Act of Uniformity (1662)

On May 19, 1662, King Charles II gave royal assent to the Act of Uniformity, seeking to stabilize England after civil war, regicide, and shifting regimes. The law required ministers to declare “unfeigned assent and consent” to the Book of Common Prayer, accept episcopal ordination, and conform to prescribed rites. What was presented as a path to national cohesion became a searching test of conscience: could a pastor speak words he did not truly believe before God?

The Great Ejection (St. Bartholomew’s Day, 1662)

By the deadline of August 24, St. Bartholomew’s Day, roughly two thousand ministers were removed from their pulpits. The “Great Ejection” scattered faithful shepherds across towns and counties—London and its outskirts, the Midlands, the West Country, and beyond. Many had served for years, preaching Christ plainly, catechizing families, and praying with the sick. Yet they would not treat worship as a mere instrument of policy, nor vow conformity as a social convenience. They chose the loss of income, home, and public ministry rather than violate their conscience with a false assent.

Scripture commends this kind of costly integrity: “Whatever does not come from faith is sin.” (Romans 14:23) Their refusal was not mere contrariness, but a sober fear of God, who hears every vow.

Notable Witnesses and Places

Among the best-known was Richard Baxter of Kidderminster, a tireless pastor and writer whose labors for reform could not overcome his scruples about imposed subscription. In London, Edmund Calamy and many others faced expulsion, watching congregations grieve as shepherds were driven out. Some continued preaching in homes and fields, forming nonconformist fellowships under pressure, fines, and imprisonment. Their “heroism” was quiet: patient endurance, careful speech, and steadfast love for Christ’s flock.

Spiritual Significance

The event reminds believers that doctrine and worship are not accessories but avenues of truth, shaping what the church confesses and how it prays. When earthly powers demand what the conscience cannot grant, the Christian aims to suffer without bitterness and to obey God without bravado. “But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed.” (1 Peter 3:14) The ejected pastors left a legacy of courage, humility, and a clear conscience—an encouragement to hold fast when faithfulness is costly.