John Dickson (minister) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids John Dickson |
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| Religion | Christianity |
| School | Presbyterianism |
John Dickson was a religious leader from Rutherglen, Scotland, in the 1600s. He was a Covenanting minister who often preached outdoors. He was also a close friend of another famous preacher, John Blackadder.
Because he preached outside without permission, he was sent to prison. He was held on the Bass Rock from September 1, 1680, until October 8, 1686.
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John Dickson's Early Life
John Dickson was born in Dalmellington. He finished his studies at Glasgow University in 1649. Before June 28, 1655, he became a minister in Rutherglen. He was said to be related to David Dickson, who was a minister in Irvine.
Standing Up for His Beliefs
John Dickson often spoke out against the government's rules from his pulpit. Because of this, he was called to appear before the Committee of Estates in Edinburgh on October 13, 1660. He was accused of preaching against the government and causing disagreements.
He was put in prison right away, and his church was left without a minister. However, he later asked the king for mercy. He was allowed to return to his church in Rutherglen around 1661.
Preaching Outdoors
In May 1662, a new law was passed that John Dickson could not follow. This law went against his beliefs, so he left his church in Rutherglen. He was officially removed from his position in June and October 1662.
Even though he was no longer an official minister, he kept preaching. He often spoke in fields and on hillsides, sometimes at night to avoid being caught. He traveled to different areas, including Fife. For example, he was at the first armed outdoor church meeting, called a "conventicle," on the Hill of Beath on June 16, 1670. This meeting was very large, with people coming from far away.
Because of this meeting, Dickson and John Blackadder were ordered to appear before the Privy Council. But they chose not to show up. Dickson went to London, and Blackadder hid in Edinburgh. Since Dickson did not appear, he was declared a rebel.
Life on the Run
John Dickson did not stay in London for long. He came back to Scotland and continued to preach in private homes or in fields. On June 4, 1674, a reward of 1000 merks was offered for his capture.
Around 1676, he was recorded preaching in places like Balvaird Castle and near Tullibole church. The Covenanters also started holding outdoor communion services. At these services, they would carry weapons to protect themselves. Dickson was present at such services in Nisbet and Irongray.
After the Covenanters were defeated at the Battle of Bothwell Bridge, Dickson stopped preaching in fields. Preaching outdoors had become a crime punishable by death. Instead, he held meetings only in private houses.
Imprisonment on Bass Rock
In 1680, John Dickson was captured and put on trial in Edinburgh. The authorities decided to send him to the Bass Rock, a famous island prison in the Firth of Forth. He arrived there on September 2, 1680.
On October 8, 1686, orders were given to release some prisoners from Bass Rock and Blackness Castle. However, Dickson would not agree to the conditions for his release. He refused to promise to stop holding outdoor meetings. So, he was ordered to be sent back to Bass Rock.
Because of his age and poor health, Dickson asked to stay in Edinburgh instead. This request was granted on October 13, 1686. He was allowed to stay in Edinburgh for a short time, promising to appear before the Council later.
Freedom and Return
After the Glorious Revolution, a big change in government, John Dickson was able to return to his old church in Rutherglen. He had also served as a minister in Kelso. He was officially restored to his position on April 25, 1690.
John Dickson passed away on January 12, 1700, when he was about 71 years old.
His Family
John Dickson married Jean Wardlaw. They had several children:
- John, who became an apprentice merchant in Edinburgh in 1690.
- Mary, who was baptized on September 9, 1662.
- Andrew, who was baptized on April 22, 1665.
- Quentin, who was baptized on December 30, 1666.
- Robert, who died on May 24, 1711.
