“So great an engagement, than which nothing is higher”: The International Covenant in England – SFH099

“So great an engagement, than which nothing is higher”: The International Covenant in England – SFH099

The International Covenant was enthusiastically welcomed and subscribed to in England as well as Scotland. The momentous day it was sworn first, 25 September 1643 was said to be “a day of contentment and joy.” Some said, “we judged the day of entering into this Covenant to be England’s coronation-day, as it was the day of the gladness of our hearts.” We find out more about the depth of commitment displayed at this time and the strong connections it brought between Scotland and England.

“Smoking Desires for Union” – The International Covenant at St Giles – SFH098

“Smoking Desires for Union” – The International Covenant at St Giles – SFH098

Intense emotion surrounded the beginnings of the movement that brought about the Solemn, League and Covenant. It was an international covenant that embraced the political, religious and personal of these nations – a very unique thing. In this episode, we find out how it was first drafted and received in Edinburgh.

“To sink or swim together” – Henderson and British Church Unity – SFH090

“To sink or swim together” – Henderson and British Church Unity – SFH090

In the various twists and turns of unfolding events, Alexander Henderson is greatly favoured then scorned by the king within months. But as incidents erupt, negotiations fail and positions harden the destinies of some in England and Scotland begin to move together. For some this is a highly spiritual matter and a reformation movement. Find out more of the eventful journey towards the Solemn, League and Covenant in this episode.

 

Scotland’s Forgotten International Covenant – SFH089

Scotland’s Forgotten International Covenant – SFH089

What was the connection between reformation and covenant? Why did English puritans as well as Scots come to think it was necessary to have a covenant for the whole British Isles?  Most people today know little about the Solemn League and Covenant and what makes it different from the National Covenant. Yet it would certainly cost both blood and tears in Scotland. Over a number of episodes we can follow something of its history and influence, as well as how people responded to it. In this episode we look at the context that gave rise to it.

Thomas Case – Milk Street, London – SFH037

Thomas Case – Milk Street, London – SFH037

Thomas Case was an English Presbyterian minister and a member of the Westminster Assembly from 1643.  He was an enthusiastic supporter of the noble, yet short-lived Solemn League and Covenant that was intended to bind the British Isles together, writing, “To every soul that shall enter into this holy league and covenant, if we be sincere and faithful, this covenant shall be a foundation of much peace, joy, glory and security to us and our seed, to the coming of Christ.”

Matthew Vogan is visiting London during this week’s episode.

To dig deeper, visit ScotlandsForgottenHistory.com