CHAP. II.
Against those of our Opposites, who plead for the Ceremonies, as things expedient.
AS for those who alledge some conveniency in the Ceremonies, [Sect. I] they say more then can abide the proofe of reason, which the induction of some particulars shall demonstrate. o 1.1 Dr. Mortone alledgeth for the Surplice, that the difference of outward garments can not but he held convenient, for the distinguishing of Ministers from Laicks, in the discharge of their function. Ans. This conveniency is as well seen to, without the Surplice. If a man ha∣ving a blacke gowne upon him, be seene exercising the function of a Minister, it is very strange, if any man thinke him not sufficiently distinguished from Laicks. The act of Perth, anent Confirmation and Bishoping of Children, would make it appeare, that this Cere∣mony is most profitable, to cause young Children in their tender years, drinke in the knowledge of God and his Religion; Ans. 1. If this Rite be so profitable for the instruction of Children, then why doe Prelats appropriat it to themselves, who use to be imployed in higher affaires, that permit them not to have leasure for exact Cate∣chising of Children? Or, 2. Though they might attend the dischar∣ging of this duty; why should it be made their peculiar? Is not the pa•…•…ish Minister able to Catechise them? Or, 3. If it must depend upon Prelats, and wait upon their leasure; what hath imposition of hands adoe with Catechising? 4. How comes it, that Children who are not Bishopped, are as well Catechised, as they who are Bi∣shopped.
Tilen p 1.2 setteth out the expediency of Holy-dayes, for imprin∣ting [Sect. II] in the minds of people, the sence and knowledge of the benefits of Redemption. Ans. 1. There is no meane so good for this purpose, as Catechising and Preaching, out of season & in season. 2. What could he say unto them, who have attained his end without his meane? I find people better instructed, and made more sensible of those benefites, where the Feasts are not kept, then where they are. 3. Thinke they their people sufficiently instructed in the grounds of Religion, when they heare of the Nativity, Passion, &c. What course will they take for instructing them in other principles of faith? Why doe they not keepe one way, and institute a Holy-day for every particular head of Catechise?