The Convenant

• In February 1638 Charles issued a new proclamation which made it treason to protest against the prayer book
• Consequently   the Scots drew up the National Covenant which was a traditional response to Royal Demands
• Only avenue left open legally to opponents if religious changes. 'A solemn promise by the people of Scotland to their king that they would not comply with his requirement that the Kirk would be transformed
• Covenant included 2 doctrinal elements (outline of calvinist theology and condemnation of Catholicism) as well as the renouncement of the 1633 canons on prayer book. Signed by 1000s (Covenanters)