Introduction

The concept of the Covenant and Presbyterian Church government existed in all three kingdoms before 1643. The Solemn League and Covenant agreed in September 1643 was an idealistic blueprint for a union between all three kingdoms. The document encouraged subscribers to foster a federative union between the kingdoms. Scotland and England had to respect the laws, constitutions and customs of each country whilst encouraging mutual cooperation between the English Parliament and the Scottish Covenanters to enable a religious reformation across the three kingdoms. The establishment of Ulster Presbyterianism chimed with English parliamentary propaganda. It is also here that the links between Ulster and the other kingdoms, particularly Scotland, have been explored. The map of the legislative basis of the classical system highlights the potential scope and divisions the Presbyterian Church structure was to be based on the county committee structure in England.