John Stewart (minister) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids John Stewart |
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|---|---|
| John Stewart of Bredochmilne | |
| Personal details | |
| Died | 6 May 1692 |
| Denomination | Presbyterian (Church of Scotland, Protesting Presbytery) |
| Spouse | Christian Arbuthnot |
| Children | Margaret, Elizabeth |
| Alma mater | King's College, Aberdeen |
John Stewart was a Scottish minister who lived in the 1600s. He was known for his strong beliefs during a time when there were many changes in the Church of Scotland. He faced challenges because he did not agree with some of the new rules for ministers.
Contents
Early Life and Education
John Stewart studied at King's College, Aberdeen in Scotland and graduated in 1649. He became a licensed minister on April 5, 1654. This happened in an area called the Presbytery of Old Deer, which was part of the Synod of Aberdeen.
He started his ministry in Crimond on April 10, 1655. This was arranged by a group called the Protesting Presbytery. It is thought that he might have lived near Innes House during this time.
A Minister's Challenges
During Stewart's time, there were big changes in the Church of Scotland. A new system called Prelacy was introduced, which meant bishops had more power. John Stewart did not agree with these changes. Because he did not follow the new rules, he was removed from his position.
In 1657, the Synod of Aberdeen said he was an "unparalleled intruder." They told him to stop being a minister. In October 1658, they officially removed him from his role. However, the Protesting Presbytery, the group he belonged to, refused to remove him. They believed he was "a godly and able man." Despite this, the Synod removed him again on April 20, 1660.
Standing Up for Beliefs
Many years later, on January 30, 1685, John Stewart was accused of breaking church rules. This happened before a special committee that was meeting in Elgin, Moray. He was charged with holding secret religious meetings called "conventicles." He was also accused of not attending official church services. Other charges included teaching ideas that went against the government.
When he was questioned on February 2, 1685, he swore an oath. He admitted that he had not attended his own parish church for about 18 or 19 years. He also said he had preached in his own home and in other private houses. However, he denied all the other serious charges. He also said he had performed a marriage ceremony for a couple.
Because he admitted to these things and refused to take an oath of loyalty to the king, he was punished. On February 4, 1685, he was sentenced to be sent away from the king's lands. He was taken as a prisoner to the Tolbooth of Edinburgh. Instead of being sent away, he was imprisoned in a famous prison called the Bass Rock. He stayed there until he was set free by the Council on June 21, 1686.
Return to Ministry
After the time known as the Restoration, John Stewart was able to become a minister again. In 1687, he became a minister in Elgin. Later, after May 10, 1691, he moved to Urquhart to continue his ministry there.
Family Life
John Stewart was married to Christian Arbuthnot. She was the sister of John Arbuthnot of Cairngall. They had daughters, including Margaret and Elizabeth. Margaret later married Alexander Forbes, who was also a minister. John Stewart passed away on May 6, 1692.
