Delphinus Archbishop of Lions under whom he shaved his crown according to the custome of the Clergy Alfred gave him a Monastery in a place which is called Humpud one for learning virtue worthy thereof A Synod is call'd in the Monastery of Strensalt for the deciding of this question Wilfrid commanded by the King and Bishop spake thus in answer to the Scots and to Colman their chief Bishop The Easter by us observed we have seen so observed at Rome where the blessed Apostles Peter and Paul liv'd preacht suffered and are buried This manner we have seen in all Italy and France This we know to be observed in Afrike Asia Aegypt and Greece and throughout all Nations and tongues of the world where the Church of Christ taketh place except these few and others of like obstinacy the Picts Britans with whom these men do fondly contend against the whole world God forbid said Wilfrid that we should charge St. John For he in his observation kept the decrees of Moses law literally according as the whole Church followed yet in many things after the Jewish manner For the Apostles were not able upon the sudden to blot out all customes and rites of the law instituted by God himself This they were forced to bear for a time least the Jews that lived among the Gentiles might be offended Upon this consideration St. Paul did circumcise Timothy Now the light of the Gospel shining through the world it is not lawfull for any Christian to be circumcised Peter preaching his Gospel at Rome remembring that our Lord rose the first day after the Sabath understood the observation of Easter in such sort that he lookt for the rising of the Moon at Evening in the 14th day of her Age in the first moneth at the rising whereof at Evening if the morrow after were Sunday he began in that very Evening to observe the Feast of Easter as all we do to this day but if Sunday were not the next morrow after the 14day of the Change of the Moon but the 16 17 or any other untill the 21. he tarried for the Sunday and that Saturday before he began the holy solemnity of Easter And it was by the Nicene Councel not newly decreed but confirmed that this is the true observation of Easter and so of all Christians to be celebrated As for your Father and his followers I doe not think it was much prejudiciall against them as long as they had yet receiv'd no instruction to the contrary but I rather suppose seeing they willingly followed such commands as they knew they would also have conform'd themselves to the Catholike judgment if they had been so informed But you your companions if hearing the decrees of the See Apostolike or rather of the Universall Church and that also confirmed in holy Writ follow not the same you offend and sin undoubtedly For though your Fathers were holy men could these few prejudice the whole Church of Christ spread through the World and if your Father Columban were holy and mighty in miracles yet may he not be preferr'd before the most blessed Prince of the Apostles to whom our Lord said Thou art Peter and upon this Rock I will build my Church and Hell gates shall not prevaile against her And to thee I will give the Keys of the kingdome of Heaven The King hearing this said Agree ye both in this that these words were principally spoken unto Peter and that unto him the Keys of the Kingdome of Heaven were given When both answered yes the King concluded saying I tell you I will not gainsay such a Porter as this is but as far as I know and am able I will endeavour in all points to obey his Ordinances least perhaps when I come to the doores of Heaven I finde none to open them to me having his displeasure who is so clearly proved to bear the Keys thereof Thus they all embraced the more perfect observance Chap. 26. Colman the Scottish Bishop seeing his Doctrine disproved departed for Scotland taking with him such as refused to accept of the Catholike observation of Easter and of the carrying of a round shaven Crown Cedda embraced the Catholike Tradition and Tuda was made Bishop of the Northern men wearing after the manner of that Countrey a shaven Crown and observing Easter after the Catholike manner In holy Island Eata a reverend Father once Abbot of Mailrose was made Abbot over the Monks Colman departing took with him some of the bones of Bishop Aidan part also he left in the Church where he was Bishop laying them up in the Vestry The same Chapter further Relates of the Monks of this Monastery how greatly they abstain'd from all pleasure if they took any money of rich men they presently gave it to the poore and the eminent and wealthy never came but to pray and hear the Word of God and those that came contented themselves with the religious mens simple fare looking for nothing above the ordinary The Rulers of the Church sought not to pamper the body but to save the soul whence it came to passe that even the Habit of Religious men was had in great Veneration so that when any of the Clergy or Religious came forth he was joyfully received of all as the Servant of God And if any were going a journey the people ran to them and with great reverence desired to have their blessing either by hand or mouth And when they made any Exhortation as they past by every man gladly hearkened unto them Upon Sundaies ordinarily the people went to Church or Cloisters not to eat and drink but to hear the Word of God and if any Priest came abroad into the Villages the Inhabitants would flock about him desiring of him some lesson or instruction The Clergy in those dayes seldome went abroad but to Preach to Christen to visite the sick or for the cure of Souls Neither would they in those daies take territories or possessiosn towards building of Monasteries but through earnest sute and almost forc't thereto Note here upon the departure of Colman that the Scots converted by Palladius An. 422. as was said B. 1. C. 13. did not disagree in Faith from those sent by St. Gregory and later Popes into England in any one of those points in which the Protestants now differ from the Roman Faith They disagreed not about the Mass about Prayer for the dead Prayer to Saints about the reall Presence or any such point All the disagreement was about the time of keeping Easter and the manner of Tonsure Whence it is evident that Rome in the points now in Controversie taught the very same this year 664 which it had taught the Scots by Palladius An. 423. And what it taught then it taught the Britans An. 156. as I noted above B. 2. C. 2. see that place see also the Preface Number 1. Chap. 27. Relates how divers English
a Monasticall and Solitary life than all worldly wealth After some years spent in a Monastery he made a Voyage to Rome to see what rights and ceremonies were observed there as well of Seculars as Religious He told the Queen the desire he had to visit the Monuments of the Holy Apostles which she approved At Rome he became acquainted with a Holy learned Arch-deacon called Boniface one of the Apostolike Popes Councellors by whose instructions he learnt the foure Books of the Gospell and Easter and many other things concerning the discipline of the Church which he could not attaine to in his Country Returning into England he was favoured by King Alfrid who had learned to follow in all things the Catholike Rules of the Church This King finding Wilfrid Catholick gave him Stamford and Rippon which the Scots had before to build Abbeies He was made Priest and followed the the Kings Court as Preacher and not long after was made Bishop by Agilbert Bishop of Paris In King Egfrids raigne he was deprived of his Bishoprick of Yorke and another ordeyned in his place Wilfrid going to Rome to plead his cause before the Apostolike Pope was driven into Frizland where he preacht unto them Christ And where many thousands being cōverted and baptized by him he was the first began this Evangelicall work which the most Reverend Bishop Willebrord afterwards finished Wilfrid having past the VVinter with his new Converts reassumed his journey to Rome where his cause was debated in presence of Pope Agatho many Bishops He was found by all their judgments to be without any fault and worthy of the Bishoprick The Pope gathered a Sinod at Rome of 125 Bishops against those who held but one will and operation in Christ Wilfrid sate among them where he was to declare his Faith and the Faith of his Countrey which was found to be Catholick This was thus registred in the Acts. Wilfrid the vertuous Bishop of Yorke appealing to the See Apostolike for his cause and by that Authority absolved and placed in Judgement Seat in the synod together with 125. other Bishops hath declared for all the Northerne parts of Britany the true and Catholike Faith confirming the same with subscription Wilfrid at his returne converted the South-Saxons and in the second year of King Aldefrid was restored to his Bishoprick After five years being again turned out he followed his appeale at Rome and his accusers being present he again was acquitted Returning through France he fell sick to death and told Acca how in that sicknesse one appeared to him in a white habit telling him that he was St Michael who said to him I am sent by God to recall thee from death For our Lord hath given thee life by the intercession of our Lady Mother of God but remaine prepared for after foure years I will come again to visite thee Thou shalt be restored to the greatest part of thy possessions and end thy life in peace Recovering he came into England where King Aldefrid refusing to restore him shortly dyeth Then a Synod is called by the votes of all he is reestablisht After four years of Peace he died in a Monastery of Abbot Cudbalds but entered in his own Monastery at Rippon in the Blessed Apostle St. Peters Church by the Altar These Verses are in his Epitaph Wilfrid that worthy Prelate Lyeth buried in this grave Who mov'd with Godly Zeale To Christ this Temple gave And of the Apostle Peters name St. Peters Church did call Christ gave To whom the Keyes of Heaven Cheif Governour of all He guilded it with finest gold With Scarlet hung it round And set up there a Crucifix Of Gold even from the ground Chap. 21. Acca succeeded Wilfrid in the Bishoprick of York a man for his courage and gallant deeds gracious in the sight of God and Man He enlarged the Church dedicated to St. Andrew and adorned it with many exquisite works He did both then and doth at this very day endeavour to gather together the Holy Apostles and Martyrs Reliques that he may in their honor build Altars He provided Holy Vessels lights and other necessaries appertaining to the better adorning the Church of God Chap. 22. Naitan King of the Picts abandoning the Errours which he and his Country had long kept touching Easter brought them all to the Catholike observation which that he might effect he required aide of the English whom he knew to have fram'd their Religion according to the Church of Rome and See Apostolike He sent Embassadors to that end to Reverend Abbot Ceolfrid of the Monastery of St. Peter and Paul He requested further to be instructed what manner of Tonsure the Clergy then should use He desired to have some cunning workmen sent him to build a Church after the manner of Rome promising to dedicate it in the honor of St. Peter Prince of the Apostles and to follow ever more the order and faith of the Church of Rome and See Apostolike In Ceolfrids letter to the King be these words We exhort you most humbly to take care that your Clergy may beare the same Tonsure which the Church doth receive For as all congregations of the faithfull are accustomed to carry the signe of the Crosse in the forehead that by the power thereof they may be defended from the assaults of the Devil and by often remembrance of it be instructed so it behoveth them who being made by vow Monks or by profession of the Clergy binde themselves more strictly with the bridle of continencie to beare on the Head by shaving the shape of a Crown as our Saviour did a Crowne of Thornes at his Passion as well to express their ready minde to suffer mockeries for Christ as strengthen their hope for a Crowne of glory In the same letter he Relateth what concerning this point he said to the Scotish Abbot Adaman I said quoth he Brother if you seek the fellowship of St. Peter why do you follow the manner of shaving which he used whom St. Peter did excommunicate and why rather shew you not that you desire with your heart his character with whom you desire to live in blisse If you desire to follow his steps and counsell whom you took to have as a Patron with God the Father then he commands thus It beseemeth you most puissant Prince to observe all that agreeth with the unity of Christs Catholick and Apostolick Church So it will come to passe that the Prince of the Apostles will open to you and yours the gates of Heaven By this advise in short time this Prince with all his dominions was brought to the true observation of Easter all the Ministers of the Altar and Monks had their heads shaven round in forme of a Crowne and the whole Nation being reformed did rejoyce to see themselves disciples of the most blessed Prince of
1. c. 4. did not pretend any cause of division from Augustines Doctrine about Mass use of the Crosse and Images worship of Saints and Relicks or any other point wherein we and Protestants differ A demonstrative argument that none of these things brought in by Augustine were contrary to what was delivered to the Britans not a full hundred years after the Apostles time So that as long as Augustines Religion was kept in England the Apostles Religion was kept Chap. 3. Augustine ordain'd two Bishops Mellitus Justus Mellitus he sent to preach to the Province of the East Saxons whose chief City is London As soon as the Province by Mellitus preaching had receiv'd the word of Truth King Ethelbert built St. Pauls Church in London where Mellitus and his successors ever after were to hold their Bishops Seat Justus was ordain'd by him Bishop of Rochester in Kent where Ethelbert built St. Andrew the Apostles Church After this the dearly beloved Father in God Augustine dyed and his body was laid by the Church of the Apostles Peter and Paul in Canterbury which after it was finisht was brought in and honourably buried in the North-part thereof where also were interred the bodies of all the Archbishops following as long as there was room This Church hath an Altar in it dedicated to the honour of St. Gregory Pope at which Altar every Saturday the Commemoration of these departed Bishops is celebrated by the Priest of the place Upon St. Augustines Tomb is written Here resteth Augustine the first Archbishop of Canterbury who being sent hither by blessed Gregory Bishop and by working of Miracles supported by God brought King Ethelbert and his People from Idolatry to the Faith of Christ He dyed the 26. of May CHAP. 4. Laurence succeeded him in the Bishoprick whom Augustine yet living ordain'd least after his death the State of the Church rude as yet and newly converted might have wavered and faln if it had lackt a Pastour and guide never so little Wherein he followed the example of the first Pastour of the Church the most blessed Prince of the Apostles Peter who having laid at Rome the foundation of Christs Church consecrated Clement his Coadjutor and Successor Laurence seeing the ground-work of his Church to enlarge which was well and throughly laid endeavoured to raise the same to a perfect height by frequent exhortations and continual example of pious works He earnestly laboured as a true Shepheard not onely for the modern Church of the English but also for the Church of the old Inhabitants of Britany and Scots in Ireland whose profession as soon as hâ— knew to be lesse Ecclesiastical and not well ordered in many points especially about Easter they not celebrating it in due time He wrote unto them beseeching them to receive and keep the society of Catholike observance with the Church of Christ spread over the whole world To our dearest brethren the Bishops and Abbots in Scotland Laurence Mellitus c. When the See Apostolike according to the usuall manner of sending to all parts of the world directed us hither to preach the word of God We c. About this time Mellitus Bishop of London went to Rome for advice of the Apostolike Pope Boniface and for necessary causes of the English Church This Pope call'd a Councel of Bishops to appoint some order concerning the life of Monks Mellitus sate among them to the end that what there was legally decreed he confirming might bring with him to the English Church as precepts and rules to be observed He brought also letters from the Pope to Laurence Archbishop to the Clergy and the King This Pope cleansed the Temple Pantheon converting it into a Church in honour of our Lady and the Martyrs Chap. 5. In the year 613. Ethelbert King of Kent after he had raigned six and fifty years entred into eternal blisse the one and twentieth year after he had receiv'd the Faith and was interr'd in St. Martins Porch within the Church of the blessed Apostles Peter and Paul Edbald his son much harm'd the tender sprigs of the Church but Gods scourge was not wanting for both an unclean spirit and a frâ—nzie possest him Moreover the death of Sabereth King of the East Saxons and Nephew to Ethelbert much encreased the persecution of the Church who going hence to the everlasting kingdome left three sons who all fell to Idolatry These Princes seeing the Bishop in the Church after he had said Mass giving to the people the Sacrament said unto him Why doest thou not give us also of that white bread To whom he answered If you will be washt in that wholesome Font wherein your Father was you may also eat of this blessed bread but if you contemn the laver of life you may not tastâ— the bread of life Hereupon the King commanded Mellitus and all his company to depart the Realm so he and Justus went over into France Chap. 6. Laurence the Archbishop being now ready to forsake Britany and follow Mellitus and Justus commanded the night before he was to go that his bed should be laid in the Saints Peter and Paulâ— Church where after many prayers and tears powr'd out to God for the State of the Church the blessed Prince of the Apostles appearing in his sleep unto him scourged him a good while and with Apostolicall Authority asked him Why he meant to forsake the flock which he himself had committed unto him and to what Shepheard running now away he would leave the sheep of Christ beset with ravening Wolves By these stripes and the words of St. Peter Laurence the servant of God imboldned came and presented himself to the King and throwing open his garment shew'd him how pittifully he had been beaten When the King all amazed demanded who durst inflict such stripes upon a man of his dignity when he understood it was for his salvation and that by the Apostle of Christ he became afraid and abandoning the worship of Idols and his unlawfull wedlock embraced the Faith of Christ and was baptized promoting the good of the Church to the utmost of his power He call'd home Mellitus and Justus commanding them to return to their Churches and instruct their flock Thus the King with all his Subjects from that day that he was converted submitted himself to the Precepts of God He built a Church in honour of our Lady the blessed Mother of God within the Abbey of St. Peter Prince of the Apostles which Mellitus hollowed Chap. 7. Relates How the holy Archbishop Laurence departing hence to heaven his body was buried in the Abbey-Church of St. Peter the Apostle Mellitus of London succeeded in the See of Canterbury the third after Augustine who by birth was noble but nobler by his singular virtue It chanced that the City of Canterbury was set on fire and great part consum'd and the raging flames drew nigh
over this book and it will make thee though thou best unlearned as good as an eye witnesse of the faith which was first delivered by Christ and his Apostles and their immediate successours so that I hope in God a thousand crafty sophisters shall not be able to make thee deny that thou hast seen what thine own eyes most assuredly testifie to have attentively beheld viz. that is the true Old Religion as it was in her best age And because travellers desire to have Card or Map of all the countryes and Townes which they are to see in their Travels I will also as in a short Map give thee a brief sum of all that thou art to see practised in this Old Church of England when she was in her greatest purity that is when she was agreeing wholy with the faith practised in the beginning of the second age after Christ Come then along with me where thou shalt see First among the old Britans before ever Austen entrâ—d England such swarmes of Monks that even that one Abbey or Monastery of Bangor contained above one and twenty hundred Monks Scotland also which received her Faith in the fourth Age after Christs Passion sends forth her Monks to joyn with those Apostles sent us by St. Gregory and his Successors But now in this our new English Church to be a Monk is to be a Traitor then they were our Apostles Secondly These Apostles of ours did Miracles so frequently that the Pope thought it necessary to write to them to be mindful of humility for fear the multitude of Miracles they wrought might by pride endanger them Thirdly our English both high and low eagerly then embraced Monastical Vows This course of life was accounted the most ready way to Heaven Our Kings left their Thrones and shaving the crowns of their heads put on the habit of poor Monks Everywhere in your travels you shall meet with Abbyes and Abbots and Abbesses with Monasteries and Monks with Nuns and Nunneries Fourthly These Monks and Nuns shine frequently with extraordinary sanctity of life are endowed with the gift of Prophecy very often made partakers of Heavenly Visions and Apparitions and graced with many Miracles Fifthly The Vow'd Virginity of these Nuns is approv'd from Heaven and by reason of these Vowes they are called Virgins consecrated to Christ Spouses of Christ true Queenes espoused to the Heavenly Bridegroom Sixthly In the very Desart thou shalt meet with Hermits with Anchorets with men leading a perfect solitary life using extraordinary austerity in fasting watching and other penal rigours and these men graced from Heaven with Miracles If thou hadst rather look upon the Layity thou shalt find Seventhly That among them it is a point of great sanctity to joyn perpetual Virginity with Wedlock and God approveth also this by Miracle Eighthly Thou shalt find good works done by all for hope of reward and these good works held to be the golden cords lifting them up to Heaven Moreover they are judged according to their Works and not accounted justified by faith only Ninthly Sins believed to be redeem'd by good Works and satisfaction to be made by our patient sufferings Tenthly They confess to Priests the secret sins of their heart most openly and plainly doing the pennances enjoynâ—d them for satisfaction 11. They rigorously fast all Fridays and the 40. daies in Lent and the transgressors are punish't by Law 12. They go on Pilgrimage even as far as Rome both King and people practise this as a thing of great vertue 13. They everywhere worship Reliques God confirming it by many Miracles Hence Reliques were esteem'd presents for Kings 14. They use Invocation of Saints holding their unworthiness to be supplied by their Merits and therefore desiring to have them for Patrons in Heaven And God approveth this their devotion by a world of Miraculous Graces given at the devout Invocation of these Saints 15. They daily pray for the Dead and it was a common Proverb then to say God have mercy on their soules as Oswald said when he died himself 16. Hence that party found credit among the most understanding and most Vertuous of those Times who reported bimself in a miraculous Vision to have been an eye-witness of Purgatory-paines and to have been told by an Angel that very thing which the Papists in these daies say that many souls are delivered from Purgatory before the day of Judgment 17. That this deliverance is effected by Alms and other good deeds done for them especially by offering the Sacrifice of the Mass both which last poinâ—s as well the Greeks as the Latins defin'd in the Councel of Florence in these words These soules who are purged as abovesaid that is by the Prayers Alms and other pious works and by the Sacrifice of the Mass are forthwith received into Heaven and behold God clearly In coelum mox recipi intueri clare Deum 18. Hence also he finâ—s the like Credit who recounted of himself that when in a Battel it was reported he was slain whereas he was not slain but only kept prisoner in fetters his Brother who was a Priest thoâ—ght so saying often Moss for his soules release his fetters alwayes fell off on their own accord God testifying what should have befaln his soul had he been prisoner in Purgatory 19. Hence also they make Vows of practising extraordinary Austerities to satisfie in this world for their sins which Vows are here approv'd from Heaven But because I know thou longest most to view attentively their Churches their Church-Service and their Clergy and the manner of the Government instituted by Christ shining in the Primitive practice of his Church for The 20. Point That thou shalt everywhere see their Churches dedicated to the Virgin-Queen of Heaven to the Apostles and Holy Martyrâ— 21. In this deâ—ication Holy Water is used as also â—oly oyâ— bâ— both which Miracles at several occasions arâ— wrought 22. Their Altars also of Stone are consecrated so also their Chalices which are sometimes maâ—e of pure gold they have rich Church-stufâ—e Altar-clothes They have manâ— Altars of sâ—one in one Church these they also dedicate to Saints 23. The Sacrifice of the Mass is offered upon these Altars And because in journeys among Heathens Altars of stone cannot be found they carry with them portable Altars 24. By these Altars the bodies of Saints are richly enshrin'd and upon the Altars are plac't Reliques brought from other places even as far as Rome 25. A number of lights both day and night burn in these holy places 26. They use Pictures of our Saviour and of our Lady and place in their Churches Crosses of gold and silver 27. Their Priests who are ordain'd for the Ministery of the Altar and to offer Satrifices are commanded to live a single life 28. These Priests wear shaven crowns in honour of our Saviouâ—s Crown of Thorns whose ignominy they glory to carry in the highest part of their body and profess that by it they are
and vertue and instructed by his wholesome Exhortations forsaking Idolatry became a Christian It came to the ears of the Prince that this holy Confessour of Christ whose time was not come that God had assigned for him to suffer lay hid in Alban's house Whereupon Souldiers were sent to apprehend him but St. Alban apparrelled in his guests and Masters garments presented himself unto them When they brought Alban it hapned that the Judge was doing sacrifice unto the Devils who beholding him and incensed with anger for that he feared not to offer himself unto death for his guest he commanded him to be brought before the Idols For as much quoth he as thou hadst rather convey away the Rebell and Traitour to our gods than to deliver him up to deserved punishment what pains he should have suffered if he had been taken the same shalt thou undergo if thou refusest to practise the rites of our Religion But St. Alban who had voluntarily declared himself a Christian little heeded the menaces of the Prince but being throughly guarded with the spiritual armour of Grace plainly told him he would not obey his command I am a Christian saith he and I apply my self to Christian duties and exercises I honour and worship the true and living God These sacrifices which thou offerest to the Devils help not the offerer but purchase them eternal pains The Judge hereupon commanded the holy Confessor of God to be beaten by the Tormentors but Alban in his sufferings was patient and couragious Then the Judge sentenced him to be beheaded As he was led to execution he came to a floud which swiftly ran betwixt him and the place where he was to suffer The company was great and the bridge narrow so that it was likely to be Evening before they could all pass Alban desirous of death coming to the river side made his Prayer and saw forth with the bottom dry the water giving place to him and to the people to pass over Which the Executioner seeing not without the holy inspiration of God fell down at his feet and casting from him his sword ready drawn desired rather to suffer himself than do the Execution Then came they to a very pleasant hill worthy to be dedicated by the bloud of the blessed Martyr At the top whereof Alban begg'd of God to give him water and strait there arose a Spring at his Feet whereby all perceiv'd that as the River before in obedience to him was dryed up so water was now given at his entreaty Here this most valiant Martyr being beheaded received the Crown of life which God promiseth to those that love him But he who did the Execution had short joy for his eys fell upon the ground with the Head of the holy Martyr There also was beheaded the Souldier who being called of God refused to strike the holy Confessor of whom t is manifest though he was not Christned in the Font yet was he baptized in his own blood and so made worthy to enter heaven The Judge seeing so many strange and heavenly miracles wrought by this holy martyr cōmanded the persecution should cease beginning to honor in the Saints of God their constant and patient suffering death whereby he thought at first to draw them from the devotion of their Faith St. Alban suffered Martyrdome the 20th day of June neer the City Verulam now call'd St. Albans in Hartfordshire where after the Christian Church was calm'd a Church was built of exceeding rich work and worthy of such a Martyrdom In which place eve◠to this day are sick persons cured and many Miracles wrought Many more suffered in sundry places who by perfect victory yeelded their Souls to Heaven CHAP. 8. After the storm of this persecution was blown over the Christians who in time of danger lay hid in dens and deserts came forth and shewed themselves abroad renew'd Churches which were overthrown founded built and drest up new in honour of the holy Martyrs celebrated holy dayes consecrated the divine Mysteries and every where display'd their Ensignes in signe of Victory This peace continued in the Church of Christ in Britany untill the Arian Heresie running through the world corrupted also with venemous Errours this Island When by this means Heresie had found an open vent to press over the Ocean into the said Island soon after all manner of Heresies flowed in and were received by the Inhabitants they being men delighting ever to hear novelties and stedfastly retaining nothing as certain This Heresie of the Arians being discovered and condemned in the Councel of Nice did neverthelesse infect not onely other parts of the world but even the very Churches of the Islands with poisonous Infidelity In the 9. Chap. nothing but civill Affairs CHAP. 10. The year of our Lord 394. Arcadius raigning Pelagius a Britan disperst the Venom of his faithless Doctrine holding that a man might live well without the help of Gods grace In the 11. and 12. Chapters nothing but civil Affairs Chap. 13. In the year 423. the 8th of the Emperour Theodosius the yonger Palladius was sent by Celestine Bishop of the Roman Church to the Scots who had receiv'd the Faith of Christ to be their Bishop In the 14. Chapter nothing Chap. 15. The English then Heathens sent for out of Germany over run Britany The Priests are every where slain at the Altars The Bishops with their flock were murdered with fire and sword without regard unto their dignity In the 16. Chapter nothing but civill affairs Chap. 17. A few years before the arrival of the Saxons English the Pelagian Heresie brought in by Agricola greatly corrupted the Faith of the Britans But they being unwilling to receive this lewd doctrine blasphemous against the grace of God and yet unable to resist the crafty and wicked perswasions of their Adversaries took this wholesome Counsel to seek for ayde from the Bishops of France A Councel being call'd the French consulted among themselves whom they should send By the judgment of all the Apostolical Bishops Germanus and Lupus were chosen to pass over into Britany Who with great alacrity receiving the Orders and Commands of the holy Church put to Sea Whilst they were under sail the Devill envying such men should go to the recovery of that People raised a dangerous tempest Germanus Bishop feeble of body through weariness fell a sleep then Lupus and the rest call'd upon him Germanus more constant in the greatness of the danger invoketh Christ and taking in the name of the holy Trinity a few sprinkles of water casteth i◠into the Sea Forth with the rage of the storm breaketh God being called upon defered not his help the enemy is chased away and they set on land where they desited A multitude of People assembling received the Priests of God of whose coming the wicked spirits gave notice and afterward being expell'd out of the obsess't bodies at the
either to build new or repair old Churches And it was not long before the King himself much delighted with their purity of life and example of godly conversation and by their sweet promises which they prov'd to be true by working many Miracles believ'd and were baptiz'd Then the People daily more and more resorted to their Sermons and renouncing Heathenish Rites joyn'd themselves to the unity of the Holy Church The King also appointed them a place and Seat befitting their Calling in his head City of Canterbury giving them necessary possessions for thier maintenance Chap. 27. After this the man of God Augustine came to Arles where by Etherius Archbishop of that City he was ordain'd Archbishop of the English according as St. Gregory had commanded and returning into Britany he sent Laurence Priest and Peter Monk to Rome to make relation to St. Gregory that the English had receiv'd the Faith and he made their Bishop he also requir'd his Answer to certain Queries Pope Gregories answer to Augustines first demand For as much as you being brought up under Monasticall rule must not live apart from your Clergy in the Church of the English which is but newly entred upon the Faith of Christ you must follow the prescript and form of life which was us'd in the Primitive Church among the Fathers for there was none among them that said that to be his own which he possessed but all was in common And if there be any of the Clergy who having not yet receiv'd holy Orders cannot live chaste they may take Wives and have their stipend allowed them apart from the rest Augustines second Demand Whereas there is but one Faith why be there so many sundry customs of the Churches and one custome of Masses observ'd in the holy Roman Church and another in France Gregories Answer You knew the custome of the Church of Rome wherein you were brought up but if you have found any thing be it in the Church of Rome France or elswhere that may please God more I am content that you choose it planting in the English Church which is but lately come to the Faith the best orders you can gather from them all Augustines nineth question concerns illusions in Dreams whither such things hapning a Lay-man may receive the body of Christ or a Priest say Mass Another of his questions is whether and when Children are to be Baptiz'd Gregories Answer is that in necessity they are presently to be Baptized Chapter 28. nothing but a Letter from the Pope to the Archbishop of Arles to assist Augustine Chap. 29. The same Pope for as much as Augustine had advertized him that there was a great harvest and but few labourers sent him more Preachers of which the chiefest were Mellitus Rufinianus Justus Paulinus By these he sent such things as were necessary for the Purniture and Ministry of the Church as holy Vessels Altar-Cloths Church stuffe apparrell for Priests and Clergie with Reliques of the holy Apostles and Martyrs and Books He sent him a Pall and by letters instructed him what order to hold in making Bishops throughout Britany Gregories Letter To his most Reverend and holy Brother Augustine the servant of the servants of God Since by the goodnesse of God and your industry the new Church of the English is brought unto the Faith of Christ we grant unto you the use of the Pall to wear when you say Mass and we give way that you ordain Twelve Bishops under your jurisdiction but so that the Bishop of London be henceforth consecrated by his own Synod and receive his Palâ— from this holy and Apostolike See wherein I by the Authority of God do now serve Also our will is that you send a Bishop to York to whom we intend to give a Pall To you shall be subject not onely the Bishops you make or he of Yorke but all the Priests of Britany to the end that by your manner of life they may receive a pattern both to believe and live well Note that the Pall wherewith the Pope invests Metropolitans is a shoulder-piece imbroidred with Crosses made not of fine linnen aâ— the High-Priests was Exod. 28. but of fine sheeps wool to minde them of Christs carrying the lost sheep on his Shoulders It was first laid on St. Peters shrine and given to them thence Chap. 30. The holy Father Gregory sent letters to Mellitus shewing how earnestly he thirsted the good of our Countrey Vnto his dearly beloved Son Mellitus Abbot Gregory the servant of the servants of God When God shall bring you to our Brother Augustine tell him with serious deliberation I thought fit that not the Temples but the Idols in them be broken that holy Water be made and sprinkled about the said Temples Altars erected Reliques plac'd It may be allow'd that in Dedications or Birth-dayes of Martyrs whose Reliques are there reserv'd the people make them bowers Feasting together after a good religious sort Chap. 31. About this time Gregory wrote to Augustine concerning such Miracles as he knew done by him wishing him not to run hazard of vain glory by the great number of them I know saith he dear brother it hath pleased God to shew by thee great Miracles among the people whom by thee he hath called to the Faith Thou hast cause to joy that by the means thereof the English mens souls are won to the Faith but thou oughtest to fear least by the said Miracles thou by outward praise be puffed up c. Chap. 32. Contains the Letter of Pope Gregory to King Ethelbert with Presents and the blessing of St. Peter Chap. 33. Augustine being now Bishop obtain'd an old Church antiently of the Romans and Dedicated it to the Name of our Saviour making it a perpetual Seat for him and his Successors Not far Eastward of the City he built a Monastery to the which King Ethelbert through his advice new built a Church to the honour of the Sts. Peter and Paul enriching it with sundry gifts Laurence his Successor consecrated it The first Abbot thereof was one Peter a Priest who being cast away at Sea and by the Inhabitants buried after a homely manner Our Lord intending to have it known how worthy a man he was caus'd to appear every night a light from Heaven over the place where he was buried The Inhabitants gathering hereby that he was some holy man remov'd his body thence burying it honourably in the town of Bullen in France In the 34. Chapter nothing but civil affairs The Second Book Chap. 1. IN the year 605. holy Pope Gregory having govern'd most gloriously the See of the Roman Apostolike Church departed this life to an everlasting seat in Heaven He converted our English Nation from the power of Sathan to the Faith of Christ whom we may well also must call our Apostle For as soon as
to the house where Mellitus lay sick of the Gout but putting his confidence in God he commanded them to carry him out to meet the flames Now where it most raged was at the crowned martyrs The sick man being brought thither represt with his prayers those flames which no power of man could quench Having govern'd the Church five years he past to Heaven Chap. 8. Justus succeeded Mellitus in the Bishoprick who having receiv'd authority from Pope Bonifacius to ordain Bishops consecrated Romanus Bishop The Popes Letter to Justus To our dearest beloved brother Justus How piously and earnestly you have laboured for the Gospel of Christ the perfection and end of your actings fully declare c. We understand you have brought the King to the belief and instructed him in the undoubted Faith We have sent you a Pall which we give you leave to use onely in celebrating the holy mysteries granting you the ordaining of Bishops as occasion shall require that so the Gospel of Christ may by the preaching of many be dilated c. Having regard to the Authority received from the See Apostolike use this our reward towards the gaining of souls Chap. 9. About this time the King and People of Northumberland receiv'd the Faith by the preaching of Paulinus The occasion was this King Edwin desirous to marry Edilburge the King of Kents Daughter sent his Embassadours to effect it but they made answer that it was not lawfull for a Christian to be married to a Pagan least the Faith and Sacrament of the King of Heaven might become prophan'd Hereupon the King entred covenant to do nothing contrary to the Christian Faith this Virgin profest but gave way that she and all the Priests and servants with her should keep and observe after the Christian manner their Faith and Religion Paulinus Bishop came along with her to confirm her and her attendants whom that they might not be polluted by conversing with Pagans he daily strengthned by exhortations and administring the blessed Sacrament unto them labouring earnestly to keep them that came with him from falling and endeavouring by preaching to reconcile others In the same Chapter is mentioned how Paulinus obtain'd by his Prayers that the Queen was safely delivered and that the King might obtain a victory against the West Saxons Whereupon renouncing Idols he granted that Bishop Paulin should Christen his Daughter who born at Faster was Christned at Whitsontide with twelve others of the Kings Court yet for himself the King took longer time to deliberate Chap. 10. Relates How Edwin receiv'd letters from Bonifacins Bishop of the See Apostolike exhorting him to the Faith wherein are these words We have thought good to extend our Priestly care and duty in proposing unto you the rich magazin of our Christian belief c. We exhort you in all affection to abandon Idols and to detest the worship of them c. Knowing how great an offence they commit that worship them c. It behoves you to receive the signe of that Crosse by which mankinde was redeem'd I send you the blessing of St. Peter your Protector Prince of the Apostles Chap. 11. The holy and Apostolike Pope Bonifacius sent letters from Rome to Queen Edilburge wife to King Edwin To Queen Edilburge his dear daughter c. My heart rejoyceth for the benefit of the Lord unto you having vouchsaf'd to enkindle in you the right Religion c. We understand you shine forth in good works Wherefore as it becometh a Father we send unto you as our Daughter in Christ exhorting you not to delay calling upon your Husband till he also be conjoyned with you in the number of Christians And our Fatherly love requires that you declare unto us what the power of God shall work in his and his subjects conversion that so we may render due thanks to God and to St. Peter chiefest of the Apostles We send you the blessing of St. Peter your Protector and prince of the Apostles Chap. 12. The summe of this Chapter briefly is That by a vision from Heaven King Edwin is forced to receive the Faith for being put to flight by King Edilfrid after a world of shifts he findes entertainment with King Redwall who notwithstanding at the threats of Edelfrid resolved to deliver him up to his enemies Edwin having secret intelligence thereof and being greatly perplext in mind in the depth of the night saw an unknown man come to him telling him that he knew well the cause of his grief and that he would ease him of it and make him King and Conquerour of his Enemies and that in power he should surpasse all his Progenitours and all the Kings of the English Lastly He told him that he would give him more profitable Counsel for his souls health than any of his Predecessours ever had so that he would promise to hearken thereunto All which he joyfully promised Then this stranger laid his right hand upon Edwins head saying When these things shall happen remember this our discourse and perform your promise so he vanisht that Edwin perceived it was no man In the morning he understood that King Redwall had changed his minde of betraying him into a purpose of giving him an Army to restore him whereby he conquered King Edilfrid In this battel King Redwals son was slain and so besides the recovery of his own Kingdome he was made Heir apparent to King Redwall For all this he still remain'd slack to embrace our Faith though Paulin earnestly preacht the word of God unto him Yet he us'd to retire himself to think what Religion was best Once as he was in this retirement Paulin entring the Palace and as if he had known in spirit what vision the King in his banishment had received comming to him he laid his right hand upon his Head asking him Whether he remembred that signe or no The King trembling for fear would have faln down at Paulins feet but he lifting him up said You have escape the hands of your Enemies you have obtaind the height of soveraignty be now mindfull of the last thing you promised and defer it no longer Chap. 13. The King hearing these words answered he was bound to receive the Faith which Paulin Preacht But yet he desired to confer thereof with the Nobility and Peers of his Realm whereunto Paulin assenting the Assembly is call'd the abandoning of Idolatry resolv'd upon Coify Chief Priest of the false gods offers himself to be the first to demolish them so clad in Armour and mounted on the Kings horse he casts a spear at the Idol commanding the Idolatrous Altars to be fired which was performed Chap. 14. King Edwin with all the Nobility and most of the Commons received the Faith and were Baptiz'd on Easter-day An. 627 in Saint Peters Church at York which he had set up of wood whilest he was Catechiz'd Here the King assigned a Bishops
young men undertook a stricter course of Religious observance in Ireland and how Egbert lying sick vow'd never to return home to his Country but to live as a Pilgrim all his life Besides the ordinary service of Canonicall houres he vowed to say every day the whole Psalter and fast once every week one whole day His request upon his Vow was heard as by revelation Edelthun his companion told him for recovering of his sickness he was made Priest and lived worthy of that Vocation Besides his Vows mentioned he made and kept others as that of Fasting the whole Lent never eating but once a day and then nothing but bread and thin milk and that sparingly This kinde of Fast he kept forty dayes together before Christmas and as long after Whitsontide all his life Chap. 28. Relates Wilfrids being consecrated Bishop how returning into England he instructed much the Church of England and reduc'd it to Catholike unity touching external rites and observances whereby it came to passe that Catholike Ordinances taking place and being daily more and more embrac't the Scots either yeelded or returned whence they came Ceadda also is made Bishop of the West Saxons renowned for Chastity Humility and abstinence Chap. 29. The most renown'd Kings of England Oswin of Northumberland and Ecbert of Kent deliberated about the peacable government of the Church For Oswin though bred among the Scots now understood that the Church of Rome was the Catholike and Apostolicall Church They both by choise and consent of the Clergy sent Wigheard a Priest of great virtue to Rome to be consecrated Archbishop to the end he might consecrate other Bishops for the Catholike Church of the English thorowout Britany But before his Consecration he departed this life which gave occasion of Pope Vitalians letter to Oswi as followeth To our most Honourable Son Oswi King We perceive your Excellencies pious devotion hoping assuredly that as you now reign over your people so in the life to come you shall reign with Christ c. It behoveth you being now a part of Christ to follow in all things the rule of the Prince of the Apostles as well in observing Easter as in all other things delivered by the Apostles Peter and Paul As touching one endowed with learning and other qualities fit to be your Bishop we cannot so suddenly have one ready as soon as we shall find one worthy of that vocation we shall direct him to you The presents your Higness sent to the blessed Prince of the Apostles for his perpetuall memory we have received beseeching with all our Clergie the goodnes of God for you We have sent you the favours that is the Reliques of the blessed Apostles Peter and Paul and of the holy Martyrs Laurence John and Paul of Gregory and Pancratius all to be delivered to your Excellency To your Lady our spiritual daughter we have sent a Cross having in it a golden Key made out of the holy Chains of the blessed Apostles Peter and Paul Chap. 30. Relates How the East Saxons in time of the Plague fell to worship Idols but were soon reclaim'd The Fourth Book Chap. 1. RElates how upon Wighards death before mentioned the Pope enquired whom he might send for Archbishop to the Church of England In the Monastery of Niridan not far from Naples there was an Abbot call'd Adrian well learned in the Scriptures throughly instructed in Monastical government and very skilfull in the Greek and Latin tongue This man was commanded by the Pope to take upon him the Bishoprick but he answered that he was not fit for so high a Degree yet promising to produce one worthy of that Vocation he offered to the Pope a certain Monk call'd Andrew belonging to a Nunnery but he being sickly could not perform it There was at that time in Rome a Monk named Theodore very learned him Adrian presented to the Pope to be consecrated Bishop by him yet Adrian was to accompany him into England to have a diligent eye that Theodore being a Grecian introduced not after the manner of the Greeks any doctrine contrary to the Faith received This man being made Subdeacon staid a while in Rome till his hair was grown to take the round Ecclesiastical tonsure which before he had taken according to the East Church after the manner of St. Paul The King sends Ridfrid his Lievtenant into France to conduct him At his arrival Theodore gave Adrian the Monastery of St. Peter the Apostle where he was Abbot thirty nine years Chap. 2. Relates How Theodore accompained by Adrian visited all the Countrey and how all men did most gladly receive and hear him He taught the right way of good life with the canonical rites and orders of Easter for he was the first Archbishop unto whom all the whole Church of the English did consent unto from their entrance into Britany never was known happier times Chap. 3. Relates How the most blessed Bishop Chad who of a Monk of Lesting was made Bishop was used to go preach the gospell more on foot than on horse-back He govern'd after the example of the antient Fathers in great perfection of life King Wulpher gave him land to build the Monastery of Etbere where untill this day the steps of Monastical life which he began still remain His chief residence was at Lichfield where he died and was buried and where his fear continueth to this day He made himself a private Mansion whether as often as he was at leisure from the Ministery of the Gospel he was wont to repaire to pray and read with seven or eight of the brethren It hapned when his houre was come to pass out of this world he was in the said Closet with one brother only whose name was Owen all the rest being return'd to Church as the houre required This Owen was a Monk of great perfection and had forsaken the world with a pure intention and hope of reward in heaven a man worthy to whom God should reveale his secrets and of credit in what he saith For being Governour of Queen Edildreds Court he despoiled himself of all and came cloth'd in poor apparrel to the Monastery of the said Father One day as he was employed abroad the rest being gone to Church the Bishop being alone in the Oratory of the House Owen heard suddenly as he after told a most sweet consort of voices singing and rejoycing coming down from heaven to earth drawing neerer untill it came to the roof of the Oratory where the Bishop was where entring it fill'd it and compast it round about An houre after he heard the same joyfull song ascend from the same Oratory to heaven He being astonisht the Bishop opened the Oratory window beckening with his hand whereupon Owen came to him to whom the Bishop said Go quickly to the Church and call those seven brâ—thren hither Being come he
humble confession of their sins and repented they shall all come to Heaven at the day of Judgment Many quoth he shall come to Heaven before the day of judgement for the good Prayers Alms and Fasting of the living and especially by the holy Sacrifice of the Mass Onely they which are perfect in all their thoughts words and deeds are carried streight to Heaven The effect of this vision was the change of his life into strange Austerity When any one said unto him brother Dirthelm for that was his name It is a wonder you can endure so much cold He would answer I have seen more cold endured than this And when they said T is a wonder you can endure such austerity He answered I have seen more rigorous sufferings than this This Chapter intermingleth in this Relation how that hard by this mans Cell there lived a Monk called Genigids who was living at the very time that Bede did write this leading a solitary life in Ireland sustaining his aged body with brown bread and cold water who often entring into the foresaid Monks Cell heard him many times repeat this whole relation and from him I came to the knowledge of it saith Bede Chap. 14. There was a Lay-man in great favour with King Coenred but negligent concerning the state of his soul The King warn'd him often to confesse and forsake his former life whilest it was time But he slighting the Kings admonition said He would doe Pennance hereafter It chanced he fell sick the King coming to him exhorted him that now at least he would do Pennance nay quoth he I will not now confesse my sins but when I am recovered I will least my companions think I did it for fear of death The King after a while returning again this Courtier told him now it was too late and that he had seen all that ever he had committed written in two Books and that he should strait wayes die and be carried into Hell The first book said he shewed me by an Angel contained all the good works which ever I had done but the book was very little Then the wicked spirits brought before me a book of a mighty bigness in which I read all the sins I had committed in thought word and deed Then he related how he heard his Condemnation Thus in despair he died This I thought fit to relate as I receiv'd it from the reverend Bishop Pechtelm Chap. 15. I my self knew a Brother whom I would I had not known who being admonisht by his Brethern to amend his life brought unto desperation by a vision he had of his place in Hell said There is no time for me to amend my former life Thus he died without receiving the Sacrament None of all the Convent durst say Mass sing psalms say the least Prayer for his soul This stirred up many to do Pennance for their sins which effect God grant it may work in those who shall read this Chap. 16. About this time many of the Scots in Ireland as also of the Britans admitted of the manner of celebrating Easter taught by the Catholike Church For Adamon a vertuous Priest Abbot of the Monks and Religious in the Isle of Hue seeing the canonicall Rites and Ceremonies of England and admonisht by the learned not to live contrary to the Universal Church neither in Easter nor any other decrees chang'd his mind and preferr'd what he saw in the English before his own He wrot a â—ook of holy places as he had been inform'd by Arculfe Bishop who 〈◊〉 travelled to see them Some â—ede relates in the next Chapter Chap. 17. Relates Out of the foresaid book of holy â—laces how over the place where Christ was born there is built a Church of the blessed Virgin and how the in ward grot in which our Saviour was born is covered with precious marble Câ—nstantine built a Church where the Crosse of Christ was found by Helena A Church also was built in Golgotha where the rock is seen which bore Christs Crosse and his blessed body Now in that place there is a mighty Cross of silver with a brazen wheele over it full of Lamps An Altar is cut out where the Crosse stood where Sacrifice is wont to be offered for honourable men that die There is also a round Chappel of Christs Resurrection which hath three Altars In the middle of this Chappel is the Tombe of our Saviour where day and night twelve Lamps burn The top of the Chappel is guilt bearing a great golden Crosse upon it Part of Christs Gravestone standeth at the doore of the Sepulcher Altarwise the other part also makes another Altar Chap. 18. The same Author relates how in the place of our Saviours Ascension on the top of Mount Olive there standeth a great round Church The inner Chappel having an Altar towards the East could not be vaulted nor covered over by reason that it was the place by which Christs body passed to Heaven In the middle of which Church the last print of Christs feet are to be seen and although the earth be fetcht away daily by the Christians yet it remaineth and keepeth the print of his holy feet A great Lampe burneth there day and night In the West-side be eight windows and as many Lamps shining through the glasse to Jerusalem and their lights stir up the Hearts of all that behold them Upon Christs Ascension-day every year when Masse is done there cometh from Heaven a gale of winde which maketh all in the Church prostrate themselves Chap. 19. In the year of our Lord 705. Hedda Bishop of the West-Saxons dyed of whom the Reverend Prelate Pechthelm then a Monk was wont to tell us that in the place where be dyed many great Miracles and cures were done and that they used commonly to carry away dust from thence and mingle it with water for such to drink as were sick and that the sprinkling drinking thereof did cure many sick so that a great pit was made by the often carrying away the dust Chap. 20. Coenred King of the Mercians having Reigned most Nobly at last forsook his Kingdome and went to Rome where at the Tombe of the Apostles receiving the Tonsure he became a Monk continuing in Prayer Fasting and Almes untill his death There went with him Offa the Son of Sigher King of the East-Saxons a most gallant youth whose whole Kingdome much desired that he would sway the Scepter but he moved with like devotion forsooke Wife Lands Kindred and Countrey that he might receive a hundred fold in this world and life everlasting in the next coming to the Holy places at Rome he took the Tonsure and Habit of a Monk the same year Wilfrid that excellent and worthy Prelate dyed and was buried in St. Peters Church at Rippon in Yorkshire He being but fourteen years old he esteemed more
the Apostles Peter committed to his protection and patronage Chap 23. Relates How the rest of the Scots admitted the Apostolike manner of keeping Faster and shaving their Crownes by the means of Egbert a worthy Priest Onely the Britanes saith Bede remain still hardned in blindness whereas all English-men are in all points throughly instructed in the Rule of the Catholick Faith Egbert on Easter day after he had said solemne Masse in remembrance of our Lords Resurrection departed this life The Brethern rejoycing to see their Master passe to God to be their Patron and Intercessor Chap. 24. Relates Who were the Bishops at this time through all England and how all things now being brought to unity many as well Noble as Private laying aside their Armes earnestly strove to get both themselves and their Children to be shaven and tied with Monasticall Vowes rather than to exercise themselves in warlike affaires This is at the present the state of Britany this year of our Lord 731. The end of the History of the Church of England The words of venerable Bede in the 3 Tome of his works THus much touching the Ecclesiastical History of the Britans especially of the English nation as I could learn by the writings of my Ancestors by tradition of my elders or my own knowledge I Bede the servant of God and Priest of the Monastery of the BB. Apostles Peter and Paul at Wyre-mouth have brought to an end When I was seven years old I was delivered by the hands of my friends to be brought up of the Rd. Abbot Benedicâ— and afterward to Câ—â—lfrid In which Monastery spending all the dayes of my life I applyed my whole study to the meditation of holy Scripture observeing regular discipline and dayly singing service in the Church In the 19 year of my age I was made Deacon and at 30 Priest which orders I received by the hands of the Rd. Bishop John of Beverley DEar Reader I doubt not but in perusing of this book many thoughts will arise in thy mind touching the author thereof the authority of the copy and the sincerity of our true dealing therin now then is the proper time to read again the preface where I am confident thou wilt find full satisfaction in all FINIS Faults escaped IN the Preface page 1. line ult. dele s in disputants Leaf 3 l. 1. dele it 1 Page 26. line 13. for legs read leg. page 36. l. 15. for were r. was p. 5â— l. 3. for Angels r. Angles p. 53. l. 13. for them r. him p. 58. l. 17. in the margent for 904 r. 604. p. 81. l. 2 for redwals r. redwal p. 81. l. 20. for buli r. built p 116. l. 10. for plat r. plot p. 132. in the margent superogation r. supererogation p 135. l. 2. for pecaple r. peaceable p 136. read Reliques gift for Kings p. 150. l. 12. for berring r. Berking p. 151. in the margent r. habitation seperate from men p. 153. in the margent r. consecrated p. 154 l. 5. for ediburge r. edilburge p. 155. l. 5. for sister r. sisters P. 161. l. 3 for salvation r. splendor p. 167. l. 12. for celestial r. clerical p. 167. l. 18. for by the boy r. of the Boy Entichus r. Eutichus p. 137. l. r. hitherto p 192. l. 9. dele punctum at prophetick p. 193. l. 1 for flock r. flockt p. p. 197. l. 20. for rejoyce r. rejoyced p. 123. l. 12. r. lyeth for dyeth the marginal note p. 240. saints our patrons and intercessours must be placed at the end of the cap. 23. p. 239. The old Britans receive their Faith from the Pope 156. Englands first Martyr for entertaining a Priest in his house Amphâ—bal this holy Priests Name Christian Priest-hood treason under Dioclesian A Miracle A Miracle A Miracle Daily Miracles at St. Albans about the middle of the third Age untill the seventh Age Churches erected to Martyrs about the year 400. Holy-dayes in their Honour England prone to novelties This Heretick had the great St. Augustine his adversary whilest he lived The Apostle of Scotland sent by the Pope of Rome an. 423. Altars an. 429 Germanus Bishop of Auxerre Lupus was first a Monk in the Abbey os Lirine and thence made Bishop of Troyes The miraculous use of Holy water about 430. Devills cast out at the command of Priests about 430. Custome of wearing holy Relicks These Relicks work miracles Pilgrimages to Saints bodies Ann. 430. In shrining of Rolicks Veneration of Relicks A Miracle Multitude of Miracles Lent religiously observed at the begining of the fourth Age A miraeulous Victory Intercession of Saints A Miracle Bishops and Priests give their blessing Bishops punish Hereticks Catholike Faith confirmed by miracle Miracles at St. Germans body see this holy Bishops life in Surius July 30. The English receive the Faith from Monks sent from the Pope An. 582. Good works for hope of reward Abbots Crosses images enter with our Faith and destroy Idolatry The manner of Processions The ancient custome of Allelujah in the Church Our Apostles addicted to watching fasting voluntary poverty A Church dedicated to St. Martin where they say Mass Our Apostles workers of many Miracles in proof of their doctrine S. Gregory in a letter to the Bishop of Alexandria writes how above ten thousand were there Christned on Christmass-day Our Apostle a Monk First Christian Clergy Regular Chastity of them that took orders Mass in chief parts of Christendome Mass Baptizing Infants 〈…〉 The use of the Pall. Saying of Mass How our Bishops depended on Rome in their investiture The Primacie of Canterbury in England instituted by the Pope and not by the King Ann. 600. Abbots Holy Water Altars Relicks Birth-dayes of Martyrs Our Apostle endowed with the grace of Miracles The Pope imparts the blessing of S. Peter Christ-church in Canterbury Monasteries and Churches in honour of Saints Churches consecrated The first Abbot shines with Miracles An. 605. The Pope stiled Bishop of the whole world This Popâ— ouâ— Apostle 2 Cor. v. 2. First a Monk of Eminent Sanctity Then made Priest and the Popes Legat at Constantinople Masses at the bodies of Saints The least addition of the Mass observed by Antiquity but the first use of the Mass it self is too ancient to be observed as begun by the Apostles S. Gregory his zeal for our conversion This Synod was held in Worcestershire at a place called Augustines Oke The Roman Tradition confirmed by miracle Abbots Division from the Church of Rome The ruin of the Authors thereof prophesied The prophesie made good from heaven Multitude of Monks among the Britans though converted 156. After Schism their Faith and Prayers availed not An. 904 The Antiquity of St. Pauls in London Also of St. Andrews at Rochester Dedication of Altars to Saints Commemoration of the dead at the Altar Our Apostles gift of miracles witnessed in his very Epitaph St. Peter first Pastor of the Church and Prince of the Apostles
Conformity to be held with that Church which is spread over the whole world Apostles sent all the world over by the Pope Recourse to the Pope in Ecclesiastical affairs Our English Authors say Mellitus his going was to obtain priviledges for Westminster Abbey then built Decrees of Councels to be follow'd as sure rules A Church dedicated to our Lady and all Martyrs which yet is to be seen at Rome and whether were brought saith Spondan the Reliques of many Martyrs from places without the City Persecutors of this Faith punished Saying of Mass Communion under one kinde S. Peter prince of the Apostles He owns his Successors the Popes deeds The miraculous effect of St. Peters apparition A Church in honour of our Lady St. Peter Prince of the Apostles Our Primats of England still work miracles A place it seems dedicated to the crowned Martyrs Authority of 〈◊〉 Bishops from the Pope Noâ—e Mr. Baâ—ter how unlike the Pope then seemed to Anâ—ichrist Our Primats invested with the Pall by the Pope The Nâ—â—thumbers miraculously converted Baptizing Intants Note Mr. Baâ—ter how unlike the Pope then seem'd to Antichriâ—t The Pope an enemy to Idol worship St. Peter stiled Prince of the Apostles and our Protector His blessing sent from the Pope The Pope still sollicitous to further our conversion St. Peter stiled chiefest and Prince of the Apostles and our Protector The Faith then taught commended from Heaven I would those of our Country would imitate this Prince Paulâ—â— knows what is in the Kings brâ—ast Altars of stone Monasteries Abbots Altars sacrifice Miracles wrought at certain places A Pall sent by the Pope who still investeth our Archbishops The Pope a true Father even to Kings Efficacy of Saints Prayers The Pope exerciseth his Supremacy in England The Pope doth this in the place of St. Peter Prince of the Apostles Decrees of the Church to be followed Golden crosses and Chalices consecrated to the use of the Altar yet to be seen Our Church musick from Rome Yet Idolatry highly hated An. 642. Veneration of holy places and crosses Miracles hence ensuing The very chips of that Crosse work miracles untill this day Prayers and sacrifice for the Dead The Moss of the Cross works miracles upon one as yet living Monks Monasteries Religious different in habit Purity of dâ—ctrine from Rome Churches dedicated to Saints Monasteries Strict followers of onely scripture erre for many years together Shaving of Monks Strict Fast on Wednesday and Friday among the Laity Miraculous reward of Alms Veneration of Relicks miraculously uncorrupt to this day The Apostle of the tumultuous sent from the Pope Transgressors of the Fast of forty dayes punished Vowed Nuns espoused to the heavenly bridegroom Such Nuns graced with the gift of Miraclâ—â— The Habitation of men separated from Women Vow'd 〈◊〉 dear 〈…〉 〈…〉 by 〈◊〉 Ouâ— Historyes say he was slain at Oswistry in Shâ—opshire the very â—ligh test 〈…〉 woâ—k 〈…〉 Strange Miracles by Râ—liks Miracles by Reliks Translation of Reliks 〈◊〉 to be held in 〈◊〉 vâ—neration by all faithfuâ—l This confirm'd from Heaven as is testiâ—ied by wittnesses yet living Abbesses The â—odgings of men apart from the Nunnery Exorcisms Relikâ—chase away the Devill Miracles at Saints Tombs The person yet alive saith Bede on whom the Miracle was dâ—â—e Power of Saints Prayers That speech God have mercy on their soules of what Antiquity Our unworthiness supplied by intercession of Saints Cures wrought by Relikes Water hallowed An. 644. Good works Satisfactory Daily prayers for the dead Hallowed Oile doth Miracles How authenticall this is A Miracle Translation of Reliks Altars Churches dedicated in the honour of the Prince of the Apostles Thus then they called St. Peter Miracles By Relikes Our Kings became Monks Monks graced with Visions How authentical this is Altars Miracles at Saints Tombs A prophesie of the ruine of such as converse with those who are excommunicated Antâ—quity of Godfathers Kings confide in the Prayers of religious men Lents forty days fast The laudable custome of fasting Monks Monasteries Religious rules Churches in honouâ— of our Lady Altars Intercession of Saints Vows made to God Nuns Monasteries perpetual Virginity God approveth this coutse of life Prayers of religious men in what esteem Dayly prayer for the dead The Fast of Lent Bishop Wilfrid instructed at Rome Clergy men wear shaven Crowns This Synod was at Whitby in Yorkeshire St. Peter and Paul lived preacht and suffered at Rome The strong plea of Tradition Errour then damnable when the Authority of the Church is rejected By the Prince of the Apostles Peter still understood Mat. 16. 18. The Roman Tradition preferr'd The Clergy weare shaven Crowns Abboâ—â— Monasteriâ—â— The distinct Habit of Râ—ligious and Clergie men I'heir blessings craved given by hand that is by the sign of the Crosse Works of Superogation vowed Canonicall Houres Vows of Austerity approved from heaven Lent The antiquity of the holy Feast of Christmass The Church of Rome the Catholike and Apostolike Church Still recourse unto Rome concerning 〈◊〉 Primaâ—â— The Pope Father even to Kings Peter twice here understood by the Prinâ—â— of the Apostles 〈…〉 Kings Crosses Reliques An Indulgence granted thereunto as to Medals say our Divines Abbotâ— Monks Nuns The Pope still invests our Primates Shaving of Clergy men Shaving of Clergy men Our Bishops Monks and of great sanctity The Cathedral at Leiâ—chfield now dedicated to St. Chad. Good works done out of hope of reward done with pure intention A prophetical vision Good works a preparation to death The blessing of men St. Peter still â—alled Prince of the Apostles Translation of Reliques Miracles by them Monks Pilgrimages to Rome The See Apostolike appoints out Primats Our Bishops still Monks Erconwald was first Abbâ—â— of Chertsey in Surrey Miracles Reliques Nuns They doe Miracles Their habitation seemed from men Virgins consecrared to Chrâ—st A prophetical Vision By patience we satisfie for our sins Good works the golden cords which life usup to heaven Holy Nuns We pray to Saints as to these who hear us Visions Abbesses Miracles Nuns Efficacy of prayers to Saints at their Reliques Monastical life prefer'd before Kingdomes Religious habit different from Sceular This King became a Monk in the Monastery of St. Peter and St Paul in London A prophetike Vision A Miracle very publike Our Kings turn Pilgrims Our Bishops Monks Godfathers Monks Our Faith confirmed from heaven Monks A prophetical Vision Masses Intercession of Saints approved from heaven Masses commanded by the Apostles Intercession of Saints avouched by the Apostles St. Peters Ecclesiasticall Tonsure Sacrifice Communion under one kinde Masses Yearly Feasts of Martyrs The Isle of Wight last converted Wilfrid their Apostle The faith of all the Bishops and Doctors of England The Antient English blessed Church received more than the first four Councells Abbots and Monks By prince of the Apostles still St. Peter understood Priviledges of Popes admitted in England Abbiâ—s How antient our Church Musick is above that of the Protestants Celebration of Feasts