The judgement of the late Arch-Bishop of Armagh and Primate of Ireland 1. Of…

That a form of prayer, not only by way of direction, but punctually composed were fit to be had in the public he was ever for, as much conducing to the benefit of the vulgar people, which are the major part of the Nation, and especially in the administration of Baptism, and the Communion, as well for the shunning and preventing ⟨p. 133⟩the disorder, and scandalous confusion found in some mens performances of them, as the testifying of an unity and unanimity among us, which Saint Paul prefers as the more excellent way, before the variety of all Spiritual gifts whatsoever.

That a form of prayer, not only by way of direction, but punctually composed were fit to be had in the publike he was ever for, as much conducing to the benefit of the vulgar people, which are the major part of the Nation, and especially in the administration of Baptisme, and the Communion, as well for the shunning and preventing ⟨p. 133⟩the disorder, and scandalous confusion found in some mens performances of them, as the testifying of an unity and unanimity among us, which Saint Paul prefers as the more excellent way, before the variety of all Spirituall gifts whatsoever.

He often wished The judgement of Calvin concerning it (who was a wise and learned man) in his letter to the L. Protector of England, in Edward the sixth's time, were more known than it is, in regard of his esteem with such, who have opposed it, who doth ^amuch approve that there should be a certain set form of prayer, from which it should not be lawful for the Pastors to depart in their function, both that some care might be had of the more simple, and ignorant sort, as also that the consent of all the Churches within themselves ⟨p. 134⟩might the more evidently appear. And lastly, for the prevention of the inconstant levity of some, who are affecters of novelty, and so adviseth to have a set Catechism, a set form of public prayers, and administration of Sacraments.