February 1647: An Ordinance, concerning the growth and spreading of Errors, Heresies, and Blasphemies, and for setting apart a day of Publike Humiliation, to seeke Gods assistance for the suppressing and preventing the same.

February, 1647

[4 February, 1646/7.]

Wednesday March 10 to be day of Public Humiliation; Ministers to publish this Ord.

Wee the Lords and Commons assembled in the Parliament of England, having entered into a Solemne Covenant, to endeavour sincerely, really, and constantly, the Reformation of Religion in Doctrine, Discipline, and Worship, and the Extirpation of Popery, Superstition, Heresie, Schisme, Prophanesse, and whatsoever shall be found contrary to sound Doctrine, and the power of godlinesse, and having found the presence of God wonderfully assisting us in this Cause, especially since our said engagement in pursuance of the said Covenant: Have thought fit (lest we partake in other men's sins, and thereby be in danger to receive of their plagues) to set forth this our deepe sense of the great dishonour of God, and perillous condition that this Kingdome is in, through the abominable blasphemies, and damnable heresies, vented and spread abroad therein, tending to the subversion of the Faith, contempt of the Ministry and Ordinance of Jesus Christ: and as we are resolved to imploy and improve the utmost of Our Power, that nothing be said or done against the Truth, but for the Truth, so we desire that both ourselves and the whole Kingdome may be deeply humbled before the Lord, for that great reproach and contempt which hath been cast upon his name and Saving Truths, and for that swift distruction which we may justly feare will fall upon the immortall Soules of such who are, or may be drawne away, by giving heed to seducing Spirits. In the hearty and tender compassion whereof, We the said Lords and Commons doe Order and Ordaine, That Wednesday being the tenth day of March next, be set apart for a day of publike humiliation for the growth and spreading of Errors, Heresies, and Blasphemies, to be observed in all places within the Kingdome of England and Dominion of Wales, and Town of Barwick, and to seeke God for his direction and assistance for the suppression and preventing the same. And all Ministers are hereby enjoyned to publish this present Ordinance upon the Lords day preceding the said tenth day of March.