selecti viri .

AEDitui pro consuetudine suae quique Parochiae , Parochianorum suorum , & ecclesiastici sui ministri suffragiis , eligentur : alioqui aeditui non erunt : nec amplius quam unum annum durabunt in illo munere , nisi forte iterum eligantur . Omnes autem Aeditui semel in singlos annos reddent justam rationem earum pecuniarum , quae in suas manus pervenerunt : atque etiam indicabunt particulatim quos sumptus fecerint in sarta tecta & usum Ecclesiae . Postremo vero discedentes ab officio , quicquid pecuniarum , aliarumque Ecclesiasticarum rerum supererit , & in ipsorum erit potestate , id omne bona fide tradent Parochianis , ut ab illis rursus tradi possit proximis aedituis .

Aeditu curabunt ut Ecclesiae , plumbo , tegula materia , vi●ro , diligenter & probe reficiantur , ne vel minister , vel populus , aut in sacro ministerio & cultu Dei , aut in coelestium mysteriorum tractatione , aut in habenda & audienda communione , coeli injuriis quatiatur . Imprimis autem operam dabunt , ut in omni Ecclesiastico conventu pax quam maxime conservetur & in omnibus Episcoporum atque Archidiaconorum visitationibus , fideliter & nominatim detegent , atque indicabunt eos omnes qui sese in Ecclesia immodeste gefferint , quique vel intempestiva pulsatione campanarum , vel ambulationibus , vel colloquio & strepitu , ministrum aut concionatorem impediverint .

Aeditui curabunt ut aedes sacrae , munde & sancte conserventer , ne cuiquam vel pulvere , vel ramentis , vel sordibus , moveant nauseam . Curabunt etiam ut sacra Biblia sint in singulis Ecclesis in amplissimo volumine ( si commode fieri possit ) qualia nunc nuper Londini excusa sunt , ut liber publicarum precum , ut sacrae homiliae , utque homiliae , que nuper scriptae sunt contra rebellionem , sint in singulis Ecclesiis . Hos libros quam maxime integros & mundos esse convenit : Lac●ros autem aut sordidos nullo modo , ne populo fastidium , & contemptum pariant . Curabunt mensam ex asseribus composite junctam , quae administrationi sacro sanctae communionis inserviat : & mundum tapetem , qui illam contegat : & suggestum commodum , unde caelestis doctrina publicetur . Curabunt insuper ut omnia illa solaria , in quibus cruces ligneae aliquando prostabant , & aliae reliquiae superstitionis prorsus e medio auferantur , utque templorum parietes nova fidelia inducantur , & lectissimis sanctarum scripturarum sententiis illustrentur . Ut illarum lectione & admonitu , populus possit ad pietatem commoveri . Postremo curabunt ut in singulis Ecclesiis sit sacer fons , non pelvis , in quo baptismus ministretur , isque ut decenter & munde conservetur .

Admonebunt etiam Caupones , & Tabernarios , qui ve●…dunt edulia , ne quem in cauponam , aut tabernam suam recipiant toto illo tempore , quo aut habebitur concio , aut sacrum ministerium peragetur . Quod si quis per contemptum , & contumaciam contra fecerit , & illum ipsum , & eos quos ad se receperit , nominatim in proxima visitatione indicabunt . Si quis vel aperto adulterio ; vel stupro , vel incestu , vel ebrietate , vel jurandi consuetudine , vel lenocinio , vel usura , vel alia demum quacunque impuritate vitae , & nequitia , fratres offenderit , illos aeditui amice , & fraterne admonebunt , ut resipiscant . Quod nisi fecerint , indicabunt eos nominatim vel Rectori , vel Vicario , vel Parocho , ut ab illis asperius , & vehementius admoneantur , & si perrexerint , tantisper dum redeant ad sanitatem , a sacra communione arceantur . Utque qui incontinenter , & laxe vivunt , pro meritis suis legum severitate castigentur . Iidem aeditui eosdem illos adulteros , fornicarios , incestos , ebriosos , juratores , lenones , usurarios , in Episcoporum & Archidiaconorum visitationibus patefacient .

Aeditui convivia , symposia , coenas , & invitationes publicas in templis celebrari non patientur : nec campanas superstitiose pulsari , vel in vigilia animarum , vel postridie omnium sanctorum , qui dies non ita pridem geniis mortuorum sace● erat , nec omnino unquam , ubi pulsandi consuetudo ad superstitionem videbitur inclinare . Illis autem tantum temporibus pulsari permittent , quae in libello admonitionum descripta sunt , & ad eundem tantum usum , eodemque tantum modo .

Nundinas , & mercatus publicos celebrare , & sontes sententia judicis condemnatos , neci dedere , & supplicio afficere diebus dominicis non licebit .

Non patientur ut quisquam ex circumforaneis istis tenuibus , & sordidis mercatoribus , qui aciculas & ligulas , & crepundia , & res viles & minutas circumferunt ac distrahunt , quos pe●…arios , aut pedularios appellant , proponant merces suas vel 〈◊〉 coemiteriis , vel in porticibus ecclesiarum , aut uspiam alibi ●…bus festis , aut dominicis , interim dum peragitur pars aliqua sacri ministerii , aut habetur sacra concio ; nec ut mendici aut errones , quibus nulla est certa sedes , toto illo sacrorum aut concionum tempore , haereant in coemiterio , vel in porticu sed mandabunt , ut aut ingrediantur , aut discedant .

Observabunt etiam atque inquirent diligenter ecqui ex Parochianis , temporibus lege constitutis , aut non veniant ad ecclesias , aut ●ardius & negligentius veniant . Quosque invenerint deliquisse , in eos ex legum praescripto animadvertent . Observabunt etiam , ●cquid omnes ac singuli Parochiani toties accedant ad sacram communionem in singulos annos , quoties leges & statuta jubent , ecqui etiam peregrini atque advenae ex aliis Parochiis , frequentius & usitatius veniant ad ecclesiam suam , illosque Parocho suo indicabunt , ne illos forte recipiat ad sacram communionem inter alios , sed ad suos potius Parachos rejiciat .

Nullum nec Rectorem , nec Vicarium recipient ad ministerium ecclesiae suae , nisi quem Episcopus institutione sua approbaverit , & in possessionem illius ecclesiae mandato suo misserit . Nec Parochum recipient nisi literis & sigillo episcopi , nominatim illi ecclesiae commendatum . Quod si Rector , Vicarius , aut Parochus aliter se gerat in ministerio suo obeundo aut quod male & obscure , & confuse legat , aut quod solutius & laxius vivat , quam hominem par sit ejus ordinis , & ex eare gravis offensio suscipietur : Aeditui eum mature deferent ad episcopum , ut quam primum animadversio aliqua , & vitii emendatio consequatur .

Utque Episcopus intelligat , quae conciones habitae fuerint in singulis Ecclesiis suae dioeceseos ; Aeditui curabunt , ut nomina omnium Concionatorum qui ad se alicunde venerint , annotenter in libello quem habebunt paratum in eum usum , utque in eodem libello concionator quisque subscribat nomen suum , & diem quo habuerit concionem , & ejus Episcopi nomen a quo acceperit concionandi potestatem .

Postremo Aeditui diligenter observari curabunt ea omnia , quae ad ipsorum officia pertinebunt , quaeque Regiis injunctionibus , & in libello admonitionum continentur , quaeque vel ab Archiepiscopo , vel ab Episcopo in suis cujusque visitationibus ad usum ecclesiarum proponenter . Quod si quis eos vel jurgiis petulanter insectetur , vel etiam in jus trahat , quod officium fecerint , & errantes detexerint , id quoque ; indicabunt episcopo , ut ejus opera & studio facilius a molestia liberentur .

Concionatores .

NEmo nisi ab episcopo permissus in parochia sua publice praedicabit , nec posthac audebit concionati extra ministerium , & ecclesiam suam , nisi potestatem ita concionandi acceperit , vel a Regia Majestate per omnes regni partes , vel ab Archiepiscopo per provinciam , vel ab episcopo per dioecesim . Nulla autem potestas concionandi firma erit imposterum , aut authoriatem aliqam obtinebit , nisi tantum quae impetrata fuerit post ultimum diem Aprilis , qui fuit in An. 1571. Concionatores modeste & sobrii in omne vitae parte sese gerent .

Imprimis vero videbunt , ne quid unquam doceant pro concione , quod a populo religiose teneri & credi velint , nisi quod consentancum sit doctrinae veteris aut novi testamenti , quodque ex illa ipsa doctrina catholici patres , & veteres episcopi collegerint . Et quoniam articuli illi religionis christianae in quos consensum est ab episcopis in legitima & sancta synodo , jussu atque authoritate serenissimae principis Elizabethae convocata , & celebrata , haud dubie collecti sunt ex sacris libris veteris & novi testamenti , & cum caelesti doctrina , quae in illis continetur , per omnia congruunt , quoniam etiam liber publicarum precum , & liber de inauguratione Archiepiscoporum , episcoporum , presbyterorum , & diaconorum , nihil continent ab illa ipsa doctrina alienum , quicunque mittentur ad docendum populum , illorum articulorum authoritatem & fidem , non tantum concionibus suis , sed etiam subscriptione confirmabunt . Qui secus fecerit , & contraria doctrina populum turbaverit , excommunicabitur .

Inter concionandum utentur veste quam maxime modesta , & gravi , quae deceat , atque ornet ministrum Dei , qualisque in libello admonitionum descripta est . Nec pecuniam pro concione , aut mercedem ullam exigent : sed victu tantum & simplici apparatu , & unius noctis hospitio contenti erunt .

Vanas & aniles opiniones , & haereses , & errores Pontificios , a doctrina , & fide Christi abhorrentes , non docebunt : nec omnino quicquam , quo imperita multitudo , vel ad novitatis studium , vel ad contentionem imflammetur . Semper autem proponent ea , quae ad aedificationem faciant , & auditores Christiana concordia , & charitate concilient .

Residentia .

ABsentia Pastoris a dominico grege , et secura illa negligentia , quam videmus in multis , et destitutio ministerii , est res et in se foeda , et odiosa in vulgus , et pernitiosa Ecclesiae Dei. Itaque hortamur omnes Pastores ecclesiarum in Domino Jesu , ut quam-primum redeant ad Parochias quique suas , et diligenter doceant Evangelium , et pro fructuum suorum ratione alant familiam , & hospitalitate juvent pauperes , ibique versentur in singulos annos , non minus quam sexaginta dies .

Pluralitas .

NOn licebit cuiquam cujuscunque sit gradus , aut ordinis , plusquam duo Ecclesiastica beneficia obtinere eodem tempore . Neque cuiquam omnino licebit obtinere duo beneficia ; si plusquam viginti sex milliariis distincta sint .

Ludimagistri .

NOn licebit cuiquam docere literas , et instituere pueros , nec publice in schola , nec privatim in cujusquam aedibus , nisi quem Episcopus ejus dioeceseos approbaverit , cuique sub authentico sigillo suo docendi potestatem fecerit . Hoc autem loco primariam nobilitatem honoris causa excipimus . Episcopus autem nullum Ludimagistrum approbabit , nec illo munere dignum censebit , nisi quem suo judicio doctum , & illo loco dignum invenerit , quemque de vita & moribus , & imprimis de religione viderit piorum hominum testimonio commendari .

Ludimagistri nullam docebunt grammaticam , nisi eam quam solam Regia Majestas per omne regnum in omnibus scholis legi mandavit ; nec alium latinum Catechismum quam qui aeditus est Anno. 1570. quem etiam Anglice redditum , pueros , qui Latine nesciunt , docere volumus .

Alios autem libros docebunt , unde Latini Graecique sermonis copia & puritas addisci possit , & eos inprimis qui ad notitiam Christi , & pietatem faciant . Semel autem in singulos annos indicabunt Episcopo , quos habeant ex omni numero lectissimos , qui ea sint indole , eoque profectu in literis ut spes sit , vel ad functionem politicam , vel ad sacrum ministerium fore accommodos . Hac spe parentes inducti , eos libentius alent ad literas .

Imprimis vero ita instituent , & formabunt linguas puerorum , ut aperte , clare , distincteque pronuncient . Et quoties habebitur sacra concio , eos vel emittent , vel deducent ad templum , ut statim a teneris incipiant erudiri ad pietatem , neve negligenter audierint , ubi redierint ad scholam , vocabunt singulos ad examen quid ex illa concione didicerint : quoque magis pueriles animi ad virtutem & industriam excitentur , otiosos & ignavos reprehendent , attentos & diligentes collaudabunt .

Patroni & Proprietarii .

EPiscopus graviter & studiose cohortabitur Patronos beneficiorum , ut cogitent necessitates Ecclesiae , & ante oculos habeant ultimum illum diem , & judicium , & tribunal Dei. Itaque ut neminem promoveant ad munus ecclesiasticum , nisi qui doctrina , judicio , pietate , probitate vitae , & innocentia possit onus tam grave sustinere , ut nihil in ea re nisi integre incorrupte & sincere faciant . Se enim usurum omnibus honestis & legitimis rationibus ; ut verum possit inveniri . Quod fi vel in ipsa praesentatione , vel etiam postea senserit corruptelam ullam , aut Simoniacum commercium , quocunque modo , quantumvis obscure , vel directe , vel indirecte , vel per ipsum , vel per alios intercessisse , ut ad ipsum vel pecunia , vel pretium , vel commoditas aliqua , vel pars aliqua fructuum perveniret , velle se facti nequitiam , & Simoniam publicare & palam facere , non tantum in Cathedrali Ecclesia , sed etiam alibi , ad illius probrum , & dedecus sempiternum : & presbyterum quem ita nequiter praesentaverit , non tantum a sacerdotio , in quod mala fide ingressus sit , sed etiam ab omni ministerio , & a tota dioecesi removere .

Domina Regina humiliter & submisse roganda est , ut ratio aliqua ipsius permissu & jussu ineatur , ut in Ecclesiis , quae ad illam proprietario jure pervenerunt , Cancelli quam primum reficiantur , ut annuum stipendium peragendo sacro ministerio , constituatur . Nunc enim multis in locis , & Cancelli foedum in modum corruerunt , & ministerium Ecclesiae propter stipendii vilitatem destituitur .

Episcopus curabit ut justum Inventarium , quodque vocant terrarium , omnium agrorum , pratorum , hortorum , pomariorum , quae ad Rectoriam aliquam , aut Vicariam pertinent , ex proborum hominum inspectione sumatur , & in archia sua referatur , ad rei memoriam sempiternam .

Episcopus non patietur Procuratorem alicujus beneficii ullam habere potestatem in ministrum Dei , ut eum vel admittat , vel rejiciat . Neque minister minus a quoquam accipiet nomine stipendii , quam decem libras .

Omnia matrimonia , quae uspiam contracta sunt intra gradus cognationis , aut affinitatis prohibitos in 18. Levitici , authoritate Episcopi dissolventur : maxime vero , si quis , priore uxore demortua , ejus sororem uxorem duxerit : hic enim gradus communi doctorum virorum consensu & judicio putatur in Levitico prohiberi .

Non licebit cuiquam matrimonium contrahere inter illos gradus , qui in tabula a reverendissimo patre Domino Archiepiscopo Cantuariensi , in eum usum scripta & publicata , prohibentur .

Forma sententiae excommunicationis .

FRatres , quoniam quicunque profitemur nomen Christi Jesu , sumus omnes membra ejusdem corporis , & par est , ut unum membrum alterius membri sensu , & dolore afficiatur : pro officii mei ratione , significo vobis , A. B. publice accusatum esse de adulterio , in quo , fama est , eum vixisse nequiter , & turpiter , cum ipsius dedecore , & infamia , & gravi offensione Ecclesiae Dei : & ea causa , ut insignis illa turpitudo supplicio aliquo afficeretur , ad Episcopi tribunal , vocatum esse . Et quoniam praedictus A. B. conscientia nequitiae suae , ad diem legitime dictum comparere contempfit , & se justitiae contumaciter subduxit , & alios exemplo suo ad similem contumaciam animavit , idcirco hoc etiam vos insuper admonitos volo , Episcopum nostrum , nomine , atque authoritate Dei optimi maximi excommunicasse illum ab omni societate Ecclesiae Dei , & tanquam membrum emortuum amputasse a Christi corpore . Hoc ille in statu versatur hoc tempore , & in tanto discrimine animae suae . Diuus Paulus admonitus instinctu divini spiritus , jubet ut talium hominum societatem , & contubernia fugiamus , ne participes simus ejusdem sceleris . Tamen , ut , Christiana charitas nos monet , quoniam ipse pro se orare non vult , nec periculum suum intelligit , oremus Deum omnes ejus nomine , ut aliquando agnoscat miseriam , & foeditatem vitae suae , & agat poenitentiam , & convertatur ad Deum , Deus enim noster est misericors , & potest lapsos etiam a morte revocare .

FINIS .

CAPITULA

SIVE Constitutiones ECCLESIASTICAE , PER Archiepiscopum , Episcopos , & reliquum Clerum Cantuariensis Provinciae , In Synodo inchoata Londini xxv die mensis Oct. ANNO DOMINI MDXCVII . Regnique serenissimae in Christo Principis , DOMINAE ELIZABETHAE ,

Dei Gratia Angliae , Franciae & Hiberniae Reginae , Fidei Defensoris , &c. XXXIX . congregatos tractatae , ac postea per ipsam Regiam Majestatem approbatae & confirmatae , & utrique Provinciae , tam CANIUARIENSI quam EBORACENSI ut diligentius observentur , eadem Regia Authoritatate sub magno Sigillo Angliae promulgatae .

Londini , Anno Domini MDXCVII .

Vt homines idonei ad sacr●s ordines , & Beneficia ( uti vocant ) ecclesiastica admittantur .

PRimo cautum est , ne quis posthac ad sacros ordines suscipiatur , qui non eodem quoque tempore praesentationem suiipsius ad beneficium aliquod intra Diocoesim sive Jurisdictionem ejusdem Episcopi a quo sacros ordines petit , tunc vacans exhibuerit : Vel qui non eidem Episcopo certum , verum & indubitatum Certificatorium attulerit de Ecclesia aliqua intra Diocoesim sive Jurisdictionem dicti Episcopi , in qua curae animarum inservire possit : Vel qui in aliqua Cathedrali aut Collegiata Ecclesia , vel Collegio Cantabrigiensi aut Oxoniensi non fuerit constitutus : Vel saltem qui ab eodem Episcopo in Beneficium aliquod , sive ad Curam ( uti vocant ) inserviendum tunc etiam vacantem , non sit mox admittendus .

Deinde , ne quis Episcopus posthac aliquem in sacros ordines cooptet , qui non ex sua ipsius diocoesi fuerit : nisi vel ex altera nostratium Academiarum prodierit : vel nisi literas ( ut loquuntur ) dimissorias ab Episcopo cujus Diocoesanus existit , attulerit , & vicesimum quartum aetatis suae annum jam compleverit , ac etiam in altera dictarum Academiarum gradum aliquem scholasticum susceperit : Vel saltem nisi rationem fidei suae juxta Articulos illos Religionis in Synodo Episcoporum & Cleri approbatos Latino sermone reddere possit , adeo ut sacrarum literarum testimonia , quibus eorundem articulorum veritas innititur , recitare etiam valeat : Ac ulterius , de vita sua laudabili , & morum integritate literas testimoniales sub Sigillo vel alicujus Collegii Cantabrigiensis aut Oxoniensis , ubi antea moram fecerit , vel alicujus Justiciarii ad pacem Dominae Reginae conservandam assignari , una cum subscriptione & testimonio aliorum proborum & fide dignorum hominum ejusdem paroeciae , ubi per tres annos ante proxime elapsos commoratus est , exhibeat . Utque hi sacri ordines diebus tantummodo Dominicis , ac festivis , idque publice ac tempestive in ecclesia ubi Episcopus moram traxerit , conferantur : Proviso semper , ut utriusque Academiae Collegiorum Socii , qui suorum Collegiorum statutis ad sacros ordines intra certum tempus suscipiendos tenentur , hoc decreto ( quantum ad aetatem attinet ) non obligentur . Quod si vero aliquis Episcopus aliquem ad sacros ordines admiserit , qui praedictis qualitatibus non fit praeditus , is per Archiepiscopum , assidente sibi hac in parte uno alio Episcopo , ab ordinatione Ministrorum & Diaconorum per integrum biennium suspendatur , ac eam praeterea poenam incurrat , quae de Jure in ejusmodi Episcopos qui ad ordines Ecclesiasticos sine titulo aliquem promovebunt , statuitur .

Adhaec , ne quis Episcopus aliquem in beneficium ( uti vocant ) instituat , nisi qui praedictis conditionibus ornatus fuerit .

Si vero Curia de Arcubus aut Audientiae per viam duplicis querelae , seu alio quovis modo contra Episcopum hac in parte agat , quia homines minime idoneos ac habiles admittere renuit : tunc licebit Archiepiscopo , vel authoritate propria vel gratia speciali a Regia Majestate Impetrata , ejusmodi processus amputare , quo laudabilis Episcopi industria debitum ea ratione sortiatur effectum .

Denique , ut quolibet anno ad festum Sancti Michaelis Archangeli , vel intra sex hebdomadas idem festum subsequentes , unusquisque Episcopus numerum , nomina , gradus & qualitates eorum omnium , quos in sacros ordines , vel in aliqua Beneficia eodem anno praecedente promoverit , ad Archiepiscopum transmittat .

De Beneficiorum pluralitate cohibenda ,

QUod nemini in posterum facultas sive indulgentia concedetur de pluribus beneficiis simul retinendis , nisi hujusmodi tantum , qui pro eruditione sua & maxime digni , & ad officium suum plenius praestandum maxime habiles & idonei censebuntur : Nimirum , ut is qui hujusmodi facultate fruiturus est , sit ad minimum artium magister , & publicus ac idoneus verbi divini Concionator : Ita tamen ut idonea etiam cautione obstrictus teneatur , de personali sua residentia in singulis Beneficiis per bonam anni cujusque partem facienda , & quod ejusmodi Beneficia triginta milliarium spatio ad summum non distent abinvicem . Denique quod idoneum Curatum habeat , qui plebem ejus Paroeciae in qua non residebit , instituat ac informet , modo facultates ejusdem Beneficii talem commode sustinere posse Archiepiscopo , vel ejus Diocoeseos Episcopo videbuntur .

Vt Beneficiati in suis Beneficiis Curatis hospitalitatem exerceant .

QUoniam ecclesiarum Cathedralium Canonici sive Praebendarii ecclesiastica beneficia curata alibi saepius possident , & tamen praetendentes se ratione Praebendarum suarum a residentia in Curatis Beneficiis liberos & immunes , ad Cathedrales convolant , ibique moram faciunt longiorem : Unde nec curae parochianorum illis commissae satis prospicitur , nec pauperes domi suae ( sicuti difficultas hujus temporis exigit ) aluntur atque sustentantur : Id●irco nos huic malo providere desiderantes , decernendum censemus , ut omnes & singuli Canonici sive Praebendarii qui beneficia curata unum sive duo obtinet ( nec Residentiarii necessarii in suis ecclesiis Cathedralibus existunt ) ultra tempus quo in Cathedralibus residere tenentur , a Beneficiis suis Curatis pretextu praebendarum se non absentent : Et si aliqui eorum , qui ad necessariam residentiam in Ecclesiis Cathedralibus non tenentur , ultra tempus unius mensis aliquo anno , in Ecclesia illa Cathedrali moram traxerint , eos arctari volumus ad familiam in Beneficio suo Curato ( non obstante mora in Cathedrali ) alendam , & Hospitalitatem exercendam , toto reliquo tempore quo a Curato absuerint . Quod autem ad eos attinet , qui ad residentiam in ecclesiis Cathedralibus faciendam , per ordinationes illius Ecclesiae obligantur , & communis dividentiae participes sunt , eos ita inter se anni tempora partiri volumus quoad residentiam in Cathedralibus habendam , ut eorum aliqui in Ecclesiis illis semper adsint , & personaliter resideant . Ac quo haec omnia melius peragantur , Episcopi , vel alii ad quos per Ecclesiae statuta vel ordinationes pertinet , in suis respective Ecclesiis diligenter providebunt .

Vt Decani & Canonici in Ecclesiis Cathedrabus suis vicibus conciones habeant .

CUm Beneficium propter Officium conferri debeat , aequum existimamus , ut Ecclesiarum Cathedralium Decani & Canonici omnes & singuli , qui in sacris ordinibus sunt constituti , & ad Conciones habendas in Ecclesiis suis Cathedralibus , de Jure , Statutis , Ordinationibus , aut laudabili consuetudine illius Ecclesiae tenentur , in personis suis propriis eas praestent , nec vicaria in ea re opera utantur , nisi ex causa aegritudinis , aut alia legitima impediti , Concanonicum suum , vel alium in Theologia eruditum ac ad concionandum authoritate sufficienti approbatum sua vice substituant . Quod si qui hujusmodi Decani aut Canonici officium ea in re neglexerint , per Episcopum vel eos ad quos jurisdictio pertinet , quoad se debite correxerint suspendantur .

De moderandis indulgentiis pro celebratione matrimonii absque trina bannorum denunciatione .

QUandoquidem honestae , clarae , ac illustris conditionis homines , sive urgente aliqua necessitate , sive aliis non contemnendis rationibus , matrimonium aliquando celebrandi causas habere possunt , facultate sibi de Bannis matrimonialibus aut non omnino , aut semel iterumve denunciandis indulta , sine aliquo gravi scandalo seu detrimento : Idcirco ad evitanda generaliter quae hac in parte notantur incommoda , visum est caveri ne ullae facultates sive Indulgentiae de celebrando absque bannis matrimonio concedantur , nisi idonea cautio prius sub hisce conditionibus ineatur : nimirum , primo quod nùllum postea constabit impedimentum praecontractus , consanguinitatis , affinitatis , vel ullius alterius legitimae causae cujuscunque ratione .

Secundo , quod eo tempore quo ejusmodi facultas sive indulgentia concedetur , nulla controversia , lis seu querela mota est , vel dependet coram aliquo Judice Ecclesiastico aut civili , de ejuscemodi legitimo impedimento matrimonii inter hujusmodi personas contrahendi aut contracti : Ac tertio , quod ad nuptiarum solemnizationem non accedent , nisi assensu & expresso consensu parentum sive tutorum prius impetrato : Et ulterius quod matrimonii celebratio publice ac tempestive in facie Ecclesiae fiet . Cujus quidem cautionis formula seu exemplar in scriptis concipietur , ac unicuique Episcopo in sua cujusque Diocoesi imitanda proponetur .

Praeterea adjiciendum putamus , ne cuiquam liceat Episcopalem dignitatem non obtinenti ( Commissario ad facultates , ac Vicariis generalibus Archiepiscopi & Episcoporum , sede plena : & sede vacante Custodibus Spiritualitatis ac Ordinariis , Episcopalem jurisdictionem de Jure exercentibus , in suis jurisdictionibus re●pective exceptis ) licentiam celebrandi matrimonia sine bannis concedere : Ea vero duntaxat per se , ac sub manuum suarum subscriptione , non per Deputatos aut Surrogatos suos , nec aliis quam suae jurisdictioni subditis concedatur . Nulli autem cujuscunque sexus , dignitatis aut ordinis ( in parentum seu gubernatorum cura & regimine existenti ) concedatur , nisi prius constiterit de expresso consensu parentum vel gubernatorum suorum ( si forte parentes excesserint e vita ) idque parentum significatione , aut gubernatorum Judici personaliter facta : vel Chirographis ipsorum , qu●bus fidem habendam esse non putamus , nisi per nuncios honestae conditionis & famae illaesae mittantur , qui fidem faciant se de parentum aut gubernatorum manu Chirographa hujusmodi recepisse veris nominibus ac cognominibus per hujusmodi nuncios designandorum : Cujus Chirographi exhibitionis , ac Juramenti per nuncium praestiti actum conscribi volumus . Nec vero aliis concedantur hujusmodi indulgentiae , quam illustris & clarae conditionis hominibus , nisi urgens necessitas intercesserit , eaque Judici cognita fuerit .

Praeterea in ipso dispensationis sive Licentiae tenore , Ecclesia habitationis sive commorationis alterius contrahentium , vel parentum & gubernatorum suorum exprimatur , & remous diei etiam congruum , nempe inter horas octavam & duodecimam ante meridiem assignetur .

Nec sine indulgentia a competente Judice concessa , Minister aliquis matrimonium celebret , nisi trina bannorum denunciatione ( per legitima intervalla ) interveniente , sub poena constitutionibus Provincialibus praescripta .

Proviso semper , quod quicunque contra hanc ordinationem deliquerit , ab executione officii per superiorem per sex integros menses suspendetur : & licentia hujusmodi viribus car●bit , & pro nulla quoad poenam personis clandestinas nuptias celebrantibus imponendam habebitur .

De Sententiis divortii non temere ferendis .

ET quia matrimoniales causae inter majores hucusque semper habitae suerunt : Idcirco cum de matrimoniis in Judiciis disceptatur , cautius agi oportet , praesertim vero cum matrimonium in Ecclesia solemnizatum , pretextu aliquo separari , vel nullum pronunciari postuletur , aequum igitur visum est .

Primum ut in hujusmodi divortiorum & nullitatis matrimonii processibus , deliberate procedatur , ac quantum fieri poterit , rei veritas , testium depositionibus , aliisque probationibus legitimis eruatur , nec partium confessioni ( quae in hiis causis saepe fallax est ) temere confidatur .

Tum ut nullae posthac sententiae vel separationis a thoro & mensa , vel nullitatis matrimonii ferantur , nisi publice , ac pro tribunali , & de scientia & consensu vel Archiepiscopi , infra Provinciam suam , vel Episcopi infra propriam diocoesim , Decani de Arcubus , Judicis Audientiae Cantuariensis , aut Vicariorum generalium , aliorumve Officialium principalium , vel sede vacante Custodum spiritualitatis , aut aliorum Ordinariorum , quibus de Jure competit in suis respective Jurisdictionibus ac Curiis , atque inter suae jurisdictionis subditos tantum , Deinde ut in Sententiis quando ad separationem Thori & mensae tantum interponuntur , monitio & prohibitio fiat , ut a partibus ab invicem segregatis caste vivatur , nec ad alias nuptias alterutra vivente convoletur : Denique quo postremum illud firmius observetur , sententia separationis non antea pronunciabitur , quam qui eam postulaverint , cautionem fide jussoriam sufficientem interposuerint , se contra monitionem & prohibitionem nihil commissuros .

Judex autem qui sententiam separationis seu divortii tulerit , & praemissa omnia non praestiterit , per tres integros menses ab executione Officii sui per Diocoesanum suum suspendetur : Et sententia separationis contra formam praedictam lata , pro nulla ad omnem Juris effectum habebitur , ac si omnino lata non fuisset .

De excessibus circa excommunicationem reformandis .

QUia Excommunicationis usus in Ecclesia perpetuae legis vigorem jam obtinuit , atque in omni jurisdictione Ecclesiastica exercenda hucusque retinetur , ideo absque grandi mutatione totius ejusce jurisdictionis & plurimarum hujus regni legum innovari vel alterari nequit : Nihilominus ut Excommunicatio ( quae authoritatis ac disciplinae Ecclesiasticae quasi nervus quidam , ac vinculum habenda est ) ad pristinum suum usum , decus & dignitatem reducatur : Cautum est ut quotiescunque censura ista in immediatam poenam cujusvis notoriae haereseos , schismatis , symoniae , perjurii , usurae , incestus , adulterii , seu gravioris alicujus criminis venerit infligenda , sententia ipsa vel per Archiepiscopum , Episcopum , Decanum , Archidiaconum vel Praebendarium ( modo sacris ordinibus & Ecclesiastica jurisdictione praeditus fuerit ) in propria persona pronunciabitur , una cum ejusmodi frequentia & assistentia quae ad majorem rei authoritatem conciliandam conducere videbitur .

Denique quod unusquisque Vicarius generalis , Officialis , seu Commissarius , qui ordines Ecclesiasticos non susceperit eruditum aliquem Presbyterum sibi accerset & associabit , qui sufficienti authoritate vel ab ipso Episcopo in jurisdictione sua , vel ab Archidiacono ( Presbytero existente ) in jurisdictione sua munitus , idque ex praescripto ipsius Judicis tunc praesentis excommunicationis sententiam pro contumacia denunciabit .

Volumus etiam , ut sicut constitutum est , ejusmodi excommunicationem per Ministrum Ecclesiae denunciari , ita ipse Judex de absolutione ipsius rei post satisfactionem suam peractam , eundem Ministrum certiorem faciet , qui eandem absolutionem populo publice denunciabit : ac interim quod bene licebit , dicto ministro reum a sacris arcere & repellere , tanquam in Ecclesiam minime recipiendum , donec ejusmodi certificatorium ab ipso Judice exhibuerit .

De Recusantibus , & aliis excommunicatis publice denunciandis .

CUrent Ordinarii locorum , ut tam excommunicati ex eo quod divinis precibus infra hoc regnum Angliae publica authoritate stabilitis interesse pertinaciter recusaverint , quam ij etiam qui propter aliam quamcunque causam legitimam excommunicationis sententia innodati Fuerint , nisi infra tres continuos menses post latam excommunicationis sententiam se emendaverint , & absolutionis beneficium obtinuerint , singulis sex mensibus sequentibus , in Ecclesia cum parochiali , tum etiam Cathedrali Diocoesis in qua habitant , pro excommunicatis publice denuncientur . Teneantur etiam Ordinarii praedicti de praemissis omnibus & singulis quolibet anno infra Festa Sancti Michaelis & Natalis Domini , Archiepiscopum hujus Provinciae in scriptis certiorem facere .

De moderanda solennis poenitentiae communitatione .

NE qua fiat posthac solennis poenitentiae commutatio , nisi rarioribus gravioribusque de causis , atque adeo cum ipsi Episcopo constiterit , eam esse ad reum reconciliandum & reformandum saniorem & tutiorem rationem .

Deinde quod mulcta illa pecuniaria vel in relevamen pauperum ejusdem paroeciae , vel in alios pios usus erogetur , idque Ecclesiae solenniter & fideliter approbetur & innotescat .

Quod si vero crimen fuerit notorium , ac publicum , Reus ipse vel in propria sua persona publice in Ecclesia poenitentiam suam minime fictam profitendo , laesae Ecclesiae satisfaciet , vel Ecclesiae minister in praesentia ipsius rei , palam e suggestu ejus submissionem , & peonitentiae suae coram Ordinario suo peractionem , atque etiam in verae suae resipiscentiae Testimonium , quantam pecuniarum summam in usus supradictos erogandam reddiderit , denunciabit .

Quicunque vero absque Episcopi Diocoesani notitia poenitentiam commutaverit , aut pecuniam ratione commutationis hujusmodi solutam in alios usus quam supra est expressum converterit , vel aliter praesentem hanc constitutionem violaverit : Is ab executione Officii sui per eundem Diocoesanum per tres integros menses suspendetur .

De Feodis quae Officiariis Ecclesiasticis & eorum ministris debentur .

CAutum insuper volumus , quod neque alia , neque majora Feoda ab Episcopo , Ordinario , Archidiacono , vel eorum ministris deinceps ulla de causa percipiantur , quam ea , quae incunte hoc regnum regia nunc Majestate percipi solebant : Quodque tabula quaedam singulorum hujusmodi Feodorum summas continens , in quolibet Consistorio ante Festum Sancti Johannis Baptistae proxime venturum figatur , cujus exemplar manu ipsius Ordinarii subsignatum intra tempus praedictum ad Archiepiscopum transmittetur .

Jam vero quia dubium esse potest , quaenam certa Feoda pro singulis negotiis expediendis , in singulis respective foris Ecclesiasticis quadraginta abhinc annis percipiebantur , nisi quae usus frequentior succedentibus ab eo tempore annis monstraverit , atque approbaverit : Ideo decernendum putamus ut citra ultimum diem mensis Maij proxime sequentem Episcopus quilibet , vel sede aliqua Episcopali vacante , Custos spiritualitatis ibidem curet , tabulam manu Jus dicentis ejusque registrarii subscriptam publice figi , vel in loco quolibet ubi Jus ab illo dicetur , vel alias publice in ejusdem jurisdictionis Archivo , ita ut quivis ejusdem tabulae inspiciendae facultatem habeat : Quae quidem tabula in se continebit separatas summas singulorum Feodorum , quae tam a Judice , quam a singulis aliis Officiariis ac ministris ejusdem Curiae frequentius ac usitatius ab initio regni dictae Serenissimae Reginae usque ad decimum octavum Majestatis suae annum percipi consueverunt : Curabit praeterea quilibet Episcopus , vel sede vacante Custos spiritualitatis , ut quilibet Judex hujusmodi citra ultimum diem praefati mensis Maij Episcopo suo , vel Custodi spiritualitatis fidele & auctenticum exemplar tabulae Feodorum praemissorum in Archivis Episcopi custodiendum tradat : Qui vero contra fecerit , is ab executione officii sui per Ordinarium suum immediate superiorem eo usque suspendetur , donec praemissa modo & forma superius specificatis perfecerit .

Quorum omnium exemplarium , singuli Episcopi Provinciae Cantuariensis vel Custodes spiritualitatis , fidele & auctenticum Instrumentum in pergameno conscriptum , ad Archiepiscopum citra ultimum diem mensis Octobris proxime futurum transmittent .

Poena vero cujusque Officiarii , ac Ministri majora Feoda quam quae in hujusmodi tabulis respective exprimentur percipientis , suspensio erit per sex menses ab executione officii sui per Ordinarium suum infligenda , vel Ordinario negligente aut id facere omittente , per Archiepiscopum , qui alium delinquentis loco interim deputabit .

Proviso semper , quod si alicubi dubium fuerit quae Feoda usque ad praedictum decimum octavum regiae Mejestatis annum usitatissime percepta fuerint : Tum ea Feoda pro legitimis habebuntur quae per Archiepiscopum Cantuariensem sub manus suae subscriptione approbabuntur : nisi statuta hujus regni Angliae jam antea aedita , alia in quocunque casu Feoda expresse praestituerint .

Proviso insuper , quod neque Archiepiscopo neque Episcopo , vel directe , vel in directe aliquam pecuniarum summam pro admittendis ad sacros ordines hominibus accipere licebit , idque sub poena Juris .

De excessibus Apparitorum reformandis .

PRaeterea quoniam excessibus & gravaminibus quae per Apparitores inferri dicuntur , remedium cupimus adhibere opportunum , videtur ut Apparitorum multitudo , quantum fieri poterit , restringatur ; Non igitur licebit Episcopis vel Archidiaconis , eorumve Vicariis seu Officialibus , aliisque inferioribus Ordinariis deputare & habere plures Apparitores , jurisdictionibus suis respective inservientes , quam ante viginti annos praeteritos , vel ipsi vel praedecessores sui habere consueverunt , qui omnes per se suum fideliter exequantur officium , Nec per nuncios aut substitutos quocunque quaesito colore , sua vice mandatorum executiones demandent , aut permittant , nisi ex causa ab ordinario illius loci prius cognita & approbata . Tum ut promotorum Officii , vel denunciatorum personas omnino non sustineant , Feoda ampliora vel majora , quam quae his constitutionibus superius statuuntur , non exigant .

Quod si plures quam superius est expressum deputati , vel illorum aliqui premissa violaverint , deputantes si Episcopi existant , moniti per superiorem supernumerarios dimittant . Inferiores vero Episcopis Ordinarii , ab executione Officii suspendantur , donec hujusmodi deputatos amoverint , deputati autem ipsi ab Apparitorum Officio moveantur perpetuo : Et si amoti non desistant , tanquam contumaces Canonicis censuris coerceantur .

Praeterea in causis Officii & correctionis ne quae fiant Citationes generales ( quae vulgo Quorum nomina dicuntur ) nisi partes citandae veris nominibus expressis per registrarium in ipsa schedula citationi annexa , & sigillo munita scribantur : eademque schedula jus dicentis manu subscribatur , sub poena coertionis ecclesiasticae per Diocoesanum delinquenti infligenda .

De Registris in Ecclesiis salve Custodiae committendis .

ET quia Registra in ecclesiis ( quorum permagnus usus est ) fideliter volumus custodiri : Primum statuendum putamus , ut in singulis visitationibus admoneantur ministri , & oeconomi ecclesiarum de injunctionibus regiis ea in re diligentius observandis .

Deinde ut libri ad hunc usum destinati , quo tutius reservari & ad posteritatis memoriam propagari possint , ex pergameno sumptibus parochianorum in posterum conficiantur : lisque non modo ex veteribus libris cartace is transumpta nomina eorum , qui regnante serenissima Domina nostra Elizabetha , aut baptismatis aqua abluti , aut matrimonio copulati , aut ecclesiasticae sepulturae Beneficio affecti sint , suo ordine sumptibus parochianorum inscribantur : Sed eorum etiam , qui in posterum baptizati , vel matrimonio conjuncti aut sepulti fuerint .

Ac ne quid vel dolo commissum , vel omissum negligenter redarguatur , Quae per singulas hebdomadas in hisce libris inscripta nomina fuerint , ea singulis diebus Dominicis post preces matutinas aut vespertinas finitas , aperte ac distincte per ministrum legantur , die ac mense quibus singula gesta sunt sigillatim adjectis .

Postquam autem paginam aliquam integram multorum nominum inscriptio compleverit , tum ministri , tum Gardianorum ipsius parochiae subscriptionibus volumus eam communiri .

Idemque in transumptis ex veteribus libris cartaceis , paginis singulis fieri , sed diligenti , ac fideli prius habita collatione : neque vero in unius cujusquam custodia librum illum , sed in Cista publica , eaque trifariam obserata reservandum putamus , ita ut neque sine ministro Gardiani , nec fine utrisque Gardianis minister quicquam possit innovare .

Postremum est , ut exemplar quotannis cujusque anni auctae nominum inscriptionis ad Episcopi Diocoesani registrum per Gardianos infra mensem post Festum Paschatis transmittatur , & sine feodo ullo recipiatur , atque in Archivis Episcopi fideliter custodiatur .

Quicunque vero in praemissis corumve aliquo deliquerit , is ut delicti qualitas Jusque postulaverit puniatur .

QUae omnia Capitula sive Constitutiones , omniaque & singula in eisdem contenta , Regia Majestas per suas Literas Patentes gerentes dat . apud West-monasterium decimo octavo die Januarii , anno regni sui quadragesimo , ratificavit , confirmavit ac stabilivit , ipsaque ab omnibus regni sui subditis utriusque Provinciae , Cantuariensis & Eboracensis , quatenus eorum aliquem concernunt , diligenter exequenda , ac observanda authoritate sua regia proposuit , promulgavit , & per easdem Literas Patentes sic per eos observari praecepit , injunxit & mandavit , prout in eisdem literis Patentibus Sigillo magno Angliae sigillatis plenius liquet & apparet .

EXEMPLARIA Licentiae Seu FACULTATIS Matrimonii , absque trina Bannorum promulgatione celebrandi in fingulis Episcopatibus observanda . Licentia ubi uterque vel alter contrahentium sub parentum vel gubernatorum potestate existit .

R Permissione divina L. Episcopus : Dilectis nobis in Christo D. C. Parochiae de B , filio naturali & legitimo I. C. Parochiae de F. generoso , & N. O. puellae , filiae naturali & legitimae B. O. Parochiae de M. nostrarum L. Diocoeseos & Jurisdictionis , salutem : cum vos ( uti asseritur ) ad solemnizationem matrimonii veri & legitimi de expresso consensu & assensu parentum & gubernatorum vestrorum , ac utriusque vestrum procedere decreveritis : Illudque in facie Ecclesiae cum ea qua fieri poterit matura celeritate solemnizari facere & obtinere magnopere desideretis : Nos volentes ut honesta haec vestra desideria debitum celerius consequantur effectum : Vt igitur matrimonium hujusmodi in Ecclesia de F. ( exprimendo Ecclesiam alterius contrahentium , vel parentum aut gubernatorum suorum ) per Rectorem , Vicarium seu Curatum ejusdem Ecclesiae Bannis matrimonialibus unica vice tempore solemnizationis ejusdem matrimonii ( uti moris est ) publice editis , libere & licite solemnizari , facere , & obtinere , possitis & valeatis , post cautionem fidejussoriam sufficientem ex parte vestra interpositam , juxta Constitutiones authoritate Regia nuper editas : Dummodo vobis ratione consanguinitatis , affinitatis , praecontractus , vel alterius causae cujuscunque de Jure prohibitae nullum legitimum in ea parte obstiterit impedimentum , nec ulla lis , controversia , seu querela mota fit vel pendeat coram aliquo Judice Ecclesiastico vel civili de matrimonio aliquo contracto vel allegato cum alterutro vestrum , & Ministro ecclesiae praedictae prius constiterit , vos ad hujusmodi matrimonii celebrationem accedere de & cum expresso consensu parentum vel gubernatorum vestrorum , ac modo matrimonii hujusmodi celebratio publice in ecclesia de F. praedict. fiat inter horas octavam & duodecimam antemeridianas , absque tamen prejudicio Ministri ecclesiae de M. ubi dicta N. O. Parochiana existit , Licentiam & Facultatem tam vobis contrahentibus , quam Rectori , Vicario aut Curato Ecclesiae praedictae defignatae matrimonium hujusmodi inter vos solemnizandi sub modo et forma superius specificatis , juxta ritus Libri Publicarum Precum authoritate Parliamenti in ea parte editi & stabiliti , nec non omnibus aliis Christi fidelibus eidem solemnizationi interessendi , ex certis causis legitimis & rationalibus per nos approbatis , quatenus in nobis est , & Jura regni patiuntur in hac parte , benigne concedimus & impertimur per praesentes .

Proviso semper , quod si alteruter vestrum clarioris aut illustrioris conditionis sit quam nobis suggestum est , & quam ex cognomine et additamento in hiis literis insertis colligi facile potest , aut si aliqua fraus in posterum appareat vel falsitatis nobis suggestae , vel suppresse veritatis tempore hujus Licentiae obtentae : Tunc haec Licentia nostra irrita sit ad omnem Juris effectum ac si omnino concessa non fuisset : Et eo casu inhibemus quibusvis Ministris ( modo paermissorum aliquod eis innotuerit ) ne ad solemnizationem dicti matrimonii procedant , nisi nobis , aut Vicario nostro in spiritualibus Generali prius consultis : In cujus rei testimonium , &c.

The Minister shall not solemnize this marriage , without the consent of their Parents or Governours , who are hereby licensed to marry .

SI utraque pars contrahens in viduitate existens ad secundas nuptias convolare facultatem petat , tum omnes clausulae parentum consensum requirentes omitti possunt , sed Parochiae utriusque contrahentis in Licentia exprimendae sunt , ac Parochia ubi matrimonium celebrabitur , designanda .

LONDINI , Anno Domini . 1597.

CONSTITUTIONES SIVE CANONES ECCLESIASTICI , Per Episcopum LONDINENSEM ,

Praesidem Synodi pro CANTUARIENSI Provincia , ac reliquos Episcopos , & Clerum ejusdem Provinciae ex Regia authoritate tractati , & conclusi

In ipsorum Synodo inchoata Londini , Anno Salutis millesimo , sexcentesimo tertio , regnique Serenissimi Principis , Clementissimi Domini nostri IACOBI Dei gratia Angliae , Franciae & Hiberniae Regis primo , & Scotiae tricesimo septimo :

Ab eadem Regia Majestate deinceps approbati , ratihabiti , ac confirmati , ejusdemque authoritate sub magno Sigillo Angliae promul●…ti , per utramque Provinciam tam Cantuariensem quàm Eboracensem diligenter observandi .

LONDINI , Excudebat JOHANNES NORTON , Serenissimae Regiae Majestatis in Latinis , Graecis , & Hebraicis Typographus . Anno 1604.

CONSTITUTIONUM Capita & Contenta . De Ecclesia Anglicana . 1 SVprema in Ecclesiam Anglicanam authoritas Regiae Majestati asserenda . 2 Regii in Ecclesiam Anglicanam primatus impugnatores coerciti . 3 Ecclesia Anglicana , Orthodoxa . 4 Divini cultus ratio in Ecclesia Anglicana stabilita , pia & Orthodoxa . 5 Doctrinae Articuli in Ecclesia Anglicana stabiliti , pii & Orthodoxi . 6 Caeremoniarum in Ecclesia Anglicana obtinentium usus , pius & licitus . 7 Ecclesiae Anglicanae administratio , verbo divino consona . 8 Cleri ordinandi ratio in Ecclesia Anglicana , verbo divino consona . 9 Authores schismatis ac dissidii ab Ecclesiae Anglicanae communione coerciti . 10 Schismaticorum in Ecclesia Anglicana fautores coerciti . 11 Conventiculorum in Ecclesia Anglicana propugnatores coerciti . 12 Ordinationum in conventiculis conditarum propugnatores coerciti . De Liturgia publica , & Sacramentorum administratione . 13 LIturgia publica , & reliqua pietatis exercitia diebus sacris celebranda . 14 Liturgiae publicae praescriptus Canon diebus sacris observandus . 15 Litania diebus Mercurii & Veneris recitanda . 16 Liturgiae publicae praescriptus Canon in Academiis observandus . 17 Inter Liturgiae publicae celebrationem Superpellicea , & Epomides in Academiis adhibendae . 18 Inter Liturgiae publicae celebrationem reverentia solennis adhibenda . 19 Inter Liturgiae publicae celebrationem otiosi ab ecclesiae ambitu repellendi . 20 Panis & vinum in sacrae Coenae usum paranda . 21 Coenae trina perceptio quotannis indicta . 22 Coenae administrationem solennis indictio praeire jussa . 23 Coenae usus frequentior Academicis indictus , & Coenae utentibus genuum flexio injuncta . 24 Coenae in festis solennibus administratio in Ecclesiis Cathedralibus indicta , & Coenam administrantibus Caparum usus injunctus . 25 Vestis lineae & Epomidum usus , Coena non administrata , in Ecclesiis Cathedralibus injunctus . 26 Notorii peccati consuetudine infames a sacra Coena repellendi . 27 Schismatici à Coenae communione arcendi . 28 Extranei á Coenae communione repellendi . 29 Parentes in liberorum suorum Baptismate , & pueri Coenae Dominicae incapaces , Susceptores esse prohibiti . 30 Crucis in Baptismo caeremonia explicata . De Ministris , eorumque ordinatione & functione . 31 JEjunia Quatuor Temporum Ministrorum ordinationi decreta . 32Vtrumque ordinem eodem die non conferendum . 33 Neminem sine certo titulo ordinandum . 34 Certae conditiones in ordinandis requisitae . 35 Neminem , nisi praevio solenni examine , ordinandum . 36 Neminem , nisi praevia trium Articulorum subscriptione , ordinandum . 37 Ordinatis , dioecesin mutantibus , subscriptio coram Episcopo Dioecesano iteranda . 38 Ordinati post subscriptionem praevaricantes à Ministerio removendi . 39 Ordinati , sine congruo testimonio ac examine , in Beneficia non instituendi . 40 Instituendi in Beneficia Simoniae susspicionem solenni jurejurando jussi aver●ere . 41 Beneficiorum pluralitas parciùs dispensanda , ac de dispensatorum residentia cavendum . 42 Cathedralium Ecclesiarum Decani ad congruam residentiam tenentur . 43 Decani & Prebendarii in Ecclesiis Cathedralibus residentes ad sedulam concionandi diligentiam tenentur . 44 Praebendarii Beneficiati ad congruam in Beneficiis suis residentiam tenentur . 45 Beneficiati concionatores , in Beneficiis suis residentes , ad jugem concionandi industriam tenentur . 46 Beneficiati non concionatores vicariam concionatoris operam jubentur singulis mensibus adhibere . 47 Beneficiati , à Beneficiis fuis legitimè absentes , Curatum concionatorem jubentur adhibere . 48 Ministri , nisi ex Episcopi vel Ordinarii approbatione , pro Curatis non admittendi . 49 Ministris ad concionandum non admissis glossae & paraphrases in publica scripturarum lectione interdictae . 50 Concionatores adventitii absque legitima missione ad concionandum non admittendi . 51 Advenae concionatores , nisi authentico testimonio commendati , ad concionandum in Ecclesiis Cathedralibus non admittendi . 52 Concionatorum advenarum nomina in librum referenda . 53 Concionatorum mutuis oppositionibus pulpita non patebunt . 54 Concionatores schismatici licentiis suis mulctati . 55 Precationis formula , à concionatoribus in concionum suarum ingressu imitanda . 56 Ministris merè concionatoribus precum publicarum lectio , & Sacramentorum administratio bina annuatim injuncta . 57 A Ministris non concionatoribus Sacramenta efficaciter administrari . 58 Ministris sacra peragentibus lineae vestis , & Epomidum usus injunctus . 59 Catechizandi diligentia Ministris injuncta . 60 Confirmationis solennitas in triennali Episcoporum visitatione celebranda . 61 Catechumeni Episcopo visitanti per Ministrum ad Confirmationem sistendi . 62 Ministri sine bannis ri●e indictis , vel legitimè dispensatis matrimonium celebrare prohibiti . 63 Ministri in locis exemptis sine bannorum justa indictione , vel dispensatione legitima matrimonium celebrare prohibiti . 64 Feriae à Ministris solenniter indicendae . 65 Recusantes & Excommunicati à Ministris solenniter denunciandi . 66 Recusantium conversio à Ministris sedulò elaboranda . 67 Aegrotantes à Ministris sedulò visitandi . 68 Ministri Baptismum , aut Sepulturam denegare vetiti . 69 Ministri Baptismum in articulo necessitatis differre vetiti . 70 Ministri Baptizatorum , Nubentium , & Sepultorum registrum conservare jussi . 71 Ministri Concionum & Coenae Dominicae publicam religionem in privatas aedes invehere , prohibiti . 72 Ministri publica jejunia , prophetias appellatas , & exorcismos privato ausu celebrare prohibiti . 73 Ministri conventicula privata conciliare prohibiti . 74 Ministris in vestitu gravitas praecepta . 75 Vitae sobrietas Ministris praecepta . 76 Ministris à vocatione sua resilire interdictum . De Ludimagistris . 77 PVblicè vel privatim injussu Ordinarii docere prohibitum . 78 Curati ad docendum habiles ab Ordinario aliis praeferendi . 79 Ludimagistrorum officia . De Ecclesiis & rebus Ecclesiasticis . 80 LIbri sacri in Ecclesiis parandi . 81 Baptisteria in Ecclesiis paranda . 82 Mensae in sacrae Coenae usum in Ecclesiis parandae . 83 Pulpita idonea in Ecclesiis paranda . 84 Cistae ad eleemosynarum custodiam in Ecclesiis comparandae . 85 Ecclesiae sartae tectae conservandae . 86 Ecclesiae de tertio in tertium annum perlustrandae , & earum defectus Regiis Commissariis intimandi . 87 Terrarum , & peculiorum ad Ecclesias spectantium inventaria conficienda , & in Episcoporum Archivis asservanda . 88 Ecclesiarum religio prophanis usibus non polluenda De Ecclesiarum Oeconomis & Inquisitoribus . 89 OEconomorum electio , & rerum Ecclesiasticarum procuratio . 90 Inquisitorum sive Assistentium electio , eorumque cum Oeconomis officii communitas . De Clericis Parochialibus . 91 CLericos Parochiales eligendi jus Ministro cedit . Curiae Ecclesiasticae ad Archiepiscopi jurisdictionem spectantes . 92 TEstamentorum probatio , justa Bonorum Notabilium summa constante , praerogativarum Curiae duntaxat competit . 93 Testamentorum probatio , justa Bonorum Notabilium summa non comparente , Ordinariis vindicatur . 94 In Curias de Arcubus & Audientiae extra proprium territorium nemo citandus . 95 Duplices Querelae , nisi justi gravaminis facta fide , in Curiis Archiepiscopi non concedendae . 96 Inhibitiones in causis instantiae absque Advocati subscriptione non concedendae . 97 Inhibitiones in causis correctionis , nisi gravamine Judici priùs cognito , non concedendae . 98 Inhibitiones schismaticis , nisi subscribentibus , non concedendae . 99 Intra gradus prohibitos matrimonium contractum , ipso jure nullum . 100 Minores altero & vicesimo anno absque parentum consensu matrimonium contrahere prohibiti . 101 Facultates pro Bannis omittendis per quos , & quibus sint indulgendae . 102 In facultatibus pro Bannorum omissione concedendis cautio fidejussoria interponenda , & sub quibus conditionibus . 103 Eaedem conditiones ob majorem cautelam jurejurando firmatae . 104 Parentum consensus viduis contrahentibus remissus . 105 Pro conjugio dirimendo nuda partium confessio non audienda . 106 Sententiae divortii & separationis non nisi pro tribunali ferendae . 107 Separatis , eorum altero superstite , nova copula interdicta . 108 Sanctio in Judices contra praemissa delinquentes . Curiae Ecclesiasticae ad Episcoporum , & Archidiaconorum jurisdictionem spectantes . 109 PEccata & scandala notoria in Curiis Ecclesiasticis denuntianda . 110 Schismatici in Curiis detegendi . 111 Precum Divinarum perturbatores in Curiis detegendi . 112 Puberes in festo Paschatis non Communicantes in Curiis detegendi . 113 Peccata notoria Ministris jus est denuntiare , privatim confessa retegere , nefas . 114 Recusantes per Ministros in Curiis detegendi . 115 Ne Ministris aut Oeconomis fraudi sit criminosorum detectio . 116 Oeconomi ad binas tantùm detegendi vices annuatìm tenentur . 117 Oeconomi , binis detegendi vicibus debitè perfuncti , non sunt de reliquo in Curiam vocandi . 118 Anni superioris Oeconomi detectiones suas tenentur exhibere , priusquam successuri munus suum adeant . 119 Detectionum schedulae fide bona , non perfunctoriè & pro forma conficiendae . 120 Nequa citatio , nisi expressis citandorum nominibus , e Curiis emittatur . 121 Nequis in pluribus Curiis super eodem crimine cogatur respondere . 122 Sententiae pro Ministris à beneficio vel officio removendis non nisi per Episcopum pronunciandae . 123 Actus judiciales non nisi publica , & authentica manu expediendi . 124 Curiarum sigilla , unica . 125 Curiarum sedes , opportuna . 126 Curiae inferiores testamenta originalia ad Episcoporum Archiva jubentur transmittere . De Judicibus Ecclesiasticis . 127 IVdicium Ecclesiasticorum qualitas . 128 Deputandorum qualitas . De Procuratoribus . 129 PRocuratores , nisi de partis mandato authentico , causas attingere prohibiti . 130 Procuratores sine consilio advocati causas retinere prohibiti . 131 Procuratores , inconsulto advocato , in causa concludere prohibiti . 132 Procuratorium in causis testamentariis juramentum prohibitum . 133 Procuratorum vox importunior in Curiis , cohibita . De Registrariis . 134 REgistrariorum excessus coerciti . 135 Eeodorum , quae juris Ecclesiastici administris debentur , census debet esse statarius . 136 Statarius feodorum census in tabulas relatus publicè in Consistoriis & Archivis proponendus . 137 Feoda , pro Ordinum literis , aliisque licentiis Episcopo exhibendis , tantùm dimidia ( praeterquàm in Prima Episcopi visitatione ) persolvenda . De Apparitoribus . 138 APparitorum excessus coerciti . Synodorum authoritas . 139 SYnodus nationalis , Ecclesia representativa . 140 Synodi acta tàm absentes , quàm praesentes obligant . 141 Synodi authoritati derogantes , coerciti .
Constitutiones sive Canones Ecclesiastici per Episcopum Londinensem , Praesidem Synodi pro Cantuariensi Provincia , ac reliquos Episcopos & Clerum ejusdem Provinciae ex regia authoritate tractati , & conclusi in ipsorum Synodo , inchoata Londini Anno Salutis millesimo , sexcentesimo tertio , regnique Serenissimi Principis , Clementissimi Domini nostri , JACOBI Dei gratia Angliae Franciae & Hiberniae Regis primo , & Scotiae tricesimo septimo .
De Ecclesia Anglicana .
1. Suprema in Ecclesiam Anglicanam authoritas Regiae Majestati asserenda .

PRout officii nostri ratione erga Serenissimam Majestatem regiam obligamur , in primis statuimus & ordinamus , ut Archiepiscopus Cantuariensis pro tempore existens , omnes Episcopi hujus Provinciae , Decani item , Archidiaconi , Rectores , Vicarii , caeterique ex Clero quicunque , tùm ipsi fideliter custodiant ac observent , tùm ( quantum in ipsis est ) ab aliis curent observari , & custodiri omnia & singula statuta , ac leges sancitas & constitutas pro antiqua jurisdictione in statum Ecclesiasticum hujus regni Coronae restituenda , omnique extranea potestate , quae eidem repugnet , exterminanda . Porro etiam ut omnes Ecclesiasticae personae ad curam animarum constitutae , omnesque alii concionatores & Theologici in quibuscunque ecclesiis praelectores ( quantum ingenio , cognitione , ac doctrina valebunt ) purè & syncerè absque omni fuco aut dolo , singulis annis quater ad minimum publicè in concionibus , aliisque homiliis , ac praelectionibus suis doceant , divulgent , enuncient , ac declarent , usurpatam omnem & peregrinam , potestatem ( utpote nullo jure divino nixam & fundatam ) justissimis de causis sublatam esse & abolitam ; & propterea nullam obedientiam aut subjectionem infra Majestatis suae regna & dominia hujusmodi extraneae potestati cuicunque ullatenus deberi : sed authoritatem Regiam infra regna sua Angliae , Scotiae , & Hiberniae , ac reliqua ipsius dominia & territoria proximè & secundùm Deum primam esse & supremam , cui omnes earundem regionum tàm incolae , quàm indigenae fidem omnem , & obedientiam supra aliam quamcunque in terris potestatem lege divina tenentur exhibere .

2. Regii in Ecclesiam Anglicanam primatus impugnatores coerciti .

QUicunque in posterum affirmabit , Majestatem Regiam non habere eandem authoritatem in causis Ecclesiasticis , quam pii Principes apud Judaeos , & Christiani Imperatores in Primitiva Ecclesia obtinuerunt , vel Regalem ipsius in eisdem causis primatum , hujus regni Coronae jam diu vindicatum , ac legibus ejusdem regni in ea stabilitum , ullatenus laedere aut extenuare praesumpserit : excommunicetur ipso facto , non nisi per Archiepiscopum restituendus , idque postquam resipuerit , ac impios hosce errores publicè revocârit .

3. Ecclesia Anglicana , Orthodoxa .

QUicunque in posterum affirmabit , Ecclesiam Anglicanam , sub Regia Majestate legibus stabilitam , non esse Orthodoxam , & Apostolicam Ecclesiam , Apostolorum videlicet doctrinam tradentem , & astruentem : excommunicetur ipso facto , non nisi per Archiepiscopum restituendus , idque postquam resipuerit , ac impium hunc errorem publicè revocârit .

4. Divini cultus ratio in Ecclesia Anglicana stabilita , pia & orthodoxa .

QUicunque in posterum affirmabit , Liturgiae formam in Ecclesia Anglicana legibus stabilitam , & in libro Precum publicarum , ac administrationis Sacramentorum comprehensam , corruptum , superstitiosum , aut illicitum esse Dei cultum , vel quicquam in se continere , quod Scripturarum canoni sit contrarium : excommunicetur ipso facto , non nisi per Episcopum Dioecesanum , vel Archiepiscopum restituendus , idque postquam resipuerit , ac impium hunc errorem publicè revocârit .

5. Doctrinae Articuli in Ecclesia Anglicana stabiliti , pii & Orthodoxi .

QUicunque in posterum affirmabit , ullum ex triginta novem articulis , in quos consensum est ab Archiepiscopis & Episcopis utriusque Provinciae , ac reliquo omni Clero in Synodo Londini habita Anno Domini 1562 ( ad tollendam utique opinionum varietatem , & consensum in causa fidei firmandum , & stabiliendum ) ulla ex parte superstitiosos aut erroneos existere , vel omnino ejusmodi , ut in eorum veritatem salva conscientia subscribi nequeat : excommunicetur ipso facto , non nisi per Archiepiscopum restituendus , idque postquam resipuerit , ac impios hos errores publicè revocârit .

6. Caeremoniarum in Ecclesia Anglicana obtinentium usus , pius & licitus .

QUicunque in posterum affirmabit , Ecclesiae Anglicanae ritus ac caeremonias legibus constitutas , impias , Antichristianas , aut superstitiosas esse , vel denique ejus generis , ut homines pii ac religiosi , quantumvis legitima authoritate jussi , non possint integra conscientia eas approbare , aut observare , vel etiam ( prout occasio tulerit ) eisdem subscribere : excommunicetur ipso facto , nullatenus absolvendus , priúsquam resipuerit , ac impios hos errores publicè revocârit .

7. Ecclesiae Anglicanae administratio , verbo divino consona .

QUicunque in posterum affirmabit , Ecclesiae Anglicanae sub Regia Majestate regimen & disciplinam per Archiepiscopos , Episcopos , Decanos , Archidiaconos , & reliquos ad ejusdem gubernaculum constitutos , Antichristianum esse , ac verbo divino contrarium ; excommunicetur ipso facto , nullatenùs absolvendus , priusquam resipuerit , ac impium hunc errorem publicè revocârit .

8. Cleri ordinandi ratio in Ecclesia Anglicana , verbo divino consona .

QUicunque in posterum affirmabit , aut docebit , formam & ritum Episcopos , Presbyteros , & Diaconos ordinandi , & inaugurandi quicquam in se continere , quod pugnet cum Verbo divino , illosque omnes , quotquot ad eum modum Episcopi , Presbyteri , & Diaconi ordinantur , non esse ritè ordinatos , neque vel a seipsis vel ab aliis pro Episcopis , Presbyteris , aut Diaconis habendos , priusquam ad sacra illa officia aliam ordinationem fuerint adepti : excommunicetur ipso facto , nullatenùs absolvendus , priusquam resipuerit , ac impios hos errores publicè revocârit .

9. Authores schismatis ac dissidii ab Ecclesiae Anglicanae communione coerciti .

QUicunque in posterum à Sanctorum Communione , qualiter in Ecclesia Anglicana existit ex Apostolorum regulis approbata , seipsos segregabunt , & novo fraternitatis cujusdam foedere consociati , Christianos omnes , quotquot doctrinae , disciplinae , ritibus ac caeremoniis Ecclesiae Anglicanae se conformes exhibent , prophanos ducent , & indignos quibuscum in Christiana professione communicent : excommunicentur ipso facto , non nisi per Archiepiscopum restituendi , idque postquam resipuerint , ac impios hos errores publicè revocârint .

10. Schismaticorum in Ecclesia Anglicana fautores , coerciti .

QUicunque in posterum affirmabunt , tùm Ministros illos , qui formae & modo divini cultus in Ecclesia Anglicana constitutis , ac in Libro publicae Liturgiae praescriptis recusant subscribere , tùm eorum etiam sectatores alterius Ecclesiae , quae non sit lege stabilita , nomen & titulum posse sibi meritò assumere ; itemque audebunt vulgò asseverare , praetensam hanc ipsorum Ecclesiam jamdiu ingemuisse sub onere certorum gravaminum , sibi & membris suis supradictis impositorum per Ecclesiam Anglicanam , ac decreta & sanctiones in eâdem legibus stabilitas : excommunicentur ipso facto , nullatenus absolvendi , priusquam resipuerint , ac impios hos errores publicè revocârint .

11. Conventiculorum in Ecclesia Anglicana propugnatores , coerciti .

QUcunque in posterum affirmabit , aut tuebitur , ullos conventus , coetus , aut congregationes subditorum indigenarum infra hoc regnum existere ( praeter eos , qui ex hujus regni legibus renentur , & approbantur ) qui verarum , & legitimarum Ecclesiarum nomen possint sibi jure vendicare ; excommunicetur , non nisi per Archiepiscopum restituendus , idque postquàm resipuerit , & impium hunc errorem publicè revocârit .

12. Ordinationum in Conventiculis conditarum propugnatores coerciti .

QUicunque in posterum asseverabunt , licitum esse cuivis Ministrorum aut Laicorum ordini , vel eorum alterutris simul congregatis , Canones , Decreta , aut Constitutiones de rebus Ecclesiasticis citra Regis authoritatem condere ; & eisdem regendos & gubernandos se subjiciunt : excommunicentur ipso facto , nullatenùs absolvendi , priusquam resipuerint , & impios hos ac Anabaptisticos errores publicè revocârint .

De Cultu Divino , & Sacramentorum administratione .
13. Liturgia publica , & reliqua pietatis exercitia diebus Sacris celebranda .

OMnes cujuscunque conditionis aut status personae infra Ecclesiam Anglicanam deinceps celebrabunt diem Dominicum ( vulgo diem Solis nuncupatum ) caeterosque dies Festivos , juxta regulam divinae voluntatis , & Ecclesiae Anglicanae instituta hac in parte praescripta ; nimirum in audiendo Verbo Dei tàm lecto , quàm praedicato , in privatis publicisque precibus faciendis , in peccatis Deo confitendis , & eisdem emendandis , in charitate cum proximis ( sicubi laesa fuerit ) reconcilianda , in sacra Communione corporis & sanguinis Dominici frequentanda , in pauperibus juvandis , & aegrotis visitandis , piam omnem ac sobriam coversationem interim adhibentes .

14. Liturgiae publicae praescriptus Canon diebus sacris observandus .

LIturgia publica distincte , & debita cum reverentia legetur , vel canetur in illis diebus , & eorum vigil●…s , qui in Libro precum publicarum Sacri ac Festivi designantur , hori●que eorundem congrois , & usitatis , atque in eo potissimum Ecclesiae cujusque loco , qui Episcopo Dioecesano , vel loci Ordinario ( ratione vel amplitudinis vel angustiae ) commodissimus , ac ad populi aedificationem maximè opportunus videbitur . Singuli etiam Ministri studiosè observabunt instituta , ritus , & caeremonias omnes , quae in dicto libro praescribuntur , tam in sacris Scripturis legendis , ac precibus recitandis , quàm in administrandis Sacramentis , absque ulla sive materiae sive formae additione , aut diminutione , respectu vel concionis , vel alterius causae cujuscunque .

15. Litania diebus Mercurii & Veneris recitanda .

LItania à Rectoribus , Vicariis , Ministris sive Curatis in Cathedralibus , Collegiatis , & Parochialibus Ecclesiis ac Capellis omnibus , earumque loco aliquo conveniente pro arbitratu Episcopi , Dioecesani , vel loci Ordinarii recitabitur vel canetur illis temporibus , & sub ea forma , quae in libro publicae Liturgiae praestituuntur ; ac ( ut restrictiùs loquamur ) singulis diebus Mercurii & Veneris ( etiamsi non fuerint Festivi ) Minister ad horas Divinis precibus consuetas in Ecclesia aut Capella praestò erit , ac populo per sonitum campanae convocato , Litaniam in dicto Libro praescriptam recitabit ; cui singuli patres-familias , qui praese●tim infra dimidium milliare ab Ecclesia habitant , vel ipsi debebunt interesse , vel unum saltem de familia sua mittere idoneum qui Ministro inter precandum assistat .

16. Liturgiae publicae praescriptus Canon in Academiis observandus .

IN omnibus utriusque Academiae Collegiis & Aulis per integram Liturgiam & sacrae Coenae administrationem debitè , & absque omni aut omissione , aut innovatione observari volumus ordinem , formam , ac caeremonias omnes prout in dicto publicae Liturgiae Libro praescriptae inveniuntur .

17. Inter Liturgiae publicae celebrationem Superpellicea , & Epomides in Academiis adhibendae .

IN omnibus utriusque Academiae Collegiis & aulis Praefecti ac Socii , caeterique Scholares & Studiosi in Ecclesiis & Capellis suis per singulos dies Dominicos , & Festivos , eorumque vigilias tempore divinorum superpelliceis ( juxta Ecclesiae Anglicanae mores ac instituta ) utentur : quotquot verò gradum aliquem susceperint , caputia suo cujusque gradui competentia superpelliceis suis superinduent .

18. Inter Liturgiae publicae celebrationem reverentia solennis adhibenda .

CUm divina peraguntur , vel eorum pars quaelibet , aequum est , ut condigna omnis reverentia adhibeatur : sic enim monet Apostoli praeceptum illud , Omnia decenter , & secundùm ordinem fiant . Cui decentiae , atque ordini regulas hasce nostras sequentes consentaneas esse judicamus . Nullus in Ecclesia vel Capella inter rem divinam caput suum operiet , nisi ex causa infirmitatis , quo casu pileolo , aut rica utendum censemus . Omnes cujuscunque status aut conditionis personae humiliter in genua se inclinabunt , dum generalis Confessio , Litania & reliquae precationes recitantur : cùm autem fidei Symbolum recensetur , stabunt erecto corpore , juxta regulas in libro publicae Liturgiae in eam partem praefinitas . Similiter etiam nomen Domini Jesu , quoties inter divinum cultum inciderit , congrua ac humili reverentia ab universis tum praesentibus excipietur , prout , hactenùs fieri consuevit : ut per externas hasce caeremonias & gestus testatam faciant internam ipsorum humilitatem , Christianam constantiam , & debitam agnitionem , quòd Dominus Jesus Christus , verus & aeternus Dei filius , unicus est mundi Salvator , in quo solo omnes misericordiae , gratiae ac promissiones homini à Deo indultae , tam in praesentem vitam , quàm futuram , integrè & in totum comprehenduntur . Nullus porrò cujuscunque tandem sexus , aetatis , aut conditionis fuerit , in Ecclesia tempore Divini cultus in aliud quicquam intendet , quàm ut quietè auscultans audiat , observet ac intelligat , quod a Ministro legitur , praedicatur , aut administratur , eique Confessionem , Orationem Dominicam , & Symbolum recitanti clara voce subserviat , aliaque in publicis precibus responsa subjiciat , quae in libro Communis Liturgiae praecipiuntur . Nullus denique preces vel concionem ambulando , aut garriendo , seu alio quovis modo interpellabit , vel ex Ecclesia ante easdem peractas , absque justa , aut probabili causa egredietur .

19. Inter Liturgiae publicae celebrationem otiosi ab ecclesiae ambitu repellendi .

OEconomi Ecclesiarum , & Inquisitores sive Assistentes personas otiosas non patientur in coemeterio , vel Ecclesiae porticu tempore Divini cultus aut concionis desidere , sed eos vel Ecclesiam ingredi compellent , vel abscedere .

20. Panis & vinum in sacrae Coenae usum paranda .

PArochiarum omnium Oeconomi ( consulto hac in parte Ministro ) curabunt idoneam , pro numero communicantium , panis siliginei , vinique boni ac salubris quantitatem , in tempus sacrae Coenae praestitutum , sumptibus parochianorum comparari , vinumque illud ad mensam Domini afferri in oenophoro nitido , & mundo , eoque ex stanno , si non ex metallo praestantiore .

21. Coenae trina perceptio quotannis indicta .

IN omnibus hujus regni Ecclesiis parochialibus , ac Capellis in quibus Sacramenta sunt administranda , Coenam Dominicam a Rectore , Vicario , vel Ministro toties , iisque temporibus celebrari volumus , ut parochiani singuli quotannis ter ad minimum ( nominatim verò in festo Paschatis ) sicut in Libro publicae Liturgiae jubentur , possint Sacramentum illud percipere . Proviso semper , ut Minister quilibet sacram illam Coenam administraturus , ipse semper primus communicet . Insuper siquid panis aut vini inter Coenae administrationem afferri contigerit , illud ad Sacramenti usum vetamus adhiberi , priusquam , eodem in menla Domini apposito , institutionis verba fuerint recitata . Porrò etiam ordinamus , ut administrans panem & vinum singulis communicantibus separatim & per vices distribuat .

22. Coenae administrationem solennis indictio praeire jussa .

CUm Laicorum quisque ad sacrae Coenae communionem ter quotannis obligetur , multique nihilo seciùs vix semel communicent : Ministris omnibus praeceptum volumus , ut quotiescunque Sacramentum illud celebrare voluerint , parochianis suis solenniter in Ecclesia inter preces matutinas , idque praecedente die Dominico ( quò melius veniant praeparati ) id denunciare non omittant : quas utique monitiones parochiani vicissim suscipere , ac eisdem parere sub periculo & poena legis tenebuntur .

23. Coenae usus frequentior Academicis indictus , & Coena utentibus genuum flexio injuncta .

IN omnibus utriusque Academiae Collegiis & Aulis Praefecti & Socii , qui praesertim pupillos habent , sedulò prospicient , ut ipsorum pupilli omnes , & reliqui , qui inter eos agunt , universi rectè & piè educentur , ac in articulis religionis penitus instituantur , publicamque Liturgiam & conciones diligenter frequentent ; quin etiam sacram Coenam jugiter percipiant ; quam primo quoque vel secundo cujuslibet mensis die Dominico in eisdem Collegiis & Aulis administrandam decernimus : volumusque ut singuli eorundem Praefecti , Socii , Scholares , reliquique studiosi , ac officiarii , & illorum quilibet famuli ac ministri unoquoque anno quater ad minimum ejusdem siat participes , idque in genua reverenter ( ut par est ) inclinati , juxta ritum in Libro publicae Liturgiae ea in parte praestitutum .

24. Coenae in festis solennibus administratio in Ecclesiis Cathedralibus indicta , & Coenam administrantibus Caparum usus injunctus .

PEr Cathedrales omnes & Collegiatas Ecclesias sacram Coenam in festis solennibus administrari volumus nonnunquam per Episcopum ( siquidem praesens extiterit ) nonnunquam verò per Decanum , quandoque eriam per Canonicum vel Praebendarium ( Ministrum ibidem maximè eminentem ) eundemque decente Capa amictum , ac adjutum ab Evangelii & Epistolae Lectoribus ( juxta Admonitiones in septimo Elizabethae promulgatas ) idque iis horis , & cum illa prorsus limitatione , quae in Libro publicae Liturgiae praefiniuntur . Proviso semper , ut nulla ejusmodi limitatio admittatur , cujuscunque tandem interpretationis praetextu , quo minus singuli Decani , Guardiani , Magistri , sive Praefecti Cathedralis cujusque & Collegiatae Ecclesiae , & cuncti etiam earundem Praebendarii , Canonici , Vicarii , minores Canonici , Cantores , reliquique de Ecclesiae gremio universi , si non frequentius , saltem quater omni anno Sacramentum percipiant .

25. Superpelliceorum & Epomidum usus , Coena non administrata , in Ecclesiis Cathedralibus indictus .

IN Cathedralibus & Collegiatis Ecclesiis , cessante Coena Dominica , satis erit tempore Divinorum Superpelliceis duntaxat uti : nisi quòd Ecclesiarum Collegiatarum Decani , Magistri , & Praefecti , itemque Canonici , ac Praebendarii ( dummodo graduati ) cum Superpelliceis Caputia gradibus suis respectivè congrua inter rem Divinam gerere tenebuntur .

26. Notorii peccati consuetudine infames a sacra Coena repellendi .

NUllus Ministrorum ex grege aut Cura sua quenquam ad sacrae Coenae communionem ullo pacto admittet , qui manifestè notus erit in infami peccato impoenitenter vivere ; nec qui cum proximis suis malitiosè & apertè contenderit , nisi reconciliatio intercesserit ; neque etiam Ecclesiarum Oeconomos aut Assistentes ullos , qui cùm juramentum susceperint pro omnibus iisce delictis notoriis , de quibus particulatìm jussi erunt infra suas respectivè parochias inquirere , bis quolibet anno ad Ordinarium suum deferendis , non verentur tamen , spreta juramenti sui religione ( cujus alioqui fidelis executio potissima ratio existit , per quam publica peccata , & scandala rescindi possint , & coerceri ) etiam volentes & scientes in perjurii crimen perditè , ac nefariè incurrere , dum vel negligunt , vel recusant ex praedictis criminibus , & delictis notoriis aliqua detegere , quae sciunt infra parochias suas esse perpetrata , vel congregationem saltem insigniter gravare , ac offendere ; licet iidem vel à vicinis , vel à Ministro , vel etiam ab ipso Ordinario admoniti subinde fuerint , ut conscientias suas , dicta crimina praesentando , exonerarent , neque se vellent in horrendum illud penjurii scelus ausu tam nefario praecipitare .

27. Schismatici à Coenae communione arcendi .

MInistri , cùm Coenam Domini administrant , neminem scienter ejusdem facient participem , qui in genua non fuerit inclinatus , sub poena suspensionis . Simili etiam poena prohibemus , ne alicui eandem distribuant , qui publicae Liturgiae ( juxta Ecclesiae Anglicanae instituta ) recusat interesse ; vel qui Librum Publicarum precum ac Sacramenta administrandi , ritusve & ceremonias quaslibet in eodem praescriptas , aut quicquam sive in Articulis , qui in Synodo anno 1562. conclusi sunt , sive in libro de Ordinatione presbyterorum , & Episcoporum comprehensum frequenter & notoriè calumniatur ; vel qui Majestatis suae supremam in causis Ecclesiasticis authoritatem ullo dicto audet convellere , aut laedere : nisi singuli taliter delinquentes coram Ministro , praesentibus unà Oeconomis , delicti sui poenitentiam professi , viva voce priùs spoponderint ( si nesciant scribere ) se deinceps in eo genere nequaqum peccaturos , vel si norint scribere , sub chirographo suo idem promiserint ; quod eorum chirographum Minister accipiens ad Episcopum Dioecesanum , vel loci Ordinarium quamprimum transmittet . Proviso semper , quòd Ministrorum quilibet , qui à sacra Coena aliquem arcebit ( prout in praesente , vel in superiore Canone constitutum habetur ) ad partis querelam , vel Ordinarii requisitionem , talis facti sui rationem , dicto Ordinario reddet , atque ejusdem in ea parte beneplacito & mandato acquiescet .

28. Extranei à Coenae communione repellendi .

OEconomi & Inquisitores , sive Assistentes ( non minùs quàm Ministri ) attentè observabunt , nùm omnes & singuli ex Parochia sua toties ad sacrae Coenae communionem annuatim accedant , quoties hujus Regni legibus , ac nostris etiam Constitutionibus jubentur : ac ulterius numqui extranei frequentiùs & usitatius à Parochiis alienis ad Ecclesiam suam conveniant ; eosque ( siqui erunt ) Ministro suo indicabunt , ne fortè ad Mensam Domini inter caeteros recipiantur ; quod ii omni modo prohibebunt , dictosque extraneos ad proprias Parochiae suae Ecclesias ac Ministros dimittent , ut illic cum vicinis suis unà communicent .

29. Parentes in liberorum suorum Baptismate , & pueri Coenae Dominicae incapaces , Susceptores esse prohibiti .

PArentes liberorum suorum Baptismati interesse non impellentur ; neque eisdem etiam permittetur , pro propriis infantibus ad sacrum fontem Susceptorum loco respondere . Praeterea nulli Susceptori , aut Susceptrici licitum erit , aliis verbis in respondendo uti , quàm quae in Libro publicae Liturgiae hanc in partem sunt praescripta ; nec quisquam ad officium Susceptoris vel Susceptricis pro parvulis Baptizandis , vel Confirmandis admittetur , qui Coenae Dominicae particeps nondum extiterit .

30. Crucis in Baptismo caeremonia explicata .

DOlemus , praeclarissimum Majestatis suae studium & laborem , in Colloquio ad Aulam Hamptoniensem circa signum Crucis in Baptismo ( inter alia plurima ) susceptum , non meliores effectus apud multos consecutum , quin adhuc in eo haereatur , ejusque in Baptismo usus tantopere impugnetur . Itaque quò meliùs constare possit legitima hujus caeremoniae ratio , simulque ut omnis scrupulus deinceps amoveatur , qui hominum verè religiosorum conscientias perturbare quoquo modo possit , nos in hac causa inclytissimi Regis nostri vestigiis insistentes , ut qui Scripturae authoritate , & Primitivae Ecclesiae exemplo in eâdem ducitur , regulas ac observationes hasce nostris synceris omnibus Ecclesiae Anglicanae membris commendamus .

Primò , observandum est , quòd etiamsi Judaei , ac Ethnici Apostolos reliquosque Christianos irriderent , quòd eum praedicarent , in eumque crederent , qui Crucis morte esset affectus ; tantum tamen aberat , ut vel Apostoli , vel reliqui Christiani Crucis opprobrio seipsos passi sint à professione sua deterreri , ut in eâdem exultandi potiùs , & gloriandi animos inde sumerent .

Imò Spiritus sanctus per Apostolorum ora ipsum Crucis nomen ( Judaeis utique invisum ) usque adeò honoravit , ut non modò Christum ipsum Crucifixum sub eodem comprehenderet , sed & mortis ac Passionis Christi vires , effectus , ac merita , unà cum solatiis , fructibus , ac promissis universis , quae nos ex eisdem aut percipimus , aut in futurum expectamus .

Secundò , honor ac dignitas Crucis nomini acquisita , etiam & signo Crucis vel ipsa Apostolorum aetate ( neque enim contrarium ostendi potest ) existimationem peperit honorificam , adeò ut Christiani haud multo pòst in cunctis actionibus suis eodem uti coeperint , eo ipso palàm , & apertè testatum facientes ( etiam ad stuporem Judaeorum ) se minimè sibi pudori ducere , quòd illum agnoscerent pro Domino & Salvatore suo , qui Crucis mortem pro ipsis pertulisset . Atque hoc Crucis signum non modò ipsi , idque cum ostentatione quadam solebant adhibere , quoties Judaeis passìm occurrerent , sed & liberos suos , cùm Baptismatis aqua abluerentur , eodem signari faciebant , ut eos per Crucis Symbolum illius servitio dedicarent , cujus in Baptismo collata in ipsos beneficia Crucis nominé essent repraesentata . Atque adeò hujus signi in Baptismo usus in Primaeva Ecclesia receptus est unamini consensu , maximoque omnium tàm Graecorum , quàm Latinorum applausu . Quo quidem saeculo siquis huic signo se opposuisset , declaratus procul dubio fuisset pro hoste ac inimico nominis Crucis , & proinde meritorum Christi , quorum illi tessera & signum adeò displiceret . Denique hujus signi usum continuum & generalem extitisse , ex multis Patrum testimoniis perspicuè declaratur .

Tertio fatendum est , Crucis signum decursu temporis in Ecclesia Romana graves abusus pertulisse , praesertim postquam eam Papismi labes ac corruptela semel pervaserat . Caeterùm rei abusus legitimum ejusdem usum nequaquam tollit . Imò tantum aberat , ut Ecclesia Anglicana ab Italiae , Galliae , Hispaniae , Germaniae , aliisve similibus Ecclesiis voluerit per omnia recedere , quicquid eas sciret tenere , aut observare , ut ( quod Ecclesiae Anglicanae Apologia profitetur ) caeremonias illas cum reverentia susciperet , quas citra Ecclesiae incommodum , ac hominum sobriorum offensionem retineri posse senserat , & in iis tantùm articulis à praedictis Ecclesiis dissentiret , in quibas eaedem ipsae tùm à pristina sua integritate priùs desciverant , tùm etiam ab Ecclesiis Apostolicis , à quibus primùm sunt proseminatae . Quo quidem respectu , inter alias magnae vetustatis caeremonias , etiam & Crucis in Baptismo signum in Ecclesia Anglicana est retentum , idque ex judicio & praxi venerabilium illorum Patrum , magnorumque in primis Theologornm , qui regnante Edovardo sexto in eâdem claruerunt ; quorum alii deinceps ob verae fidei professionem Martyrium constanter pertulerunt , alii Reginae Mariae temporibus exulantes , ac sub initium Regni Serenissimae Reginae nuper defunctae in Angliam reversi , pro hoc signo semper steterunt , ejusque usum exemplo , ac praxi sua perpetuò commendârunt . Atque hoc Ecclesiae nostrae judicium & praxis comprobata sunt tùm per censuram , que de Libro publicae Liturgiae tempore Edovardi sexti ferebatur , tùm etiam per Confesionum Harmoniam recentioribus annis publicatam : quoniam nimirum hujus signi in Baptismo usus in Ecclesia Anglicana congruis omnibus ac idoneis cautelis & exceptionibus contra Papisticam superstitionem atque errorem munitus semper fuit , prout in ejusmodi casibus fieri convenit .

Primò enim Ecclesia Anglicana jam inde à Papismo abolito semper sensit ac docuit , & hodie etiam sentit ac docet , signum Crucis in Baptismo adhibitum de ipsius Sacramenti substantia haudquaqaum existere . Nam ut primùm Minister infantem immergens in aquam , vel ejusdem faciei aquam inspergens , haec verba recitaverit , Baptizo te in nomine Patris & Filii & Spiritus Sancti : infans continuò plenum & perfectum Baptismi Sacramentum consequitur , adeò ut signum Crucis post adhibitum ad Baptismi virtutem aut perfectionem nihil adjiciat , nec idem omissum de ejus efficacia , aut substantia quicquam detrabat ,

Secundò palàm est in Libro publicae Liturgiae , infantem , postquam Baptismū susceperit ( Crucis utique signo nondum superveniente ) in Christi gregem ac Ecclesiam , tanquam perfectum ejus membrum , receptum esse , ipsius adeò Baptismi virtute , non autem potestate aliqua , quae signo Crucis affingitur . Ita ut propter ipsam Crucis memoriam , quae apud omnes verè in Christum credentes plurimi semper fuit , & reliquas etiam ob causas supradictas , Ecclesia Anglicana ejus signum in Baptizando usque retinendum censuerit , secuta nimirum ea in re Primitivas & Apostolicas Ecclesias , atque hunc Characterem pro licita externa caeremonia reputans & symbolo honorifico , per quod infans illius obsequio , qui Crucis mortem subiit , in perpetuum votus esset & mancipatus ; id quod ex verbis in Libro publicae Liturgiae expressis facillimè potest perspici .

Postremò , quum usus signi hujus in Baptismo in Ecclesia Anglicana purgatus sit ab omni Papistica superstitione ac errore , & in primariam institutionem vindicatus ; nos ( freti Orthodoxis iis doctrinae regulis , de rebus mediis & adiaphoris , quas Divino Canoni , ac Patrum antiquorum concordi sententiae judicamus esse consentaneas ) privati cujusque tùm Ministri tùm alterius personae cujuscunque statuimus esse , verum ejusdem usum , publica Authoritate praescriptum reverenter amplecti ac recipere , praesertim cum intelligant res alioqui medias ac indifferentes naturam suam aliquo modo mutare , postquam sub legitimi Magistratus edictum , vel interdictum venerint , neque pro cujusque libitu praeter legem omittendas esse , cùm praecipiuntur , nec cum prohibentur observandas .

De Ministris , eorumque ordinatione ac functione .
31 Jejunia Quatuor Temporum Ministrorum ordinationi decreta .

CUm prisca Sanctorum patrum authoritas , Apostolorum exemplo freta in solenni Ministrorum ordinatione preces ac jejunia celebranda praeceperit ; iisdemque adeò precum & jejuniorum officiis stata quaedam tempora ex professo decreverit , in quibus duntaxat sacri Ordines essent conferendi : nos sanctum & pium illorum institutum colentes volumus & statuimus , ut nulli in posterum Presbyteri aut Diaconi ordinentur , nisi in diebus Dominicis immediatè sequentibus Jejunia Quatuor Temporum , vulgò Septimanas Cinerum , ad preces & jejunia ( idque hunc ipsum in usum ) antiquitùs institutas , atque in Ecclesia Anglicana hodiè continuatas . Quod utique fieri volumus in Ecclesia Cathedrali , vel Parochiali , ubi Episcopus commoratur , ac tempore Divinorum , assistente non solùm Archidiacono , sed & Decano , & duobus ad minus Praebendariis , aut ( illis legitimè detentis ) quatuor illis gravioribus personis , quae Magistri artium ad minimum extiterint , & pro publicis concionatoribus legitimè approbatae .

32. Vtrumque Ordinem eodem die non conferendum .

CUm ( ex Patrum antiquorum sententia , & Primitivae Ecclesiae praxi ) Diaconi officium ad Ministerii dignitatem gradus quidam sit constitutus ; statuimus & ordinamus , ut nullus deinceps Episcopus aliquam cujusvis conditionis personam ( quibuscunque tandem animi dotibus commendatam ) uno & eodem die Diaconum & Presbyterum constituat ; quin ut ritus ea in parte praescriptus in Libro de Episcopis , Presbyteris & Diaconis ordinandis , & inaugurandis , strictè observetur ; non quò Diaconos omnes Presbyterii aditu per annum integrum prohibeamus ( cùm tamen Episcopos justam ejus admittendi causam alioqui invenerit ) verùm , ut cùm Quatuor tempora Diaconorum & Presbyterorum ordinationi in singulos annos sint decreta , aliquid saltem spatii detur , ad periculum de singulis faciendum , quales in of . ficio Diaconi se exhibuerint , priusquam in Ordinem Presbyterorum suscipiantur .

33. Neminem sine certo titulo ordinandum .

MUltis jam olim Patrum decretis cautum est , nequem liceret Diaconum , vel Presbyterum ordinari , nisi quem constaret , certum aliquem & designatum muneris sui exercendi locum per id tempus obtinere ; quorum nos authoritatem secuti , statuimus & ordinamus , nequis deinceps in sacros Ordines admittatur , nisi qui eodem tempore praesentationem sui ipsius ad promotionem aliquam Ecclesiastcam infra Dioecesin illius Episcopi , à quo manuum impositionem petit , tunc vacantem exhibuerit : vel verum & indubitatum certificatorium attulerit sive de Ecclesia aliqua infra Dioecesin seu jurisdictionem dicti Episcopi , cujus Cura fungi possit , sive de loco Diaconi vel Presbyteri in Cathedrali aut Collegiata aliqua Ecclesia , infra eandem Dioecesin vacante , in quo functionem suam exerceat , vel nisi fidem fecerit , se esse actu Socium , aut jura Socii obtinere , vel designatum esse Conductitium sive Capellanum in aliquo Collegio Cantabrigiensi aut Oxoniensi , vel etiam ad Magisterii gradum ante quinquennium provectum , suis ibidem sumptibus degere : vel nisi ab Episcopo ipsum ordinante in Beneficium sive ad exercendam aliquam Curam , tunc etiam vacantem , brevi pòst sit admittendus . Siquis vero Episcopus in sacros Ordines quenquam asciverit , qui praedictorum aliquo titulo non sit praeditus , tunc omnia illi necessaria earenùs subministrabit , donec eidem de aliqua Ecclesia prospexerit . Quod si facere recusaverit , per Archiepiscopum ( uno praetereà Episcopo assidente ) ab ordinatione Diaconorum & Presbyterorum per integrum annum suspendetur .

34. Certae conditiones in Ordinandis requisitae .

NUllus Episcopus in sacros Ordines quenquam de caetero cooptabit , qui non ex sua ipsius Dioecesi fuerit , nisi vel ex altera nostratium Academiarum prodierit ; vel nisi literas ( quas vocant ) Dimissorias attulerit ab Episcopo , de cujus jurisdictione existit ; & , si Diaconus fieri expetit , vicesimum tertium , sin Presbyter , vicesimum quartum aetatis suae annum jam compleverit , ac etiam in altera dictarum Academiarum gradum aliquem Scholasticum susceperit ; vel saltem nisi rationem fidei suae , juxta Articulos religionis in Synodo Episcoporum & Cleri Ann. 1562. approbatos , Latino sermone reddere possit , & eandem Scripturae testimoniis corroborare ; ac ulteriùs de vita sua laudabili , & morum integritate literas Testimoniales exhibuerit , sub sigillo alicujus Collegii Cantabrigiensis , aut Oxoniensis , ubi antea moram fecerit , vel certè trium aut quatuor gravium Ministrorum , unà cum subscriptione & testimonio aliorum probabilium & fide dignorum hominum , quibus ejusdem vita & mores per proximum triennium fuerint explorati .

35. Neminem , nisi praevio solenni examine , Ordinandum .

EPiscopus , priusquàm cuilibet Ordinando manus imponat , diligenti eum examine excutiet ac explorabit , praesentibus eisdem Ministris , quos velit in impositione manuum sibi assistere . Quòd si Episcopus legitimè impeditus praedicto examini vacare nequeat , illud tamen a praefatis Ministris sollicitè fieri procurabit . Proviso semper , ut qui Episcopo in dicta examinatione , & manuum impositione adesse debeant , de ipsius Cathedrali Ecclesia existant ( siquidem eorum facultas dabitur ) alioqui tres ad minus idonei Concionatores ex eadem dioecesi adsciscantur . Quòd siquis Episcopus vel Suffraganeus in sacros Ordines quempiam sine praedictis qualitatibus , aut justo ( ut supra ) examine cooptàrit ; per Provinciae suae Archiepiscopum ea de re certiorem factum ( assidente uno alio Episcopo ) ab omni Ordines conferendi potestate in integrum biennium secludetur .

36. Neminem , nisi praevia trium Articulorum subscriptione , Ordinandum .

NEmo ad sacros Ordines , vel Ecclesiasticum aliquod Beneficium per Institutionem aut Collationem , vel ad Concionatoris , Praelectoris , aut Catechistae munus exercendum sive in alterutra Academia , sive in Cathedrali vel Collegiata aliqua Ecclesia , sive in urbe , aut oppido mercatorio , sive in parochiali Ecclesia , vel Capella , vel alio denique hujus regni loco deinceps admittetur , nisi priùs vel ab Archiepiscopo , vel Episcopo ejus Dioeceseos , in qua est victurus , vel ab altera Academiarum licentiam & facultatem ea●undem subscriptionibus , & sigillis munitam impetraverit , tribusque sequentibus Articulis ( modo & forma a nobis praefinitis ) subscripserit .

1. Quòd Majestas Regia secundùm Deum unicus est & supremus gubernator hujus Regni , omniumque aliorum ipsius dominiorum , ac territoriorum , tàm in omnibus Spiritualibus sive Ecclesiasticis rebus aut causis , quàm in Saecularibus : & quòd nullus extraneus princeps , vel persona , nec ullus praelatus , status , aut dominatus habet aut habere debet ullam jurisdictionem , potestatem , superioritatem , praeeminentiam , vel authoritatem Ecclesiasticam sive Spiritualem infra Majestatis suae dicta regna , dominia , & territoria .

2. Quod Liber publicae Liturgiae , & Episcopos , Presbyteros & Diaconos ordinandi , & consecrandi nihil in se contineat , quod verbo Dei sit contrarium , quódque eodem taliter uti liceat : & quòd ipse in publicis Precibus , & Sacramentis administrandis illam prorsus formam , quae in dicto libro praescribitur , & non aliam sit observaturus .

3. Quòd libro de religionis Articulis , in quos consensum est ab Archiepiscopis , & Episcopis utriusque Provinciae , ac reliquo omni Glero in Synodo Londinensi An. 1562. omninò comprobat : & quòd omnes ac singulos Articulos in eodem contentos ( qui triginta novem , citra ratificationem , numerantur ) verbo Dei consentaneos esse agnoscit .

Hisce tribus Articulis qui volet subscribere , ad vitandam omnem ambiguitatem , hac verborum formula ( nomine & cognomine suo expressis ) in subscribendo utetur : Ego N. N. tribus his praefixis Articulis , omnibùsque in eisdem contentis lubens & ex animo subscribo . Quòd siquis Episcopas aliquem ordinaverit , admiserit , vel facultate , aut licentia ( ut superiùs dictum est ) ulla donaverit , nisi priùs sub modo & forma praestitutis subscripserit ; is à collatione Ordinum , & licentiarum ad concionandum per anni spatium submovebitur . Academias verò , siquid hac in parte deliquerint , juris ultioni , & Regiae censurae relinquimus .

37. Ordinatis , Diocesin mutantibus , subscriptio coram Episcopo Diocesano iteranda .

SIquis Concionandi , Legendi , Praelegendi , vel Gatechizandi legitima alioqui potestate praeditus ( ut suprà ) in ullam Dioecesin ibidem commoraturus devenerit , is ad hujusmodi munera exercenda , vel ad Sacramenta celebranda , aut quamlibet Ecclesiasticam functionem illic obeundam nullatenùs admittetur , ( à quocunque tandem dictam potestatem acceperit ) nisi priùs coram Episcopo ejusdem Dioeceseos , in qua munerum praefatorum aliquo fungi debeat , in supradictos Articulos per manus suae subscriptionem consenserit .

38. Ordinati post subscriptionem praevaricantes à Ministerio removendi .

SIquis Minister , postquàm p●aefatis Articulis subscripserit , Liturgiae formula vel ritibus & ceremoniis quibuscunque in Libro precum publicarum indictis , uti deinceps omiserit , suspensionis poena coerceatur , ac nisi post mensem se emendârit ac submiserit , excommunicetur ; quòd si per alium adhuc mensem in contumacia permanserit , à Ministerio sacro amoveatur .

39. Ordinati , sine congruo testimonio ac examine , in Beneficia non instituendi .

NUllus Episcopus Ministrum quemvis ab alio Episcopo Ordinatum in Beneficium aliquod de caetero instituet , nisi qui Literas ordinationis suae eidem ostenderit , & de morum honestate , vitâque probabili congruum testimonium ( Episcopo id postulante ) exhibuerit : ac nisi debitè examinatus , Ministerio suo dignus inventus fuerit .

40. Instituendi in Beneficta Simoniae suspicionem solenni jureiurando jussi avertere .

AD detestabile Simoniae peccatum coercendum ( quoniàm Spiritualium , & Ecclesiasticarum Functionum , Officiorum , Promotionum , Dignitatum , & Beneficiorum nundinatio in dei conspectu odiosa est , & execranda ) statuimus , & ordinamus , ut Archiepiscopus , omnesque & singuli Episcopi , atque alii , quibuscunque jus competit admittendi , instituendi , conferendi , consecrandi , vel electiorem confirmandi cujusvis Archiepiscopi , Episcopi , vel alterius personae ad Ecclesiasticam aliquam Functionem , Dignitatem , Promotionem , Titulum , Officium , Jurisdictionem , Locum , aut Beneficium cum Cura , vel sine Cura , vel ad Ecclesiasticum ullum munus quodcunque , ante omnem ejusmodi institutionem , collationem , consecrationem vel confirmationem electionis respectivè faciendam , unumquemque deinceps admittendum , instituendum , conferendum , inaugurandum , aut confirmandum in vel ad Archiepiscopatum , Episcopatum , vel aliam Spiritualem sive Ecclesiasticam Functionem , Dignitatem , Promotionem , Titulum , Officium , Jurisdictionem , Locum , aut Beneficium cum Cura vel sine Cura , vel ad Ecclesiasticum ullum munus quodcunque praesenti juramento oneret ( quod utique per omnes , quorum intererit , in propriis personis , & non per procuratorem erit praestandum ) sub modo & forma sequentibus : Ego N. N. juro me nullam Simoniacam solutionem , stipulationem , vel promissum directe aut indirectè per me , vel per alium quemlibet ( me conscio , aut consentiente ) cuivis personae vel personis quibuscunque fecisse , pro vel de procuratione , vel acquisitione Ecclesiasticae hujus Dignitatis , Loci , Promotionis , Officii , vel Beneficii ( exprimendo respective & nominatim locum illum , in quem admittendus , instituendus , conferendus , installandus , aut confirmandus erit ) néque deinceps ullam ejusmodi solutionem , stipulationem , vel promissum absque mea notitia aut consensu factum quovis tempore praestiturum , ita me Deus adjuvet per Christum Jesum .

41. Beneficiorum pluralitas parciùs dispensanda , & de personali dispensatorum residentia cautio ineunda .

NEmini in posterum facultas sive dispensatio concedetur , de pluribus Beneficiis Curatis simul retinendis , nisi tali duntaxat , qui pro eruditione sua dignior , & ad officium suum pleniùs praestandum habilis & idoneus censebitur : nimirum qui ad gradum Magisterii ad minus in altera nostratium Academiarum promotus fuerit , publicusque ac idoneus concionator , idemque legitimè approbatus extiterit . Proviso semper , ut sufficienti cautione obstrictus teneatur , de personali sua residentia in singulis Beneficii● per bonam anni cujusquam partem facienda ; ac ut ejusmodi Beneficia non amplius triginta milliarium spatio ab invicem distent ; & denique ut in eo Beneficio , in quo non residebit , concionatorem ritè approbatum retineat , qui populum utiliter docere , ac informare possit .

42. Cathedralium Ecclesiarum Decani ad congruam residentiam tenentur .

QUilibet Decanus , Praefectus , Guardianus , vel Rector primarius cujusquam Ecclesiae Cathedralis , vel Collegiatae nonaginta dies ad minus in singulis annis conjunctim vel divisim in dicta Cathedrali , vel Collegiata Ecclesia residebit , verbi Divini praedicationi incumbens , & hospitalitatem interim exercens ; nisi aliàs gravibus , & urgentibus causis , iisque per Episcopum Dioecesanum approbandis detentus fuerit , vel legitima aliqua ratione aliter dispensatus . Quamdiu autem illic moram fecerit , ipse cum reliquis pariter Canonicis , vel Praebendariis residentibus invigilabunt , ut Ecclesiae suae Statuta , & laudabiles Consuetudines ( modò verbo Dei , aut Praerogativae Regiae non repugnent ) nec non universa hujus regni statuta ad Ecclesiasticum ordinem spectantia , quae in suo robore adhuc perdurant , omnesque aliae Constitutiones Regia authoritate hactenùs editae & stabilitae , & siquae per Episcopum Dioecesanum ( juxta statuta & consuetudines ejusdem Ecclesiae , ac leges Ecclesiasticas hujus regni ) in visitatione sua legitimè praescribentur , inviolatè custodiantur : ac ut minores Ganonici , Vicarii Chorales , aliique Ecclesiae suae ministri ad facrarum Literarum studium compellantur , & eorum unusquisque Novum Testamentum non solùm sermone vernaculo , sed & Latino penes se habeat .

43. Decani & Praebendarii , in Ecclesiis Cathedralibus residentes , ad sedulam concionandi diligentiam tenentur .

CUjusque Ecclesiae Cathedralis Decanus , Praefectus , Guardianus , vel rector principalis , ac Praebendarii item , & Canonici non modò in ejusmodi Ecclesiis suis ( idque in propriis personis ) toties concionabuntur , quoties lege , statuto , ordinatione , & consuetudine ad id tenentur ; sed in aliis etiam Ecclesiis ejusdem Dioeceseos , in qua resident , ac in iis praecipuè locis , unde vel ipsi , vel ipsorum Ecclesiae vectigal aliquod , sive fructus annuos percipiunt . Quod si ipsi vel aegritudine , vel justa aliqua causa impediti abfuerint , tùm concionatores sufficienti authoritate approbatos sua vice substituent , quales Episcopus Dioecesanus ad concionandum in Ecclesia Cathedrali idoneos judicabit . Secùs siquis vices suas , prout dictum est , supplere quoquo modo omiserit , per Episcopum , vel eos , ad quos ejus Ecclesiae jurisdictio pertinebit , pro delicti merito , punietur .

44. Praebendarii Beneficiati ad congruam in Beneficiis suis residentiam tenentur .

NUllus Ecçlesiae Cathedralis aut Collegiatae Praebendarius , vel Canonicus , qui unum vel plura Beneficia Curata obtinet ( nec in sua Ecclesia Cathedrali aut Collegiata Residentarius existit ) à Beneficiis suis Curatis ( praetextu Praebendae suae ) ultra tempus unius mensis aliquo anno aberit , nisi ex urgente causa , & pro certo tempore per Episcopum Dioecesanum approbandis . Qui autem ex dictis Canonicis & Praebendariis , per Ecclesiae suae Cathedralis , aut Collegiatae Ordinationes , ad necessariam in eisdem residentiam tenentur , ii inter se anni tempora ita partientur , pro residentia in dictis Ecclesiis facienda , ut semper eorum aliqui personaliter illic resideant ; omnesque , quotquot in praesenti sunt , aut de caetero futuri sunt Residentiarii in ulla Cathedrali , aut Collegiata Ecclesia , post exactum residentiae suae terminum , per Statuta localia , aut Consuetudinem Ecclesiae suae definitum , ad Beneficia sua vel unum ex iis , aut saltem ad aliam aliquam Curam , in qua ipsorum praesentia lege requiritur , quamprimùm convolabunt , ut debitis illic officiis perfungantur , juxta leges in ea parte constitutas , quas Episcopus Dioecesanus curabit executioni mandari .

45. Beneficiati concionatores , in Beneficiis suis residentes , jugiter tenentur concionari .

SInguli Beneficiati in Beneficiis suis residentes , ( dummodò sint legitima authoritate ad concionandum admissi ) per singulos dies Dominicos ( justo impedimento cessante ) in Ecclesiis aut Capellis suis , vel vicinarum aliqua , Ministro concionatore destituta ( ubi maximè facultas datur ) concionem ad populum habebunt unam , in qua sobriè , & syncerè verbum veritatis divident in Dei gloriam , & salutarem populi aedificationem .

46. Beneficiati non concionatores vicariam concionatoris operam jubentur singulis mensibus adhibere .

OMnis Beneficiatus ad concionandum non admissus , concionem singulis mensibus unam ad minus in Ecclesia sibi credita , per concionatorem legitimè approbatum , haberi procurabit ; si tamen Beneficii valor Ordinarii judicio id ferre posse videbitur ; omni autem die Dominico , cùm in ipsius Ecclesia deficiet concio , dictus Beneficiatus aliquam ex Homiliis , publica authoritate praescriptis aut praescribendis , per se vel certe per Curatum suum recitabit .

47. Beneficiati , à Beneficiis suis legitimè absentes , Curatum concionatorem jubentur adhibere .

QUilibet Beneficiatus , cui ( propter necessitatem officii aliâs incumbentis ) dispensatio de non residendo in Beneficio suo per hujus regni leges est indulta , per Curatum , qui concionator sit idoneus , & sufficienti authoritate approbatus , Curae suae prospiciet , modò beneficii valor non repugnet . Caeterum qui duobus simul Beneficiis perfruitur , is in illo Beneficio , in quo ipse non residet , concionatorem legitimum retinebit , nisi ipsum constiterit in utroque jugiter concionari .

48. Ministri , nisi ex Episcopi vel Ordinarii approbatione , pro Curatis non admittendi .

NUlli Curato aut Ministro permittetur , ullibi curae animarum inservire , nisi priùs per Episcopum Dioecesanum , vel loci Ordinarium Episcopali jurisdictione praeditum examinatus , ac admissus fuerit , ejusque rei testimonium manu Episcopi & sigillo consignatum obtinuerit ( habito semper respectu tùm ad Curae ipsius magnitudinem , tùm ad personae admittendae habilitatem . ) Quinetiam dicti Curati & Ministri , siquando ex una Dioecesi in alteram transierint , nequaquam ad Curam ullam exercendam admittentur , nisi Episcopi ejus Dioeceseos unde advenerint , vel loci Ordinarii ( ut supra ) literis testimonialibus , de ipsorum honesta conversatione , sufficientia , & conformitate ad Ecclesiasticas regni Anglicani leges , muniti accesserint . Nec verò eorum cuilibet licitum erit pluribus , quàm uni Ecclesiae aut Capellae uno eodemque die Ministrare , nisi forsan Capella illa Ecclesiae Parochialis membrum existat , aut eidem unita , vel nisi Ecclesia aut Capella cui taliter inserviet , judicio Episcopi vel Ordinarii ( ut supra ) Curato alendo non suffecerit .

49. Ministris ad concionandum non admissis glossae & paraphrases in publica Scripturarum lectione interdictae .

NUllus cujuscunque conditionis Minister , non priùs per Episcopum Dioecesanum examinatus & approbatus , aut pro sufficiente & idon●o concionatore ( ut praedictum est licentiatus , in sua ipsius Cura vel alibi locum aliquem Scripturae , aut doctrinae sacrae exponere praesumet : sed solùm aptè & distinctè sine glossis aut additamentis legere studebit Homilias , publica authoritate hactenùs editas , aut de caetero edendas , in verae fidei confirmationem & populi instructionem , atque aedificationem .

50. Concionatores adventitii , absque legitima missione , ad concionandum non admittendi .

MInister , Oeconomi , aliique Ecclesiae Officiarii neminem patientur in suis Ecclesiis , aut Capellis concionari , nisi qui Licentiis suis ad praedicandum exhibitis , justa authoritate ( ut supra ) in eam partem muniti comperientur .

51. Advenae concionatores , nisi authentico testimonio commendati , ad concionandum in Ecclesiis Cathedralibus non admittendi .

DEcani , Praefecti & Residentarii Cathedralis , & Collegiatae Ecclesiae cujuscunque nemini extraneo in suis Ecclesiis concionandi potestatem facient , nisi qui ejusdem Provinciae Archiepiscopi , aut Episcopi Dioecesani , vel alterutrius Academiae approbatione suffultus venerit . Quod siquem contigerit in concione sua dogma aliquod in populum disseminare vel novum , vel minùs consonum verbo Divino , ul ive ex religionis Articulis in Synodo anno 1562. approbatis , aut etiam Libro Precum publicarum ; Decani , aut Residentiarii quàm poterunt mature per literas suas , eorum manu subscriptas , qui dictam concionem audierint , Episcopo Dioecesano id intimabunt , quo is , quod ipsi videbitur , de eo statuat .

52. Concionatorum advenarum nomina in librum referenda .

UT Episcopo ( causa id postulante ) constare possit , tùm quae conciones ●n singulis Ecclesiis suae Dioeceseos habeantur , tùm qui sine legitima authoritate concionari praesumant : Oeconomi Ecclesiarum , eorumque Assistentes Librum quendam comparabunt , in quo unusquisque concionator , qui ad ipsorum Ecclesiam aliunde accesserit , nomen suum inscribet , adjecto etiam die , in quo concionem ibidem habuerit , ac Episcopi nomine , à quo concionandi potestatem acceperit .

53. Concionatorum mutuis oppositionibus pulpita non patebunt .

SIquis Concionator Doctrinam ullam , ab alio Concionatore in eâdem vel vicina aliqua Ecclesia traditam , particulariter aut nominatim ex professo impugnare , & pro concione refellere attentabit , priusquàm Episcopum Dioecesanum de eâ certiorem fecerit , & ejusdem mandatum acceperit , quam eo in casu rationem sequi debeat ( cùm alioqui ex publicis ejusmodi oppositionibus multum scandali & perturbationis populo oriri possit ) Oeconomi vel pars laesa absque omni mora dicto Episcopo illud significabunt , neque praefatum Concionatorem patientur illum locum , quo semel abusus sit , deinceps occupare , nisi sanctè receperit se ab omni ejusmodi contentionis materia in Ecclesia temperaturum , donec Episcopus de ea re ulterius statuerit ; qui item quamprimùm commmode poterit in ea taliter procedet , ut parti laesae in eâdem Ecclesia , in qua oblatum est scandadalum , publicè satisfiat . Proviso semper , ut si altera pars Appellationem interposuerit , eidem concionandi officium pendente lite sit interdictum .

54. Concionatores schismatici licenciis suis mulctati .

SIquis per Archiepiscopum , aut Episcopum ullum , vel alterutram Academiam in praeteritum ad concionandum admissus , quovis deinceps tempore recusaverit legibus , institutis , & ritibus Ecclesiasticis infra Regnum Anglicanum stabilitis seipsum conformem reddere , eundem per Episcopum Dioecesanum , vel loci Ordinarium quam primùm admoneri volumus , ut eorundem usui & debitae observationi se submittat . Quod si , tali admonitione praemissa , infra mensem se minimè reformârit , ejusdem Facultatem sive licentiam ad concionandum eo ipso irritam esse & pro nullo habendam decernimus .

55 , Precationis formula , à Concionatoribus in concionum suarum ingressu imitanda .

OMnes Concionatores & Ministri in aditu cujusque suae Concionis , Lecturae & Homiliae populum hortabuntur , ut secum in precibus concurrat in hunc aut similem modum , idque ( quantum licet ) summaria brevitate : Praecamini pro Christi sancta Ecclesia Catholica , id est , pro univerfo coetu Christiani populi per orbem terrarum diffusi ac disseminati , specialiter verò pro Ecclesiis Angliae , Scotiae , & Hiberniae ; & in his praecipuè pro Excellentissima Regia Majestate , Clementissimo Domino nostro Jacobo Dei gratia Angliae , Scotiae , Franciae , & Hiberniae Rege , Fidei Defensore , & super omnes personas in omnibus causis tàm Ecclesiasticis quam civilibus infra Regna & dominia sua supremo Gubernatore . Precamini etiam pro Serenissima Regina Annâ , Nobilissimo Principe Henrico , reliquaque Regia sobole Illustrissima . Precamini etiam pro Ministris Divini Verbi , & Sacramentorum , tam Archiepiscopis & Episcopis , quàm caeteris Pastoribus & Curatis . Precamini etiam pro Honoratissimis Regiae Majestatis Confiliariis , ac Proceribus , & Magistratibus hujus regni universis ; ut hi omnes & singuli in sua quisque vocatione , ad Dei gloriam , populique aedificationem & rectam administrationem officiis suis diligenter , & fideliter perfungantur , memores reddendae olim rationis , cùm ad Christi tribunal sistentur judicandi . Precamini etiam pro populo & plebe hujus regni universa , ut in vera fide , & sancto timore Dei , in humili erga Regem obedientia & fraterna erga se invicem charitate vitam suam instituant . Postremò gratias & laudes Deo reddamus pro illis omnibus , qui in fide Christi ex hac vita excesserunt , humiliter Deo supplicantes , ut per illius gratiam vitam nostram ad pium eorum exemplar dirigamus , ut ita tandem hac mortali vita defuncti , resurgamus cum illis in die Iesu Christi ad caelestem gloriam , & vitam aeternam : semper cum Oratione Dominica concludentes .

56. Ministris merè concionatoribus Precum publicarum lectio , & sacramentorum administratio bina annuatim injuncta .

OMnis Minister in Beneficio Curato constitutus , licet praedicationi potissimum vacet , & Curatum sub se retineat , qui reliqua Ecclesiae officia , ipsius vice exequatur ; similiter etiam quilibet Concionator stipendiarius qui Praelegendi , Catechizandi , aut Concionandi munus in aliqua Ecclesia vel Capella exercet , liturgiam publicè recitabit duobus ad minus cujusque anni diebus Dominicis , ad horas tùm matutini , tùm vespertini temporis consuetas & usitatas , atque in ea Ecclesia , in qua Beneficiatus est , vel Praelectoris , Catechistae , aut concionatoris munere fungitur ; toties item Sacramenta Baptismi ( siqui erunt Baptizandi ) & Coenae Dominicae quotannis administrabit , modo & forma omnibusque iis ritibus & caeremoniis observatis , quae in Libro publicae Liturgiae in ea parte praescribuntur . Qui secùs fecerit , si beneficio Dotatus est ( ut supra ) poenam suspensionis incurret ; stipendiarius verò ( sive is Lectoris , sive Catechistae , sive demùm Concionatoris nomine censetur ) per Episcopum Dioecesanum à munere submoveatur , donec se conformem praebuerit , ad omnia praefata officia ( sub modo & forma supradictis ) ritè perficienda .

57. A Ministris non concionatoribus Sacramenta efficaciter administrari .

CUm multi à falsis Doctoribus in errorem inducti , liberos suos nisi per Ministrum Concionatorem nolint Baptizari , eodemque respectu ad sacram Coenam , nisi per talem administratam , recusent accedere : ac si illorum Sacramentorum virtus & efficacitas à Ministri in concionando facultate penderet ; cùm tamen integra tùm Baptismi , tùm sacrae Coenae doctrina , quae ad Sacramentorum eorundem administrationem desideratur , in Libro publicae Liturgiae tam plenè , & integrè sit expressa , ut eidem nihil addi possit , quod solidum sit & necessarium : omnibus tali errore deceptis mandamus & praecipimus , ut protervam hanc ipsorum pertinaciam de caetero deponant , ac Ecclesiae institutis hac in parte obsequantur ; cùm quoad eorundem Sacramentorum efficaciam nihil intersit , utrum à Ministro non concionatore , an secùs administrentur . Quod siqui deinceps hac in re deliquerint , Parochiaeque suae Ecclesias eo intuitu declinantes , in alienis vel sacram Coenam susceperint , vel liberos suos Baptizari fecerint neque mandato hoc nostro admoniti ab errore suo & illicita hac ratione destiterint ; ad loci Ordinarium per Ministrum , Oeconomos & Inquisitores , vel Assistentes Parochiae suae deferantur , talibus censuris Ecclesiasticis per eum castigandi , quales adeò obstinatae pervicaciae meritò debentur : id est , si contumaces permanserint , primò suspensionis , si ultra mensem deinceps perseverârint , excommunicationis poena coerceantur . Pari ratione siquis Rector , Vicarius , vel Curatus , post praesentium Canonum promulgationem , quamlibet personam , quae non sit de sua Ecclesia vel Parochia , ad Sacrae Caenae Communionem recipere , vel ex talium liberis aliquem Baptizare praesumpserit ( eosdem hac ratione in errore suo confirmans ) is suspensionis poena eo ipso obstrictum se intelligat , à qua nequaqum absolvetur , priusquam sanctè promiserit , se hac in parte de caetero nullatenùs offensurum .

58. Ministris sacra peragentibus Superpelliceorum & Epomidum usus injunctus .

MInistrorum quilibet , dum vel publicas Preces recitat , vel Sacramenta administrat , aliosve Ecclesiae ritus peragit , decente & congruo Superpelliceo eoque manicato induetur , quod communibus Parochianorum impensis comparabitur . Siqua autem controversia super ejusdem materia , vel competente decentia oriatur , Ordinarii discretio eandem terminabit . Quotquot verò ex Ministris gradum aliquem in Academia susceperint , ii inter sacra peragenda Superpelliceis suis adjicient & Caputia , singulorum gradibus convenientia , quorum tamen usu Ministris minimè graduatis sub poena suspensionis interdicimus . Nihilominus & huic Ministrorum classi ( loco Caputiorum ) Liripipia permittimus ex nigro ( modò ne serico ) suis Superpelliceis injicienda .

59. Catechizandi diligentia Ministris injuncta .

QUilibet Rector , Vicarius , & Curatus singulis diebus Dominicis & festivis ante preces vespertinas , ( ad semihorae spatium vel amplius ) juventutem , & plebem rudiorem suae Parochiae examinabit , & instituet in Decalogo , Symbolo Apostolico , & Oratione Dominica , eosque diligenter audiet , instruet , & erudiet in Catechismo , qui extat in Libro Precum publicarum : omnesque patres , & matres-familias jubebunt liberos , ac famulos suos , qui dictum Catechismum , nondum tenent , tempore constituto Ecclesiam adire , ut Ministro diligenter & humiliter auscultent & obtemperent , donec eundem per didicerint . Quòd siquis Minister in hoc officio negligens fuerit & remissus , re ad Episcopum vel loci Ordinarium delatâ , & debitè intimatâ , primum acriter corripiatur ; si hîc se submittens , deinceps tamen in eâdem re volens deliquerit , suspensionis sententiam incurrat : si tertiò offenderit , ( quandoquidem exigua spes restat illius hac in parte reformandi ) excommunicationis censura , donec se correxerit , obstrictus usque teneatur . Simili modo siqui parentes , Patres aut Matres-familiarum vel eorum liberi , apprenticii , famulive officio suo hac in re defuerint , illi quidem non compellendo suos , ut veniant , hi vero , ne discant , recusando , per Ordinarium suum ( modo adulti sint ) suspensione plectantur ; & si per mensem sic perstiterint , excommunicentur .

60. Confirmationis solennitas in triennali Episcoporum visitatione celebranda .

CUm solennis , antiqua & laudabilis in Ecclesia Dei consuetudo fuerit , ab ipsis usque Apostolorum temporibus observata , ut Episcopi quiq parvulis Baptizatis , & in Catechismo Christianae religionis instructis manus imponentes , super illis orarent ac benedicerent ( quod vulgò Confirmationem nominamus ) cùmque in triennali Episcoporum visitatione mos sanctissmi istius operis peragendi in Ecclesia per multas aetates obtinuerit ; volumus & ordinamus , ut quilibet Episcopus vel ejus Suffraganeus in consueta visitatione sua morem & ritum illum in propria persona diligenter observet ; quòd si tertio demum anno aliqua infirmitate impeditus visitationem suam personaliter obire nequeat , at saltem illud Confirmationis munus proximo anno ( pro ut commodè poterit ) nequaquam omittet .

61. Catechummeni Episcopo visitanti per Ministrum ad Confirmationem sistendi .

VNusquisque Minister curam habens animarum ( quò meliùs instituta & ritus ad Confirmationem spectantes , qui in Libro publicae Liturgiae praescripti habentur , debitè possint conservari ) diligenter provibebit , ne ulli ad manuum impositionem Episcopo sistantur , nisi qui fidei suae rationem norint reddere , juxta Catechismum in Libro praedicto contentum . Cumque Episcopus huic officio celebrando tempus aliquod certum praefixerit , Minister sedulam dabit operam , ut quàm queat plurimos ad hoc instruat , ac inducat , coram Episcopo Confirmandos comparere .

62. Ministri sine Bannis rite indictis , vel legitimè dispensatis matrimonium celebrare prohibiti .

NUllus Minister , sub poena suspensionis per triennium ipso facto incurrendae , matrimonium inter ullas personas celebrabit , absque Facultate seu licentia ab aliquo eorum , qui in hisce constitutionibus nostris inferiùs designantur , indulta & concessa , nisi Banna matrimonialia per tres dies Dominicos separatim fuerint denunciata , idque publicè in Ecclesiis Parochialibus aut Capellis , ubi partes praedictae commorantur , ac tempore Divinorum , prout in Libro publicae Liturgiae habetur . Neque ullus Minister sub poena simili inter quaslibet personas ( quantumvis ejusmodi Facultatem seu indulgentiam habentes ) quocunque praetexu matrimonium solennizabit vel tempore aliquo incongruo , sed duntaxat intra horas octavam & duodecimam antemeridianas ; vel in loco privato , sed in Ecclesiis tantummodò vel Capellis , ubi partium altera commoratur , idque similiter tempore precum publicarum ; vel omninò ( etiamsi trina Bannorum indictio praecesserit , nec ulla proinde dispensatio requiratur ) priusquàm parentes aut gubernatores contrahentium ( si vicesimum primum aetatis suae annum non compleverint ) consensum suum vel personaliter , vel per testimonium luculentum dicto Ministro significâ●int .

63. Ministri in locis exemptis sine bannorum justa indictione , vel dispensatione legitima matrimonium celebrare prohibiti .

QUilibet Minister , qui contrà atque in constitutionibus hisce nostris cautum est , inter personas quascunque matrimonium celebrabit , sub praetextu cujuslibet immunitatis , quae certis Ecclesiis ac capellis arrogatur ; per loci Ordinarium , in quo sic offensum erit , triennali suspensione punietur . Siquis autem Minister ex loco , ubi sic deliquerit , ante latam contra ipsum suspensionis sententiam , se transtulerit ; tunc per Episcopum Dioecesanum , vel Ordinarium loci , in quo residebit ( ab altero Ordinario , cujus jurisdictioni se subduxit , ea de re sub ipsius manu & sigillo certiorem factum ) eâdem omninò censurâ ferietur .

64. Feriae à Ministris solenniter indicendae .

REctores , Vicarii , & Curati omnes in sua cujusque Ecclesia singulis diebus Dominicis ( ad tempus in Libro publicae Liturgiae praestitutum ) populo denunciabunt , siqui dies Festivi , & Vigiliae in sequentem septimanam sint institutae . Quod siquis deinceps hac in re volens offenderit , & per Ordinarium suum semel admonitus , officium illud secundò omiserit , debita juris animadversione puniatur , donec huic constitutioni adimplendae se submiserit .

65. Recusantes & Excommunicati à Ministris solenniter denunciandi .

ORdinarii locorum , infra suas respective jurisdictiones , sollicitè providebunt , ut tàm Excommunicati ex eo , quòd divinis precibus , infra hoc regnum Angliae publica authoritate stabilitis , interesse pertinaciter recusaverint , quàm ii etiam , praecipuè qui melioris notae & conditionis extiterint , legitimaeque excommunicationis sententia propter insignem contumaciam , vel graviora aliqua crimina obstricti fuerint ( nisi infra tres continuos menses post latam Excommunicationis sententiam se emendaverint , & absolutionis gratiam fuerint consequuti ) singulis sex mensibus sequentibus publicè in Ecclesia tùm Parochiali tùm etiam Cathedrali Dioeceseos , in qua habitant , die aliquo Dominico , ac tempore Divinorum pro Excommunicatis per Ministrum denuncientur ; quò reliqui & ab eorum communione declinent , & procliviores reddantur , ad Breve de Excommunicato Capiendo procurandum , quo illos ad officium & debitam obedientiam reducant . Quinetiam Registrarii cujuslibet Curiae Ecclesiasticae , de praemissis omnibus & singulis , quolibet anno infra Festa S. Michaelis , & Natalis Domini Archiepiscopum hujus Provinciae in scriptis facient certiorem .

66. Recusantium conversio à Ministris sedulò elaboranda .

QUilibet Minister , cui concionandi Facultas est , siquem Papisticum Recusantem , vel Recusantes infra suam Parochiam habuerit ( dummodò per Episcopum idoneus judicetur ) sedulam illis subinde operam dabit , ut ( si fieri possit ) errantes in viam veritatis reducat . Quòd si is vel non concionator , vel non talis existat , tum concionatoris idonei operam subsidiariam ( siquidem poterit ) in eum finem procurabit . Quod si non datur , Episcopo Dioecesano illud significabit , cujus erit , non modò vicino alicui concionatori aut concionatoribus id laboris imponere , sed & ipsum ( quantum per arduas occupationes licuerit ) summo studio contendere , ut docendo , persuadendo , modisque blandis & benignis omnibus tùm dictos Recusantes , tùm omnes infra suam Dioecesin sic affectos a suis erroribus deducat .

67. Aegrotantes à Ministris sedulò visitandi .

IN omni Parochia cùm aliquis ex morbo decumbens , in periculo mortis videtur constitutus , Minister ea de re certior factus eundem visitabit , ( nisi exploratum sit , vel probabiliter suspectum , morbum esse contagiosum ) ut animam ejus in hoc adverso ipsius statu salutari doctrina , & consolatione erigat , idque sub forma in Libro publicae Liturgiae concepta , si non sit concionator , aliâs prout ipsi maximè videbitur expedire . Morte verò jam ingruente , aliqua campana pulsabitur , neque Minister supremo officio suo hac in parte deerit . Cùm autem expiraverit ( si utique expirare eum contingat ) campana per breve tantummodò spatium utrinque pulsabitur , quod idem tàm ante , quàm post sepulturam observandum decernimus .

68. Ministri Baptismum , aut Sepulturam denegare vetiti .

NUllus Minister aut renuet , aut detrectabit , infantem ullum , qui die quovis Dominico aut Festivo ad ipsum in Ecclesiam Baptizandus adducetur , juxta ritum in Libro Precum publicarum editum Baptizare , vel defunctum aliquem , qui in Ecclesiam vel coemeterium inhumandi causa deferetur , ( data priùs ejus rei notitia competente ) sub modo & forma in dicto Libro praefinitis sepelire . Quòd si hunc vel illum Baptizare aut sepulturae tradere recusaverit ( nisi forte defunctus denunciatus fuerit , majoris Excommunicationis vinculo propter grave aliquod & insigne crimen obstrictus , neque de ejus poenitentia testari quisquam potuerit ) à Ministerio suo per Episcopum Dioecesanum trimestri spatio secludetur .

69. Ministri Baptismum in articulo necessitatis differre vetiti .

SIquis Minister de infirmitate , aut mortis periculo , infanti cuilibet infra suam Parochiam nondum Baptizato imminente , debitè & citra fraudem commonefactus , & ad locum , ubi dictus infans existet , ejus Baptizandi causa rogatus accedere , ves planè recusaverit , vel per contumaciam , aut latam negligentiam tempus ita produxerit , ut cùm tempestivè posset dictum locum adiisse , & infantem praefatum Baptizâsse , is tamen ejusdem culpa expers Baptismi moriatur , dictus Minister trimestri suspensioni subjacebit , neque absolutionis gratiam consequetur , antequam coram loci Ordinario culpam praeteritam agnoscens , pro caetero polliceatur , se in hoc genere scienter nequaquam peccaturum . Proviso semper , ut in illis Parochiis , in quibus Curatus , aut substitutus extiterit , praesens Constitutio non ad ipsum Rectorem aut Vicarium , sed ad dictum Curatum vel substitutum illic praesentem extendatur .

70. Ministri Baptizatorum , Nubentium , & Sepultorum registrum conservare jussi .

IN omni hujus regni Ecclesia Parochiali & Capella Liber ex pergameno ( Parochianorum sumptibus comparabitur , in quo conscribi volumus diem & annum cujusque Baptismatis , Matrimonii , & Sepulturae , quae infra eandem Parochiam contigerint , ex quo lex in eam partem primùm lata est , ( quatenùs veterum registrorum copia haberi potest ) praecipuè verò ab initio Regni Serenissimae Reginae nuper defunctae . Ad quem Librum tutiùs asservandum Oeconomi ( communibus Parochianorum impensis ) cistam crassam & firmam curabunt confici , cum tribus seris & clavibus , quarum una penes Ministrum , reliquae duae penes Oeconomos separatim custodientur ; ita ut nec Ministro liceat sine Oeconomis , neque Oeconomis , nisi Ministro adhibito , Librum praedictum de cista promere . Singulis verò in posterum diebus Dominicis , statim post finitas matutinas vel vespertinas preces , Minister & Oeconomi Librum illum membranaceum de cista praedicta sument , ac Minister in praesentia Oeconomorum in eodem inscribet omnium personarum nomina , quotquot praecedente hebdomade infra eandem Parochiam Baptizatae ( adjectis item parentum nominibus , & cognominibus ) vel Matromonio conjunctae , vel sepultae fuerint ; singulorum etiam die & anno specificatis . Quo facto dictum Librum in cistam , ut priùs , recondent : ac Minister & Oeconomi singulis ejusdem Libri paginis , ( postquàm inscriptionibus ejusmodi impletae fuerint ) nomina sua subscribent . Porrò Oeconomi semel omni anno , idque infra terminum unius mensis post Beatae Virginis Annunciationem , ad Episcopum Dioecesanum vel ejus Cancellarium transmittent verum registrum sive scripturam eorum omnium nomina continentem , qui infra suam Parochiam anno proximè elapso , & ad dictum Annuntiationis diem terminante , vel Baptizati , vel Nupti , vel Sepulturae traditi fuerint ; die ac mense , quibus singula gesta sunt , sigillatim adscriptis , cum ipsius etiam Ministri , ac Oeconomorum subscriptionibus , ut illud in ejusdem Episcopi Archivis possit fideliter custodiri ; quod registrum sive certificatorium absque feodo recipietur . Quòd si Minister aut Oeconomi in praemissorum executione remissiores fuerint , tùm Episcopo vel ejus Cancellario licebit cebit eosdem convenire , & contra eos tanquam nostrarum Constitutionum contemptores procedere .

71. Ministri Concionum & Coenae Dominicae publicam religionem in privatas aedes invehere prohibiti .

NUllus Minister in cujusquam privatis aedibus vel concionabitur , vel Sacramenta administrabit , nisi tempore necessitatis , cùm quis vel per imbecillitatem Ecclesiam adire non valens , vel morbo gravi & periculoso conflictatus , sacrosancti fieri particeps Sacramenti expetiverit ; sub poena suspens●onis pro delicto primo , & excommunicationis pro secundo . Proviso , illas aedes hîc pro privatis censeri , in quibus nulla existit capella consecrata , ac legibus hujus regni Ecclesiasticis approbata . Proviso etiam sub poenis supradictis , nequis Capellanus vel concionem habeat , vel sacram Communionem alibi administret , quam in Capellis aedium praedictarum , idque rarò admodum faciat in diebus Dominicis & Festivis , ut Domini & Magistri illarum aedium ( cum suis familiis ) in Ecclesiis suis Parochialibus aliâs convenire possint , ibidemque unâ vice ad minùs singulis annis communicare .

72. Ministri publica jejunia , prophetias appellatas , & exorcismos privato ausu celebrare prohibiti .

NUllus Minister aut Ministri nisi mandatum & licentiam Episcopi Dioecesani priùs impetraverint , ipsius manu & sigillo communitam , solennia ulla jejunia sive publicè , sive in privatis aedibus indicent , aut celebrabunt , vel etiam eisdem scienter intererunt ( exceptis iis , quae aut jam legibus instituta sunt , aut publica authoritate in posterum instituentur ) sub poena suspensionis pro delicto primo , excommunicationis pro secundo , & depositionis pro tertio . Nec quisquam Minister praesumet , absque licentia ( ut dictum est ) impetratâ , condicere , aut celebrare ullos conventus pro concionibus , quae vulgò Exercitia , aut Prophetiae à nonnullis nuncupantur , in oppidis mercatoriis , aut alio quovis loco sub poenis supradictis ; nec sine simili licentia tentabit sub quolibet praetextu siue possessionis , sive obsessionis , per jejunium & precationes , daemonia seu spiritus malos ejicere , atque expellere , sub poena imposturae imputandae , & depositionis à Ministerio sacro .

73. Ministri conventicula privata conciliare probibiti .

QUoniam conventicula & clandestina Presbyterorum & Ministrorum conciliabula Ecclesiae , in qua vixerint , incolumitati perniciosa meritò semper sunt existimata : statuimus & ordinamus , ut nulli deinceps Presbyteri , sive verbi Divini Ministri , vel alii quicunque in privatis ullis aedibus , vel alio quovis loco seorsim conveniant , consilium capturi de quavis re , aut ratione per ipsos vel ipsorum suasu ac consilio per alios ineunda , quae ad Doctrinae in Ecclesia Anglicana stabilitae , vel Libri publicae Liturgiae praejudicium , aut derogationem ullatenùs spectare possit , sub poena excommunicationis ipso facto subeundae .

74. Ministris in vestitu gravitas praecepta .

VErae , antiquae , ac florentes Christi Ecclesiae , cùm semper inprimis studerent , ut ipsorum Praelati & Clerici tàm in externo honore , quàm interna reverentia propter Ministerii sui dignitatem haberentu , consultum putârunt , ut iidem , congrui & decentis alicujus habitus certa & praescripta forma utentes , in omnibus locis , & conventibus tàm intra , quàm extra Ecclesiam à populo discerni possent , ac internosci , ut ea ratione honorem , & existimationem specialibus omnipotentis Dei Nuntiis & Ministris debitam consequerentur . Nos ergo venerandum illorum judicium , veteremque Ecclesiae Anglicanae consuetudinem sequuti ( omninò nobis pollicentes fore , ut â factiosis quibusdam affectata in vestitu novitas progressu temporis evanescat ) statuimus & ordinamus , ut omnes Archiepiscopi & Episcopi consuetum ordinum suorum habitum non intermittant . Similiterque ut omnes Decani , Collegiorum Praefecti , Archidiaconi , & Praebendarii Cathedralis & Collegiatae cujusque Ecclesiae ( modo in sacris ordinibus constituti ) Doctores in Theologia , Jure Civili , & Medicina , Baccalaurei in Theologia , Magistri Artium , & Baccalaurei in Jure Civili ( siquidem Ecclesiasticum aliquod Beneficium obtinent ) togis cum collaribus erectis manicisque ad manum contractioribus , vel laxioribus ( prout in Academiis usitatum est ) una cum Caputiis , vel Liripipiis ex serico , & pileis quadratis de more utantur : & ut alii omnes Ministri ad idem munus admissi , vel admittendi praedicto vestitus genere ( exceptis tantum Liripipiis ) consuetìm induantur . Pari ratione ulteriùs decernimus , ut Ecclesiastici omnes superius nominati in itinere usitatiùs gerant pallia cum manicis indutis , ( quae vulgò Presbyterorum pallia appellantur ) sine fimbriis , limbis , fibulis oblongis , aut scissuris . Nullus item , in quocunque ordine Ecclesiastico pofitus , pilcolo ullo lineo acu-picto utetur , sed simplice tantùm ex nigro serico , tramoserico , aut holoserico . In qua vestitus forma , particulatim à nobis hîc descripta , non id agimus , ut ullam vestibus ipsis sanctimoniam , aut praecipuam dignitatem tribuamus , sed ut gravitas , decorum , atque ordo ( uti diximus ) per omnia conserventur . Caeterùm in privatis ipsorum domiciliis , ac Musaeis decentis cujuslibet & scholastici vestitus usum , ( modo ne scissuris aut puncturis variegati ) dictis personis Ecclesiasticis permittimus ; proviso , uti ne in publicum nisi * * Cassocks . promissis vestibus induti prodeant , nec tibialia gerant colorata . Tenuioribus verò sive Beneficiatis sive Curatis , qui talarium togarum sumptibus non sufficiunt , liberum erit togis uti curtioribus , ad formam praedictam comparatis .

75. Vitae sobrietas Ministris praecepta .

MInistri oenopoiia , aut cauponas ( nisi propter congruas ipsorum necessitates ) non frequentabunt , nec in iis cibum capient , aut ditent . Nec verò sordidae alicui aut illiberali operae assuescent , nec potationibus , & crapulae se dedent , tempusve interdiu , vel noctu otiosè transigent in alea , chartis pictis , tesseris , aliisve ludis illicitis exercitati , sed horis omnibus opportunis vel Scripturis legendis , aut audiendis incumbent , vel alii cuipiam studio aut exercitio laudabili vacabunt ; ea semper facientes , quae ad probitatem & virtutem spectent , sedulóque operam dantes , ut Ecclesiam Dei promoveant , memores nimirum , debere se reliquis omnibus vitae innocentia praelucere , populoque universo ad vitam rectè , & piè instituendam exemplo esse ; sub poena sanctionum Ecclesiasticarum , quae pro delicti qualitate severiùs illis infligendas praecipimus .

76. Ministris à vocatione sua refilire interdictum .

NUllus in Diaconi aut Presbyteri ordinem semel admissus quovis deinceps tempore ab eodem volens recedet , nec in vitae suae instituto pro Laico se geret , sub poena excommunicationis : eorumque omnium nomina , siqui vocationem suam taliter abjicient , per Oeconomos Parochiarum , in quibus habitant , ad Episcopum Diocesanum , vel loci Ordinarium Episcopali jurisdictione praeditum deferentur .

De Paedagogis sive Ludi-magistris .
77. Publicè vel prïvatim injussu Ordinarii docere prohibitum .

NEmo sive in Schola aliqua publica , sive in privatis aedibus pueros docebit aut erudiet , nisi qui ab Episcopo Dioecesano vel loci Ordinario Licentiam ejusdem manu & sigillo roboratam obtinuerit ; quique tùm propter eruditionem , & dexteram in docendo facultatem , tùm etiam propter morum gravitatem , & integritatem , ac verum sincerae religionis intellectum aptus & idoneus reperietur : & denique qui primo & tertio Articulis ( suprà memoratis ) integris , ac secundi duobus prioribus membris subscripserit .

78. Curati ad docendum habiles ab Ordinario aliis praeferendi .

IN omni Ecclesia Parochiali , vel Capella in qua Curatus extiterit , qui in Magisterii aut Baccalaureatus gradu constitutus , vel aliàs habilis ad docendum fit , & ad augenda victus sui subsidia , puerosque in principiis rectae fidei instituendos , operam munusque illud docendi lubens velit suscipere ; statuimus & ordinamus , ut nulla Facultas sive licentia ad pueros illius Parochiae , in qua talis Curatus existet , erudiendos cuivis nisi dicto Curato per loci Ordinarium concedatur . Proviso semper , quòd praesens Constitutio ad Parochiam aliquam vel Capellam , in oppidis ruralibus sitam , in qua schola publica fundata fuerit , minimè pertinebit : quo casu consentaneum ducimus , Licentiam ad Grammaticam ibidem docendam nemini concedi , praeterquam publicae illius scholae Magistro .

79. Ludi magistrorum officia .

LUdimagistri omnes pueros suos Catechismum vel ampliorem , vel breviorem publica authoritate hactenùs editum Latinè , aut Anglicè pro captu puerorum edocebunt : ac quoties infra parochiam in qua docent , concionem aliquam sacro quolibet & Festivo die haberi contigerit , discipulos suos adducent ad Ecclesiam , in qua dicta concio fiet , curabuntque ut ibidem quietè & modestè se contineant , eosque inde reversos tempore aliquo congruo sigillatim ad examen revocabunt , quid ex dicta concione didicerint . Aliis autem diebus , talibus sententiis ex sacra Scriptura haustis eosdem instruent , ac instituent , quales ad eorum mentes pi●tate imbuendas maximè utiles , & idoneae-videbuntur . Dicti etiam Ludi-magistri Grammaticam authoritate Henrici Octavi editam , & deinceps Edwardi sexti , & Reginae Elizabethae felicissimae memoriae temporibus continuatam & non aliam praelegent aut docebunt . Quòd si quis Paedagogus post factam ( ut supra ) subscriptionem , & Licentiam sive facultatem obtentam , in quolibet praemissorum deliquerit , & contra aliquid , cui pridem subscripserat , dicere , scribere , aut docere compertus fuerit , si interposita Ordinarii admonitione se non correxerit , à docendi munere de caetero submoveatur .

De Ecclesiis , & rebus Ecclesiasticis .
80. Libri sacri in Ecclesiis parandi .

ECclesiarum & Capellarum omnium Oeconomi & Inquisitores Librum publicarum Precum , nuper in paucis explanatum ex authoritate Regia ( juxta leges & Majestatis suae hac in parte Praerogativam ) sumptibus Parochianorum comparabunt , idque quantum commodè poterunt ) maturè & celeriter , ita ut terminum duorum mensium ad summum post Constitutiones hasce promulgatas nequaquam excedant . Et siquae Ecclesiae vel Bibliis amplissimi voluminis , vel Homiliarum libris publica authoritate approbatis adhuc carebunt , praefati Oeconomi similiter efficient , ut dicti libri Parochianorum impensis infra tempus idoneum coemantur .

81. Baptisteria in Ecclesiis paranda .

PRout cautum est prisca quadam Constitutione , hodie in quibusdam partibus neglectiùs habita : statuimus & ordinamus , ut in omni Ecclesia & Capella , ubi Baptismus administrari consuevit , Baptisterium ex lapide in loco antiquitùs usitato statuatur : in quo duntaxat Ministris licebit infantes publicè Baptizare .

82. Mensae in sacrae Coenae usum in Ecclesiis parandae .

CUm nobis minimè dubium existat , quin omnibus hujus regni Ecclesiis prospectum sit de mensis congruis & decentibus ad Coenae Dominicae celebrationem ; statuimus & ordinamus , ut eaedem Mensae convenienter & decorè conserventur , & subinde reficiantur , ac tempore divini cultus operiantur tapete ex serico , sive ex alia materia , quae per loci Ordinarium ( sicubi de ea quaestio oriatur ) congrua & decora judicabitur ; ipso autem administrationis tempore panno lineo mundo ( prout tali mensae convenit ) vestiantur : suoque certo loco consistant , nisi cum Sacramentum erit administrandum , quo quidem tempore in Ecclesia , vel ejusdem Cancello ita constituentur , ut tùm Minister inter precandum & administrandum commodiùs possit à Communicantibus exaudiri , tùm Communicantes etiam convenientiùs & majore numero à Ministro Sacramentum percipere . Insuper statutum & decretum sit , ut Decalogus pingatur in Orientali cujusque Ecclesiae & Capellae parte , unde à populo commodissmè cerni & legi possit , ac aliae lectae scripturarum sententiae in earundem parietibus passim in locis opportunis describantur . Similiter etiam ut sedes congrua Ministro construatur , in qua Divinas preces recitet : atque haec omnia Parochianorum sumptibus perficientur ,

83. Pulpita îdonea in Ecclesiis paranda .

ECclesiarum Oeconomi , & Inquisitores in suis respectivè Ecclesiis Pulpitum conveniens & decorum communibus parochianorum impensis fieri providebunt , quod in Ecclesiae loco idoneo pro arbitratu Ordinarii ( siquid ambigi de eo contigerit ) constituetur , in Divini verbi praedicationem decenter ibidem asservandum .

84. Cistae ad eleemosynarum custodiam in Ecclesiis comparandae .

ECclesiarum Oeconomi , ac Inquisitores infra tres menses post harum Constitutionum promulgationem sumptibus Parochianorum comparabunt , nisi forsan jam comparatam habeant ( cistam validam & firmam cum fissura in suprema parte ejusdem & tribus clavibus , quarum una à Rectore , Vicario , vel Curato , reliquae duae ab Oeconomis pro tempore existentibus separatim custodientur . Quae cista disponetur in locum maximè opportunum , ad Parochianorum eleemosynas pro pauperibus ejusdem Ecclesiae excipiendas . Quinetiam Rectores , Vicarii & Curati non cessabunt Parochianos suos invitare , hortari , & jugiter incitare , tum verò praecipuè cùm testamenta sua conficiunt , ut huic cistae pro ipsorum facultatibus largiantur ; eisdem insinuando , quod cùm hactenus multas opes ( praeter Dei mandatum ) in superstitiosos usus studiosè impenderint , multo propensiores esse debeant ( hoc praesertim tempore ) ad egenos , & pauperes sublevandos ; cùm non ignorent , misericordiam in pauperes sacrificium Deo gratum & acceptum esse , & quicquid in eorum subsidium & levamen datur , Christo dari , Christumque ejusmodi dona in eam partem accipere , ut illa sit benignè remuneraturus . Quas eleemosynas & pias populi largitiones per singulos annos , vel tres menses , aut saepius ( pro causarum vel temporum conditione ) custodes clavium , praesente maxima Parochianorum parte , vel sex illorum praecipius , de cista proferent , ut inter vicinos suos maximè indigentes verè & fideliter possint distribui .

85. Ecclesiae sartae tectae conservandae .

ECclesiarum Oeconomi , & Inquisitores diligenter prospicient , ut Ecclesiae suae probè & congruè reparentur , & sic perpetuò custodiantur ; ut fenestrae benè vitratae ac pavimenta plana & aequabilia existant , adeoque omnia honestè , & decore in eisdem serventur , absque pulvere , aut ullo situs aut sordium genere , quod ingratum , aut indecorum esse possit , prout domo Dei imprimis convenit , & in Homilia quadam hujus argumenti praecipitur . Pari diligentia providebunt , ut coemeteria debitè reparata , munita , & septa custodiantur sive muris , sive vacerris , sive palis ( pro loci consuetudine ) eorum impensis , ad quos jure pertinebit . Imprimis verò curabunt , ut in omnibus populi ad rem Divinam conventibus pax & quies religiosè conserventur , omnesque quotquot excommunicationis vinculo publicè & notoriè sunt innodati , ab Ecclesiae liminibus arceantur .

86. Ecclesiae de tertio in tertium annum perlustrandae , & earum defectus Regiis Commissariis intimandi

OMnis Decanus , Decanus & Capitulū , Archidiaconus , aut alius quilibet , cui visitationes Ecclesiasticas obeundi jus & potestas ex compositione , lege aut praescriptione competit , unoquoque triennio Ecclesias omnes suae jurisdictioni subjectas semel perlustrabit , vel saltem perlustrari faciet ; & singulis annis infra eundem terminū Regiis Commissariis pro causis Ecclesiasticis subinde denunciabit , quos defectus reparatione indigentes in dictis Ecclesiis , aut earum aliquâ compererint , appositis eorum nominibus & cognominibus , qui in singulis sint culpabiles . Qua informatione accepta , praedictos Commissarios rogamus , ut ejusmodi personas coram se citatas , talis cujusque Ordinarii , qui informationes praefatas fecerit , justis & legitimis decretis parere compellant .

87 Terrarum & peculiorum ad Ecclesias spectantium inventaria conficienda , & in Episcoporum archivis asservanda .

ARchiepiscopus , & Episcopi omnes in sua quisque Dioecesi ( quantum in ipsis erit ) efficient , ut justum Inventarium , sive Terrarium omnium Glebarum ( quas vocant ) fundorum , pratorum , hortorum , pomariorum , aedium , peculiorum , utensilium , tenementorum , & portionum , decimarum , extra suas Parochias positarum , quae ad Rectoriam , Vicariam , vel Ruralem quamlibet Praebendam noscuntur spectare , per singulas Parochias ex inspectione proborum hominum per Episcopum designandorum ( quorum Minister unus erit ) in scriptis redigatur , ac in suis Archivis ad perpetuam rei memoriam asservetur .

88. Ecclesiarum religio prophanis usibus non polluenda .

ECclesiarum Oeconomi , & Inquisitores , vel Assistentes nequaquam patientur ludos scenicos , convivia , epulas , coenas solennes , invitationes publicas , symposia , Curias saeculares , Visus Franci Plegii , Juratus Laicos , Lustrationes militum , vel prophanum ullum usum sive ritum in Ecclesiis , capellis aut coemeteriis suis fieri , aut celebrari ; neque etiam campanas superstitiosè pulsari in illis Festivitatibus , aut earum Vigiliis , quae in libro publicae Liturgiae sunt antiquatae vel alio quovis tempore , nisi ex causa idonea tàm per ipsos , quàm per Ministrum approbata .

De Ecclesiarum Oeconomis , & Inquisitoribus , sive Assistentibus .
89. Oeconomorum electio , & rerum Ecclesiasticarum procuratio .

OMnes Ecclesiarum Oeconomi , sive Inquisitores Parochianorum & Ministri sui unito consensu ( siquidem id fieri possit ) eligentur . Qui si in tali electione dissenserint , tum Ministro licebit unum eligere , Parochianis alterum ; nec quisquam pro Oeconomo habendus erit , nisi quem ejusmodi consensus sive conjunctus , sive divisus elegerit : neque iidem etiam in officio suo ultra annum , nisi de integro ad modum praedictum electi permanebunt . Omnesque Oeconomi ad dicti anni terminum vel saltem infra ejusdem termini mensem unum pecumae tùm acceptae tùm expensae sive in reparationes sive in alios quoscunque Ecclesiae usus veram & particularem rationem Ministro & Parochianis reddent : quinetiam Officio suo abeuntes Parochianis cedent quicquid pecuniae , aut alterius rei cujuscunque ad Ecclesiam sive Parochiam jure pertinentis in ipsorum manibus residuum supererit , ut per eos in succedentium Oeconomorum custodiam per billam indentatam transferatur .

90. Inquisitorum sive Assistentium electio , eorumque cum Oeconomis officii communitas .

ECclesiarum omnium Oeconomi , sive Inquisitores , adhibitis in singulis Parochiis duobus , tribus , aut etiam pluribus discretis hominibus , qui per Ministrum , & Oeconomos ( siquidem inter eos convenire poterit , aliâs per loci Ordinarium ) pro Assistentibus elegentur , sedulò invigilabunt , ut Parochiani omnes Ecclesias suas diebus Dominicis & Festivis debitè frequentent , atque in iisdem per integrum tempus rei sacrae perdurent : quo item tempore neminem in Ecclesia ejusdemve porticu aut coemeterio deambulare , vel otiari , aut garrire patientur : Siquos autem compererint remissiùs aut negligentiùs Ecclesiam adire ( nulla magna aut ardua absentiae suae causa constante ) eosdem seriò admonebunt , & ( nisi debitè admoniti se emendaverint ) ad loci Ordinarium deferent . Horum autem Oeconomorum , & Inquisitorum vel Assistentium annuam electionem in Paschali hebdomade celebrandam decernimus .

De Ostiariis sive Clericis Parochialibus .
91. Clericos Parochiales eligendi jus Ministro cedit .

NUllus in Parochialis Clerici ( quem vocant ) locum vacantem infra civitatem Londinensem vel alibi infra Provinciam Cantuariensem eligetur , nisi per Rectorem aut Vicarium , vel defectu Rectoris aut Vicarii , per ejusdem Ecclesiae Ministrum pro tempore existentem : quam electionem dictus Rector , Vicarius , aut Minister subsequente die Dominico tempore Divinorum Parochianis suis denunciabit . Omnis autem ejusmodi Clericus Parochialis annos ad minus viginti natus erit , & de vita probabili , ac idonea legendi , scribendi , & cantandi ( quoad ejus fieri potest ) scientia dicto eligenti cognitus . Iidemque Clerici taliter electi stipendia sua antiquitùs consueta , ab●que dolo aut diminutione , vel ab Oeconomis ( ad tempora hactenùs usitata ) vel ex propria collectione percipient , juxta Parochiae cujusque ritum , ac consuetudinem maximè inveteratam .

De Curiis Ecclesiasticis , ad Archiepiscopi jurisdictionem spectantibus .
92. Testamentorum probatio , justâ Bonorum Notabilium summâ constante , Praerogativarum Curiae duntaxat competit .

CUm multi hactenus per Apparitores Curiarum tùm inferiorum , tùm Praerogativae Archiepiscopalis graviter distracti , & variè vocati & compulsi fuerint , super probatione testamentorum , & Administrationis bonorum in causa intestati petitione , variisque inde laboribus , molestiis , & expensis superfluè gravati fuerint , & fatigati : statuimus & ordinamus , ut omnis Cancellarius , Commissarius , Officialis , aut alius quicunque jurisdictionem Ecclesiasticam exercens , singulos ad Curiam suam super testamenti Probatione vel Administrationis bonorum negotio citatos , aut etiam ultrò advenientes primò & ante omnia juramento oneret , num sciant , vel speciali aliqua causa permoti firmiter credant , defunctum ( de cujus testamento , vel bonis agitur ) bona aliqua , aut debita , idonea in alia quavis Dioecesi vel Dioecesibus , aut in peculiari alia jurisdictione infra eandem Provinciam sitâ , quàm in qua obiit , usque ad valorem quinque librarum , tempore vitae & mortis suae habuisse . Et si talis citatus , vel sponte accedens super juramento suo affirmaverit , se scire , vel ( ut praefertur ) firmiter credere , quòd ejusmodi defunctus bona , vel idonea debita in aliâ aliquâ Dioecesi , vel Dioecesibus , vel in peculiari alia jurisdictione infra eandem Provinciam , ad valorem praedictum habuerit , eademque particulariter expresserit , ac declaraverit , tùm statim eum dimittet , nec vel testamentum talis defuncti probare , vel Administrationem bonorum sic ab intestato decedentis concedere , neque alias expensas , quàm pro citatione debitas , vel etiam pro aliis processibus contra eundem super ipsius ulteriore forsitan contumacia adhibitis , ab eo exigere praesumet , sed hoc negotium ad Praerogativam Archepiscopalem ejusdem Provinciae spectare , apertè , desertéque profitebitur ; quinetiàm partem ipsam monebit , & hortabitur , ut apud Judicem dictae Praerogativae testamentum illud probet , vel administrationem talium bonorum petat , & coram ipso ejusmodi Probationem sive Administrationem , sigillo Curiae Praerogativarum munitam , infra quadraginta dies continuos exhibeat . Quòd siquis Cancellarius , Commissarius , Officialis vel alius Ecclesiasticam jurisdictionem exercens , vel eorum Registrarius aliquis contrà fecerit ; ab executione Officii sui ipso facto suspensum se noverit , nullatenùs absolvendum , donec omnes pecuniarum summas , contra tenorem praemissorum per dictam partem expensas , eidem restituerit ; talisque sive testamenti Probatio sive Administrationis concessio quaecunque ipso jure pro nulla habeatur Registrarius etiam cujusque Judicis inferioris Apparitorem Curiae P●aerogativae ( semel duntaxat singulis mensibus ad se venientem ) sine omni difficultate certiorem reddet , quos Executores vel Administrationem petentes Judex suus infra mensem proximè tùm praecedentem ( ob incompetentiam suae in hac parte jurisdictionis ) ad Curiam Praerogativae dimiserit ; idque sub poena menstruae suspensionis ab exercitio Officii , pro singulis ejusmodi delictis . Proviso semper , quòd praesens Constitutio , vel aliquid in eâdem contentum , compositioni ulli , quae inter Archiepiscopum , & Episcopum quemvis , vel alium Ordinarium intercesserit , neutiquam praejudicabit : nec etiam Judici cuivis inferiori , qui ullam testamenti Probationem , vel bonorum Administrationem alicui tàm ex dicta inferiore Curia , quàm ex Curia Praerogativae sponte & consultò eandem petenti concesserit . Proviso itidem , quòd siquem in itinere mori contingat , bona illa , quae tunc temporis penes se habuerit , testamentum ipsius vel bonorum Administrationem Curiae Praerogativarum nequaquam subjicient .

93. Testamentorum probatio , justâ Bonorum Notabilium summâ non comparente , Ordinariis vindicatur .

STatuimus insuper & ordinamus , nequis Judex Praerogativae Archiepiscopalis ad praemissorum aliquod quemlibet ex Officio citet , aut citari faciat , nisi eidem prius constiterit , defunctum tempore vitae & mortis suae bona vel catalla in aliqua alia Dioecesi vel Dioecesibus , vel etiam peculiari jurisdictione , infra eandem provinciam sita , quàm in qua fato cessit , ad summam quinque librarum ad minus habuisse . Nam qui minorem aliquam summam hoc casu habet , eundem Bona Notabilia non habere per praesentes decernimus , & declaramus . Provisò , quòd haec clausula , in hâc , & in praecedente Constitutione expressa , ad illas Dioeceses nullatenùs extendatur , in quibus ex compositione vel consuetudine Bona Notabilia majore summa definiuntur . Quod siquis Judex Praerogativae , aut ejus Deputatus , vel eorundem Registrarius , aut Apparitor aliquem secùs , quàm ut praemissum est , citaverit , aut citari vel moneri ad Curiam suam fecerit , eundem expensas parti sic citatae vel monitae refundere volumus , & acta ejusdem ipso jure vacua & pro nullis habenda pronunciamus . Quas expensas si vel Judex , vel Registrarius vel Apparitor taliter rependere detrectaverit , ab executione officii sui , donec illud praestiterit , suspendetur .

94. In Curias de Arcubus , & Audientiae extra proprium territorium ( nisi consentiente Episcopo Dioecesano ) nemo citandus .

NEque Dec●nus de Arcubus , neque Officialis Consistorii Archiepiscopalis , neque Judex Audientiae posthac nomine vel suo , vel Archiepiscopi Cantuariensis sive ex officio sive ad instantiam partis originaliter citabit , monebit , aut quoquo modo compellet , vel citari , moneri , aut compelli faciet aliquem , qui particularem dicti Archiepiscopi Dioecesin , vel peculiares ejusdem jurisdictiones non inhabitat , ad comparendum coram ipsis vel ipsorum aliquo , super causâ vel re quacunque ad cognitionem Ecclesiasticam pertinente , absque Dioecesani sui licentia priùs impetrata ( extra casus speciales in Statuto Anno 23. Henr. 8. cap. 9. disertè exemptos , & reservatos . ) Quod siquis dictorum Judicum contra fecerit , is pro singulis ejusmodi delictis ab Officii sui exercitio per tres menses suspendetur .

95. Duplices Querelae , nisi justi gravaminis factâ fide , in Curiis Archiepiscopi non concedendae .

TAmetsi pristinae Constitutiones Ecclesiae Anglicanae duorum mensium tempus Episcopis indulserint , infra quod de sufficientia & qualitate cujusque Ministri , qui ipsi praesentatus esset , in Beneficium aliquod instituendus , inquirere & pleniùs informari posset : nos tamen , quibusdam incommodis occurrere volentes , spatium illud bimestre ad terminum viginti & octo dierum per praesentes contrahimus , & abbreviamus . Cujus contractionis intuitu , statuimus & ordinamus , ut nulla Duplex Querela ex Curia ulla Archiepiscopi ad instantiam Ministri cujuscunque concedatur , nisi priùs jurejurando fidem fecerit , quòd praefatus terminus viginti & octo dierum ad minùs effluxerit , ex quo dictam sui ipsius praesentationem Episcopo exhibuerit , & Episcopus se taliter praesentatum instituere recusaverit , vel nisi cautionem fidei●ssoriam sufficientem interposuerit , se assertionem illam veram esse legitimè probaturum : sub poenâ suspensionis semestris ab Officii sui exercitio singulis talem actionem sive Duplicem Querelam concedentibus , per Archiepiscopum to●ies quoties denunciandâ ; ac etiam nullitatis ad omnem juris effectum cujusque Duplicis Querelae sic indebitè procuratae . Proviso semper , quòd infra praedictum tempus viginti & octo dierum Episcopus alium nullatenùs instituet , in praejudicium partis ita praesentatae , idque sub poena nullitatis .

96. Inhibitiones in causis instantiae absque advocati subscriptione non concedendae .

UT Episcoporum jurisdictiones illaesae ( quantum fieri potest ) conserventur , ac ut hujus regni subditis meliùs consulatur , ne frivolis aut injustis litibus de caetero fatigentur ; ordinatum & provisum est , quod nulla deinceps Inhibitio , ex quacunque Curia Archiepiscopi Cantuariensis ad instantiam partis emanabit , sine subscriptione Advocati ibidem exercentis , id quod gratis & absque feodo aut salario ab eodem fiet ; nisi fortè is qui caus●m prosequutus fuerit , pro ipsius in eâdem consilio , aliquid ei ultrò erogaverit . Pari ratione decretum sit , ne ad instantiam alicujus partis ulla emanet Inhibitio ab Episcopo , aut ejus Cancellario contra Archidiaconum , vel quemvis alium Ecclesiastica jurisdictione utentem , absque Advocati ( ùt praefertur ) subscriptione . Quòd si forsitan in Curia alicujus Episcopi nullus extiterit Advocatus , tunc subscriptio Procuratoris ibidem exercentis sufficiet .

97. Inhibitiones in causis correctionis , nisi gravamine Judici priùs cognito , non concedendae .

STatutum insuper & decretum sit , ut nulla deinceps Inhibitio concedatur , per occasionem alicujus decreti Interlocutorii , aut in quacunque causa correctionis , nisi sub forma praecedente : & ulteriùs quòd ante emanationem istiusmodi Inhibitionis ipsa Appellatio , aut verum ejusdem exemplar ( juramento super eiusdem veritate praestito ) Judici aut ejus legit mo Deputato exhibeatur , unde & de qualitate delicti , & causâ gravaminis Judici praedicto ante Inhibitionem emissam summatim possit constare . Porrò quilibet Appellans aut ejus legitimus Procurator ante Inhibitionem in causa correctionis obtentam , Judici aut fuo Deputato ostendet verum transcriptum sive copiam Actorum , unde se gravatum queritur , & à quibus Appellat ; aut juramentum suscipiet , se diligentiam loco & tempore opportunis praestitisse pro eisdem comparandis , nec potuisse tamen à Registrario in partibus aut ejus Deputatis , oblato salario , eadem adipisci . Siquis verò Judex , aut Registrarius Inhibitionem quamlibet ( sic ut praefertur ) contra formam praedictam sigillari procuraverit , aut permiserit , ab executione Officii sui per tres menses suspendatur ; sin verò Procurator aliquis , aut quivis , alius de ipsius mandato contra tenorem praemissorum in aliquo deliquerit ( Inhibitionem sive conficiendo , sive emittendo , praemissis non observatis ) ab exercitio muneris sui praedicti per annum integrum , sine spe veniae aut restitutionis , amoveatur .

98. Inhibitiones schismaticis , nisi subscribentibus , non concedendae .

QUoniam Legis auxilium frustrà implorat , qui in legem committit ; cautum sit , & provisum , ut sicubi Judex Ecclesiasticus adversus refractarios , factiosos , ac caeremoniarum contemptores , ob non servatos Ecclesiae Anglicanae ritus , vel ob Precum publicarum contemptum , judicialiter processerit , nullus Judex ad quem eorum Appellationes admittat , nisi pars Appellans ( Appellationis protocollo dicto Judici per ipsum exhibito ) in propria persona receperit , se omnes Ecclesiae Anglicanae ritus ac caeremonias , & formam publicae Liturgiae praescriptam bona fide observaturum , ac etiam nisi tribus arciculis superiùs à nobis specificatis subscripserit .

99. Intra gradus prohibitos matrimonium contractum , ipso jure nullum .

NEmo matrimonium contrahet intra gradus Divino jure prohibitos , ac expressos in tabula quadam ex authoritate publica Anno Domini 1563 edita ; omniaque matrimonia taliter contracta , incesta & illegitima judicabuntur , & proinde ( ut ab initio vacua , sive nulla ) dissolventur , partesque ita conjunctae per juris processum separabuntur . Tabulam autem praedictam in singulis Ecclesiis ( Parochianorum sumptibus ) publicè proponi , atque affigi volumus .

100 Minores 21. annis absque parentum consensu matrimonium contrahere prohibiti .

NUllis liberis ( qui vicesimum primum aetatis suae annum nondum compleverint ) absque consensu parentum , aut ( defunctis parentibus ) tutorum sive gubernatorum suorum , conjugia sive sponsalia licebit contrahere .

101. Facultates pro Bannis matrimonialibus omittendis per quos , & quibus sint concedendae .

NUlla in posterum Facultas sive indulgenia , pro matrimonio absque trina Bannorum denunciatione ( juxta Librum publicae Liturgiae ) inter quoslibet celebrando , per quamvis personam jurisdictionem Ecclesiasticam exercentem , vel privilegia ulla Ecclesiae suae nomine sibi vendicantem , nisi tantùm per eos , qui Episcopalem authoritatem obtinent , vel per Commissarium ad Facultates , vel sede plena per Archiepiscopi , & Episcoporum Vicarios Generales , aut sede vacante per Custodes spiritualitatis , vel Ordinarios Episcopalem jurisdictionem de jure exercentes , & non per alios concedetur ; idque duntaxat illustris , ac clarae conditionis hominibus , suae respectivè jurisdictioni subditis , interpositâ etiam idoneâ & sufficienti cautione .

102. In facultatibus pro Bannorum omissione concedendis cautio interponenda , & sub quibus conditionibus .

DIcta cautio conditiones hasce complectetur , Primò quòd tempore ejusdem dispensationis concedendae nullum existit impedimentum ratione praecontractus , consanguinitatis , affinitatis , vel alterius causae cujuscunque de jure prohibitae , quod dicto matrimonio occurrere , aut obstare possit . Secundò quòd nulla controversia , lis , seu querela mota sit vel pendeat in aliqua Curia coram ullo Judice Ecclesiastico super aliquo contractu vel matrimonio alterutrius dictarum partium cum alia quavis persona . Tertiò quòd parentum ( modò sint in vivis ) vel aliàs tutorum sive gubernatorum suorum expressum consensum hac in parte obtinuerunt . Postremò quòd dictum matrimonium in Ecclesia Parochiali , vel Capella , ubi contrahentium alter commoratur , & non aliàs , idque publicè in facie Ecclesiae inter horas octavam & duodecimam curabunt solennizari .

103. Eaedem conditiones ob majorem cautelam jurejurando suffultae .

UT omnis deinceps fraus & dolus in obtinendis ejusmodi facultatibus evitetur ; statuimus insuper & ordinamus , quòd ante obtentam facultatem pro matrimonio absque Bannis celebrando , Judici constabit de expresso consensu parentum , vel parentis ( eorum altero defuncto ) aut tutorum vel tutoris , per juramentum duorum fide dignorum testium , quorum unus vel Judici ipsi , vel alii cuipiam bonae existimationis tum praesenti ac eidem etiam Judici cognito , pro tali innotescet . Et ulteriùs ut alter contrahentium juramentum subeat , se credere , nullum legitimum impedimentum ratione praecontractus , consanguinitatis , affinitatis , vel alterius causae cujuscunque de jure prohibitae obstare , nullamque litem aut controversiam in foro aliquo Ecclesiastico motam esse , quo minùs dictum matrimonium , juxtatenorem ejusdem facultatis , ad effectum procedat .

104. Parentum consensus viduis contrahentibus remissus .

QUòd si uterque contrahentium in viduitate constitutus pro Bannis omittendis dispensationem petierit , tunc clausulam praedictam , per quam parentum consensus requiritùr , licebit praetermitti ; ita tamen ut Parochiae , in quibus utraque pars commoratur , in dispensatione exprimantur , atque illa Parochia nominatim designetur , in qua ejusmodi matrimonium sit posteà celebrandum . Siquis verò Commissarius ad Facultates , Vic. Generalis , aut dictorum Ordinariorum aliquis in praemissis , aut quolibet praemissorum deliquerit , is pro singulis ejusmodi delictis ab executione Officii sui per spatium semestre submoveatur , & licentia sive indulgentia hujusmodi viribus vacua , & pro nulla ad omnem juris effectum habebitur , ac si omninò non fuisset concessa ; partesque ejusdem virtute in Matrimonio conjunctae poenis illis subjacebunt , quae in nuptias clandestinas sunt constitutae .

105. Pro conjugio dirimendo nuda partium confessio non audienda .

QUoniam Matrimoniales causae inter graviores semper habitae fuerint , & proptereà majorem cautelam desiderent , siquando in judiciis veniant disceptandae ; praesertim cum Matrimonium in Ecclesia debite solennizatum , quovis nomine separari , vel nullum pronunciari postulatur : strictè mandamus & praecipimus , ut in omnibus divortiorum & nullitatis matrimonii processibus circumspectè & deliberatè procedatur , ac quantum fieri poterit , rei veritas testium depositionibus aliisque probationibus legitimis eruatur , nec soli extrajudiciali , aut judiciali & juratae partium confessioni fides habeatur .

106. Sententiae divortii & separationis non nisi pro tribunali ferendae .

NUllae in posterum Sententiae vel separationis à thoro & mensa , vel nullitatis Matrimonii praetensi ferantur , nisi publicè , ac pro tribunali , & de scientia ac consensu vel Archiepiscopi infra Provinciam suam , vel Episcopi infra propriam Dioecesin , Decani de Arcubus , , Judicis Audientiae Cantuariensis , aut Vicariorum Generalium , aliorumve Officialium Principalium , vel sede vacante Custodum spiritualitatis , aut aliorum Ordinariorum , quibus de jure competit , in suis respectivè jurisdictionibus , ac Curiis , atque inter suae jurisdictionis subditos tantùm .

107. Separatis , eorum altero superstite , nova copula interdicta .

IN Sententiis , quando ad separationem thori & mensae tantùm interponuntur , monitio , & prohibitio in ipso contextu Sententiae latae fiet , ut à partibus ab invicem dissociatis castè vivatur , nec ad alias nuptias , alterutrâ vivente , convoletur . Denique quò postremum illud firmiùs observetur , Sententia separationis non antè pronunciabitur , quam qui eam postulabunt , idoneam cautionem interposuerint , se contra dictam monitionem & prohibitionem nihil commissuros .

108. Sanctio in Judices contra praemissa delinquentes .

QUòd si quis Judex Sententiam separationis , seu Divortii tulerit , & praemissa omnia non praestiterit , per annum integrum ab executione Officij sui per Archiepiscopum , vel Episcopum Dioecesanum suspendetur . Et sententia separationis , contra formam praedictam lata , pro nulla ad omnem juris effectum habebitur , ac si omninò lata non fuisset .

De Curiis Ecclesiasticis ad Episcopos , & Archidiaconos spectantibus .
109. Peccata & scandala notoria in Curiis Ecclesiasticis denuncianda .

SIqui per manifestum adulterium , stuprum , incestum , ebrietatem , jurandi consuetudinem , lenocinium , foenerationem , vel aliam quamcunque vitae turpitudinem aut nequitiam fratres suos offenderit ; Ecclesiarum Oeconomi , & Inquisitores , sive Assistentes in proximis praesentationibus suis ad Ordinarios omnium & singulorum ejusmodi delinquentium nomina fideliter deferent , ut legum severitate pro meritis possint castigari . Tales autem notòrii delinquentes ad sacram Coenam , donec mores in meliùs commutârint , nequaquam admittentur .

110. Schismatici in Curiis detegendi .

SI Oeconomi Ecclesiarum , & Inquisitores sive Assistentes de aliquo infra suam Parochiam vel alibi resciverint , qui vel verbo Dei legendo , aut syncerè praedicando , vel Constitutionum praesentium executioni obstare conabitur , vel etiam usurpatae ulli & extraneae potestati , hujus regni legibus jamdiu meritò repudiatae atque abolitae , favebit atque adhaerebit ; vel dogma aliquod Papisticum ac erroneum astruet , aut tuebitur ; dicti Oeconomi , & Inquisitores sive Assistentes Episcopo Dioecesano , vel loci Ordinario eundem detegent , & indicabunt , ut poenis & censuris per Ecclesiasticas sanctiones irrogatis coerceatur .

111. Precum Divinarum perturbatores in Curiis detegendi .

IN omnibus Eiscoporum & Archidiaconorum visitationibus , Oeconomi , & Inquisitores sive Assistentes eorum omnium nomina verè & personaliter praesentabunt , qui inciviliter aut immodestè in Ecclesia se gesserint , vel intempestivâ campanarum pulsatione , obambulatione , garritu , aut alio quovis strepitu Concionatorem , vel Ministrum interpellaverint .

112. Puberes in festo Paschatis non Communicantes in Curiis detegendi .

ECclesiarum Parochialium , & Capellarum Ministri , Oeconomi , Inquisitores sive Assistentes quolibet anno infra quadraginta dies post festum Paschatis Episcopo , vel Cancellario suo exhibebunt nomina & cognomina omnium utriusque sexus de sua Parochia , qui majores sedecim annis ad sacro-sanctam Communionem Paschate tùm praecedente non accesserint .

113. Peccata notoria Ministris jus est denunciare , privatim confessa retegere , nefas .

QUoniam saepenumerò contingit , Ecclesiae Oeconomos , & Inquisitores sive Assistentes aliosque è Laicis , quibus id officii , munerisque incumbit , ut per admonitiones , reprehensiones , & delationes ad Ordinarios peccatum & impietatem coerceant , partìm prae timore potentiorum , partim prae incuria , in hoc officio praestando remissiores esse quàm par est , si horum temporum licentiam consideremus : statuimus & ordinamus , ut licitum deinceps sit singulis Rectoribus ac Vicariis , aut ( ipsis legitimè absentibus ) eorum Curatis , & substitutis , cum Ecclesiae Oeconomis & Assistentibus , reliquisque supra nominatis , in criminibus ad tempora inferiùs praestituta detegendis , operas suas conjungere ; si quidem dicti Oeconomi & Assistentes crimina & culpas enormes in suis Parochiis notorias deferre voluerint . Quòd si ij facere detrectaverint , tum licebit singulis Rectoribus & Vicariis , aut ( illis ut supra absentibus ) eorum Curatis ac substitutis , omnia ejusmodi crimina , de quibus dicti Officiarii habent inquirere , aut alia , quaecunque ipsis ( utpote quibus praecipua cura peccati infra suas Parochias coercendi incumbit ) corrigenda videbuntur , temporibus constitutis , vel aliâs , ubi commodum judicaverint , ad Ordinarios suos deferre & praesentare . Proviso semper , quod siquis peccata sua occultiora alicui Ministro privatim confiteatur ( conscientiam suam exonerando , quò ab illo spiritualem consolationem , & levamen percipiat ) eum hac nostra Constitutione nullatenùs teneri volumus ; quin potiùs strictè e illi praecipimus , ne ejusmodi aliquod crimen aut delictum fidei ac tacitutnitati suae taliter commissum cuivis personae aliquando retegat , nisi sit ex eo genere criminum , quorum occultatio ex legibus hujus regni sit capitalis : qui contrà fecerit , eo ipso irregularis esto .

114. Recusantes per Ministros in Curiis detegendi .

REctores , Vicarii , vel Curati omnes quolibet anno sollicitê inquirent , quot Papistici Recusantes viri , mulieres , vel pueri ultra tredecim annos nati , quot etiam Papisticae religioni rectiùs ad dicti ( qui licet in Ecclesia se praesentes sistant , Sacramenti tamen participes fieri recusant ) infra suas respectivè Parochias commorentur , sive ut hospites , sive ut inquilini ; eorumque omnium nomina vera ( siquidem ea poterunt exquirere ) vel aliàs , quae pro tempore usurpant ( debitâ semper inter absolutè & ex parte Recusantes distinctione servatâ ) in scriptum referent , eademque quatenùs nôrunt , creduntque sic distincta , & sua manu descripta ante festum Nativitatis Ordinariis suis fideliter exhibebunt , idque sub poena suspensionis per eosdem Ordinarios infligenda ; atque sic demceps singulis annis sequentibus , sub simili poena ante festum S. Ioannis Baptistae . Insuper tenebuntur omnes Ordinarii , Cancellarii , Commissarii , Archidiaconi , Officiales , caeterique Ecclesiastica jurisdictione fungentes , quibus supra-dictae detectiones exhibitae fuerint , easdem infra mensem unum , postquam illas receperint , Episcopo suo respective tradere , sub poena suspensionis semestris ab omni muneris sui executione , per Episcopum ( quoties hac in parte defecerint ) irrogandâ : qui & ipse easdem infra sex leprimanas Archiepiscopo curabit offerri , per eundem infra alias sex septimanas , postquàm ipse receperit , Regiae Majestati praesentandas .

115. Ne Ministris aut Oeconomis fraudi sit criminosorum detectio .

QUùm ad correctionem criminum & hominum criminosorum Ecclesiarum Oeconomi , inquisitores , sive Assistentes , aliique id genus Officiarii Ecclesiastici jurejurando obstringantur , ( quemadmodum & Ministri nostra monitione tenentur ) tàm ipsa crimina & culpas à dictis criminosis perpetratas , quà etiam publicam famam de iisdem sparsam & disseminatam deferre , & praesentare : unde saepe odium illis , & invidia , quandoque etiam molestia per dictos sontes eorumve amicos conflatur : monemus & hortamur omnes Judices tàm Ecclesiasticos , quàm saeculares , quatenus tremendum summi Judicis tribunal respiciunt , & reverentur , ne admittant in suis Guriis ullam querelam , actionem , litis intentationem aut prosequutionem contra ullos Ecclesiarum Oeconomos , aut Inquisitores , sive Assistentes , aliosve Officiarios Ecclesiasticos , qui ejusmodi detectiones exhibuerint , nec contra Ministrum aliquem , quamcunque demum personam vel culpam detulerit ; quum omnes ejusmodi delationes ad impietatis audaciam cohibendam spectent , quùmq , tàm ex regulis charitatis , quàm recti regiminis praesumendum sit , eos quicquid hac in re fecerint , non odii aut malevolentiae causa , sed fidei suae liberandae conscientia fecisse .

116. Oeconomi ad binas tantùm detegendi vices annuatim tenentur .

NUllius Parochiae Oeconomi , vel Inquisitores , sive Assistentes accusationes , aut detectiones suas cogentur Judici cuipiam Ecclesiastico praesentare saepius , quàm singulis annis semel , in iis utique locis , ubi non consueverunt pluriès exhiberi , aut bis in Dioecesi vel loco quocunq ( nisi in Episcopi visitatione . ) Pro quibus Parochiae cujusque praesentationibus Registrarius cujuslibet Curiae , in qua exhibendae sunt , supra quatuor denarios in uno anno non recipiet , sub poena menstruae suspensionis à muneris sui exercitio pro singulis ejusmodi delictis . Proviso semper liberum fore cuique Ministro , Oeconomis , & Assistentibus , quoties & quando videbitur ( pro causarum conditione ) delinquentes deferre & accusare , similiterque cuivis piè affecto , vel etiam Judici cuilibet Ecclesiastico , super notitiâ sibi facta de enormi aliquo crimine infra suam jurisdictionem perpetrato , Ministrum , Oeconomos , aut Assistentes licebit admonere , quatenùs gloriam Dei respiciunt , & correctionem peccati , ut tale crimen publicè detegant , ( dum tamen justam ejus detegendi causam invenerint ) ut ista ratione maturè puniri ac corrigi possit . Proviso etiam , ut pro spontaneis hisce praesentationibus nullum feoum aut salarium sub poena praedicta recipiatur .

117. Oeconomi , binis detegendi vicibus debitè perfuncti , non sunt de reliquo in Curiam vocandi .

NUllus Ecclesiae Oeconomus , aut Inquisitor , sive Assistens ad comparendum coram Ecclesiastico Judice quocunque extra tempus vel tempora praestituta citabitur , quòd delictum aliquod in sua parochia commissum , & Ecclesiasticis censuris obnoxium aliis temporibus deferre recusaverit ; neque eorum quilibet post detectiones suas statis temporibus exhibitas , earum occasione deinceps in jus trahetur , nisi ex certis & manifestis indiciis constiterit , eum volentem & scientem omisisse detectionem notorii alicujus criminis aut criminum , quae vel commissa fuisse noverit , vel ignorare saltem non potuerit , publicâ famâ eadem laborare : vel nisi fortè justa causa emerserit , eosdem pro detectionum priorum explanatione in Curiam compellendi : quo casu ( voluntariae scilicet omissionis ) Ordinarii contra eosdem taliter procedent , quemadmodum in causis spontanei perjurii in Curiis Ecclesiasticis commissi , hactenùs lege cautum & provisum est .

118. Anni superioris Oeconomi detectiones suas tenentur exhibere , priusquam recens electi munus suum adeant .

OEconomi , & Inquisitores , vel Assistentes non priùs Officio suo soluti deinceps intelligentur , quàm ipsorum successores juramentum suum susceperint , id quod primâ post festum Paschatis septimanâ , vel aliquâ statim sequente ( pro arbitrio Ordinarii ) fieri volumus . Quod tempus dicto juramento assignatum , alterum semper erit ex duobus illis anni cujusque temporibus , in quibus omnium Parochiarum Ministri , Oeconomi , & assistentes suis respectivè Ordinariis exhibebunt illorum criminum detectiones , quae citra proximas praesentationes in suis Parochiis admissa esse compererint . Quod officium praedicti Oeconomi perficient , antequam recèns electi Oeconomi & Assistentes juramentum suum praestent , neque illis ullatenùs permittetur , dictas praeteritorum criminum detectiones in novitios hosce rejicere , qui munus suum vix dum ingressi , eorundem ignati esse praesumuntur ; sub poena sanctionum , in eos constitutarum , qui conscientias & juramenta sua ad hunc modum audebunt eludere .

119. Detectionum schedulae fide bona , non perfunctoriè & pro forma conficiendae .

QVò meliùs illis incommodis occurratur , quae ex detectionum schedulis sive billis ( quas vocant ) properè , & festinanter confectis ( in ipsis videsicet diebus Visitationum , & Synodorum ) hactenùs constat evenisse : statutum est & decretum , ut quilibet Cancellarius , Archidiaconus , Commissarius , Officialis , aliique jus dicentes Ecclesiasticum , ad tempus Oeconomorum juramento praestando consuetum , itemque Archiepiscopus & Episcopi omnes , quoties visitationes suas indicunt , Parochiarum omnium Oeconomis , & Inquisitoribus , sive Assistentibus , aut eorum aliquibus tradant aut tradi curent Libros Articulorum , de quibus eosdem velint detectiones suas anno insequente ad stata tempora exhibendas instituere : in quo item Libro apponetur forma juramenti , quo statim ante singulas ejusmodi praesentationes sint onerandi : ut spatio sufficienti dato ad examinandam , & perpendendam tùm juramenti sui qualitatem , tum etiam Articulorum , quibus ipsorum detectiones niti debeant , diliberatè & cum fide easdem domi suae formare possint , ad conscientias suas , jurisjurandi religione jam obstrictas , ( uti probos & pios decet ) liberandas .

120 Nequa Citatio , nisi expressis citandorum nominibus , è Curiis emittatur .

NUllus Episcopus , Cancellarius , Archidiaconus , Officialis aut alius quilibet Judex Ecclesiasticus Citationes ullas generales ( quae vulgò Quorum nomina dicuntur ) ex Curia sua emanare patietur : nisi partium citandarum nomina per Registrarium , vel ejus deputatum disertè sub eisdem exprimantur ; eaedemque citationes ( cum nominibus sic inscriptis ) Judicis vel ejus Surrogati subscriptione & sigillo munitae exeant .

121. Nequis in pluribus Curiis super eodem crimine cogatur respondere .

IN partibus iis , ubi Episcopus & Archidiaconus sive ex praescriptione sive ex compositione ad diversa unius & ejusdem anni tempora visitationes suas obire consueverunt ; ne Majestatis suae subditi in pluribus Curiis Ecclesiasticis super uno & eodem crimine ( non sine gravi ipsorum molestia ) postulentur , statuimus & ordinamus ut quilibet Archidiaconus , vel ejus Officialis infra unum mensem , post peractam eo anno visitationem , & praesentationes acceptas , Episcopum vel ejus Cancellarium sub sua manu & sigillo instruat ac informet , de nominibus & delictis eotum omnium , qui in visitatione sua fuerint detecti & praesentati , quò is super ulla causa , aut crimine ad Archidiaconum priùs delato aliquem convenire deinceps abstineat . Pari ratione decernimus , ut Cancellarius , infra idem tempus post finitam Episcopi visitationem , & detectiones receptas , eorum sontium nomina & delicta , quos in proxima ipsius visitatione praesentari contigerit , sua subscriptione & sigillo verificata , ad Archidiaconum , vel ejus Officialem ( in praedictum finem ) transmittat . Quod si dicti Officiarii vel se invicem ( sicut praefertur ) instituere ac informare omiserint , vel post factam ejusmodi informationem , personas aut culpas in aliena visitatione detectas & praesentatas , attigerint , tunc eorum quilibet sic delinquens ab omni jurisdictionis suae exercitio per Episcopum Dioecesanum eatenùs suspendetur , donec expensas omnes per hanc molestiam susceptas personae gravatae restituerit .

122. Sententiae pro Ministris à Beneficio vel Officio removendis , non nisi per Episcopum pronunciandae .

QUotiescunque in Curia aliqua Ecclesiastica , ad quemlibet hujus Provinciae Episcopum spectante , contra Ministrum accusatio instituetur , Cancellarius , Commissarius , Officialis , vel quivis alius Ecclesiasticam jurisdictionem obtinens , ( cujus intererit ) causam omnem per processus , aliasque vias & modos adversus eum expediet , ejusque in non comparendo contumaciam primo suspensionis , eandem vero continuatam excommunicationis poena ulciscetur . Sin autem debitè comparens legitimo juris processui se submiserit , tunc , ubi causae maturitas Sententiam postulârit , si fortè delicti meritum vel deprivationem , vel depositionem à sacris ordinibus ex decreto juris exigat ; nullam ejusmodi sententiam per quamlibet personam pronunciari volumus praeterquàm per Episcopum , adhibitis ipsius Cancellario , & Decano ( si commodè id fieri potest ) & aliquot Praebendariis , si prope Ecclesiam Cathedralem dicta Curia teneatur , vel Archidiacono ( modò ejus facultas detur ) aliisque duobus ad minus gravibus Ministris , ac eisdem Concionatoribus , per Episcopum advocandis , quando Curiam aliis in locis haberi contigerit .

123. Actus judiciales non nisi publica , & authentica manu expediendi .

NUllus Cancellarius , Commissarius , Archidiaconus , Officialis , aut alius quilibet Ecclesiasticam jurisdictionem exercens , actum aliquod judiciale expediet , sive Cententiosae , sive Voluntariae Jurisdictionis , nisi adhibito Ordinario ejusdem Curiae Registrario , vel ejus legitimo deputato ; aut fi●is velii nolint aut nequeant interesse , tùm aliis personis authenticis , quae eadem acta conscribant aut expediant , sub poena suspensionis ipso facto subeundae .

124. Curiarum sigilla , unica .

NUllus Cancellarius , Commissarius Archidiaconus , Officialis , aut alius quilibet jurisdictione utens Ecclesiastica , plura quàm unum duntaxat sigillum citra Episcopi consensum habebit , pro omnibus , quaecunque in ipsius Officium inciderint , sigillandis . Quod quidèm sigillum custodietur semper aut penes ipsum , aut penes illius substitutum legitimum , ejus vice jus dicentem , nec non infra ipsius jurisdictionem , vel saltem in urbe aut oppido ejusdem Comitatus principali commorantem . Hoc sigillum titulum ejus Jurisdictionis continebit , quam quisque praedictorum Judicum , aut deputatorum exercet .

125. Curiarum sedes opportuna .

OMnes Cancellarii , Commissarii , Archidiaconi , Officiales , caeterique Judices Ecclesiastici Curias suas ( de mandato , vel consensu Episcopi Dioecesani ) in talibus locis instituent , qui ad eos , quos in eisdem comparere oportet , excipiendos idonei , & ad laborem itineris minuendum maximè commodi videbuntur . Similiter etiam Curias suas intra horas competentes inchoabunt , ac dissolvent , ita ut quisque ( quantum fieri potest ) maturè & tempestivè domum suam possit repetere .

126. Curiae inferiores testamenta originalia ad Episcoporum Archiva jubentur transmittere .

CUm Decani , Archidiaconi , Praebendarii , Rectores , Vicarii , aliique Ecclesiastica jurisdictione fungentes , omnium infra suas respectivè jurisdictiones defunctorum testamenta probandi immunitatem sibi vendicent , neque tamen cognitos ullos aut certos habeant Registrarios , vel locum publicum Registrorum suorum tutae custodiae deputatum : unde saepius evenerit , testamenta , jura , & legata quamplurima per dictorum Judicum mortem , aut mutationem perire ac intercidere , in maximum subditorum praejudicium ac dispendium : statuimus & ordinamus , ut singuli peculiarem ejusmodi jurisdictionem possidentes ac exercentes semel quotannis referant in publicum Archivum Episcopi Doecesani vel Decani & Capituli , infra cujus ditionem peculiares illae jurisdictiones extiterint , omnia testamenta originalia per ipsos infra peculiares suas jurisdictiones respectivè eo anno probata : vel verum saltem eorundem exemplar per dictum Judicem peculiarem , ejusque Notarium examinatum , subscriptum , & consignatum . Quòd siquis Judicum praedictorum in eo deliquerit , is per Episcopum Dioecesanum , vel Decanum & Capitulum , ad quos illa Jurisdictio respectivè pertinebit , omni peculiaris jurisdictionis exercitio eousque privabitur , quoad hanc nostram Constitutionem debitè adimpleverit .

De Judicibus Ecclesiasticis .
127. Judicum Ecclesiasticorum qualitas .

NUllus in posterum ad Officium Cancellarii , Commissarii , aut Officialis , admittetur , ad jurisdictionem quamlibet Ecclesiasticam exercendam , nisi qui vicesimum sextum ad minus aetatis suae annum compleverit , & qui in Jure Civili & Canonico eruditus existat , sitque ad minimum Magister artium , aut in Jure Baccalaureus , ac in praxi , & causis forensibus laudabiliter exercitatus , nec non rectè affectus , & religioni studiosè deditus , de cujus vita & moribus nullus sinister sermo audiatur : ac insuper nisi priusquam talis cujusque Officii functionem , aut exercitium adeat , in Supremam Regis authoritatem in causis Ecclesiasticis coram Episcopo , vel publicè in Curia juraverit ; ac religionis Articulos in Synodo anno 1562 communiter conclusos subscriptione sua comprobaverit ; & etiam juratus receperit , se integrè & ex aequo ( pro captu suo ) jus redditurum , absque omni intuitu vel gratiae , vel mercedis ; quorum utique juramentorum , ac subscriptionis per Registrarium tùm praesentem actum conscribetur . Haud secùs omnes Cancellarii , Commissarii , Officiales , Registrarii , aliique quotquot jurisdictionis , sive ministerii Ecclesiastici locum aliquem in praesenti possident , aut exercent , citra festum Nativitatis proximè venturum , coram Archiepiscopo , aut Episcopo , vel etiam in aperta Curia sub quo , & in qua muneribus suis funguntur , eadem juramenta subire , & ( prout superiùs dictum est ) subscribere tenebuntur . Quòd si facere recusaverint , à munerum suorum executione eousque suspendentur , quo ad juramenta praemissa , & subscriptionem , ut suprà , praestiterint .

128. Qualitas Deputandorum .

NUllus Cancellarius , Commissarius , Archidiaconus , Officialis , aut alius quicunque Ecclesiastica jurisdictione praeditus aliquem ad Curiam sui absentis loco tenendam quovis tempore deputabit , nisi qui gravis Minister fuerit , idemque graduatus ; vel pro Concionatore publico legitimè receptus , ac prope ejusmodi Consistoria Beneficiatus ; vel qui in Legibus Baccalaureus , aut in Artibus Magister ad minimum extiterit , ac in jure Civili & Canonico scientiam habuerit competentem , & de verae religionis studio , sobrioque ac honesto vitae cultu fuerit commendatus ; sub poena suspensionis ab executione officiorum pro singulis delictis spatio trium mensium toties quoties . Deputatus verò qui praedictarum qualitatum expers , audebit tamen Judicis vices in Curiis tenendis ( ut suprâ ) usurpare , simili prorsus censurae ( modo & formâ praemissis ) subjacebit .

De Procuratoribus .
129. Procuratores , nisi de partis mandato authentico , causas attingere prohibiti .

NUllus deinceps in aliqua causa Procurabit , nisi ab ipso litigante apud acta Curiae fuerit constitutus , vel in ipso litis ingressu illius vero & sufficienti procuratorio fulciatur . Sufficiens vocamus , quod authentico aliquo sigillo munitur , approbatione item , aut saltem ratihabitione constituentis eôdem accedente . Ejusmodi verò procuratoria omnia quamprimùm confici volumus , & à Procuratoribus exhiberi , ac in publicis ejusdem Curiae scriniis per Registrarium salva custodiri . Qui ex Registrariis vel Procuratoribus secùs in istorum aliquo fecerit , bimestri suspensione ab exercitio Officii sui , absque omni spe relaxationis , aut restitutionis , ferietur .

130. Procuratores sine Advocati alicujus consilio causas retinere prohibiti .

AD minuendas & consopiendas lites , ac litigantium querelas tollendas qui Procuratorum incuriâ ac negligentiâ , vel etiam inscitiâ multoties causâ cadunt ; necnon ad incrementum bonarum literarum , jurisque Civilis & Ganonici propagationem : juxta laudabiles consuetudines in Curiis Archiepiscopi Cantuariensis hactenus observatas , statuimus & ordinamus , ut nullus Procurator ibidem exercens absque Advocati alicujus consilio quamlibet causam suscipiat , ac per duos dies juridicos retineat , sub poena suspensionis annuae ab Officii sui executione ; nec Judici potestas erit , absque expresso Archiepiscopi mandato & authoritate , hujus poenae gratiam ullatenus faciendi .

131. Procuratores , inconsulto Advocato , in causa concludere prohibiti .

NOn admittet aliquis Judex in Curiis Archiepiscopi praedictis libellum , aut aliam quamlibet materiam , sine consilio & subscriptione alicujus Advocati ad exercendum ibidem admissi : neque verò Procuratoribus licebit , in causa concludere , nisi de notitia Advocati in eâdem causa adhibiti , & salariati . Siquis verò Procurator contrà fecerit , aut fieri procuraverit , vel etiam Advocatum quocunque praetextu suo fraudaverit stipendio aut salario , vel in Advocato consulendo , quid in causa fieri expediat , negligentior fuerit ; eidem suspensionem semestrem à muneris sui executione , sine spe veniae interim consequendae , decernimus .

132. Procuratorium in causis testamentariis juramentum prohibitum .

CUm in testamentorum probationibus , administrationumque bonorum ab intestato decedentium petitionibus , juramentum per Procuratores Curiarum in animam constituentis praestitum multis patere incommodis sit perspectum ; cautum deinceps esse volumus , ut quilibet Executor , vel bonorum defuncti administrationem petens , Judicem in hac parte ordinarium , vel ejus Surrogatum personaliter adeat , & juramentum usitatum per se & non per Procuratorem aliquem praestet . Si tamen vel valetudinis , vel aetatis incommodo , vel alia causa legitima impeditus in propria persona Judicem adire nequeat : permittimus , ut ( fide super impedimenti veritate per excusatorem fide dignum priús factâ ) Judex gravi alicui viro Ecclesiastico partis habitationi vicino Commissionem concedat , per quam juramentum usitatum dicto Executori vel Administrationem petenti vice sua ministrandi eidem viro Ecclesiastico potestatem tradat , eumque roget , ut quid in praemissis fecerit , per nuncium fidelem se posteà certiorem reddat . Proviso semper , quòd nullus Judex , vel Registrarius , pro hujusmodi Commissione scribenda , concipienda , aut sigillanda , ultra summam sex solidorum & octo denariorum quoquo modo accipiet , cujus dimidium Judici , & dimidium ejusdem Curiae Registrario cedet .

133. Procuratorum vox importunior in Curiis , cohibita .

QUoniam experientia compertum est , Procuratorum vociferationes , & clamores in Curiis Archiepiscopi non modò Judicibus & Advocatis molestiam & offensionem parere , sed & astantibus causam contemptus & calumniae adversus Curiam ipsam praebere ; quò melius dignitati Judicis consulatur , causaeque faciliùs & commodiùs tractentur , & expediantur : mandamus , & praecipimus , ut Procuratores in Curiis praedictis praecipuè in id intendant , ut juxta consilium Advocatorum acta per Registrarium bona fide conscribantur , ut ab omni strepitu , & verborum contentione abstineant , & modestè se gerant , ac loquentibus Judicibus aut Advocatis , vel eorum aliquo , protinùs conticescant , sub poena silentii imponendi per duos terminos inde sequentes . Etsi eorum aliquis pluriès deliquerit , neque debitâ interpositâ admonitione se emendaverit , à praedicti muneris exercitio in perpetuum arceatur .

De Registrariis .
134. Registrariorum excessus coerciti .

SIquis Registrarius vel ipsius Assignatus , aut deputatus qualiscunque certificatoria receperit fine consensu Judicis , quem pro tribunali sedere contigerit ; vel sponte omiserit praeconizari facere quemlibet citatum aut assignatum ad comparendum die aliquo juridico ; aut testes in diem à Judice praestitutum examinandos indebitè distulerit ; aut judiciali & legitimae monitioni Judicis non paruerit ; aut si neglexerit citationes & decreta ante proximum diem juridicum exequenda , & per nuncios speciales emittenda transcribere ; aut non euraverit testamenta omnia infra tempus idoneum in registrum conscribi ; vel siquid falsum & ex se commentum , ac non per Judicem pronunciatum , tanquàm Judicis decretum in acta retulerit ; aut in transmissione processuum ad Judicem ad quem aliquid falsi inseruerit , aut quicquam sive dolo malo , sive latâ negligentiâ omiserit ; aut munera in favorem alterutrius partis in causis instantiae , vel promotis ex officio acceperit ; aut alterutri partium litigantium à consiliis directè , vel indirectè fuerit ; aut in executione Officii sui aliud malitiosè aut subdolè fecerit , unde Judex Ecclesiasticus , aut ejus Jurisdictio possit infamari : volumus & ordinamus eundem Registrarium aut ejus Assignatum & Deputatum in praemissis , aut eorum aliquo delinquentem à suo munere ac Officio per unum , duo , tres , aut plures menses ( pro delicti ratione ) per Episcopum Dioecesanum suspendi , publicumque aliquem Notarium per Episcopum deputari , qui ( durante ejusmodi poenâ ) omnia dicti Registraii Officium contingentia exequatur .

135. Feodorum , quae juris Ecclesiastici administris debentur , census debet esse statarius .

NUllus Episcopus , Suffraganeus ; Cancellarius , Commissarius , Archidiaconus , Officialis , aut alius Ecclesiasticam jurisdictionem quamcunque exercens , nec ullus cujuslibet Curiae Ecclesiasticae Registratius , vel administer quicunque dictis Officiariis vel Curiis subserviens , pro qualibet causâ in illorum Curiis promotâ alia aut majora feoda sive salaria deinceps recipiet , quàm ea quae anno 1597. Reverendissimo patri D. Ioanni nuper Cantuariensi Archiepiscopo certificata , & ab eodem rata sunt , & approbata . Quòd sinquis Judex aut Registrarius , vel eorum Minister aliquis contrà fecrit , pro singulis ejusmodi delictis per sex menses Officii sui exercitio privabitur . Proviso semper , quòd si dubium aliquod de talium feodorum , aut eorum cujuslibet certa summa oriri contigerit , tùm ea feoda pro legitimis judicabuntur , quae per Archiepiscopum Cantuariensem pro tempore existentem sub manus suae subscriptione erunt approbata , nisi Statuta hujus regni hactenus edita in particulari aliquo casu alia expressè praestituerint . Proviso etiam , quòd nihil salarii aut pecuniae recipietur , vel per Archiepiscopum , vel per Episcopum , aut Suffraganeum ullum directè aut indirectè pro quolibet in sacros Ordines suscipiendo : nec quòd aliqua persona vel personae eisdem Archiepiscopo , Episcopo , vel Suffraganeo subservientes , pro membrana , scriptione , cera , sigillatione , vel alia quavis causa hoc negotium contingente , supra decem solidos percipient , sub poenis hâc in parte lege constitutis .

136. Statarius Feodorum census in tabulas relatus publicè in Consistoriis & Archivis proponendus .

STatuimus porrò & ordinamus , ut cujusqu Judicis Ecclesiastici Registrarius tabulas binas , in quibus certae singulorum feodorum summae separatim exprimentur , publicè figi curet & proponi ; unam in Consistorio , vel loco consueto , ubi dicta Guria teneri solet ; alteram in suo Archivo ; utramque in loco ita congruo , ut quilibet ( cujus intererit ) ejusdem inspiciendae , & legendae , vel etiam transcribendae liberam habeat facultatem ; quod ante Festum Nativitatis proximè futurum perfici volumus . Quod siquis Registrarius dictas tabulas juxta tenorem praemissorum publicè figendas non curaverit , ab executione Officii sui eousque suspendetur quoad praemissa ( modo & forma specificatis ) perfecerit ; easque tabulas semel fixas siquando vel auferet , vel ( in fraudem hujus Constitutionis ) ex loco , in quo primùm positae erant , removeri , vel quovis pacto occultari patietur : tùnc pro singulis ejusmodi delictis ab exercitio muneris sui per semestre spatium suspendetur .

137. Feoda pro Ordinum literis , aliisque licentiis Episcopo exhibendis , tantùm dimidia ( praeterqùam in prima Episcopi visitatione ) persolvenda .

CUm non minima sit Visitationis causa & effectus , ut Episcopus , Archidiaconus , aut alius Visitans de statu , sufficientia , & facultatibus Cleri , & aliorum visitandorum perfectiorem aliquam notitiam consequantur ; aequum duximus , ut quilibet Rector , Vicarius , Curatus , Ludi-magister , & alius quicunque licentiatus literas Ordinum , Institutionis , & Inductionis , itemque dispensationes , Licentias , & Facultates suas quascunque in Visitatione prima illius Episcopi , vel in proxima post ejus admissi onem exhibeat , per dictum Visitantem approbandas , aut ( si justa fuerit causa ) rejiciendas , & si approbatae fuerint , per Registrarium ( uti moris est ) consignandas , quodque feoda in Visitationibus ( intuitu praemissorum ) consueta solvi , semel duntaxat tempore alicujus Episcopi integra persolvantur ; in reliquis verò ejusdem Visitationibus , quamdiu in ea sede permanserit , dictorum feodorum dimidium tantùm exigatur .

Apparitores .
138. Apparitorum excessus coerciti .

QUoniam excessibus & gravaminibus , quae per Apparitores inferri dicuntur , remedium cupimus adhibere opportunum ; censemus Apparitorum multitudinem ( quantum fieri poterit ) restringendam . Statuimns ergo & ordinamus , nullatenùs licitum fore Episcopis vel Archidiaconis eorumve Vicariis seu Officialibus , aliisque inferioribus Ordinariis , deputare & habere plures Apparitores , jurisdictionibus suis respectivè inservientes , quàm ante triginta annos praeteritos vel ipsi , vel ipsorum praedecessores habere consueverunt ; qui omnes per se suum fideliter exequantur Officium , nec per Nuntios aut substitutos ( quocunque quaesito colore ) suâ vice mandatorum executiones demandent , aut permittant , nisi ex causa à loci Ordinario priùs cognita & approbata : neque vero promotorum Officii , vel denunciatorum personas omninò sustinebunt , feodave ampliora vel majora , quam quae his Constitutionibus superiùs statuuntur , ullatenùs exigent . Quòd si vel plures , quam superiùs est expressum , deputati extiteriat , vel illorum aliqui praemissa violaverint ; deputantes , si Episcopi sint , per Superiorem moniti supernumerarios dimittant ; si Ordinarii Episcopis inferiores , ab executione Officii suspendantur , donec hujusmodi deputatos amoverint ; Deputati autem ipsi ab Apparitorum Officio amoveantur perpetuò : & si amoti non desistant , ( tanquam contumaces ) Canonicis censuris coerceantur : Proviso semper , quòd si Archiepiscopus Cantuariensis experientia compertum habuerit , Apparitorum numerum in aliqua Dioecesi redundare , tum omnem ejusmodi redundantiam dicto Archiepiscopo relinquimus , pro ipsius beneplacito minuendam .

AUTHORITAS . Synodorum .
139. Synodus nationalis , Ecclesia repraesentativa .

QUisquis de caetero affirmabit , sacrosanctam hujus Nationis Synodum in Christi nomine , ac de Regis mandato congregatam , non esse repraesentativè veram Ecclesiam Anglicanam : excommunicetur , nequaquàm absolvendus , priusquam resipuerit , & impium hunc errorem publicè revocârit .

140. Synodi acta tàm absentes , quàm praesentes obligant .

QUisquis de caetero affirmabit , nullos sive Clericos sive Laicos , qui in eâdem sacra Synodo personaliter non convenerint , ejusdem Decretis , Ecclesiasticas causas concernentibus ( quantumvis ex suprema Regiae Majestatis authoritate conditis , & per eandem ratihabitis ) ullatenùs obligari , ut quibus ipsi votum & consensum suum non praebuerint : excommunicetur , nequaquàm absolvendus , priusquam resipuerit , ac impium hunc errorem publicè revocârit .

141. Synodi authoritati derogantes , coerciti .

QUisquis de caetero affirmabit , dictam sacram Synodum , congregatam ut suprâ , fuisse coetum ex talibus conflatum , qui in pios & religiosos Evangelii professores conspirabant , ac proinde tùm ipsos , tum ipsorum acta in Canonibus sive Constitutionibus circa causas Ecclesiasticas ex Regis authoritate ( ut praedictum est ) condendis , ac sanciendis rejici , ac contemni debere , quantumvis eaedem per dictam potestatem Regiam , ac supremam ejusdem authoritatem ratihabitae , confirmatae , ac injunctae sint ; excommunicetur , haud quaquàm absolvendus , priusquàm resipuerit , ac impium hunc errorem publicè revocârit .

FINIS .