The Reformation in Scotland

The Scottish Reformation of 1560 was a pivotal moment in Scotland's history, transforming the nation's religious, political, and cultural landscape. Henderson clan members, particularly Alexander Henderson, played central roles.

Led by John Knox, the Scottish Parliament abolished papal authority and established Protestantism as Scotland's official religion. This laid the foundation for Scotland's distinctive Presbyterian church governance.

Alexander Henderson of Leuchars was the principal author of the National Covenant, the document that united Scotland against Charles I's attempts to impose English liturgical practices. This "Second Reformation" reasserted Scotland's religious independence.

The period following the National Covenant saw intense conflict. Scotland's Covenanters fought to preserve Presbyterian worship, enduring persecution under Charles II after 1660. This era of "Scotland's Forgotten Suffering" shaped Scottish religious identity for generations.

The Westminster Assembly (1643–1649), in which Alexander Henderson participated, produced the Westminster Confession of Faith — still the doctrinal standard for Presbyterian churches worldwide.