Release date is 2020-11-12

Transcribed from the 1841 J. S. Gowing edition by David Price

"A Letter to the Rev. Charles N. Wodehouse, Canon of Norwich, occasioned by his recent publication, entitled, 'What is the Meaning of Subscription?'" by the Rev. Charles Campbell is a polemical letter written in the early 19th century. This correspondence engages with the theological and ecclesiastical debate surrounding the nature and implications of clerical subscription to the Church of England's articles and liturgy. The text specifically addresses Wodehouse's concerns over subscription and hints at a broader discussion on the role of church authority and individual conscience. The opening of this work presents a direct and formal reply from Campbell to Wodehouse's published views, expressing regret that Wodehouse has reignited a controversial debate over the subscription of the clergy. Campbell conveys his observations on Wodehouse's position, asserting that many in the clergy remain silent out of respect for Wodehouse but do not share his views on subscription. He critiques Wodehouse’s interpretation and the implications it carries for the clergy's integrity and belief. Throughout the opening, Campbell outlines a careful analysis of the theological underpinnings at stake, emphasizing a balance between personal conscience and adherence to church doctrine as he prepares to elaborate further in response to Wodehouse's propositions. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

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