John Law (minister) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids John Law |
|
|---|---|
John Law
|
|
| Personal details | |
| Born | 1632 Inchinnan |
| Died | 26 December 1712 Edinburgh |
| Buried | Greyfriars Kirkyard |
| Nationality | Scottish |
| Denomination | Presbyterian |
John Law (1632–1712) was an important Presbyterian minister from Scotland in the 1600s and early 1700s. He was a leader in the Church of Scotland. He even became the Moderator of the General Assembly in 1694. This was a very high position. John Law also faced challenges for his beliefs. He was once held prisoner on the Bass Rock, a famous island prison.
Contents
Who Was John Law?
John Law was born in 1632 in a place called Inchinnan. His father, Thomas Law, was also a minister. John first trained to be an apothecary, which was like a pharmacist back then. He studied at the University of Glasgow and earned his degree in 1653.
Becoming a Minister
In 1656, John Law became a minister in a town called Campsie. However, times were difficult for Presbyterian ministers in Scotland. The government often disagreed with their ways of worship. Because of this, John Law was removed from his church in 1662.
He was allowed to return to his church in 1678. But he was removed again in 1681. This happened because he refused to take a special oath called "the Test." This oath went against his religious beliefs.
Challenges and Imprisonment
After being removed from his church, John Law continued to preach. He held secret religious meetings called conventicles. These meetings were often held outdoors and were against the law. He traveled around, especially in areas like Kippen and Gargunnock. This was very risky for him.
The government tried to arrest him many times. In 1674, he was caught and taken to the Tolbooth in Edinburgh. This was a prison. He was released after promising to "live orderly." But he soon went back to holding conventicles.
In 1679, John Law was arrested again. He was on his way to visit his sick wife. This time, he was sent to the Bass Rock. This was a very tough island prison. He was held there for three months. He was released after promising to appear if called upon.
Later Ministry and Leadership
After the Glorious Revolution in 1688, things changed in Scotland. Presbyterianism became the main religion. John Law was then called to be a minister at the High Church of Edinburgh. This church is also known as St Giles Cathedral. He started this important role in 1689.
He became a member of the General Assemblies, which are like big meetings for the Church of Scotland. In 1694, he was chosen to be the Moderator. This meant he was the leader of the entire Church of Scotland for a time. He also worked for the King as an Almoner, helping with charity.
John Law retired in 1707. He passed away on December 26, 1712, when he was 80 years old.
Family Life and Legacy
John Law was married to Isabella Cunninghame. She was known for her strong faith. Isabella passed away in 1703. They had a son named William. William became a professor at the University of Edinburgh. He also started the Law family of Elvingston.
John Law and his wife Isabella were buried in Greyfriars Kirkyard in Edinburgh. This is a famous old graveyard. Their son William built a special tomb for them there.
The inscription on their tomb is in Latin. It talks about John Law being a wise and watchful pastor. It also mentions Isabella's true holiness. The inscription shows how much William loved and respected his parents.
