Religion - Scotland

What was the religion in Scotland?

Presbyterian

When did Charles first visit Scotland?

1633 - he went to be crowned there.

Why was Charles' coronation offensive to the Scots?

Charles chose to have the ceremony at Holyrood Palace (which was not the traditional place to have it) and he chose a form of ceremony that the Scots saw as Catholic leaning.

What actions did Charles do that were viewed as Catholic? (2)

He introduced the rank of bishop in Edinburgh and raised the church of St Giles to the status of a cathedral.

When did Charles announce his intention to introduce a new prayer book?

1633

When did Charles impose the new canons?

1636

What were the key aspects of the canons?

The altar had to be placed agains the east wall, ministers had to wear a surplice when they celebrated communion and ministers had to read from the new prayer book - improvised prayer was banned.

What was the effect of the new canons?

It was interpreted as an attempt to return to Catholicism and they were imposed by royal prerogative - Charles did not consult the General Assembly of the Kirk of Scotland or the Scottish Parliament before making these reforms.

When was the new Laudian prayer book introduced?

1637

What was the effect of this imposition? (3)

Charles did not consult the Scottish Kirk, Scottish Privy Council or Parliament again, it clearly leaned towards Catholicism and it threatened the religious independence of the Scots.

What was a consequence of the new prayer book?

It triggered a conflict in St Giles Cathedral with started the Scottish Rebellion - a stool was thrown at the Dean and violence ensued.

When did the riot in St Giles Cathedral happen?

23rd July 1637

When was the Scottish National Covenant formed?

28th February 1638

What was the Scottish National Covenant?

It was a manifesto/declaration of allegiance to unite those against Charles' religious policy and to maintain Presbyterianism as the main religion in Scotland - it condemned the canons and the prayer book.

Why was Charles' pursuit of interference in religion such an issue for the English and Scots alike?

The relentless pursuit of religious uniformity and conformity of worship antagonised many, especially as it was often closer to high-church Arminianism. Changes to church structure could just about be tolerated but the interference in worship was more of a problem.

How did Charles perceive the covenant?

As treason - he viewed any attack on his policy (religious or political) as one on his Divine Right, thus he believed the Scottish people had declared war on their own King.