Note 101 — Chapter VI
Reading edition
Some instances will occur in our account of the Episcopalians under the Commonwealth. Others beside Episcopalians were objected to before the Commissioners. In illustration of this, I subjoin the following document amongst the State Papers:—
"To the most reverend the Commissioners for approbation of public preachers.
"Articles that will be proved and deposed to upon oath against James Cockaine, of Tredsham, in the county of Chester.
"That Mr. James Cockaine denies the ministry as an office.
"That no Christian in these ages hath the Spirit of God in any measure.
"That the image of God in us doth not consist in knowledge, righteousness, and true holiness.
"That Mr. Cockaine affirms in public, upon occasion, that the sacraments were Popery.
"That he disallows of catechising.
"That syllogisms are of the devil. Denies the Sabbath; saith all days are alike, and that it ought not to be called the Lord's Day.
"That several parishioners, eminent for religion and piety, have withdrawn themselves from his ministry in the said parish. He humbly prayed that as the witnesses are many who will ascertain these articles upon oath, there may issue a commission to justices of the peace for the said county, and ministers to examine the truth of the premises, and to certify thereon."