John Rae (minister) facts for kids
John Rae was a minister from England.
Early Life and Education
John Rae was born to William Rae, a citizen of Edinburgh. He went to the University of Glasgow and finished his studies in 1651.
A Minister's Journey
John Rae became a minister in a place called Symington around 1658. However, in 1662, a new law meant he could no longer officially preach in churches.
Because of this, John Rae became a very dedicated "Covenanter" preacher. Covenanters were people who believed in a special agreement (a "covenant") to follow their religious beliefs, even if it meant going against the government's rules at the time. For eight years, he traveled all over the country. He held church services outdoors on hillsides and secretly in people's homes.
Facing Challenges and Arrests
Around 1670, John Rae was caught preaching and baptizing in private homes. He was arrested and sent to different jails, including Canongate jail, Stirling Castle, and Dumbarton Castle.
He was finally set free in September 1672. At that time, the government offered a special permission, called an "indulgence," which would allow him to preach in the parish of Cumbraes. But John Rae chose not to accept this offer. Instead, he joined other preachers, like Mr John Welsh, to continue preaching in open fields. For nine years, he worked very hard, traveling from place to place. They held secret church meetings, performed weddings, baptisms, and shared the Lord's Supper.
In July 1674, the government officially declared him a rebel. This meant he was considered an outlaw. Some records suggest he might have gone to Holland for a short time. In August 1676, special orders were issued against him, making it illegal for anyone to help him.
In 1681, he was captured again and sent to the Edinburgh Tolbooth, which was a prison. On February 15, 1683, he was arrested in Edinburgh once more. On September 15 of the next year, the Council ordered him to be sent to the Bass Rock. This was a famous island prison. He was sent there at the same time as Sir Hugh Campbell. John Rae stayed imprisoned on the Bass Rock until he died. His body was taken from the prison and buried in the churchyard of North Berwick.
This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain. This article incorporates text from this source, which is in the public domain.
