The Acts of Famous National Councils of the Reformed Churches in France

CHAP. I. Of the DEPUTIES.

• Monsieur De la Touche, chosen President.
• Monsieur Pacard, Assessor. And
• Messieurs Vincent, and Chalmot, Scribes.

At this Synod there appeared these Pastors and Elders hereafter named:

FOR Brittany Master Peter Merlin, Minister of the Church and Family of the Lady of Laval, and Monsieur de Landauran, Elder of the said Church.

For the Higher Languedoc, and the Higher Guyenne, Master John Baptista Rotan, sub-delegated by Monsieur Balarand, who was deputed by the Provincial Synod held at Figeac in May last, 1596. But because of his Sickness he could not be present in the Assembly; and the said Monsieur Rotan was accepted in that Quality, but with this Proviso, That it should not be made a Precedent; and the Provinces are charged to acquaint their respective Deputies with it, that they ought not to delegate another in their slead.

I cannot pass by Monsieur Rotan, without a Remark, which may be read at large in Monsieur D' Aubigny's Histoire Univers. liv. 4. cap. 11. & liv. 5. cap. 2.

He, and one Marlas, who afterward revolted, with de Serres, Cayer, the Apostates, and de Vaux Ministers, finding no Gains nor Preferments to be had in the Reformed Churches of France, projected for their own Advancement, the Re-union of the two Religions, Protestant and Popish: they communicate their Design to the Lord of Sansy (who afterward turned Papist) to du Fay, Grand-son of the Chancellor L' Hospital, to Benoist Parson of St. Eustache, to Perron Bishop of Eureux, to Dr. Chauveau, and to Berange a Dominiean Friar, and to the Arch-Bishop of Bourges. Rotan got himself deputed with some others to the King at Mantes, in the Year 1595; and there promised, that in a Public Dispute, he would subtly betray the Cause of the Reformed unto the Romanists. But when it come to the push, whether it were that out of vanity he would not yield, or through remorse of Conscience, he drew back, and feigned himself sick. Monsieur Beraud Pastor of the Church of Montauban, entered the Lists in his stead, and stoutly maintained the Truth against the Adversaries, about the sufficiency of the Scriptures. Monsieur de Vaux, who was brought off with three Bills, one of Two thousand five hundred Crowns, and the other two of lesser Sums, falls into terror and horror of mind, hath no rest night nor day, and under this great anguish discovers the whole Plot for their Prevarication unto several Persons of Note and Quality, but with dreadful Cries and Groans, yet withal assureth them, that God will have mercy upon his poor Soul, notwithstanding the greatness of his sin, for he should die very suddenly, which he did the next Lord's Day: For having preached to his Congregation, and supped with some Friends, he took a solemn leave of them, and leading his Wife into his Bed-Chamber, he pronounced this Stave of the Fifty first Psalm.

And immediately died in the very place.

Monsieur D' Aubigni relateth, how that he unbosom'd himself unto him with many sighs, and having confessed his heinous Offence, he delivered to him the three Bills; which, after his Death, he gave back again unto his Heirs.

For Poitou, Master Dominick de Loss, Lord de la Touche, Minister of the Church of Mouchant, and St. Fulgent, Master Francis, L'Oystau, Minister of the Church and Family of the Lord Duke la Tremouille, and Mons de Fontaines Elder of the said Church. Their Temple in which they worshipped God was at Melle.

For the Lower Guyenne, Monsieur de St. Hilary, Minister of the Church of Nerac, without an Elder, Monsieur de Chastelet was excused upon the account of his sickness; and the Provinces shall be informed, that in case of sickness, they ought to substitute another, as also to depute unto these Synods one or two Elders.

For Orleans, Berry, &c. Master John Vian Minister of the Church of Angeau, Master Adam D' Orival Minister of the Church of Sancerre, and Master Giles d' Albert Junior, Citizen of Blois, deputed by the said Province.

For Dauphiné, Provence, and the Principality of Orange, Master Daniel Chamier Minister of the Church of Montlimart, Master John de Serres Minister of the Church of Aurenges, and there was joined with him Monsieur Hulson an Elder of that Church; but though he was chosen by the said Province, yet he was not present at this Synod.

For Lower Languedoc Master Laurence Brunier Minister of the Church of Usez, and Theodorick de Combez Baron of Fons, Elder of that Church.

For Normandy Master Giles Gautier Lord of la Bansenie, Minister of the Church of Caen, and Master Robert du Perron, Elder in the Church of Rouan.

For Lyonnois, Forest, and Beaujolois, Master Lewis Tourquet, Elder in the Church of Lions.

For Anjou, Touraine, &c. Master Felix du Tronchay Lord of la Noue, Minister in the Church of Beaufort, Master Francis Greliere Lord of Macefer, Minister in the Church of Saumur, and Master Briant Niotte, and Master Peter Coignet Lord of la Plante, Elders in the said Church of Sanmur:

For Saintonge, Augoulmois and Aunix, Master George Pacart Minister of Rochefoucald, and Monsieur Chalmot Elder in the Church of Rochelle.

The Provinces of Higher and Lower Vivaretz, and their Synod shall be censured for neglecting to send their Deputies unto this Assembly; and Masters Brunier and Chamier, are appointed to declare in their next Synodical Meeting, this very Censure by word of mouth unto them.

Bourbonnois, Auvergne, and the Province of Burgundy, having at present but one constituted Church in it, are excused for this time, and Monsieur de Serres is ordered to write unto the scattered Churches of those Dukedoms, that they rally and re-unite again together, and encourage the Faithful which are among them to re-assemble.

Monsieur de la Touche was chosen by common Suffrages Moderator, and Monsieur Pacart Assessor, and Master Vincent and Chalmot Scribes, to Collect and Register the Acts of this Synod.

The Assembly ordered, That the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper should be celebrated in this Church on the Lord's Day, June the 16th of this present Year 1596.

CHAP. II. Observations upon the Confession of Faith.

THE Confession of Faith was Read, Approved, and Sworn to by all the Deputies of this present Synod.

Once again the Printers shall be required to put the word Union, instead of that of Unity, in the 26th Article.

As also, That in the close of the Eight and thirtieth Article, these words of Institution in the Lord's Supper, Take, eat, and drink ye all of it; shall be added, according as it had been decreed by the last National Synod of Montauban.

CHAP. III. Observations upon the Church-Discipline.

The Discipline of our Church was read, and all the Deputies approved it, and sware to see it carefully observed.

I. THE Provinces are advised to see that the Sixth, Eleventh, and Twelfth Articles of the first Chapter, especially the Twelfth, be punctually observed, according to the Decree of the Synod of Montauban.

II. The One and twentieth Article in the Second Chapter, beginning with these words, Forasmuch as, shall be wholly removed from the Body of our Discipline.

III. The First Article in the Third Chapter of Elders shall be strictly observed. And the word Especially in the Sixth Article of this same Chapter shall remain.

IV. The Provinces are exhorted to maintain as great a number of Proposans as possibly they can, and Princes, Lord's, Gentlemen, Corporations, and such as to whom God hath given fair Estates in the World, and especially such as enjoy Impropriations, are bound in Conscience to employ a considerable part of their Revenues in so pious a work.

V. In reading the Chapter of Schools, it was decreed, That the Provinces should be advised to do their utmost, that a College be erected in each of them, and that by them all jointly, at least two Academies, the places of the Colleges and Academies shall be named by the Provinces. And the present Synod judgeth this City of Saumur a most convenient place for a College, and whenever God shall bless us with ability, for an Academy also; and entreateth the Lord du Plessis Governor of this place, to continue the Tokens of his good-will and kindness to this Noble and most Godly Design, which he hath so much affected, and the Deputies of this Assembly are entreated to excite their respective Provinces to promote it vigorously.

VI. The 8th Article in the Chapter of Elders and Deacons shall remain as it is, leaving the Consistories at liberty to make what changes they in their prudence may judge to be most expedient.

VII. The 8th Article in the Chapter of Consistories, recommending the reading of the Discipline, shall be better observed.

VIII. On the 22d Article of the same Chapter it was decreed, That in Public Confessions made by Penitents before the whole Church, those Crimes which would expose them unto Death, or brand them with Infamy, shall not be specified.

IX. The Provinces are advised to see that the last Article of the same Chapter be most exactly observed.

X. The Fifth and Last Article of the Sixth Chapter. The Provincial Deputies of Guyenne, Saintonge, and Normandy craved, That this Article might be moderated, because of its very great rigor. Whereupon it was advised, that after those words, Continued and maintained, there shall be these added, And in case any Churches or particular Persons refuse to contribute to the defraying of their Expences, who are to meet in those Ecclesiastical Assemblies, they shall be severely censured, as Deserters of that holy Union, which ought to be upheld among us, for our mutual preservation. And Ministers neglecting this Ordinance shall be liable unto the sharpest Censures.

XI. On reading the first Article of the Eighth Chapter, those Churches which have divers Pastors, are advised to send as many of them as they can alternatively unto their Provincial Synods.

XII. The Second Article of the same Chapter shall be most strictly observed. In the last Article of the said Chapter, the Deputy of Champagne declared unto the Synod, That the Church of Chaloons is the only one in that Province. Wherefore it was decreed, That the Church of Chaloons for the present shall be annexed unto the Isle of France, and there being left in the Province of Brittany, none other than the Church of Vitre, that also shall be joined unto Normandy.

XIII. The Deputy of Higher Languedoc demanding, That other Ministers present in our National Synods, though not deputed, might have their Votes in Consultations, unless in those Matters wherein they were personally concerned; it was decreed, that the third Article of this eighth Chapter should not be changed in the least tittle.

XIV. The fifth Article of the tenth Chapter. The Deputy of Normandy read the Memoirs of the Colloquy of Constantine, moving, that Exhortations might be permitted at the Interring of the Dead. The Synod past this Decree, That there should be nothing innovated in that Article.

XV. On reading the fifth Article of the eleventh Chapter, about baptizing of Gypsies Children, it was decreed, That the said Article should remain in its full force, only with the addition of these words, That the Surety do bind himself to maintain and educate the said Child in the fear of God.

XVI. It was decreed, That the sixth Article of the same Chapter shall abide unaltered, to wit, That no Baptisms shall be performed but in those places, and at those hours, when and where the Churches do ordinarily meet together for God's Public Worship. However, in Churches where there is no Sermon, this Sacrament may be administered according to their conveniency, but yet not without some kind of Exhortation. And in case a Parent should through infirmity urge the baptizing of his Child before Sermon, the Pastors shall advise what will make most for the edification of the People, and inform the Parent of it. And where Churches have their Meetings only on the Lord's Day, they are exhorted also to appoint some other Day of the Week for Public Christenings. On the eighth Article of the same Chapter, Parents shall be advised to choose such Sureties for their Children, as are Persons of Understanding, and capable of making good their Promises.

XVII. On the 13th Article of the same Chapter, the Deputies of Poitou demanded, Whether two Names might be given a Child at Baptism? To which it was replied, The thing was indifferent; however, Parents were advised to observe herein Christian simplicity.

XVIII. On the 5th Article of the 13th Chapter, it was decreed, That in all Espousals the Promises of Marriage shall be made in words de futuro, according to His Majesty's Ordinance; and that of Right they be indissolvable, unless some lawful impediment do interpose; and thus that Article shall be amended.

XIX. On the 6th and 7th Articles of the same Chapter, about degrees of Consanguinity, it was demanded, Whether in degrees not forbidden of God, and for which the King's. Grant may be obtained (as is promised us by the secret Articles of the Edict) in the third and fourth degree only, Pastors may proceed to the Celebration of such Marriages, without demanding a view of His Majesty's License? To which this Synod made answer, That they ought to solemnize the said Marriages without any scruple or difficulty, provided they met with no opposition at the time of their Celebration.

XX. On the 12th Article of the same Chapter, it was resolved, That the said Article should remain, only those words were to be left out of it, Because there is a secret affinity between the Parties, for that the Husband and Wife are reckoned but one Body.

XXI. From the 13th Article of the same Chapter, these words shall be removed, Not without cognizance had of the cause, and mature deliberation of the Consistory.

XXII. The 22d Article of the same Chapter. The Provinces are appointed to come prepared unto the next National Synod, that this Case may be then resolved, Whether it be not expedient that Widows should abide longer in their Widow-hood, before they be admitted unto a Second Marriage.

XXIII. The Twenty third Article of the same Chapter shall remain as it is.

XXIV. The Second Article of the Fourteenth Chapter shall be left as it is, and the Additions by the Synod of Montauban shall be observed.

XXV. These words, Nevertheless such shall not be condemned; and those which follow to the end of that Article, shall be cut off from the Twenty third Article, and instead of them these shall be inserted, And all of them shall be governed by the King's Law, and that of Charity.

XXVI. The Twenty fourth Article concerning the Sale of Offices shall be totally razed, and removed from the Body of our Discipline.

The above-mentioned Articles of Discipline having been read, and examined by all the Deputies of the respective Provinces were approved and confirmed by unanimous consent.

CHAP. IV. Of General MATTERS.

I. THE Deputy of Champagne shall advise the Church of Paris to beware of a certain Scot, going by the Name of Ottoman, or Homan, who would make an Hodge-podge of both Religions.

II. Monsieur Merlin demanding, Whether Mr. Calvin 's Catechism hitherto received in our Churches should be still retained, and publicly expounded? It was ordered, That there should not be the least alteration in this matter; but the Provincial Deputies are appointed to make Report hereof unto their respective Synods, that in the next National Assembly it may be more maturely debated and determined.

III. The Latin Disputations and Propositions desired by certain Provinces, are judged more convenient for Colleges and Universities than for Colloquies.

IV. The Deputies of Higher Languedoc demanded, Whether it were lawful to accompany the Papists at their Marriages and Baptism, as far as their Church-doors? Answer was given them, That it could not be done without sin, and therefore such as did, would be liable unto Censures.

V. The Article of the National Synod of Montauban, concerning the Loan of the Poor's Money shall be razed out.

VI. These words shall be added, As much as may be, to the Three and twentieth Article of the said Synod, concerning the Union proposed at Mants.

VII. The Nine and twentieth Article of the same Synod shall be incorporated with our Discipline.

VIII. The former part of the Thirtieth Article of the same Synod, concerning Presentations by Proctors shall be razed, but the last clause thereof shall abide in force.

IX. The One and thirtieth Article of the same Synod shall abide in its full power.

X. 'It is dismissed over to the next National Synod, to consider, whether the Scripture-songs, lately put in Metre by Monsieur Beza, shall be sung in our Churches; and the Provinces are requested to study the matter in the interval, that so it may be the more solidly debated.

XI. The Article of the same Synod about Registring the Names of Persons newly admitted into Church-fellowship with us, shall be observed; and as touching the subscribing their own Names, this shall be added, If it may be done.

XII. That Article about nominating Pastors for the Dispute, in case there be one, was approved: But, 1. That the Name of Monsieur Baron be razed out. And, 2. That instead of Monsieur de Serres, that of Monsieur Chamier be inserted, according as it was ordered by their Province. However, 'tis left unto the prudence of the Provinces to recommend any other, if they shall think fitting.

XIII. The Deputy of Lower Languedoc moved, That nothing might be innovated in that Article of the same Synod, concerning the Annual Holy-days. The Synod orders, That in those places where they be compel'd to refrain working on such Festivals, that 'tis lawful for the Pastors to preach unto their people, provided their Consistories content unto it, and on such Days whenas the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper comes to be celebrated, they shall take such Texts of Scripture to treat on, which they believe will best contribute to the edification of their respective Churches.

XIV. That Article concerning Duellers shall be punctually observed, and inserted into the Body of our Discipline.

XV. The Union between the Churches of this Kingdom, and those of the Netherlands shall be carefully maintained; and Monsieur Rotan shall write unto them in the Name of this Synod, expressing our earnest desire to conserve this Union by all lawful means: And this Assembly appoints the Province of Normandy to receive and answer their Letters, and also, if it be convenient to send a Deputy unto their National Synod, who shall receive his Instructions from those Persons who have assisted at our Ecclesiastical Assemblies.

XVI. The Churches are admonished not to receive any Persons into Communion at the Lord's Table, who inhabit those places in which there is no Public Exercise of the True Religion, unless they have Certificates from their Elders.

XVII. The Province of Normandy demanded Advice about that omission in the Form of Marriage; it was resolved, That Notice be given unto the Printers to insert again those words, Forasmuch as there is none that doth oppose.

XVIII. Letters written by the King unto this Assembly, and sent by Monsieur de Serres the 14th of May last, were read, wherein His Majesty giveth us assurance of his good Affection to us, and to maintain his Edict of the Year 1577, and that we should give credence unto the said Monsieur de Serres; as also Letters from the Lord High-Constable unto this Assembly, dated the 18th of May last, assuring us of the like kindnesses, and demanding the like Credence from us, to what should be declared by the said de Serres. It was decreed, That Answers should be returned unto His Majesty with the profoundest Reverence and Thankfulness, and His Majesty should be most humbly and earnestly entreated, to grant us the Gracious Effects of his Royal Favor. And in like manner shall there be Answer returned in Writing unto the Constable.

XIX. Monsieur D' Orival shall write from this Assembly unto the Church of Geneva, to acquaint them with the Frauds committed by their Book-sellers, who vend in these parts a number of Psalm-Books, and New Testaments of the old Translation, only prefixing a new Title, as if it were a new Impression and Translation; as also, to return our Thanks unto Monsieur de Beza, for Printing and Dedicating his Sermons upon the Passion, unto the Pastors and Elders of the Churches in this Kingdom.

XX. Monsieur D' Orival propounded, Whether it were, convenient, that our Ministers should be dispatched as Deputies unto those Assemblies, where Matters relating to the preservation of our Churches are debated? It was resolved, That because the present Juncture of Affairs did necessarily require it, they might be sent unto them.

XXI. The Deputies of Orleans craved Advice, Whether it were needful that the Contracts of Marriage should be seen before the Banes are published; because in their Province, the Contracts are not published till the Eve of the Marriage? This Assembly determines; That it shall be sufficient to see the Articles subscribed by the Principals concerned, or attested by the Public Notary.

XXII. The Province of Gascogny demanded farther, Whether such as made public profession of our Religion, before their admission into Church-Fellowship with us, ought particularly in the face of the whole Congregation to abjure the Mass? The Synod declared, That it was a matter of indispensable necessity.

XXIII. The same Province demanded farther, Whether Consuls and Magistrates professing the Reformed Religion, and living in those places where Colloquies and Provincial Synods are held, ought to be admitted into them? It was answered, They have no Right to be there; but in case they be Persons of eminent Piety, and such as may be useful unto the Assembly, Synods have full Power, if they desire it, to call them in unto them.

XXIV. It was again demanded by the Deputy of the same Province, Whether a Judge or Magistrate of the Reformed Religion might take a Papists Oath upon the Crucifix, Relicks, Altar, Pixes, and such-like Appurtenances of Idolatry, they demanding it? This Assembly adviseth, That no Protestant Judges do give them their Oaths in such a manner; but that he exhort those Persons to swear only by the true God; but if they will not do it, and are obstinately resolved to swear after their own way, the Judge may admit them, provided that they contain themselves within the bounds of His Majesty's Laws.

XXV. The Province of Saintonge craving leave for Monsieur Hautyn of Rochelle to print our French Bibles, he engaging his Word, to do it better for Paper, and fairer for Character, and at a cheaper Rate than those of Geneva, which are now become very rare and dear. This Synod doth permit the said Hautyn to print the Bible, and adviseth him to have a singular care that it be done most accurately and correctly.

XXVI. The Deputies of the Isle of France demanded, What course should be taken with those Persons, who having contracted Marriage within the Degrees forbidden by the Word of God, without any Dispensation, and being married according to the Romish Mass-Book, did notwithstanding earnestly desire to be admitted, by doing Public Penance, into Communion with our Churches? It was resolved, That such should not be received to the Peace and Fellowship of the Church, till they were first separated one from the other.

XXVII. The Province of Lower Languedoc moving, That no Minister might expound the Apocalypse, without the Advice of his Colloquy: it was granted, that no such Exposition should be undertook without the Counsel and Consent of the Colloquy or Provincial Synod.

XXVIII. The same Province demanding, What Censure ought to be inflicted on them, who marry their Children unto Papists? It was resolved, That both they and their Children should be deprived of the Lord's Supper, and do public Penance for this their Offence.

XXIX. The desire of the Province of Higher Languedoc is very well approved of, That Churches blessed by God with ability should be, and they be now exhorted to erect public Libraries for the Service of the Ministers and Proposans of their Churches.

XXX. The Churches are exhorted most carefully to observe in every point that Union which was made at Mantes, by the Deputies of the Churches of this Kingdom, for their mutual help and benefit, and they shall be informed by their Deputies of its necessity, and those Churches which will not conform unto the rest shall be most grievously censured.

XXXI. The Church of Paris is entreated to note and collect the passages in the Sacred Canonical Scriptures and Writings of the Fathers, which have been falsified and maimed by them of the Romish Church. And the Provinces are charged to send their Observations also to it, that so this desirable Work may be printed and published without any delay.

XXXII. The Deputy of Berry demanding, Whether it be lawful for Cousin Germans to marry, whenas the King hath given his License; it was resolved affirmatively.

XXXIII. The Lord du Plessis moving how expedient it would be, that in the King's Army there should be ordinarily some Ministers, towards whose subsistence, the Governors, Commissaries, and other Officers professing the Reformed Religion, should be exhorted liberally to contribute. This Assembly decreeth, That the Provinces, beginning with the Isle of France and Normandy, and following the Order prescribed by the 15th Canon of the Eighth Chapter of our Discipline, shall make choice of two of their Pastors to be sent into the Army, who shall each of them serve six Months, which term expired, the two next Provinces in order shall send two others to succeed them, and so consequently all the rest. And all Governors and Officers professing our Reformed Religion, are entreated to take particular care of their Maintenance and Encouragement.

XXXIV. Letters were presented unto this Synod by Monsieur Vulson, from the Gentlemen assembled at Loudun, which being read, and after hearing what he was charged to deliver us by word of mouth, viz. The Order established among the Churches for the preservation of their mutual Union, and to obtain a commodious Peace; it was very well accepted and approved by this Synod, who farther declared the necessity of a punctual and general Observation of it, at least until such times as it shall please God to incline the Heart of our King to grant us the Free Exercise of our Religion by a Royal and Favourable Edict, which may be embraced and approved by all the Reformed Churches of this Kingdom. And that the said Union and Order may be carefully preserved, all Pastors, Colloquies, and Provincial Synods, are earnestly entreated to put to their helping hand.

XXXV. Professors of our holy Religion having Law-suits, or Differences among themselves, be it either in Matters Civil or Criminal, shall be seriously exhorted by their Pastors to compose their Quarrels by Arbitrators of our own Religion, without impleading one another at the Bars of Popish Judges.

CHAP. V. Of APPEALS.

I. AN Appeal being brought by the Deputy of the Church of Dangeau, re-demanding Monsieur Vian, who by certain Colloquies was Licensed and sent unto the Church of Marchenoir, and whereunto the Provincial Synod had also consented. Upon hearing the Deputies of both Churches, and the said Monsieur Vian, this Assembly ordered, That the said Vian should be appropriated unto the Church of D'angeau, and that as he returned homeward, he should preach some Sermons at D'angeau aforesaid, and then return unto Machenoir, where he shall remain by the space of one Month: and if within that time the Church of D'angeau do not pay him all the Arrerages of his Stipend which they owe him, he shall be affixed wholly unto the foresaid Church of Marchenior; and if he be satisfied, and return to D'angeau, he shall be paid hereafter duly every Quarter his Salary; and in case the said Church should again fail in her Duty, as formerly, in not satisfying the said Vian within three Months, that Order of the Provincial Synod shall be confirmed, and the said Monsieur Vian shall be appropriated unto the Church of Marchenior.

II. An Appeal being brought by the Church of Fescamp, concerning the Person of Monsieur Lazarus Robert their Pastor, who by the Provincial Synod of Normandy was lent unto the Church of Pont-dorson; it is ordained, That the said Monsieur Lazarus shall remain with his Church of Fescamp, provided they take care for his better maintenance.

III. The Church of St. John d' Angely brought an Appeal, by the Advice of the Synod of Saintonge, wherein they declare, That Monsieur D'amours was sent unto the Church of Barbezieux; the Letters and Memoirs of the Consistory, and other Writings having been read, this Assembly determined, That the Synod of Saintonge had very good and sufficient grounds for their disposal of Monsieur D'amours; but Madam, the King's only Sister, having requested of this National Synod by her Letter, That the said Monsieur D'amours might be Pastor to the Church in her Family, this Assembly granteth unto her Royal Highness the said Monsieur D'amours, for the Service of her Church and Family; and forasmuch as the said D'amours doth ordinarily reside at St. John, the said Church is entreated to help that of Barbezieux; and in case they do not, the Provincial Synod are ordered to make provision for them. Monsieur Turquet, Deputy for the Church of Lion, entered his Protest against this Ordinance, concerning Monsieur D'amours, as prejudicial to the Church of Lions, which claimed him of Right as their own.

IV. An Appeal was brought by the Church of Marianges, from the Provincial Synod of Languedoc, which had adjudged Monsieur Moinier to the Church of Nismes; the Church of Nismes requesting, That in regard of her great Needs, Monsieur Moinier might be left unto her. This Synod de creeth, That forasmuch as the said Church of Marianges hath not appeared to defend its Appeal, the Order of the Provincial Synod of Languedoc shall stand in force.

V. Complaint being made by the Church of Aymet, against a Decree passed in the National Synod of Montauban, which adjudged Monsieur Balarand unto the Church of Castres, the Deputy of Aymet requiring, that the said Decree might be reversed, and the said Balarand restored unto the Church of Aymet, for the Reasons assigned by them, and Monsieur Rotan being heard on the behalf of the Church of Castres; it is ordained by this present Synod, That Monsieur Balarand doth of Right belong unto the Church of Aymet, and that he shall be restored again unto the said Church, which may recall him within three Months, counting from this 14th of June, 1596; and in case of his Disobedience unto this Order, he shall be interdicted the Exercise of his Ministry.

VI. An Appeal was brought by Monsieur Simon L'hermite, Lord of Puy, deposed from the holy Ministry by the Colloquy and Classis of Fontenay, held at St. Germain in March last, the causes and grounds of his Appeal having been reported to us, and the motives inducing the said Colloquy to depose him; to wit, his pertinacious asserting, That the Human Nature of our Lord Jesus Christ was destroyed in his Death: This Synod appointed Master Merlin, Rotan, de Serres, and the Lord du Plessis, to confer with the said du Puy, and to convince him of his Error; who relating to us, That the said du Puy doth own and approve our Confession of Faith, and that he had offended, and fallen into an Error as above-mentioned, which also the said du Puy confessed openly before this Assembly, That he had held that erroneous Opinion; but doth now acknowledge the Humanity of our Lord Jesus to have been ever conjoined to his Divinity in Life and Death, yea, whilst his Body lay in the Grave: and he doth abjure all other Errors contrary unto this Truth now subscribed by him. The Deputies also of the Province of Poitou, having been heard upon the whole matter, this Assembly approveth the Proceedings of the said Colloquy as just and equitable. But because the said du Puy hath abjured that his Error, and earnestly desireth to serve the Church of God, and promiseth for the future, to carry himself with greater modesty and humility; this Assembly doth restore the said du Puy unto his Office of the Ministry; yet ordaineth, That for three Months he shall be silent, and not exercise any of the Public Duties thereof; which time expired, he getting a Certificate of his pious Conversation from that Church wherein he liveth, he may be, by the approbation of the Colloquies sent unto any Congregation which shall give him a Call.

CHAP. VI. Particular MATTERS.

I. THE Theses of Anthony de L' Escale being presented unto this Synod, and diligently perused by it, they were found to contain divers erroneous Points of Doctrine, contrary to the analogy of Faith; yea, and contrary to the point of Justisication. Whereupon the said de L'Escale was interrogated, Whether he would receive Instruction in those Points which are contrary to the Confession of Faith of the Reformed Churches in this Kingdom; but he answered in the Negative, and that he would not submit himself to the Judgment of this Synod, nor be instructed by it, but boldly demanded, that we would either approve or reject his Theses. And although our Brother Mr Rotan, who was first deputed to confer with him before the Lord du Plessis, Governor of this City, and two Elders of the Church, had non-plust and silenced him, so that he knew not what to answer, yet nevertheless he did obstinately persist in his Errors and Self-conceitedness; Whereupon this Assembty having remonstrated to him his gross spiritual Pride, and wicked pernicious Errors, doth now ordain, That this Act shall be inserted into the Articles of the present Synod, that so the Reformed Churches of France may be cautioned against his false Doctrine, which hath been condemned by the Churches of Suitzerland; and Intelligence of this shall be given unto Monsieur Beza in Geneva, and to the French Church of Basil.

II. The Deputies of the Isle of France and Normandy, declaring, That they had only prosecuted the Verification of the Edict in 1577, for themselves; this Assembly was satisfied therewith.

III. Whereas Monsieur de Serres hath informed this Synod, concerning the Printing of his Harmony, and how impossible it is for him to transcribe three Copies, as he was ordered by the last National Synod held at Montauban: This Assembly hath therefore thought fitting, that this present Work be Printed either at Geneva or Rochelle, or any other place where they may be conveniently communicated unto the Pastors deputed by the Synod of that Province in which it shall be printed.

IV. The Censure denounced in the second Article of the National Synod of Montauban, against Monsieur Bargemont, shall be revoked, and struck off the File, because he hath given satisfaction unto his Province.

V. The Fact of Monsieur de Croix, heretofore Minister in the Church of Perigneux, shall be examined by the Provincial Synod of Dauphiné.

VI. Monsieur de Vielbancque complaining by Letters unto this Assembly, that he was deposed from the Ministry by the Colloquy of Berry, who were impowered to it by Authority of the last National Synod held at Montauban, and requiring that a Committee might be appointed to hear what he had to say in his own defense; a Vote passed, that his Cause should be dismissed over to the Provincial Synod of Gascoigny.

VII. The French Church in London, by their Letters to this Synod, earnestly requested, That Monsieur de la Fontaine might be continued among them; and the said Minister moved also by his own Letters to the same purpose: Whereupon Monsieur D'Orival, Deputy from the Province of Orleans entreated, That in case Monsieur de la Fontaine were yielded up unto the Walloon Church of London, that then Monsieur du Moulin might be given, during life, unto the Church of Orleans, and his Mission to it ratified by the Authority of this Assembly. The Deputy of the Isle of France also did consent, that on those Terms Monsieur du Moulin should be perpetually affixed to the Church of Orleans. This Assembly decreeth, That Monsieur de la Fontaine may remain in the Service of the Church of London, always that Right reserved which our Churches of France have unto him, and that Monsieur du Moulin be given forever unto the Church of Orleans.

VIII. Our Brethren, Pastors in the Church of Metz, excusing themselves for not sending a Deputy unto this Synod, by reason of their present Circumstances, and craving Advice about the dissoluteness of Habits: Monsieur de Serres is ordered from this Assembly to write unto them, That they do their endeavor to come unto the Synods of this Kingdom, and that they conform themselves unto that Article of the Discipline concerning Habits, without any the least difficulty: And this self-same Order shall serve also for the Provinces of Gascogny and Orleans, which demanded a larger liberty as to that Article.

IX. Letters were read from the Pastors of Sedan excusing their inability of deputing one from their Body unto this Synod, and craving Advice about the Marriages of such as were lately received into Fellowship with our Churches, whether their Nuptials might be solemnly blessed in our Assemblies before they had communicated at the Lord's Table, and claiming Monsieur Capel Lord of Tilloy, and some others, as their own Ministers, requesting also, that they might be assisted by a Collection in this their extreme necessity. After mature deliberation, it was resolved, That they should conform exactly as to their first demand unto the Articles of our Discipline without any the least repugnancy; and for the Second, they were dismissed over to the Synod of Champagne; and for the Third, we will endeavor to gratify their desires, and the Provinces shall be exhorted liberally to contribute to them, and the Monies of the said Collection shall be remitted unto Monsieur de Menilles, and de la Gourmandiere, Elders in the Church of Paris.

X. The Lord du Plessis Governor of this City, desiring that the Lord's going into the Army, might be exhorted to take with them a Minister; demanding also from this Assembly, that Monsieur de la Noue might be provided of a Pastor by our Authority. It was resolved, That the Lord's now going, and those who are already gone into the Army, should be advised so to do; and Letters shall be written unto the Church of Sedan, that they would be pleased to lend one of their Pastors unto Monsieur de la Noue, who may be sit for such an Employment; and in case of failure herein on their part, then the Colloquies of the Isle of France shall endeavor to get him one.

XII. Monsieur Manthois, according to the desire of Monsieur de la Banseric is granted unto the Church of Pont-dorson.

XII. The Lord Baron of Courtomer demanding by Monsieur de la Banseric, a Pastor for his Church of Courtomer, the Church of Paris was appointed to use all possible means to procure him one.

XIII. Master Gabriel Raoul formerly a Minister, requesting by his Letters to be restored unto his Office; this Assembly judgeth, That the Deposition of the sai • Raoul ought to be continued, whereof Notice shall be given him by Monsieur de St. Hilary.

XIV. Monsieur de Serres complaining of that Order past against him in the last National Synod of Montauban: This Assembly having with much patience for a long time together heard both him and the Deputy of Languedoc, finds that the Moneys for which he is questioned are not Ecclesiastical but Royal; as also, that in auditing his Accompts, he produceth not such Acquittances as will be sufficient for his discharge; it is therefore ordained, That he produce his Receipts within the Term prescribed him by His Majesty's Commissioner, and that having perfected his said Accompts, Notice thereof shall be given by the Pastors and Elders hereafter nominated to the Synod of Lower • anguedoc. And the Pastors named are Monsieur de la Noue, and Monsieur de Maceser, the Elders are Messieurs de Niotte, and Lestang.

XV. At the desire of Monsieur Turquet, Deputy for the Church of Lions, Letters shall be written unto that Church, to reduce themselves into Order, and to re-establish their Consistory.

XVI. The Letters from Mensieurs Merlin, Rouleau, and other Pastors and Elders of the Colloquy or Aunix, as also from the Judges in the Presidial Court of Rochelle being read, importing their unanimous desire that Monsieur Rotan may be detained at Rochelle, though' contrary to the Ordinance of the Provincial Synod of Saintonge, and having heard the oppositions made by Monsieur Chalmot, an Elder of the Church against that Ordinance, as also Monsieur Rotan, who submitted himself unto the Judgment of this Assembly, it was decreed, That the said Monsieur Rotan from hence-forward, should be Pastor to the Church of Castres, according to the Resolution of the said Provincial Synod.

XVII. The Ministers, Elders, and Deacons of the Church of Rochelle, sadly complaining unto this Synod, Messieurs de la Touche, and L'Oseau Ministers, and Messieurs de Fontaines, and de la Plante Elders are deputed in the Name of this Assembly unto Rochelle, and there to execute the Powers given them by this present Decree.

XVIII. There being Letters from the Lady of Laval, and the young Earl her Son, presented unto this Assembly by Monsieur Tilenus, certifying their great affection to the true and holy Worship of God, an Answer was ordered to be written to them, and the said Master Tilenus was exhorted to continue his careful instruction of the said young Lord, and Thanks also was given him for his Learned Writings in defense of the Truth.

XIX. The Churches of Higher Languedoc requesting it, Letters shall be written to the Lord Duke de la Force, Governor of Béarn, and to the Lord's of the Parliament of Pau, to do their utmost endeavor, that Mass be not again set up in Béarn, and the Churches of that Province shall be exhorted to send their Deputies unto our National Synods, in testimony of their Union with our Churches.

XX. The Letters of Monsieur Parent at present Minister in the Church of Jarzay, were read, craving his Dismission unto the Church of Bayeux, in the Province of Normandy; and complaining, That the Judgment given on his behalf, by the Synod of that Province, was never executed; it was decreed, That the approaching Synod of the said Province should either provide him of a Church, or declare him to be at full liberty to embrace any other Call.

XXI. The Deputies of the Isle of France moved, Whether Monsieur Cahier, a revolted Minister, ought not to be Excommunicated? and whether some Person should not be appointed to answer his Writings? And also, Whether Monsieur de la Planche should not be entreated to send the Writings of the said Cahier, unto the Church of Paris? It was resolved, That his Apostasy shall be published in the Church and Family of Madam, and that the Church of Paris, and in particular Monsieur de Serres, are to answer his Writings, in case he make any Reply; and Monsieur Clemeucear, shall entreat Monsieur de la Planche to deposit Cahier 's Manuscripts with the Church of Paris.

XXII. A Petition being presented on behalf of Monsieur de L'Essars late Minister of Loudun, this Assembly re-viewing the Sentence given by the Colloquy held at Nogent, binding the Churches of Vandôme and Montoire, to discharge the said Essars of a Debt of Ten Crowns, which he stood obliged for unto Monsieur Tore, it ratifieth the said Sentence, and adviseth the said Churches to see it executed; and in case of their poverty and inability, the Churches of the Province shall contribute towards the freeing of the said Essars from the aforesaid Debt, and Madam Tore is entreated to forbear it a little longer.

XXIII. The Elders of the Church of Saumur requesting, That Monsieur de L'Espine might be entreated to lay down his Ministry, because of his indisposition, they offering also to continue to him, as they have ever done, his present Salary; the Synod concurred with them, and order that he be persuaded to become Emeritus, especially since this Church will continue to him his double Honor, Reverence and Maintenance.

XXIV. Monsieur du Fresne, Minister of the Church of Laissay, complaining by his Letters unto this Assembly, very bitterly against his Church, and humbly entreating that he may be freed from them, his Case was remanded unto the Synod of that Province, who are exhorted to suppress those great disorders sprung up in that Church.

XXV. Monsieur Bergam, formerly a Minister, petitioning, That he might be restored to the Exercise of his Ministerial Office, he was advised, to betake himself wholly to the Profession of the Tongues.

XXVI. The Deputies of Dauphiné requesting, That the Sentence given by the Provincial Synod of Die, for re-instating into his Ministry Monsieur Mercure de Salans, because of his exemplary Repentance, and the singular effects it hath wrought among his People, might be confirmed, this Assembly doth ratify the said Sentence, and approveth of his restoration unto the Church of Valence; only with this proviso, That it shall not be made a Precedent, nor be drawn into Practice for time to come.

XXVII. The Deputy of Gascogny desiring, That the Church of Bergerac might be provided of a Pastor, this Synod ordaineth, That the Province do take special care of that matter.

XXVIII. The Province of Gascogny craving Advice, how to demean themselves towards Gaspar Olaxa, formerly a Minister, who presented his Petition, that he might be admitted unto Communion with us at the Lord's Table. This Assembly directs the Church in which he resides, to exhort him to fix his Habitation in some certain and known place; moreover, they shall prescribe him a pretty long time of Probation, and that expired, order him in Person to present himself unto the next National Synod, where he shall receive a full and final Answer.

XXIX. The business of Beaupoil, motion'd also by the same Deputies, is re-manded back unto their Provincial Synod.

XXX. A Petition was presented by the Church of Boslebec, That Monsieur D'Espoir, who is in truth their Minister, might be restored to them, or that another in his stead might be given to them, or that they might be reimburst of the Sum of Four hundred Livres, which they had contributed towards his maintenance. The Synod orders Monsieur Rotan, Deputy of Higher Languedoc, to tender unto the said D'Espoir, a Copy of his Churches Petition, that so he may return them an Answer within two Months time, by the way of Paris; and the Province of Higher Languedoc are charged in their next Synod, to know of the said D'Espoir, whether the matters contained in that said Petition be true or not; and if true, they shall enjoin him out of hand to perform one of those Conditions proposed by the said Church in their Petition; and the Province shall give an Account of the whole Affair to the next National Synod.

XXXI. The Decree of the National Synod of Montauban, shall be observed in that matter concerning Monsieur Berault, Minister of the Gospel, and the Deputies of Lower Languedoc are to acquiesce in it.

XXXII. The Deputies of the Province of Poitou requesting, That the Church of Lunere in Normandy, might be exhorted to pay Monsieur Vatble, who was formerly their Minister, his Arrerages owing to him. This Synod hath given in charge to the Deputies of Normandy, that pursuant to the Memoirs, deposited in their hands by the said Vatble, they endeavor to procure him all satisfaction possible.

XXXIII. The Memoirs of Limoges, presented by the Deputies of Gascony, are sent back again unto the Assembly of Loudun. And the Case propounded in those Papers, about Marriages contracted with a party of contrary Religion, is fully determined by our Discipline, which forbids the Blessing of those Marriages in our Churches, where one of the Persons refuseth to quit its Idolatry.

CHAP. VII. The Catalogue of the Deposed.

THE Deposed were Monsieur Peter Cahier of the Isle of France, Vielbancque in Languedoc, Peter le Roy, otherwise Boilem in Normandy, Godfrey de Vaux in Dauphiné, and John Cornille.

The Provinces shall be advised to beware of a certain pernicious Heretic, called Anthony de L'Escale, who roves up and down scattering his Errors, both by Writings and Discourses.

The Province of Lower Languedoc is charged to convene the next National Synod in the City of Montpellier, the First of May, in the Year 1598.

CHAP. I. Deputies and Officers of the Synod.

• • Monsieur Berault was chosen President.
  • Monsieur De Montigny, Assessor. And
• Scribes.
  • Monsieur De Macifer, and
  • Monsieur Cartau

There assembled at it the Pastors and Elders whose Names are underwritten.

• FOR the Isle of France, Picardy, and Champagne, Monsieur Francis de Lauberan, Lord of Montigny, Minister in the Church of Paris; and Moses Cartau, Elder of the said Church.
• For Orleans, Berry, Blezou, and Dunois, Master Michael le Noir, Minister of Chastillon on Loire, and Isaiah Fleureau, Elder in the Church of Orleans.
• For Dauphiné, and the Principality of Orange, Master Andrew Caille, Minister of Grenoble, and Master William Vallier Minister of Die, and Master Sebastian Julian Minister of Aurange, and Master Felix Elder in the Church of Montlimart.
• For Normandy and Brittany Master William Claud Picheron, Minister at Ponteau de Mer, without an Elder.
• For the Higher Languedoc, and the Higher Guyenne, Master Michael Beraut Minister of Montauban, Master John the Baptist Botan Minister of Castres, Master Gabriel Turonier Doctor of the Civil Law, and Master John Lisandre Doctor of the Civil Law, both Elders.
• For the Lower Languedoc Master Christopher Barjac, Lord of Gasquetz, Minister of Vigan, Master John Gigord Minister of Montpellier, together with Daniel Darnand, Lord de la Cassagne, and John de Boyere Lord of Camion, Elders.
• For Vivaretz Master Anthony Mercier, Minister of Chasteuneuf, and of Chalencon, and Master John Valeton, without Elders.
• For the Lower Guyenne, Master Moses de Ricotier, Minister of Clerac, Master Signeron du Fon, His Majesty's Advocate in the Court of Casteljaloux.
• For Saintonge, Aunix, and Augoumois, Master Fresnon du Vigier, alias du Vergier Lord of Moustier, Minister of St. John (d' Angely), and Master Michael Texier Elder.
• For Poitou Master Jonas Chesneau, Minister of St. Maixant, and John Renoy, Esq Lord of Braconnier, Elder in the Church of Poire and Belleville.
• For Anjou, Tourain, and Maine, Master Francis Grelier, Lord of Macefer, Minister of Saumur, without an Elder.
• For Provence, Balthazar de Villeneuve, Esq Lord of Tortonne, Syndick of the Churches in the said Province.
• No person appeared at this Synod for Burgundy, Lyonnois, and Forest.

The Synod being opened by solemn Invocation of the Name of God, Monsieur Berault was chosen President, and Monsieur de Montigny Assessor, and Monsieur Macifer, and Monsieur Cartaub Scribes.

Monsieur Du Moulin, Deputy for Orleans, being sick, divers Churches of that Province, together with the Deputies of Normandy, and the Isle of France, substituted in his stead Monsieur le Noir, which was well approved by the Synod, and a Decree passed in it, that the Provinces should nominate three or four Persons for the future, to represent them in these National Assemblies, that in case of sickness, or any other accident which might hinder their attendance, there might be some others to supply that default.

The Provinces of Normandy, Anjou, and Vivaretz, were censured for not sending Elders together with their Ministers.

Because of the great Desolations and Dispersions of the Churches in Provence, the Synod granteth unto their Deputy his Vote in all Debates, controverted Cases between the Provinces only excepted, and this for that he wanted his Letters of Deputation.

CHAP. II. Observations upon the Confession of Faith.

OUR Confession of Faith being read, was universally approved in all its Articles, by the whole Assembly.

Printers are admonished to prefix no other Title than what is usual, unto this Confession; and for time to come, they shall not add these words, Revised and Approved, in such and such a Synod.

CHAP. III. Observations upon the Church-Discipline.

I. THE Second Article in the First Chapter, concerning Ministers, being read, That instead of these words, In a Provincial Synod, these shall be inserted, By and with Advice of the Provincial or National Synods.

II. The Churches shall be exhorted to observe exactly the 4, 5, 11, and 13 Articles of this First Chapter, together with that Ceremony of Imposing Hands in Ordination, and the Refractory shall be censured.

III. The last clause of the Article concerning Printers shall be struck out, because it is comprised in the fifteenth Article of Particular Orders.

IV. The Churches of the Isle of France desiring an Explanation of the 38th Article of the first Chapter of the Discipline, the Synod adviseth, That difference be made between Ingratitude and Inability, and that where the Ingratitude on the Churches part is visible, the Article shall be observed, but not otherwise.

V. And that the 45th Article of the first Chapter, and the eleventh Article in that of Provincial Synods may be more carefully observed, this Assembly enjoineth the Provincial Synods to bring with them unto the National, an Attestation of their Duty performed unto their Pastors, who through Sickness are disabled from Exercising their Ministry, as also of what hath been done by them for the Widows and Orphans of such as are deceased, that in case a Church-Colloquy or Province have not wherewithal to relieve them, Provision may be made for them by the National Synod.

VI. After these words in the 43d Article, Great and small, there shall be these subjoined, Of whatsoever Condition or Quality they may be.

VII. For the better keeping of the fourth Article in the second Chapter, and that all Obstructions may be removed▪ the Synod enjoineth all Deacons to bring unto their Colloquy or Provincial Synod, the Accounts given by them of the Poors Money, that we may know whether the Fifth Penny hath been defaulked, and laid by for though maintenance of our Proposans.

VIII. Instead of these words in the fourth Article of the second Chapter, It were good, shall be inserted, It is necessary.

IX. To prevent those Disorders which daily happen from Attestations given unto the Poor, the Synod decreeth, That all Churches do their endeavor to maintain their own Poor, and in case any one through necessity be obliged to travel from home, the Ministers shall carefully examine the grounds thereof, whether just and valid, and so shall give them Letters Recommendatory unto the next Church, leading directly unto that place whether their Affairs call them, specifying the Name, Age, Stature, and Hair of the Dearer, and the Place whereunto they be going, and the Cause of their Travel, and the Relief that hath been given them, which said Certificate the Ministers to whom they apply themselves shall keep by them, and give them another directed also unto the next Church; and whatever Attestations have been given formerly, or may be in time to come any otherwise than as now prescribed, shall be null, and torn in pieces.

X. To those words in the 16th Article of the fifth Chapter, And which giveth great scandal to the whole Church, there shall be subjoined, And those also who contrary to the godly Counsels given them, do marry according to the Popish manner, and Parents who consent unto such Marriages of their Children, and they likewise who carry their Children unto Popish Priests to be baptized by them, or become Sureties for those Children so baptized.

XI. The Church of Castres moved this Case, Whether an Extract of some few, or more Articles of our Discipline might lawfully be communicated unto the Magistrates of both Religions, for their better Conduct in the Exercise of Justice? This Synod resolveth affirmatively; yea, and that the whole Body of our Discipline may be presented them; there being nothing in it, but what ministereth unto edifying.

XII. Because of the present Distress and Poverty of bur Churches, and till such times as the Lord shall have blessed us with greater abilities, it is ordained by this present Synod, That the National Synods shall be convened only once in three Years, unless it be in case of very great necessity, as of Heresy and Schism, whereof the Province charged, to convene it, shall take special Cognisance, and on this Condition, that every Province do send their full number of Pastors and Elders, as they be obliged by that Article of our Discipline, otherwise they shall have no power of Voting in that Synod.

XIII. In explaining the fifth Article of the tenth Chapter of our Discipline concerning Funerals, it was decreed, That Ministers should hinder the distribution of the Deceased's Alms at their Interrments, that so those inconveniences, which would otherwise fall out, may be prevented.

XIV. That Article of the Synod of Saumur, concerning the Administration of Baptism, after Singing the last Psalm, before the Blessing shall be inserted into the eleventh Chapter of our Discipline.

XV. Having read, and carefully examined the Memoirs sent from the Provinces, concerning the fifth Article of the thirteenth Chapter of our Discipline, about the Form in which Promises of Marriage are to be conceived and uttered, this Assembly ordereth, That both that Article of the Discipline, and of the last Synod of Saumur shall be amended, and that the Churches be left to their own liberty and discretion, either to use the words de praesenti or de futuro.

XVI. In explaining the tenth Article of the same Chapter, this case was propounded by the Colloquy of Foix: A Man espoused the Widow of the Deceased, who was married to his own Sister in a former Marriage: The Synod judgeth, That such a Marriage is not incestuous, nor comprised in the said Article, forasmuch as Affinity ceaseth by Death, and proceedeth not beyond the Persons conjoined by that said Affinity.

XVII. A Question was moved upon reading the 16th Article of the 13th Chapter, Whether it were lawful to give them a Certificate to be married out of their own Churches, Who desired it for this reason only, that they might avoid Bewitching and Impotency procured by tying the Point? This Assembly ordaineth, That it shall not in the least be granted them, and adviseth them not to give way unto such fears, proceeding from their weakness and unbelief, and the Faithful are exhorted to arm themselves against such Attempts by an entire confidence in God's Holy Word, and by fervent Prayers to vanquish such Illusions; and to come unto the Ordinance of Marriage, when blessed in our Churches, with more Reverence, Attention, and Devotion than is usual.

XVIII. The Assembly decreed about the 23d Article of the same Chapter, concerning Widows Marriages, That they shall not be admitted to contract Marriage, till seven Months, and fourteen days be fully expired after their Husbands Death.

XIX. The 21st Article of the same Chapter being examined, the Church in the House of her Highness the King's Sister, craved Advice for their Conduct in that great Concern of her Royal Highness's Marriage with the Prince of Lorraine; because, althô she had employed the Authority of the Provincial Synod, and of divers famous Persons both within and without the Kingdom, yet she cannot any longer hinder it. This Synod approving their Duty judgeth this Marriage utterly unlawful, nor shall it be permitted in any of our Churches, and Letters to this purpose shall be written to her, and all Ministers are enjoined carefully to observe this Article, otherwise they shall be suspended and deposed from their Ministry. And this Injunction shall be annexed to the Articles of our Discipline. N.B.

XX. A Case was propounded upon the Article of Incests: A Maid was married in her Nonage to one who in his first Marriage had espoused her Aunt, by Papal Dispensation, and had Children by her, now she is since come to the knowledge of the Truth, embraceth and makes open profession thereof, but not her Husband, she also hath born him Children; may this Woman be received into Communion with our Churches. This Assembly distinguishing between Affinity and Consanguinity, and considering the time wherein the said Marriage was contracted, and that the Dispensation, such as it was, is reputed a Law in this Kingdom, and because the Husband is of the contrary Religion, adviseth, That without approving the said Marriage, she be received unto Communion with us in the Sacraments. And this shall be published unto the People.

XXI. On the Article of Public Penance for Scandals, the Province of Higher Languedoc moved, Whether a Man convicted and condemned by the Civil Magistrate for a certain Crime, which yet he pertinaciously denieth, may be received to the Peace and Fellowship of the Church, without undergoing Public Penance? This Assembly judgeth, That in the first place, the past Life of this condemned Person be revised and examined, and then the Accusations brought in against him, the Witnesses attesting them, and the Judges passing Sentence on him, and then to ponder all Circumstances and Proofs over and above what were produced before the Magistrate: and if alter the greatest diligence used herein, and Adjurations made him in the Name of God to confess the Truth, he still persists in his denials, he may be received unto the Lord's Table, provided that the Church be publicly acquainted in his presence, that the Judgment of the whole Process lieth between God and his own Conscience.

XXII. Instead of those words in the beginning of the 26th Article of the same Chapter, Who shall have dwelt, there shall be inserted, Who being espoused shall have dwelt together.

XXIII. A Case being moved, Whether Lands might be purchased on these Terms, That you keep up Divine Service, as 'tis called in the Church of Rome? This Assembly is of Opinion, That we should make a difference between those who purchase upon Terms of paying such and such Suits and Service unto a Bishop, Abbot, or Curate, and those who in downright Terms scruple the causing Mass to be said or sung: the former of these be not liable to Church Censures; but the latter must be informed, that they cannot with a safe Conscience neither possess nor acquire such Lands or Leases.

XXIV. Proctors and Advocates, i. e. Attorneys and Counselors professing the Reformed Religion, may not take of their own accord Monitories out of the Popish Ecclesiastical Courts: But Judges being Public Persons, and having Authority to declare what is Law, and ought to be done, may order what they shall do in such Cases.

XXV. The last clause of the 13th Article in the Chapter of Ministers shall be struck out, because 'tis comprised in the 15th Article of the last Chapter of our Discipline, concerning Particular Orders.

XXVI. Divers Provinces complaining of the Licentiousness of Printers in publishing all sorts of Books: Cities and Churches having Printers in them, are advised to suffer no Book to get into the Press, till it hath been first of all seen and approved by the Church.

XXVII. To that Article of Players and Mummers, shall be added Juglets, Players of Hocus-pocus, Tricks of Goblets, Puppet-playing, Morrice-dances, and all Christian Magistrates are advised not in the least to suffer them, because it feeds foolish Curiosity, puts upon unnecessary Expences, and wastes Time.

XXVIII. A Lottery ordained by the Magistrates Authority for the Relief of Minors, Debtors, and poor Merchants, shall not be condemned; but others of a different nature, such as that called The Wheel of Fortune, and the like, are peremptorily forbidden.

XXIX. The Faithful ought not to Feast at those Banquets made by Priests when they first sing Mass.

XXX. Forasmuch as Whoredom, especially in Women, brings with it a brand of Infamy; this Assembly explaining the 21st Article of the fifth Chapter of our Discipline, doth decree, That the Penance of such Persons as have been guilty of those scandalous Crimes, shall be left unto the discretion of the Consistory.

CHAP. IV. Of APPEALS.

I. THE Appeals of the Church of Rochelle from the Synod, of Anjou, about their pretended Claim to Monsieur de la None, as also that of the Church of Castle-Gautier, are both evacuated and disannulled.

II. An Appeal being brought by the Colloquy of Higher Rouargue, for that the Provincial Synod of Figeac and Castres had ordained the Provincial Synods to be held at this time in the Colloquies of Albigeois, Lauragais, and Lower Quercy only; this Assembly declareth, That for time coming, the Discipline shall be expressly followed, and that the next Provincial Synod shall be held in the Town of Millaud; but on this condition, that unless the said Colloquy do send their Deputies unto the said Provincial Synod, they shall then forfeit their Right.

III. The Appeal of Monsieur Croiseit from the Synod of Guyenne was made void, because it was against the Discipline, and for that he hath not appeared at this Synod in Person.

IV. This Assembly declareth the Appeal of the Church of Metz and Verdun to be good and valid, and ordaineth, that they shall be incorporated with the Colloquy of Montauban.

V. Forasmuch as Monsieur Quentin receiveth a very small Salary from his Church, and hath been many Years in their Service, this Assembly confirms the Decree of the Lower Languedoc, granting him a License to Teach Youth for his better maintenance.

VI. The Differences between the Synods of Higher Languedoc, and the Lower Guyenne, about the Churches of Nerac, Leirac, and others of the Lower Armagnac, are dismissed over by this Assembly to be finally decided by the next National Synod.

VII. Monsieur Galoy shall be returned to his Church of Barjac, provided they pay him within three Months all his Arrears, and therefore the Sentence past by his Provincial Synod against him, is declared null and void.

VIII. The Appeal of the Upper Poitou, pretending Right to the Ministry of Monsieur Caynard was made void, because the Elder of the Church of Figeac desisted of his own accord from prosecuting of his Appeal, and that this Assembly had ordained his continuance in the Church of Fontenay.

IX. The Elders of the Church of Montpellier appealing from their Provincial Synod, because their Judgment was not demanded upon the Proposition made by Monsieur Peyrol their Proposant; this Assembly declares, That the Elders have not any Right of appealing in such a Case, till they have first communicated it with their Pastors in Consistory; and it ordains, that in all Propositions the Suffrages of the Elders shall be gathered; but whenas the Debate is about Points of Doctrine, the decision of them is vested by the Discipline wholly in the Ministers.

X. Those of Florensack bringing their Appeal from the Provincial Synod of Lower Languedoc, this Assembly judgeth, That Monsieur De Croy doth of Right appertain unto the Church of Florensac as their own Minister, but by reason of the great Necessities of the Churches, it is decreed, That he shall serve both his own, and the Church of Beziers alternatively, so that the Provincial Synod allow him an Assistant.

CHAP. V. Of General MATTERS.

I. BY reason of the great Difference in the Copies of our Discipline, of the Emendations and Additions by the Synods of Montauban, Saumur, and this now sitting at Montpellier, that it may be reduced into an exact Order, couched in plain and significant expressions, this Assembly ordaineth, That two Pastors out of each Province, whose Names are here mentioned, shall undertake and finish this Work. Viz.

• Messieurs De Beaulieu, and de Montigny for the Isle of France.
• Messieurs Picheron, and Cartaut for Normandy.
• Messieurs D'Orival, and Fontanez for Orleans.
• Messieurs Mermett, and St. Hillary for Lower Guyenne.
• Messieurs Gardesy, and Olivier for Higher Languedoc.
• Messieurs Valeton, and du Croix for Vivaretz.
• Messieurs Gasquetz, and Villette for Lower Languedoc.
• Messieurs Du Mont, and Merlin, for Saintonge.
• Messieurs Des Agues, and Macifer for Anjou.
• Messieurs Chamier, and Vinay for Dauphiné.
• Messieurs Eynard, and Moureau for Poitou.

And having performed this their Task, they shall communicate it unto their Synods, that so they may come prepared unto the next National Synod to complete and perfect it.

II. Forasmuch as 'tis the Duty of all the Faithful, heartily to desire the Reunion of all the Subjects of this Kingdom in the Unity of Faith, for the greater Glory of God, the Salvation of Millions of Souls, and the singular Repose of the Commonweal; yet because of our Sins, this being rather a Matter of our Prayers, than of our Hopes, and that under this pretext divers profane Persons attempt openly to blend and mingle both Religions, all Ministers shall admonish seriously their Flocks, not in the least to hearken unto any such motions; it being utterly impossible, that the Temple of God should hold Communion with Idols; as also, for that such Wretches design only by this Trick to debauch easy credulous Souls from the belief and profession of the Gospel. And whoever attempts such a Reconciliation, either by Word or Writing, shall be most severely censured.

III. This Assembly having read the Letters sent it from the Church of Geneva, and considered the Arguments contained in them, and others offered to us, doth decree, That nothing shall be innovated in the Liturgy of our Churches, in the Singing of Psalms, and Form of Catechising. And whereas Monsieur de Beza did, at the Request of divers of. our last Synods, translate into Metre the Scripture-Songs, they shall be received and sung in Families, thereby to dispose and fit the People for the Public Usage of them in the Churches, until the next National Synod.

IV. The Churches of Geneva, Béarn, Basil, the Palatinate, and many others from divers parts of this Kingdom, complaining of several Writings published on design of Re-uniting the two Religions in one Doctrine, to the apparent prejudice of God's Truth, and in particular, of a certain Book, Entituled, Apparatus ad fidem Catholicum: and another bearing this Inscription, Avis pour la paix de L'Eglise & Royaume de France: This Synod having read and examined those aforesaid Writings, and received the Judgment of the Colloquy of Nismes, and of the Deputies from the other Colloquies in that Province, as also the Censures of the above-mentioned Churches, doth condemn them, as containing divers Erroneous Propositions, to wit, That the true Doctrine was kept entire and sound among all that are called Christians: That those of the Church of Rome having the self-same Articles of Faith with us, the same Commandments of God, Forms of Prayer, Baptism, and the same Means and Ordinances to attain everlasting Salvation as we have, are consequently the true Church, and that the Difference betwixt us is only verbal, not real: That they would have the Ancient Councils and Writings of the Fathers to be Judges of the Points in Controversy between us; and that because they quote the Canons of Gratian under the Name of the Catholic Church, therefore we are made the Authors of that Schism, and of those Civil Wars which have happened in this Kingdom; and several other suchlike Matters: And all the Churches are enjoined to beware of them. And whereas there is a Manuscript handed up and down with this specious Title, Elenchus Novae Doctrinae; the Colloquies of Montpellier and Nismes are charged to peruse it, and in case they find nothing in it contrary to the Doctrine received and taught in our Churches, they may, giving it a Preface, give it also a License to be Printed.

V. This Case of Conscience was propounded, Whether a Sovereign Prince for certain Causes moving him thereunto, may not grant a Pardon unto a Person guilty of those Crimes which had deserved Death, or change his Punishment into a less, or delay Execution of the Sentence past upon him. This Assembly having carefully examined the Circumstances of this Case doth judge, That by the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ we be not bound unto the Political Laws of Moses, but that all Punishments are now arbitrary, and that from Scripture-Instances the Sovereign Magistrate may very well do it, when the Public Interest is concerned.

VI. Another Case also was moved, Whether a Parent or Special Friend (whatever his Condition or Quality be, though' it were that of a Minister of the Gospel) might lawfully petition the Sovereign for his Relation or Friend's Pardon? The Synod answereth, That this Case is decided by the former; for if it be lawful for the Sovereign to give, it is lawful also for a private Person to take out a Pardon, provided it be not by any indirect or sinful means.

VII. Whoever hath maimed another unjustly, so that he is thereby disabled from gaining his Livelihood, or that of his poor Family, if so be the Maimer be a Man of Estate, he shall be urged by Church-Censures to allot him a Pension for his Subsistence, altho' he be not condemned to it by the Civil Magistrate, because he cannot better express the sincerity of his Repentance, than by this Act of Charity.

VIII. Promises of Marriage made by Persons of competent Age to be married, and those Promises past with consent of Parents, Tutors, and Guardians, and by words de praesenti, are indissolvable.

IX. It is not contrary to Christian decency, for espoused Persons to lodge under the same Roof before Marriage.

X. That Obligation laid on Sureties in Baptism doth not only import their Education of the Children in Godliness, but this also, that in case of need, they provide for their maintenance.

XI. Churches having at their own Charges bred up Scholars to the Ministry, and do now enjoy their Labors in the Word and Sacraments, if they carry themselves unworthily towards them, as in not giving them equal Stipends with their Colleagues shall be censured, and in case they do not reform, the Colloquy or Provincial Synod may grant a License unto those Ministers to forsake them, and also to provide them of some other Church, according to the Discipline.

XII. The Deputies of the National Synods shall within one Month alter their Return, advertise the Colloquies of their Provinces to take Copies of the Acts of these National Synods, and this at the sole Expence of the said Colloquies.

XIII. When a Province desireth some considerable alteration to be made in the Articles of our Discipline, it shall give Notice thereof unto that which is charged to convene the next National Synod, that by it the other Provinces being informed, their Deputies may come prepared for the Debate. However, we do not hereby mean, that the National Synods should be over-ruled by the Provincial.

XIV. Master Chamier and Brunier having brought Letters from the Assembly of the Churches at Chastel-heraut, together with the Edict granted us by His Majesty, and understanding by them, that had it not been for that good Union and Correspondence which is among us, we had never got the Liberty of our Consciences in the Public Profession of the Gospel and Service for our God, nor Justice to be administered to us, nor other needful Securities for our Lives. This Synod considering former defects in this matter, doth now protest and resolve, That for the future that Union subscribed and sworn at Mants, shall be better and more strictly kept and observed than ever, that so the Articles of this Edict may be performed to us, and all other things needful for our preservation, in our Obedience to his Majesty, and his Edicts: and we will also take care that the Provinces do the same, and that if any Person should in the least transgress them, or prove disobedient to our Remonstrances herein, they shall be prosecuted by all the Censures of the Church.

XV. The Provinces also shall be exhorted to receive and observe the Orders sent them from the Assembly at Chastelheraut, and to defray the Charges of the Deputies, they being necessitated to reside there to see to the Execution of the Edict, unless His Majesty shall of His Royal Bounty provide for them.

XVI. This Synod proceeding to distribute the 43333 Crowns, and of the one third of them Granted by His Majesty towards the Relief of our Churdies, hath and doth ordain that 3333 Crowns, and one third shall be employed in the erecting of two Universities, one of which shall be at Saumur, and the other at Moutauban, and towards the Maintenance of each of them, it doth assign 1111 Crowns, 6 Sous, and 8 Deniers, and to the erecting of two Academies in Theology, the one at Montpellier, the other at Nismes, for Montpellier 500 Crowns, and the rest for Nismes. And the remaining 40000 Crowns shall be distributed among the Churches, as well those which are already, as those which may be hereafter constituted. And a Catalogue was read of the Churches now in being, whose Number was found 760, to wit, in the Isle of France, Picardy, Champagne, and Brie, 88. Normandy 59. Brittany 14. Burgundy 12. Lyonnois 4. Forest, Dauphiné, and Provence 94. Vivarets 32. Lower Languedoc 116. Higher Languedoc, and Higher Gnyenne 96. Lower Guyenne 83. Poitou. 50. Saintonge 51. Anjou. 21. Orleans 39. Which is for each of them 52 Crowns, 37 Sous, and 10 Deniers.

And all the Churches shall be obliged to send their Accounts of Moneys paid by them unto their Pastors, who have actually served them, and the said Accounts shall be then accepted, if the Acquittances be signed by those Ministers ow • n hands, who received the Moneys, and the over-plus of this Money remaining, shall be returned unto the Synod, to be disposed of according to their Orders, and by the Ministers to be relieved we understand such also, who through Age or Sickness are uncapable of discharging the Duties of their Calling; and farther, we leave it to the Prudence of the Provinces what Allowances to make unto their Proposans, and to the Widow sand Orphans of their deceased Ministers, and to maintain as many of them as they shall judge expedient, whose Names and Number also shall be inserted in these Accounts aforesaid, and their Acquittances subscribed with their own hands, shall be brought unto the National Synod. And the Provinces shall give a demonstration of their care in erecting Academics, and yield up their Accompts in like manner as was before ordained. The Receivers of this Money shall be nominated by the Provinces. And the Assembly of Chastelheraut shall be entreated to give us their Advice, for the best and speediest course of getting the said Moneys. And this Order shall hold good until the next National Synod, which shall be called by the Province of Normandy in the Month of June three Years hence, and the Synod next after that shall be held in Dauphiné.

XVII. Letters shall be sent in the Name of this Synod, unto all French Ministers abroad out of the Kingdom, requiring them to return unto the Service of their Churches upon the first Summons, who shall furnish them with necessary Supplies for their Journeys: and whereas divers have departed without leave first obtained from their Provinces, because of the Troubles and Persecutions, the Synod orders, that they return forthwith, as in Duty they are bound, unto their respective Churches, God having now blessed us with Peace. And hereupon the Church of Paris, according to this Article, required Monsieur D'amours to return back unto his Province.

XVIII. As soon as the Edict shall be published, those extraordinary Times of Prayer ordained in the Churches shall cease; and the Churches are requested, particularly to remember in their Prayers unto the Throne of Grace, those of the Low Countries.

CHAP. VI. Particular MATTERS.

I. LEtters shall be written unto the Churches of the Low Countries, expressing our Grief, for that their Deputies came not unto this Synod, according to the Advice that was given them, as also to entreat them to inform us of the time when their Synod shall be convocated; and the Province of Normandy is ordered to send the Deputies unto it.

II. Monsieur Chesneau shall write to Monsieur de la Planche, entreating him to deposit with the Church of Paris those Papers which belonged to that Apostate Cahier, and are in his Custody, and Monsieur L'Esperient shall make enquiry what are become of those Manuscripts of his that were in Béarn, and if possibly they may be retrieved, to send them also unto the Church of Paris.

III. Monsieur Berault is appointed to answer the Writings of du Perron, and Monsieur de Montigny those of Cahier; and as for other Books published against us, that Article of the Discipline relating to this head shall be punctually observed, and the Charges of their Impression shall be defrayed out of the Moneys granted us by the King, and allowed by producing an Attestation from the Colloquies.

IV. The Province of Normandy is entreated to mediate with the Church of Lunere, that their former Pastor Monsieur Vatable be paid his Arrears otherwise they shall be censured according to the Discipline.

V. Upon hearing the Differences between the Churches of Boislebec, and Gurville, with Monsieur de Videt d'Espoir, and having pondered all Circumstances, this Synod determines, That of Right he belongs unto the said Churches, because he was maintained by them for four Years together, yea, and when they were driven away one from the other into Foreign Lands, and for that the Term ordained in such a Case by the Discipline is not yet expired. However, in consideration of his Age, and numerous Family, and the distance of Places, and the conveniences he hath near Pamiers; as also, that without great damage unto himself he cannot remove, the Synod declares for his comfort, that he may live in the City of Pamiers, upon condition, that within six Months the Province do furnish those said Churches with a Pastor, and the Church of Pamiers shall bear the one half of his Charges in Travel, which also is censured for enforcing the said Monsieur de Videt to enter himself into Bonds to them in the Sum of sixty Crowns, for re-imbursing them the Expences of his Journey, in case he should not tarry with them.

VI. Monsieur Franc petitioning to be restored unto the Ministry, was told by this Assembly, That because of the number and heinousness of his Crimes, deserving Corporal Punishment, and marked with a brand of Infamy, and for that he gave in but a very sorry Evidence of his Repentance to us, that therefore he ought not to be restored. However, he wax advised not to slacken his Studies, but to take up with some other Calling.

VII. Madam, the King's Sister, requesting, That Monsieur de la Touche might be given for four Months in the Year to the Church in her Family, this Assembly consented to it until the next National Synod, and this shall be inserted in the Letters of this Assembly unto that Princess, that our Synods shall always carefully provide the most able Ministers for the conduct of her Church, and if Monsieur de Feugerau 's Health will permit him, he shall serve her Highness in that Quality the whole time, his Province advising and consenting to it. And the other seven Ministers waiting upon her Royal Highness, shall bear no other Title than that of ordinary Pastors and Ministers.

VIII. This Synod having perused several Letters written from some particular Persons in the Presidial Court of Justice, and Sheriffs of the City of Rochelle, demanding the restitution of Monsieur de Rotan to them, it decreeth, That there shall be no Notice at all taken of them, because that none of the Magistrates, as the Mayor, or Common Council have signed them; and that the Differences about this Affair may be suppressed, Messieurs de Moutier, and Chesneau are commanded to go unto that City, and by the most powerful and cogent Arguments to persuade them unto Peace, and to return them all Letters and Papers that have been written on both sides, that they may be cancelled and torn in pieces.

IX. Letters shall be written unto Monsieur Covett, who is now at Basil entreating him to accept of the Pastoral Office in the Church of Rochelle.

X. Letters shall be sent to Monsieur Cassegrain, informing him, That his Writing to the Bishop Perron was unadvised, and to little purpose, done with too much Complement, Vanity, and Flattery: that however, we require him to answer Cahier the Apostate, which Answer he shall first communicate, before it be printed, unto the Synod of Dauphiné, and he is farther entreated to incorporate himself with that Synod.

XI. This Assembly having heard Monsieur Peirol, declareth, That he is not yet sufficiently qualified for the Sacred Ministry, and exhorts him to a more careful reading and study of the Holy Scriptures, and other Writings of God's faithful Servants, which have been published in this last Age, and Orders are given unto the Colloquies of that Province wherein he dwells, to consider of a proper time for his Employment in the Service of God's Church.

XII. Master John Seillade is dismissed unto the Colloquy of Agenois, or Synod of Lower Guyenne to take care about his Call and Ordination.

XIII. Messieurs Tollosain and Villemur are dismissed unto their respective Colloquies, who shall consider how and where to employ them in the Ministry, as soon as they be fitted for it.

XIV. Monsieur Roussel, Pastor of the Church in Mazamett requesting, That some other Person of the Province may be substituted in his place, because of his great Age and Weakness; this Assembly judgeth, That his Petition is most just and reasonable, and Orders therefore are given unto the Synod of Lower Languedoc, to endeavor an Exchange for him, provided always this be done by the consent of his Church, and of the Synod of Higher Languedoc.

XV. Monsieur Falquet declaring his mean and low Condition, attested also by the Deputies of Dauphiné, this Assembly hath thereupon judged his Petition but just and reasonable, and exhorts the Churches of Dauphiné, Provence, and Lower Languedoc, to assist him in his present Necessities, because he hath faithfully discharged his Ministerial Office in the Churches of Christ.

XVI. Monsieur Caille complaining of the little care taken by the Church of Grenoble for his Maintenance, and considering the Decree of his Provincial Synod in his favor, setting him at liberty from that ungrateful People, if within three Months they do not fully satisfy him all Arrears of Wages due unto him from them: this Assembly decreeth, That Letters shall be dispatched unto that Church, and to the Lord D'Esdigueres particularly, entreating both his Lordship, and the Church to provide accordingly for him, and in default hereof, the Provincial Synod shall assign him unto some other Church.

XVII. Letters also shall be written unto the said Duke D'Esdiguiers about the 17000 Crowns, which the Province of Lower Languedoc had sent unto Guyenne, to be laid up in stock for the maintenance of their Proposans; there being no reason at all for his appropriating that Sum of Moneys unto his own private profit (whatever he may pretend of a Grant from the King for his so doing), which was dedicated unto so good and pious Uses; and the forementioned Monsieur Caille shall second the said Letters by word of mouth, remonstrating unto his Grace the Duty incumbent on him in Honor and Conscience to restore and see it fixed according to its primitive design and intendment; and in case he refuse to hearken unto reason, we farther ordain, That he be sued at Law for it before the Syndic in the Chamber of Castres, and in like manner all others shall be prosecuted also, who having received the Churches Moneys, do not yield up their Accounts for it.

XVIII. This Assembly having heard Monsieur Julian, and Monsieur the President of Orange doth earnestly exhort and beseech them to do their utmost endeavors, that the Church of Orange may be kept in peace and unity; and Orders are given to Messieurs de Montigny, Picheron, and le Noir, to pass over to them, and to dispose Monsieur de Blaconis, and the Inhabitants of that City to it.

XIX. The Colloquies and Province of Lower Languedoc shall contribute towards the Charges which the Church of Bedarrieux have expended in managing the common Affairs of our Religion.

XX. Monsieur Berault shall write Letters from this Synod unto the Colloquy of Sauveterre in Béarn, entreating their consent, that Monsieur du Prat may be continued in bis Ministry in the Church of the Isle of Jourdain, and this Assembly decreeth, That the said du Prat shall remain with the said Church of the Isle of Jourdain.

XXI. A Petition was read from the Church of Blois, praying, That Monsieur de la Noue might be given them absolutely, and without Conditions: This Assembly having heard the Deputy of Anjou, decreeth, That he shall belong unto that Province; as also, that he shall be only lent unto the Church of Blois for six Months, to begin from the first of June next, during which time they shall do their endeavor to procure Monsieur Bede, who is now at Heidelburg, for their Pastor, and this Assembly will join with them, by writing in their own Name unto him, to effect it.

XXII. The Church of Pamiers craving Counsel in this Case: A Man would espouse the Cousin-German of his deceased Wife. This Assembly advised them to have recourse unto the King for a License.

XXIII. The Inhabitants of the Town of Aubenas, complaining, That they were not comprehended in the number of those Garrisons which were assigned for our security. This Synod doth ordain, That Letters shall be written unto His Majesty, humbly entreating him, That He would give out His Royal Mandate to continue it in its present Condition, that so they may be Partakers of the common Repose and Tranquility of the Kingdom.

XXIV. Assistance shall be given unto the Churches of Provence, now destitute of Pastors, by the Provinces of Lower Languedoc and Dauphiné, until such time as they can be provided.

XXV. The Proceedings against Monsieur Vaissy having been revised, and the Articles of the Provincial Synod relating to his Deposition from the Ministry, and a most accurate enquiry being made into his Conversation since his Deposal, this Assembly hath restored, and doth restore him unto his Office in the Ministry, and the Colloquy of Vigan is enjoined to provide a Church for him.

XXVI. This Assembly upon hearing the Difference risen betwixt Monsieur Jarey and Voisin, Ministers of Millaud, hath ordained for the Peace of that Church, That neither of those Ministers shall continue in it longer than till the meeting of the next National Synod, and Monsieur Brunier, and Monsieur Gasques are entreated to take their Turns in serving the said Church, and Monsieur Brunier is to hasten thither as soon as possible he can; farther, that an exchange shall be made of the Person of Monsieur Voisin, with that of Monsieur Remirat, Minister of the Church of St. Afrique, and Monsieur Jarey hath leave given him to join himself unto the Churches of Pamiers, or Merueir, at his own election, until the next Provincial Synod.

XXVII. This Synod revising the Decree of the National Synod of Montauban, in which Monsieur Balarand was by their Gift appropriated to the Church of Castrees, as also that Article of the National Synod of Saumur, ordaining the said Ballarand to return unto his Church of Aymett, and the Deputies of both those Churches having been heard on behalf of their Principals, and considering the great importance of that of Castres, do ordain, That the said Monsieur Ballarand shall remain appropriated Pastor unto the Church of Castres, which yet is obliged according to Agreements between them, to re-imburse the said Church of Aymett the Sum of One hundred Crowns expended by them in their procuring of another Minister.

XXVIII. A Petition was presented by the Church of Castres, praying, That Monsieur Rotan might be granted them for their Pastor. This Assembly hath ordained, That he shall remain with the Church of Castres, until the next Provincial Synod, who may as they think fit dispose of him, respect being first had to the health of the said Master Rotan, so as will most contribute to the edification of God's Church.

XXIX. The Church of Castres desiring that Monsieur Souls might be given them, they were sent back to their next Provincial Synod.

XXX. Monsieur Julian is ordered, to recover out of the hands of the Heirs of Monsieur de Serres deceased all his Manuscript Memoirs, that they may be produced and perused by the next Provincial Synod.

XXXI. The Advocate-General of the Chamber of Castres having saluted and assured this Assembly in the Name of the said Chamber professing our Religion, of their faithful and sincere desires to maintain the Rights of our Churches, Thanks was given him, and by him to that honorable Court represented by him, and they were desired not to Complement with us, but in good earnest to pursue that end for which they were established, and for which each of them respectively were recommended by the Churches.

XXXII. License is granted to the Churches of Cormis, and St. John of Bruel, to incorporate themselves with the Colloquy of Vigan, because it lieth so very convenient for them.

XXXIII. The Synod having heard the Deputles of the Church of Loudun, and Pamiers, concerning the Call of Monsieur Frogets, determines, that of Right he doth belong unto the Church of Loudun, which however must pay unto that of Pamiers fifty Crowns, disbursed by them in Books for the said Froget, and they are also ordered to defray his Charges in coming unto this Assembly.

XXXIV. This Synod not having at present a Pastor sufficiently qualified for the Church of Bourdeaux, and considering the great consequenee of its Establishment, ordaineth, That the Colloquies of Albrett, Higher Agenois, and Perigord, shall each of then in course for four Months supply that Church, and Monsieur Renault is to begin the Exercise there.

XXXV. Letters shall be written to my Lord the Ambassador of England, and to Monsieur de la Fontaine, Minister of the French Church in London, to inform them of those injurious Writings published against our Churches by Sutcliffe, and Saravia, and they be desired to apply themselves to the Queen, that such Writings may not be printed.

XXXVI. This Synod entreateth both the Provinces of Languedoc to bear the Charges of a Criminal Process, depending in the Chamber, of Castres, about the Oppressions exercised upon the Arnolds, by the Seneschal of Ville Franche in Rouergue.

XXXVII. The Church of Nions, in Dauphiné, petitioning for a Pastor, Monsieur du Jay, alias du Gasleur, was granted to them, till the sitting of the next Provincial Synod of Vivaretz.

CHAP. VII. Of Private ACTS.

I. GOvernours are exhorted to improve their Interest, that the Edict be not executed in their Jurisdictions, till such time as it hath been first executed in those places possessed by them of the contrary Religion.

II. The Churches of Languedoc are required to oppose those Novelties introduced at the Interment of their Dead, and in particular this, that Maids be carried to their Graves by Maids wearing Garlands of Flowers.

III. And it being their Duty who govern the Church, by all lawful means to procure the benefit and advantage of their Poor, this Assembly ordaineth, That whenas there shall be any considerable Sum of Moneys belonging to the Poor in the Deacons hands, they may warrantably put it out to Interest, that so in case of great necessity the Poor may receive the more and greater Relief and Comfort.

CHAP. VIII. An Extract of the Acts of the General Mixt Assembly of the Churches of France, held at Chastel-heraut, and approved by their National Synod held at Montpellier the 26th Day of May, 1598, and the Days following.

Rules for such as bring the King's Orders, granted for any Command or Government in the Cautionary Towns given us for our Security.

THE Provincial Assemblies which shall be called upon the Return of the Deputies now at Chastel-heraut, shall out of every Colloquy name some able and faithful Persons of the Nobility and Cities, (who yet shall be changed or confirmed by every Provincial Synod, or General Assembly, if need be) to be present at Colloquies, whenas an Attestation shall be desired by a Gentleman who hath gotten His Majesty's Grant of any Government or Place of Trust.

And in case the Person having the Grant, be a Member of that Colloquy in which the vacant place lieth, the said Colloquy meeting together for signing the said Attestation, shall invite all those who were named by the Provincial Synod or Assembly, that they may jointly consult whether they ought to give it, or inform His Majesty to the contrary. If the time of sitting for the General Assembly be near, the said Colloquy shall defer, till they have first had their Judgment about the said Attestation.

And in case the Person who hath the Grant, be of another Colloquy than that of the vacant place, the Person who is charged to convocate the Colloquy, whereunto the Grantee belongeth, shall take some sufficient time to inform the Assembly or Province, in which the vacant place lieth (but at their Charges) of the Quality, Family, Religion, and Morals of him who hath the Grant, and in case the said Assembly shall meet, it shall give Notice thereof unto the Colloquy wherein the Vacancy is, and also inform the said Colloquy of the vacant place, and place of abode of him that hath the said Grant.

And when they give their Attestation they shall cause the Union of Mantes to be signed by him who brings the King's Grant for the vacant Government, according as it hath been ordained in all such Cases.

The Form of Attestation agreed upon in the General Assembly, to be given by Colloquies or Synods, unto them whom His Majesty shall recommend unto vacant Governments in our Cautionary Towns.

CHAP. I. Of the DEPUTIES.

• Monsieur Pacard was chosen Moderator.
• Monsieur Lieuin, Lord of Beaulieu, Assessor.
• Monsieur Chamier, and Scribes.
• Monsieur Mercier, Scribes.

There assembled in it the Pastors and Elders hereafter named.

• FOR the Isle of France, Picardy, and Champagne, Monsieur Antony de la Fay, Minister and Pastor of the Church of Paris; Monsieur John Lieuin, Lord of Beaulieu, Minister of the Church of Auverne in Vexin le Francois; and Monsieur Josia Mercier, Lord of Bordes, Elder of the Church of Paris; and Peter de Neuelet, Lord of Doscher, Elder in the Church of Vitry.
• For the Province of Orleans, Berry, Blefoiis, and Nivernois, Monsieur Adam D'Orival, Minister of the Church of Sancerre; and Joachim Du Moulin, Minister of Orleans, together with Monsieur Samuel de Chambaran, Elder of the Church of Romorantin; and Claudius Mesland, Elder of the Church at Orleans.
• For the Province of Normandy, Monsieur Rene Bouchard, Pastor of the Church of Rouau; and John Eude, Pastor of Bayeux, together with Monsieur James du Hamel. Lord of Park, Elder of Alencon; and William de Maintu, Elder of Boislebecque.
• For the Province of Brittany, at present united with that of Normandy, there came the Tenth of May Monsieur John Parent, Pastor of the Church of Vitre.
• For the Province of Dauphiné, and Principality of Orange, Monsieur Daniel Chamier, Pastor of Mountlimart; and John Perryn, Pastor of St. Bonnet, with Monsieur Mark D'Ure, Elder of Courtaison; and Francis de la Comb, Elder of St. Marcelin.
• For the Province of Lower Languedoc, Monsieur John Gigard, Pastor of Montpellier; and Simeon Codur, Pastor of Usez; together with Monsieur Isaac Chairon, Elder of Nismes.
• For Lower Guyenne, Monsieur John Nodon, Lord of Montbaron, Pastor of Issejac; and Jeremiah Bauconis, Pastor of Tonius; with Monsieur Christopher Forton, Elder in the Church of Bourdeaux.
• For Poitou, Monsieur James Clemeneau, Pastor of Poitiers; and Andrew Rivet, Pastor of Touars; with Monsieur Isaac Vettors, Elder of the Church of Poitiers.
• For the Higher and Lower Vivaretz, Monsieur John Valeton, Pastor of Privas; and Daniel Mison, Elder of Salenac.
• For Saintonge, Augoumois, and Aunix, Master George Pacard. Pastor of Rochefoucald; and Monsieur Laurence Polette, Pastor of Ironsac; with Monsieur Peter Bernard, Lord of Janserac, Elder of the Church of Cognac.
• For Anjou, Touraine, and Mayne, &c. Master Francis Greliere, Lord of Macifer, Pastor of Saumur; and M. Abel Bede, Pastor of Loudun; together with Monsieur John Doucher, Elder of the Church of Angers.
• For Provence, Master Peter Chalier, Pastor of Seines; and Monsieur Honore Brignoles, Elder of Brignoles.
• For Burgundy, Forest, Beaujolois, &c. Master Peter Colinet, Pastor of Paray le Moyneau; and Anthony Brocard, Elder of the Church of Dijon, and President of the Exchecquer in that Parliament and Province.
• And for Lyonnois, Monsieur Levis Turquet, Elder of the Church at Lyon.
• For the Province of Higher Languedoc, and Higher Guyenne, there came the Tenth Day of May, Master Michael Beraud, Pastor of the Church of Montauban; and Master John Gardesy, Pastor of Villemur; with Monsieur John de Lupe, Lord of Maraval, Elder of the Church of Puy Caskay; and Henry le Renier, Lieutenant particular in the Seneschalsee of Armagnac, and Elder of the Church of Lectoure.
• Moreover, there appeared for Sedan, Master Eusebius Gantois, Minister of the Church of Sedan; and Anthony Drelincourt, Elder of the said Church.

Prayers being ended, Master George Pacard, Pastor of Rochefoucauld, was chosen President of the Synod; and Master John Lieuin, Lord of Beaulieu, Assessor, he was Pastor of the Church of Auverne; and Master Daniel Chamier, Pastor of Monlimard, and Josiah Mercier, Lord of Bordes, Elder of the Church of Paris, were by common Suffrages chosen Scribes.

CHAP. II. Observations on Reading the Confession of our Faith.

I. ON reading the Confession of Faith, the Title of the Epistle to the Hebrews was noted to have been changed in the last Impressions of the Geneva Bibles; wherefore Letters were ordered to be written unto our Brethren of Geneva about it, and about several Annotations affixed on the Sacred Text in those Bibles.

II. The Confession of Faith being read, the Pastors and Elders did all unanimously protest to live and die in the said Confession, and that it is the Doctrine taught in the Churches of their Provinces.

III. Monsieur Chamier propounded, That the Jesuits, and other Doctors of the Romish Religion, having charged our Doctrine, especially among the People, with divers Calumnies, it were convenient to justify it from those Slanders, by printing an Apology together with this Confession, as hath been done in England and Germany: It was decreed, That whoso of our Brethren would undertake it, should bring it with them unto the next National Synod.

CHAP. III. Observations made on Reading of our Discipline.

I. BEginning with the first Article after those words, Of their Doctrine, shall be added, And if they be fit to teach.

II. Instead of those words in the third Article, During the times of their Ignorance, shall be put, The times past.

III. The fourth Article shall be couched in these words, A Minister of the Gospel shall be chosen by the Colloquy, or if it may be by the Provincial Synod, and in Times of Persecution, or other great Calamity, by two or three Ministers together with the Consistory.

IV. In the same Article, instead of these words, The said Election shall be suspended, shall be placed, The said Reception shall be delayed.

V. And that Article shall be thus concluded, As also the Pastor shall not be imposed upon a Church against his will.

VI. After these words in the fifth Article, To another Church, there shall be put, For to be employed in the Holy Ministry; and a little lower, these shall be subjoined, And also they shall examine them, if ever, &c.

VII. There shall be this addition made unto the beginning of the Eighth Article, The Ceremony of Imposing Hands in Ordination, and receiving Ministers, shall be always observed.

VIII. Provincial Synods, Colloquies, and Consistories, are all charged to see, that the 12th Article in every part and tittle of it be most punctually observed; and there shall be this clause added to it, Nor shall their Doctrine be handled in the manner of Scholastic Disputation, and they shall carefully avoid an intermixture of Languages; and also Consistories, Colloquies, and Provincial Synods shall see to it, that in the ordinary course of their Ministry, they beginning with a Text or Portion of Scripture, shall not break off, till they have finished the whole Paragraph.

IX. After these words in the 18th Article, Physic, shall be added in both places, Nor the Civil Law, and in the end of that Article, Whereunto Provincial Synods, Colloquies, and Consistories, shall bear a most vigilant and careful eye, yea, and may suspend them from the Ministry.

X. After these words in the 43d Article, Great and small, these also shall be added, Of whatsoever rank or degree they are.

XI. The word As shall be left out in those words of the 44th Article, As those who being convicted of Heresy.

XII. These words shall be razed out of the 4th Article, Even such as enjoy Ecclesiastical Revenues.

XIII. Touching the execution of that clause of that aforesaid Article, it was decreed, That Ministers should inform their Churches, that the Fifth Penny of all Moneys collected for the Poor, is to be laid by for the maintenance of our Proposans.

XIV. This addition shall be made to the end of the Fifth Article, In which the Pastors shall be present, both as Judges and Orderers of the said Propositions.

XV. Richer Churches, and great Lord's shall be entreated to erect Libraries for the benefit of their Ministers and Proposans.

XVI. This addition shall be made to the fifth Article of the third Chapter, According to the appointed Form.

XVII. After the word Ordinary in the sixth Article, these shall be added, By the Scholars that are Proposans.

XVIII. There shall be this addition to the first Article of the fourth Chapter, And according to what had been decreed and ordained by the Consistory.

XIX. The word Punishment shall be changed into that of Censure, in the end of the fifteenth Article of the fifth Chapter.

XX. these words shall be struck out of the sixteenth Article, And in case of Appeal, that said Appeal shall be notified unto the Church, without mention made of the Person, or declaration of the Censure ordained by the Consistory.

XXI. This addition shall be affixed to the end of the twentieth Article, Althô he had been punished by the Magistrate.

XXII. This also shall be inserted into the thirty first Article, For administering of Marriage, and the Sacraments.

XXIII. This following Order shall be the fourth Article of the sixth Chapter, Disputes about Religion with our Adversaries, shall be so managed on our part, that we be not the first Aggressors; and in case it be a Verbal Disputation, they shall only stand to the decision of the Sacred Scriptures, which is our Rule, and not to the Writings of the Fathers, who are no competent Judges in Points of Doctrine; nor shall they undertake any regular Dispute without Articles of Agreement first mutually given and subscribed; nor shall they enter upon any public Disputations, without advising previously with their Consistories, and a certain number of Ministers, who shall be thereunto chosen by the Colloquies and Provincial Synods; nor shall they enter on a general Conference or Dispute, without the consent of all the Churches assembled in a National Synod. And in case any Ministers do otherwise, they shall be denounced Deserters of, and Apostates from the Union of our Churches.

XXIV. This following addition shall be counted the sixth Article of the seventh Chapter. And a Censure shall be given among themselves by the Pastors and Elders in the shutting up of every Colloquy.

XXV. These following words shall be added to the second Article of the Eighth Chapter, Churches having several Ministers, shall send them by turns.

XXVI. These words shall be inserted into the fourth Article, Shall be deprived of the Ministry.

XXVII. To the sixth there shall be this inserted, The Days, Hours, and Places; as also, he shall gather the Votes of every Member: And to the close of that Article these words shall be added, And after this self-same manner the Moderators of Colloquies shall be governed.

XXVIII. This shall be inserted into the seventh, They shall have like Votes as the Pastors.

XXIX. The eighth Article shall be struck out, and transferred unto the following Chapter, where also the word Provincial shall be razed, and That of Confession of Faith inserted.

XXX. This shall be put into the tenth Article, The change of Pastors from one Province unto another, and of one Church unto another, and of the Churches of one Colloquy unto another.

XXXI. In reading the Division of the Provinces, and after hearing Monsieur Gantois, Minister in the Church of Sedan, who was seconded in his Discourse by his Elder, it was decreed, That the Churches of the Principality of Sedan and Rancourt for time coming, shall be united to the Synod of the Isle of France, Picardy, and Champagne, and be reputed Members of the Colloquy of Champagne.

XXXII. The Province of Orleans and Berry demanding, That Bourbonnois might be incorporated with their Province; and the Deputies of Burgundy and Lyonnois opposing this their motion, it was decreed, That the said contending Provinces should bring with them the Memoirs and Opinion of those of Bourbonnois unto the next National Synod, that there it may be regulated.

XXXIII. This addition shall close up the third Article of the Ninth Chapter, And that there may be no default, three or four Pastors, and as many Elders shall be nominated, that in case the first named Pastors should be hindered from their Journey, there may be others to supply their places.

XXXIV. This Article shall follow next in order unto the fourth, The first Act in the first Sessions of our National Synods, shall be the reading our Confession of Faith, and the Book of Discipline.

XXXV. Towards the close of the fourth Article of the tenth Chapter, instead of Abolished, there shall be read Removed.

XXXVI. These words shall be added to the ninth Article of the eleventh Chapter, Provided that the Sureties undertake for its maintenance, and also that there be no presumption.

XXXVII. The third Article of the 12th Chapter shall be couched in these words, Priests, Monks, and other Ecclesiastics of the Romish Religion, shall not be admitted to the Lord's Supper, till they have, first in the face of the whole Church acknowledged, and repented of their former Life and Profession.

XXXVIII. The fourth Article shall be thus worded, Incumbents bearing the Style and Title of their Benefices, and others intermeddling with Idolatry directly or indirectly, whether they receive the Profits thereof with their own, or by the hands of others, shall in to wise be admittted to communicate with us at the Lord's Table. And the rest shall be razed out.

XXXIX. The fifth Article of the thirteenth Chapter shall be put into these words, It's left to the discretion of the Churches, either to use the words de praesenti, or de futuro in Marriage-Promises. However, such Promises, be they de praesenti, or de suturo, are in themselves indissolvable, unless in case of some lawful Impediment. And the Article next in order unto this, shall be that which begins thus, As concerning Consanguinities.

XL. The eighth Article shall be conceived in these words, Spiritual Kindreds, as they be termed, are not comprised under the Titles of Consanguinity and Assinity in the King's Edict, nor upon these Accounts may the Parties be hindered from contracting Marriage.

XLI. This clause shall be inserted into the twelfth Article, Promises of Marriage shall neither be received nor published in the Church, &c. Item, He shall renounce all Idolatry, Superstition, and particularly the Mass.

XLII. This shall be the first Article of the fourteenth Chapter, in these words, No one shall be received into the Communion of our Churches, till he have first renounced all the Superstitions and Idolatries of the Church of Rome, and particularly the Mass.

XLIII. These words shall be razed out of the close of the fifth Article, Unless in case of abolishing the Preaching of God's Word, and setting up of Mass

XLIV. To the fourteenth Article this shall be subjoined, And such as send their Children to the Schools of Priests, Monks, Jesuits, or Nuns, shall be prosecute • • ith all Censures of the Church.

XLV. These words shall be struck out of the 26th Article, Poinecons de Houpe, and Fardingals, as hath been decreed in former Synods.

XLVI. These words shall be razed out of the 28th Article, Or the setting up of Maypoles.

XLVII. Because of the great Inconveniences of Lotteries set up in divers places of this Kingdom, the 30th Article shall be finished with this clause, Lotteries also ought in no wise to be approved, whether they be appointed by the Magistrate or not, and Godly Magistrates are entreated by their Authority to suppress them. After these words, Notorious Avarice, these following shall be inserted into the same Article, Obsceneness, or loss of time.

XLVIII. Such as challenge, or put others upon challenging to fight a Duel, and they also who accept the challenge, &c. These words shall be put into the 33d Article.

XLIX. 'It is left to the liberty and prudence of Consistories, after what manner to proceed against the ungrateful Members of their Churches, whether by those compulsory ways allowed us by his Majesty, or by particular Obligations, or by Church-Censures, even by suspension from the Lord's Table, after grave and solemn Admonitions and Summons have been given these Delinquents by their Consistories, or any other course they shall judge advisable.

L. The Pastors and Elders deputed from their Provinces unto this Assembly, have sworn and protested in the Name of their Provinces, to cause the Discipline ordained by this Synod, to be used and observed to the utmost of their power.

CHAP. IV. Of APPEALS.

I. AN Appeal being brought by the Town and Consistory of St. John d' Angely, from the Synod of Saintonge, who had appointed Monsieur D'amours, (he in no wise belonging unto the said Church of St. John ) to serve the Church of Chastleheraut, until the meeting of the National: this Assembly declareth, That the Appeal was ill laid, and the Ordinance of that Synod good and valid. And whereas the said D'amours complaineth of the Terms couched in that Ordinance, and of the Letters written in the Name of the said Synod, this Assembly judgeth, That the said Monsieur D' Amours was the true and lawful Pastor of the said Church of St. John, for the time in which he served them, as this was ever the sense and judgment of the said Synod of Saintonge.

II. Whereas both the Church of Paris and Lions do lay claim unto the said Monsieur D'amours, as theirs, and engaged to them: This Assembly having heard the said D'amours open the whole Affair, and weighed the Arguments on both sides, doth find that he is not obliged either to the one or other, but is at full liberty to accept of any Church presented to him by the Synod.

III. And forasmuch as the Church of Chastelheraut have presented their Petition, That the said Monsieur D'amours should be settled among them; after hearing what was urged to the contrary by the Church of St. John, and the declaration of the said Sieur D'amours, leaving himself wholly to the disposal of this Assembly, it is decreed, That the said Sieur D'amours shall be given unto the Church of Chastelheraut.

IV. The Consistory of Havre de Grace, appealing from an Order of the Synod of Normandy, which had ordained our Brother Monsieur de la Mathennie, Pastor of Cricquetot, to be their sole Pastor, he having served them faithfully in the Ministry, ever since he first gathered their Church, and and that the two Churches should be united into one, and their Pastors Joynt-Pastors, and that the Churches should make but one common Purse for their maintenance: And the demand of those of Cricquetot being heard, urging, that the said Monsieur de la Mathennie was first of all sent unto them, and that they always had, and would continue to him his Stipend. It was voted, That the said Monsieur de Mathennie should continue with the Church of Cricquetot, and those of the Havre have six Months time given them to provide themselves of another Pastor; during which time the said de la Mathennie shall remain as he hath done in the Town of Honsleur, and shall serve both the Churches; and as to the Annexation of the Church of Beauvillier, it shall be determined by the Colloquy of Caux, and the Church of Hauvre is exhorted according to their Duty to pay double Honor unto the said Monsieur de la Mathennie, as they have done heretofore.

V. The Appeal of Master Michael Mercier, from the Synod of the Isle of France, Picardy, and Champagne, was rejected, because he appeared not in Person to prosecute it in this Assembly, and that Order of the Church of Paris ratified by their Provincial Synod, concerning the Exercise of Religion in the place ordained by His Majesty, is approved also and confirmed by the Consent and Authority of this present National Synod.

VI. The Sentence past by the Synod of Lower Guyenne, against Messieurs Chauveton, and Baduel is ratified, and because of the great importance of that Affair, we do further decree, That he of the two who shall first endeavor his Restoration unto the Church of Bergerac, shall be totally deposed from the Ministry.

VII. The Appeal of the Church of Nerac, about the concern of Monsieur John Renaut is declared null, and the Sentence of the Synod of Lower Guyenne confirmed, and how the said Monsieur Renaut shall be for time coming disposed of, is left wholly to the Wisdom of that Synod. But since that, the said Renaut was yielded up entirely unto the Church of Nerac.

VIII. The Appeal of the Church of Chaume from the Synod, of Poitou was not admitted, because the matter in debate between them is of the nature of those things which ought to be determined in their own Province.

IX. The Appeal of the Colloquy of Poitiers from that Order of the Synod of Poitou is good and valid, and it is decreed, That Monsieur Menestoier Pastor of the Church of Sancay, Monstreuill, Bonninll, and L' Artillier, shall incorporate himself with the Colloquy of Poitiers.

X. Monsieur de la Millie reappealing from an Order of the Synod of Poitou, who had settled Monsieur Favre in the Pastoral Charge of the Church of Vigean, this Assembly approveth that Order, and the Province is exhorted to take care, that the Church of the said de Melliere be provided for as soon as possible.

XI. That Judgment of the Synod of Lower Languedoc, from which the Church of Macilargues, and de Nager had appealed is confirmed. And Letters shall be dispatched unto the said Synod, requesting them out of hand to provide an able Minister for the Church of Macilargues.

XII. An Appeal was brought by the Church of Nismes, from a Judgment of the Synod of Lower Languedoc, which had given Monsieur Terond to the Church of St. Martyn; whereupon this Assembly decreed, That in case the Church of Nismes did not send the said Monsieur Terond unto his own Colloquy, within the space of one Year, that then he should be wholly settled in the Church of St. Martyn, nor shall that Church be provided of any other Minister for a full Year, unless the said Monsieur Terond be recalled back again, in which case all his Charges shall be defrayed by those of Nismes.

XIII. The Church of Nismes appealed from the Synod of Dauphiné, because they refused to grant them Monsieur Chamier, though carnestly desired by them, to be Professor of Divinity in their University. This Assembly is of Opinion, That the said Sieur Chamier cannot be removed from the Church of Montlimard, without the express consent of his Church and Province.

XIV. The Appeal of the Elders in the Church of Chastillon upon the Loire, from the Censures of the Synod of Orleans and Berry is rejected, and they shall be again censured by Letters from this Assembly more sharply.

XV. That Order of the Synod of Dauphiné concerning Monsieur Felix, from which the Church of Niort hath appealed, is confirmed.

XVI. The Church of Cognac appealed from an Order of the Synod of Saintonge about Monsieur de la Nusse. The Assembly examining the matter, finds that of Right the said de la Nusse belongs to the Church of Cognac but because of the Covenants between them, it decrees, That the said Sieur de la Nusse shall at the sole Charges of the Church of Nerac come and serve one Year in the Church of Coignac, during which time those of Nerac shall endeavor to procure for the Church of Coignac, such a Minister as shall be approved by the Colloquy of Augoumois; and in case of their non-observing this Order, Monsieur la Nusse shall be wholly appropriated to the Church of Coignac.

XVII. Monsieur Bourguignon appealing from the Synod of the Isle of France, enjoining his return unto his own Province; this Assembly considering the great Services done by him unto the Church of God, and his manifold Losses, have, and do adjudge him absolutely unto the Church of Mets.

XVIII. The Father of Monsieur Olivier appealing from the Synod of Higher Languedoc, it was ordered, That the said Olivier shall be settled in the Church of Lectoure; and Letters shall be written unto the Father to this purpose.

XIX. Upon the Appeal of the Church du Pont de Vele from the Synod of Burgundy, this Assembly found that Monsieur Cassegrain belonged to the Church of Dijon, but considering the great importance of the said Church du Pont de Vele, the said Cassegrain shall serve them four Months, within which term that said Church is to provide itself of a Pastor; and Monsieur Manessier is dismissed over to the Province, who shall take care of him.

XX. Master Claudius Joubert appealing from the Order of the Synod of Burgundy, this Assembly ratifieth the Order of that Synod, and leaves the Churches at liberty to have Public Prayers and Sermons on the Romish Holy-days, if it like 'em.

XXI. The Church of Romorantin having appealed from the Synod of Orleans and Berry, it was ordained, That Monsieur Chartier should be continued in the said Church, provided they did fully satisfy him all Arrears of Salary for his past Labors among them, within four Months; but if that time be lapsed, he shall be given away from them unto the Church of Aubusson.

XXII. Monsieur Girard formerly Minister of Mauvoisin, and the Consistory of Montauban appealed from the Synod of Higher Languedoc; now, although upon a strict enquiry made into the Crimes whereof the said Girard was accused by that Synod, it does not appear unto this Assembly that he was guilty of them, yet because that there is too great reason that their Sentence past upon him should be confirmed, we do order, That he be suspended from the Ministry; and we do also ratify the Censure given by the Colloquy of Puy Casquay against him; and whereas those of Montauban did suffer and encourage him to preach among them since his Suspension, they have thereby incurred Censures themselves. And this Assembly doth further ordain, That the said Girard shall be removed from Montauban, nor shall he preach at Mauvoisin, upon pain of being deposed: And till such time as the Church of Mauvoisin can be provided of a Pastor, those of Montauban are hereby charged to take care for their constant supply, and to assist and help them till the next Meeting of their Provincial Synod. Since this Decree, the National Synod gave way, that the Province of Higher Languedoc should present the said Girard unto the Church of Cageac and Quercy.

XXIII. Upon the Appeal of Monsieur du Faur, Governor of Gergeau, from the Synod of Orleans and Berry, this Assembly ordaineth, That Monsieur du Moulin shall personally reside with his Church in the City of Orleans: But forasmuch as those of Orleans have been so very much assisted in their Needs by the Church of Gergeau, therefore the Moneys granted by His Majesty, and which in the Dividend should have been confer'd upon the Church of Orleans, shall for time coming be employed towards the maintenance of the Minister of Gergeau, until some further course be taken in it by the next National Synod.

XXIV. This Assembly having considered the Appeal of Monsieur de Bargemont, judgeth, That he did well deserve a very sharp Censure, but no Suspension; and therefore the Colloquy of Aunix is reproved by us, and the said De Bargemont shall be restored unto his Ministry, and the approaching Synod of Saintonge is required to assign him unto some vacant Congregation.

XXV. The Differences between the Colloquies of Saintonge, and that of Aunix, are left to the decision of the next Synod of Poitou.

XXVI. The Church of Rochelle having appealed from the Synod of Saintonge, Letters shall be written to them in the Name of this Assembly, to entreat them, that since for the present they do not want the Ministry of Monsieur Petit, and that he is employed elsewhere in the Province, that they would be pleased to yield up their Right and Interest in him unto the Church of Barbezieux, and forgive the Moneys they had disburs'd about his maintenance; for which great favors both the Church of Barbezieux, and Monsieur Petit shall make them their most thankful Acknowledgments.

XXVII. This Assembly ratifies the Acts of the Synod of Saintonge in the business of Monsieur Rossignot.

XXVIII. The Differences between the Synods of Saintonge and Poitou, about the Churches of Montignac, Marillac, and Villefagnan, is dismissed over to the Churches of Loudun and Saumur to be finally decided by them.

XXIX. This Assembly judging of the Appeal of the Lower Guyenne, decreeth, That the Farmers of Church-Tythes, provided they meddle not with anything of Idolatry, ought not to be debar'd from Communion at the Lord's Table, and the said Synod is reproved for going beyond the bounds of our Discipline in that case.

CHAP. V. Of General MATTERS.

I. IT was resolved, That those who had been appointed by the National Synod to answer the Writings of our Adversaries, should be re-imburst all Charges they were at in Printing their Works: But such as were appointed by a particular Province unto such a Task, that Province shall take care to defray their Expences. And therefore in pursuance of this Order, the Province of Higher Languedoc and Guyenne are required to give satisfaction unto Monsieur Sonis, for his Costs and Trouble in Printing his Books against Spend.

II. Whereas divers Abuses be committed in giving Attestations for the removing of Law-Suits from Inferior Courts, to the Courts of the Edict; all the Faithful are enjoined to take out Attestations, if possible they can, from their own Churches; and the Pastors of Churches in which the Courts of the Edict be established, are hereby forbidden to give any Attestations unto Strangers, unless they be such as are personally known to them or their Elders.

III. Ministers and Elders shall not count that they be appealed from, unless such Appeals had been allowed of by the whole Consistory.

IV. We judge it an unfitting Practice to be introduced into our Churches, however, it be common among some other Forreign Churches of Christ, to send out Proposans into Country Villages, there to preach whole Months upon Trial, before Ordination.

V. Whenas Imposition of Hands is given Ministers at their Ordination, they shall be no more sent for one Year only unto a Church; but that Order prescribed by our Discipline, shall for the future be most strictly observed.

VI. Ministers and Churches are left in full liberty, whether they will or not appoint, that the Pastors assist in Person at Betrothings and Marriage-Promises.

VII. It is decreed by this Assembly, That the Bread and Cup in the Holy Eucharist shall be distributed by none but the Ministers and Elders, who shall with their own hands put them into the respective hands of every individual Communicant.

VIII. Provincial Synods are ordered to take an especial care, that the Widows and Orphans of poor Ministers deceased in the Service of their Provinces be provided for.

IX. Altho' the Faithful may be ill reported of, yet in case they be not by the Consistory suspended from the Lord's Table, they shall be admitted Sureties for Infants at Baptism.

X. The Letters of her Royal Highness the Dutchess of Bar, and only Sister of our King, directed unto this Assembly being read, wherein she demanded a Supply of Ministers for her Court: it was voted, That the Church in her Royal Highness's House, should be supplied from the first Day of July next, unto the first Day of October following, by the Province of Normandy; and from the first of October, to the first of April next following, by the Church of Sedan, and from the said first of April 1602, by the other Provinces, who in their turns should each of them send a Minister, who shall be in actual Service six Months, according to this Order now declared, viz. The Lower Languedoc, Orleans, Dauphiné, Anjou, the Higher Languedoc, Poitou, the Lower Guyenne, Xaintange, Vivaretz, and Burgundy, unless the said Church be not beforehand provided of two able Pastors, particularly appropriated to it. And her said Royal Highness shall be by our Letters sent to her expressy to this purpose, advised to get them; and that the Moneys she bestows upon the Schools of Béarn, may be employed by her Royal Highness, towards the maintenance of a competent number of Proposans. And that the Church in her Royal Highness's Court may not at any time be left unprovided, the Provinces are all obliged to supply her with two Ministers, that in case one should be detained by some lawful lett or hindrance, the other may be always ready to serve in his stead.

XI. In answer to the Letters of the Churches of the Low Countries, this Assembly decreeth, That the Province of Normandy shall continue to give them Notice of the Time and Place of our National Synods.

XII. Letters shall be written to Monsieur de la Fontaine, entreating him to use his endeavors for begetting a right understanding between Dr. Sutcliffe, Saravia, and our Churches.

XIII. It is decreed, That for time coming, the Province authorized to convene the National Synod, shall be so impowered to publish the General Fast, which is to be observed in all our Churches upon emergent Providences.

XIV. Letters shall be written to the Doctors and Professors of Divinity in the University of Leyden, entreating them not to ordain our French Proposans, Students in their University; but whenas they have finished their Course of Theology to send them into France, that here being called unto the Ministry, they may receive Imposition of Hands in the face of our Churches.

XV. The Book entitled, Elenchus Novoe; Doctrinoe, is dismissed over to the perusal of the Provincial Synod of Dauphiné, and in case they approve of it, and prefix a Preface to it, it may be Printed.

XVI. The Church of Paris is required to examine Three Books, the one called Apparatus ad Fidem Catholicam; the other, Advice for the Peace of the Church; and the third having this Title, Seen by the King: And in case the Propositions which some have extracted out of them, be not contained in them, then the Acts of the Synod of Montpellier, relating thereunto, shall be razed out, and the Provinces by the Authority of this Assembly, are enjoined to raze them out.

CHAP VI. Particular MATTERS.

I. THE Differences between the Synods of Higher Languedoc, and Lower Guyenne, concerning the Churches of Nerac, Leyrac, and others of the Lower Armagnac, which had been sent up to this Assembly by the last Synod of Montpellier, it being impossible now to determine them, because the Deputies of the Lower Guyenne had neither Orders nor Instructions about them, are remanded back unto the next Provincial Synod of Saintonge, finally to determine them, and that by the Authority of this Assembly. And the said Synod of Lower Guyenne, for not sending Instructions unto their Deputies concerning those Affairs is hereby censured.

II. The Province of Normandy reporting the extreme Poverty of the Church of Lunere, being utterly disabled from ever satisfying their old Debt unto Monsieur Vatble, the said Province is exhorted to do their utmost endeavor, that it may be satisfied by them.

III. That Decree of the Synod of Montpellier, concerning Monsieur de L' Espoir, having never been put in execution, this Assembly enjoineth the Province of Higher Languedoc to see it executed; and in case of their neglect, that then the said M. de L'Espoir shall return to the Church of Boslebec. Since this Ordinance, the Deputies of Higher Languedoc agreed with those of Normandy, to re-imburse the Church of Boslebec, whatever Charges they may be at in getting a Pastor, one half whereof was to be born by those of Pamiers, and another half by the said Province of Higher Languedoc; or else to maintain for them for two Years space a Proposan in the University of Montauban, or if they pleased to give them an hundred Crowns, to be employed by them to this very purpose, in ready Money.

IV. The Demand of Monsieur Caille is turned over to the Synod of Dauphiné, to take care about it.

V. Letters shall be once more written to the Duke de L'Esdigueres, about the 17000 Crowns belonging to the Churches of Lower Languedoc: and the Article of the Synod of Montpellier declaring those Moneys to have been raised towards the maintenance of Proposans, shall be corrected and amended.

VI. In pursuance of what was decreed by the same Synod of Montpellier, the Churches of Cormes, and of St. John du Bruil, shall be incorporated with the Colloquy of Vigan; and the Synod of Lower Languedoc shall see that this Order be observed.

VII. The Church of Lions desiring a Pastor, and that one may be given them out of Dauphiné, which hath several of their Ministers residing in the Churches of that Province; it's ordered, That the said Province of Dauphiné do furnish that Church of Lions, and if possible, to lend them, at least, for some Months, Monsieur Chamier.

VIII. The French Translation of The Harmony of Confessions, done by deceased Monsieur Saluart, is dismissed to the Synod of Higher Languedoc, to be perused by them, and if they judge it expedient, then to Print it; but with the Latin Annotations of Monsieur Goulart.

IX. The Province of the Isle of France demanding Messieurs de L'Estang, and de la Vallee to be restored to them, who are now in Poitou, have a Grant given them to prosecute their Right in the next Provincial Synod of Poitou.

X. This Assembly judging Monsieur Pellart to belong of Right unto the Isle of France, ordaineth the Church of Marans, in which he now serveth, to yield up unto those of the Isle of France, such a Proposan as they shall best like of, within four Months; otherwise, that time being lapsed, the said Monsieur Pellart shall be surrendered unto the said Province.

XI. To the Case propounded by the Deputy of Brittany, this Assembly gives it in as their Judgment, That the Lord's and Gentlemen, Patrons of Churches and Chapels wherein Mass is sung, cannot with a good Conscience repair them; no, although by not doing it they forfeit their Right of Patronage and Presentation to them.

XII. The Churches are admonished to Register the Names of those Romish Church-men which have been converted since the last National Synod, and are daily brought over to the Reformed Religion, and to give in an Account of them unto the Church of Montauban.

XIII. The Church of Jansac is admonished to conform itself unto the rest of our Churches, about the wearing of Garlands at Espousals.

XIV. To the Petition of the Faithful of Auvergne, this Answer was given, That the Lower Auvergne should be assisted by the Lower Languedoc, and the Higher Auvergne by the Higher Languedoc, both as to Pastors, and in the share of His Majesty's Moneys.

XV. The Church of Villevigne re-demanded by the Province of Brittany, shall remain united to the Synod of Poitou, until the next National Synod.

XVI. Monsieur Jarry is left in full liberty, either to fix at the Church of Mesuez, where he now is, or to go unto that of Mauvezin.

XVII. The Petition of Monsieur Lazarus de Robert, Minister of Gauree, and Briqueville is remanded back unto the Synod of Normandy.

XVIII. Monsieur Eude shall abide where he is at present, in the Church of Bayeux.

XIX. The Provinces of Lower Languedoc and Dauphiné are exhorted to in continue their assisting of the poor Churches of Provence, with the Loan of Pastors.

XX. Letters shall be written to the Consuls of Montpellier, entreating them, that those Outrages offered the Spanish Families, which for this last hundred Years have took up their fixed Habitation in their City, may cease; as also, unless there be express Laws to the contrary, to receive them into the honorable Offices of the City, that so the Peace and Union of the Church, and its Members with them may be conserved. And this self-same Exhortation was given them by the last Synod of Montpellier.

XXI. The Letters of Monsieur Causabon being read in this Assembly, an Answer was ordered to be sent him, expressing our Joy for his constancy in the true Religion, and exhorting him unto perseverance in it.

XXII. Monsieur Colinet, Deputy of Burgundy, informing this Assembly of the great diligence used by Monsieur Cassegrain, in discharging the Duties of his Ministry, to the singular advantage of his Church, and that he hath wonderfully profited by the Admonitions of the Synod of Montpellier; this Assembly declares themselves very well satisfied with the said Monsieur Cassegrain, and adviseth him to continue labouriously in his Calling unto the end.

XXIII. In our Answer to the Letter of the Lord du Plessis, this clause shall be inserted, That we advise him to send his Book unto Geneva, because of the advantage of Libraries, and Letters shall be sent unto our Brethren the Pastors there, recommending to them the Examination, and Verifying of all the Quitations in it.

XXIV. Letters shall be sent to the Church of Metz entreating them to join themselves unto the Province of the Isle of France, Picardy, and Champagne.

XXV. In consideration of the great Services done for the Church of God by Monsieur Berger, Minister of the Church of Chasteaudun, and because of his great Afflictions, worthy of the deepest Compassions, the Synod of that Province is ordered to provide a Pastor for that Church of Chasteaudun, and then the said Monsieur Berger shall be discharged from it, yet nevertheless he shall be maintained by the Contribution of the Provinces, and that of Orleans is to bear one third of the Charges.

XXVI. This Synod does not count the demand of the Church of Bourdeaux reasonable, which requires Monsieur Primrose to be given them for their Pastor, because he cannot be taken from the Church of Mirambeau, whereunto he is appropriated.

XXVII. Whereas the Lord's Mareschal de Bouillon, and Duke de la Tremouille, and those of the Assembly of Saumur have written in favor of Monsieur Pallot, answer shall be returned them, that we cannot supply him out of the Moneys belonging to the Churches, and which were assigned for the maintenance of the Ministers, and that therefore we humbly entreat them to take some other course for his subsistence.

XXVIII. The Brethren in the Colloquy of Becausse, having by their Letters propounded the Case of an Incestuous Marriage, which had been decided in the Synod of Montpellier: This Assembly for divers Reasons doth ratify the Judgment of that Synod, provided, that it be made appear, that when the Marriage was first solemnized, the Woman had not then attained her Five and twentieth Year, and that she was under the power of her Father and Mother, all which shall be verified in the next Synod of the Isle of France, whereunto the said Parties are ordered to for this purpose to make their personal appearance; and those our Brethren are reproved for speaking so slightly and irreverently, which did not in the least become them, of that Synodical decision.

XXIX. The demand of Monsieur Vaisse to be removed into the Province of Higher Languedoc, because of his Wife's Indisposition, is dismissed over to the Synod of Lower Languedoc, who shall order therein as is most agreeable to the Rules of Christian Charity.

XXX. Letters shall be written unto Monsieur Couet, desiring his presence in this Assembly, before its dissolution.

XXXI. The Deputies of the Assembly of Saumur informing us, that they had his Majesty's Command to break up, this Assembly after mature deliberation had about it, ordains that Monsieur Chamier, and de Maravat, shall be sent in our Names unto his Majesty, humbly to entreat his Majesty, That the said Assembly may, with his good pleasure, be yet continued for some time longer.

XXXII. And these Deputies being returned, and relating his Majesty's Intention, who declared, That he would be peremptorily obeyed in that his Command, for the breaking up of their Assembly; but he would, however, permit them one or two Deputies near his Majesty's Person, who should upon all occasions tender him their Complaints and Requests, and that they might nominate and appoint them, he granted them another Assembly: Whereupon it was resolved, That his Majesty should be most humbly petitioned, That the said Assembly might be held at St. Foy, the fifth Day of October next, whereunto the Provinces were charged to send their Deputies, furnished with the Memoirs of their respective Churches and Divisions. And every Province shall send thither one Deputy at least, that they may be nominated, the said Provinces are authorized to anticipate the time of keeping their Synods and Colloquies, and the Gentry and Corporations shall be all summoned to them. The Church of Paris is appointed to use all diligence in getting the Writ of Summons promised by his Majesty from the Court, and to expedite with all speed the Calling of the said Assembly, together with the Letters Mandatory unto the Lord Mareschal d' Ornano, to allow of their sitting.

XXXIII. This Assembly receiving no Answer from Monsieur Couet, he not being at Paris, and having heard Monsieur Colinet, Deputy from the Province of Burgundy declare, That he had no express Order to demand him, but inasmuch as he belonged unto that said Province, altho' his Synod could not provide him with a Church at present, yet he ought not to be taken from it, without the consent of the Province: It leaveth both Parties to agree lovingly among themselves, and impowers the Church of Paris to endeavor, if they can, the getting the said Monsieur Covet for their Pastor, they giving also due satisfaction unto the Province of Burgundy.

XXXIV. This Assembly judgeth, That three Pastors shall make up the Quorum of a Colloquy, and that all Acts done by these Three, shall be reputed lawful and valid, yea, even to the Suspension of Ministers.

XXXV. The Differences risen betwixt the Colloquies of Puy Gasquay, and Lower Quercy, about the Church of Mets and Verdun, is dismissed over to the next Synod of Higher Languedoc, finally to be decided by it.

XXXVI. Letters from the Seignory of the City, and Pastors of Geneva being presented by Monsieur de Sully-Anjou-man. This Assembly ordereth, That our Deputies at Court do take the most fitting time to recommend the Churches of Geneva, and those adjoining unto his Majesty.

XXXVII. Whenas the Provinces shall in their respective Synods make a Dividend of those Moneys assigned them for his Majesty's Grant unto us, they shall consult of some course for the erecting of Schools and Colleges, as also how to maintain those which be already erected, within their Division. And as for Universities, the Decree of the Synod of Montpellier shall stand good for those of Saumur, Montauban Nismes, and Montpellier, over and besides which, there shall be given from the General Funds of the said Moneys, the Sum of Five hundred Crowns per Annum, for the furtherance and encouragement of that at Sedan, and the Neighbor-Provinces. And the Colloquy of Quercy is charged to take special Care, that Montauban be furnished with most able Professors, who may reputably and conscientiously perform their Duties; as also the other Colloquies are to put too their helping hand, that the like be done for their Universities. And that the said Universities may not be compelled to dismiss their Professors for want of maintenance, this Assembly doth ordain for the time past and to come, that they shall be paid their Quota and Proportions by advance of one Year, not at all to be allowed in the next. And that all Fraud herein may be prevented, that Decree of the Synod of Montpellier shall be most exactly observed; to wit, that both the Churches and Universities shall bring unto the next National Synod an Account of all the Moneys received by them, together with the Acquittances of the Pastors and Professors in actual Service.

XXXVIII. This Assembly declareth, That the Moneys granted by His Majesty, are granted for the Relief of the Churches, and maintenance of the Ministry: notwithstanding which Order, the Division for time to come shall be made by Poll; so that if divers Churches be served but by one Minister, they shall be counted but for one Church; and the Church which hath divers Pastors shall have a Dividend according to the number of its Pastors.

XXXIX. The richer and more potent Churches are exhorted to have respect in their Provincial Synods, so to divide and distribute His Majesty's Money, that the poorer Churches may be comforted and relieved by it.

XL. A new Dividend being made of the Moneys granted us by His Majesty, deducting the Sums ordained for the Universities of Saumur, Montauban, Nismes, and Montpellier, by the last Synod of Montpellier, and the Sum of Five hundred Crowns to that of Sedan, the rest amounting to the Sum of Nine and thirty thousand five hundred Crowns, was distributed in this manner: To the Province of Anjon, Tourain, Le Main, Vendomois, Loudunois, and Lower Perche, for 28 Churches there shall be distributed 1468 Crowns, 46 Sols, and 4 Deniers. To the Province of Normandy, for 51 Churches the Sum of 2675 Crowns, and 14 Sols. To the Province of the Isle of France, Picardy, and Champagne, for 68 Churches the Sum of 3566 Crowns, 58 Sols, and 8 Deniers. To the Lower Languedoc, and Lower Auvergne, for 116 Churches 6084 Crowns, 50 Sols, and 8 Deniers. To the Province of Orleans, Berry, Blesois, Nivernois, and Bourbonnois, for 40 Churches 2098 Crowns, 15 Sols, and 4 Deniers. To the Province of Dauphiné and Orange, for 92 Churches, 4826 Crowns, 52 Sols, and 8 Deniers. To the Province of Vivaretz, and Vellay, for 30 Churches 1533 Crown, 40 Sols. To the Province of Higher Languedoc, Higher Guyenne, and Higher Auvergne, for 95 Churches 4983 Crowns, 16 Sols, and 8 Deniers. To the Province of Burgundy, Lyonnois, and Forest, Beaujolois, Maconnois, and Bresse, for 28 Churches 1468 Crowns, 45 Sols, 4 Deniers. To the Province of High and Lower Poitou, for 50 Churches 2622 Crowns, 46 Sols, and 8 Deniers. To Provence, for 20 Churches 1049 Crowns, 16 Sols, and 8 Deniers. To the Province of Brittany, for 15 Churches 786 Crowns, and 40 Sols. To the Province of Lower Guyenne, for 70 Churches 3671 Crowns, 53 Sols, and 4 Deniers. To the Province of Saintonge, Aunix, and Augoumois, for 50 Churches 2622 Crowns, 46 Sols, and 8 Deniers. The Number of all the Churches is 753. and dividing their whole Sum among their respective Ministers, is 52 Crowns, 32 Sols, and 4 Deniers to each of them.

XLI. Letters were read from the Governor, Mayor, and Consistory of St. John d' Angely, directed unto this Synod, complaining, That Monsieur D' Amours was taken from them against their Wills, and sent to the Church of Chastleheraut. This Assembly decrees, That what had been already ordained in the Affair of Monsieur D' Amours, should hold good; and Messieurs Gardesy, Banconis, and Forton were charged to pass over to St. John, and in case that said City did not treat Monsieur De la Vitamerie, according to his worth; the Synod of Saintonge were enjoined to make better Provision for him.

XLII. Monsieur Palot, Commissioner-General for receiving the Moneys granted us by His Majesty, having not appeared in Person, nor by Letter in this Assembly, as he was desired, and had promised to inform us of what had been done about the Receipt and Disbursements of the said Moneys. This Synod gives orders unto Monsieur Chamier, Pollot, Rivet, Perrin, de Marevat, Le Venier, La Comb, D' Euvre, to visit and discourse the said Palott, in the Name of this Synod, and to re-mind him of his Duty, and the Church of Paris is required to take care, that the said Palott be farther prosecuted, according to Instructions that shall be given them.

CHAP. VII. The ROLL of Vagrants.

1. THE Vagrants are, one that goes by the Names of Rochempre, alias Darcey, alias Abraham Cheron, alias Peter de la Roche; this Fellow intruded himself into the Ministry in Normandy, he is of but mean Stature, hath a weeping Tone, brown Hair.

2. As also one called Mussidan, alias John Bourdirier, who had been deposed in Vivaretz.

3. Also one named Des Hameux, who had been declared Vagrant by the Provincial Synod of Anjou.

The Province of Dauphiné is appointed to call the next National Synod three Years hence, saving that in case of necessity, and that Province do judge it so, by reason of extraordinary Occurrences, they may convene it sooner.

Revising that Article concerning the maintenance of Monsieur Berger, before-mentioned, it was decreed, That in lieu of a General Contribution towards it by all the Provinces, that of Orleans shall give him in a double Portion, from the Moneys granted us by His Majesty, to what is assigned unto each single Pastor, which Quota of his shall be allowed them in their Accounts, to be presented by them at the next National Synod.

Those of Vivaretz complaining of Taxes imposed on by the Provinces of Higher and Lower Languedoc, towards the defraying of Charges spent about Businesses, whereunto they had never been invited. The Assembly ordains, that for what is past it shall be valid; but for the future, that the Moneys of His Majesty's Grant, which were purely Church-Moneys, shall not be diverted from their primary design, which was the maintenance of our Ministers, and in particular, that the Provinces shall not usurp upon one another's Right.

Monsieur Palott, before-named, having sent unto this Assembly a little before its dissolution, the Sum of Three thousand Crowns in ready Money, it was divided among the Provinces and Universities, defalking one Sol in the Livre, upon the whole remaining Debt, for the Years 1598, 1599, and 1600, according to the Accompts sent by the said Monsieur Palott for every Province, and this without prejudice to the Account of the said Palott, or approbation of it.