Scottish Episcopalians Act 1711 facts for kids
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| Long title | An Act to prevent the disturbing those of the Episcopal Communion in Scotland in the Exercise of their Religious Worship and in the Use of the Liturgy of the Church of England and for repealing the Act passed in the Parliament of Scotland intituled Act against irregular Baptisms and Marriages |
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| Citation | 10 Ann. c. 10 (Ruffhead c. 7) |
| Dates | |
| Royal assent | 3 March 1712 |
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Status: Amended
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| Text of statute as originally enacted | |
| Revised text of statute as amended | |
The Scottish Episcopalians Act 1711 was a law made by the Parliament of Great Britain. It was created to protect the religious freedom of people in Scotland who belonged to the Scottish Episcopal Church. This law made sure they could practice their faith and use the Book of Common Prayer without being bothered.
The Act also got rid of an older Scottish law. That older law was called the "Act against irregular Baptisms and Marriages." This meant the 1711 Act helped make religious practices like baptisms and marriages more accepted.
At the end of 2010, parts of this important law were still in effect in Great Britain.
Contents
What Was the Scottish Episcopal Church?
The Scottish Episcopal Church is a Christian church in Scotland. It is part of the worldwide Anglican Communion. This church has a long history in Scotland, going back many centuries.
After the Glorious Revolution in 1688, the main church in Scotland became the Church of Scotland. This church is Presbyterian, meaning it is led by elders. The Scottish Episcopal Church, however, kept a system with bishops.
Why Was This Act Needed?
In the late 1600s and early 1700s, there were often disagreements about religion in Scotland. People who followed the Episcopal faith sometimes faced difficulties. This Act aimed to stop those problems.
It allowed Episcopalians to worship freely. It also let them use the Book of Common Prayer. This book contains the prayers and services used in the Church of England.
Understanding Old Laws About Marriage and Baptism
Before this Act, there was a law in Scotland against "irregular baptisms and marriages." This meant that certain religious ceremonies were not officially recognized. This could cause problems for families.
The 1711 Act changed this. By repealing the old law, it helped make sure that religious ceremonies performed by Episcopalians were valid. This was a big step for religious tolerance.
See also
- Act Against Irregular Baptisms and Marriages, 1695
- Book of Common Prayer
