[A1641/8/103]¹

[Reasons for holding a public fast]

Causes of the public fast to be kept

1. The divisions and distractions in this kingdom, the rebellion in Ireland, the distresses of the Palatinate and of the reformed kirks of Germany, which tend to the increase of popery, the ruin of the reformed religion and to the disturbance of the peace of the king's majesty and his kingdoms.

2. In place of thankfulness and zeal, our ingratitude for so great mercies as we have lately received, our many sins of all sorts witnessing our want of the love of God and our neighbour, contrary to our late solemn oath and National Covenant, and our deep security and indisposition in the most part to the exercises of piety.

3. To pray the more earnestly to God for a speedy and happy close of the parliaments of both kingdoms, for the preservation of this kirk in the truth and the kingdoms in unity under his majesty's happy government, to disappoint all secret conspiracies and open rebellions, and to bless all the reformed kirks with purity of religion and peace.