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but they differ from that sect in being less attached to Calvinism, and consequently admitting a greater latitude of religious sentiment.
INDEPENDENTS.
The first Independent or Congregational Church in England, was established by a Mr. Jacob, in the year 1616. The Independents deny not only the subordination of the clergy, but also all dependency on other assemblies. Every congregation (say they) has in itself what is necessary for its own government, and is not subject to other churches, or to their deputies. It is this independency of one church with respect to another that has given rise to the appellation Independents, though the same form of church government is adopted by the Dissenters in general.
BAPTISTS.
The Baptists are distinguished from other denominations respecting the mode and subject of Baptism. They contend that this ordinance should be administered by immersion only, and those alone who profess their belief in the Christian religion, and their determination of regulating their lives by its precepts. Some of them allow mixed communion, by which is understood, that those who have not been baptized by immersion on the profession of their faith, (but in their infancy, which they themselves deem valid,) may sit down at the Lord's table along with those who have been thus baptized. There are two great classes of Baptists, the general, who are Arminians, and the particular, who profess Calvinistic principles.
SCOTTISH INDEPENDENTS.
In the year 1797, when the scheme of missions to heathen lands was strongly advocated, the question being often tauntingly asked by opposers, "Have we no heathens at home?" it occurred to some individuals to give a practical answer; and accordingly three laymen set out from Edinburgh upon an itinerancy to the North of Scotland, to preach and distribute tracts. Robert Haldane of Airthry, having sold his estate, promoted the project with great zeal and liberality, and built tabernacles of great size at Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, &c. The places of worship thus opened were conducted upon the principles of free communion, and a regular communication with the English Independent ministers. The success was amazing, but short-lived; for Mr. Haldane soon after changed his views, and a separation took place; one
