Christian Cyclopedia

1. June 16–28, 1574; provincial syn. of Ref. chs. of N Holland, S Holland, and Zeeland. Passed 91 acts pertaining to ch. structure and doctrine. Resolutions include that 14 classes be formed, that consistories consist of ministers and elders only (deacons under exceptional conditions), that consistories elect pastors (with possible participation of male members of ch.), that ministers and teachers subscribe only the Belgic Conf. (see Reformed Confessions, C 1), and that only the Heidelberg Catechism be used; the ch. order of Emden was approved in substance.

2. June 2–18, 1578; 1st nat. syn. in the Neth.; P. Dathenus* presided; a ch. order was est.; it was resolved that profs. of theol. subscribe the Belgic Conf. (see Reformed Confessions, C 1); use of the Geneva Catechism and of the Heidelberg Catechism (see Reformed Confessions, A 7, D 2) was sanctioned.

3. November 13, 1618–May 1619 (for. delegates left May 9; Dutch delegates held further sessions till May 29); convened by the States Gen.; condemned Arminianism*; endorsed Belgic Conf. and Heidelberg Cat. See also Bible Versions, K; Reformed Churches, 2; Reformed Confessions, C 1–2, D 2.