Religious Issues under Charles I

Naturally drawn toward high-church practices, he inherited a suspicion of Puritanism and with many of his opponents in P being drawn from this end of the spectrum, it was only natural that conflict would emerge over the direction of the CoE. 

CI demonstrated close association with Arminianism and Catholicism 1625-29/ 

• 25, Arminian cleric Montagu was defended by CI when he argued that Calvinist beliefs were incompatible with the Church (A new Gag for an Old Goose - Pamphlet he wrote) 
• Montagu was appointed CI's personal chaplain. 
• 28, Montagu appointed Bishop of Chichester at the death of Carleton who was known for possessing anti-Arminian views. 
• High-profile royal chaplain Maynwaring appointed in 26, a firm supporter of absolutism and claimed CI had the right to collect the forced loan as it was given to him by God and P didn't need to be consulted over taxation. 
• 26, CI issued a proclamation that forbade the public discussion of sensitive religious topics; aimed at silencing Puritan critics. 
• Archbishop of Canterbury, Abbot, suspended in 27 for refusing to grant an Arminian sermon. 
• Arminians such as Howson (Bishop of Oxford) were supported by CI, Howson had been in conflict with Abbot over predestination. 
• William Laud, most influential Armininian, appointed to the PC in 28 when he became Bishop of London. 

Religious conference at the Duke of Buckingham's home in Feb. Arminians pitted against Puritans and it only served to harden CI's views. 

• Both clergy and laymen were represented. 
• Primary aim was to resolve the dispute between the two. 
• Second aim to defend Montagu from prosecution against the HoC. 
• Buck made it clear he sided with Arminians, their arguments had royal backing. 
• CI showed contempt for the Puritan opposition by refusing to attend. 
• Puritan MPs were infuriated by Buck's support of the Arminians.