What is the etymological origin of the word "convocation"?

The term "convocation" originates from the Latin word "convocare," which means "to call or come together." This term is a translation of the Greek word "ekklēsia," highlighting the fundamental meaning of gathering people for a specific purpose.

What are the primary contexts in which the term "convocation" is used?

The term "convocation" is primarily used in ecclesiastical (church-related) and academic (university-related) contexts to describe a formal assembly of people gathered for a special purpose.

What is an ecclesiastical convocation referred to as?

In ecclesiastical contexts, a synodical assembly of a church is sometimes referred to as a "Convocation." This signifies a formal meeting of church leaders or representatives for deliberation and decision-making.

What were the Convocations of Canterbury and York historically?

Historically, the Convocations of Canterbury and York were the synodical assemblies of the two Provinces of the Church of England. They served as formal gatherings for church governance and decision-making until the establishment of the Church Assembly in 1920.

When did the Convocations of Canterbury and York cease to be the primary synodical assemblies of the Church of England?

The Convocations of Canterbury and York ceased to be the primary synodical assemblies of the Church of England when the Church Assembly was established in 1920. This marked a significant shift in the structure of church governance.

What is the historical origin of the Convocations of Canterbury and York?

The origins of the Convocations of Canterbury and York trace back to the end of the seventh century. This was when Theodore of Tarsus, the Archbishop of Canterbury, reorganized the English Church and established a national synod of bishops, laying the groundwork for these assemblies.

Who reorganized the English Church structures and established a national synod of bishops around the end of the seventh century?

Theodore of Tarsus, who served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 668 to 690, is credited with reorganizing the structures of the English Church and establishing a national synod of bishops. This initiative was foundational for later convocations.

When was York recognized as a separate province, leading to the division of the synod?

York was recognized as a separate province in 733. This administrative change led to the division of the previously national synod into two distinct bodies: the Convocations of Canterbury and York.

When were representatives of cathedral and monastic chapters first included in Convocation?

Representatives of cathedral and monastic chapters were first included in Convocation in the year 1225. This expansion broadened the representation within the assembly beyond just bishops and abbots.

What was the basic membership structure of the Convocation of Canterbury by 1285, which it retained until 1921?

By 1285, the Convocation of Canterbury's membership included Bishops, Abbots (until the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 1530s), Deans, and Archdeacons. It also comprised one representative from each cathedral chapter and two representatives for the clergy from each diocese.

How was the membership of the Convocation of Canterbury structured by the fifteenth century?

By the fifteenth century, each convocation was divided into two distinct houses: an upper house consisting of the Bishops, and a lower house comprising the remaining members, such as Deans, Archdeacons, and elected clerical representatives.

What change occurred in the composition of the Convocations in 1921 regarding elected representatives?

In 1921, the number of proctors, who are elected representatives of the diocesan clergy, was increased. This adjustment significantly enhanced the representation of the clergy in the lower houses of the Convocations.

How did Henry VIII impact the legislative powers of the Convocations?

Henry VIII significantly curtailed the legislative powers of the Convocations, particularly around 1532-1534. This action was part of his broader efforts to assert royal authority over the church and its governance.

From the Reformation until 1965, how were the Convocations summoned and dissolved?

From the time of the Reformation until 1965, the Convocations were summoned and dissolved concurrently with the sessions of Parliament. This practice linked their meeting times directly to the parliamentary calendar.

When were the Convocations restored, and what did they synodically approve at that time?

The Convocations were restored upon the accession of Charles II in 1660. At that time, they synodically approved the Book of Common Prayer, which was subsequently mandated by the Act of Uniformity in 1662.

What event led to the Convocations resuming purely formal meetings after the Revolution of 1688?

After the Revolution of 1688, attempts to include Protestant dissenters in discussions within Convocation met with strong resistance in the lower house. This opposition led the government to abandon the efforts, causing the Convocations to revert to purely formal meetings.

What argument did Francis Atterbury make in his 1697 publication regarding the rights and powers of Convocation?

In his 1697 publication, Francis Atterbury argued that Convocation constituted an estate of the realm, similar to Parliament. He contended that the lower clergy were being illegally denied their proper voice in church governance.

When did business resume in Convocation after a period of dormancy, and what was achieved by 1714?

Business resumed in Convocation in 1701. By the time Queen Anne died in 1714, draft canons and forms of service had been prepared for royal assent, indicating a period of renewed legislative activity.

What inherent tension existed between the upper and lower houses of Convocation regarding politics and doctrine?

An inherent tension existed because the lower house was predominantly Tory in politics and High Church in doctrine, while the upper house was largely Whig and Latitudinarian. This divergence in views created friction, particularly concerning issues like toleration for Protestant dissenters.

What event in 1717 led to the Convocations being prorogued by Royal Writ, and what controversy was involved?

In 1717, the Convocations were prorogued by Royal Writ to prevent the lower house from censuring Bishop Benjamin Hoadly. This action was a direct consequence of the Bangorian controversy, which involved significant theological and political disputes.

When did the Convocations begin to discuss issues of the day again, and which province initiated this change?

The Convocations began to discuss contemporary issues again in the mid-nineteenth century. This revival started with Canterbury in 1852 and was followed by York in 1861, marking a significant return to active deliberation.

What political changes in the early 19th century contributed to the revival of Convocation's active business?

The political changes following the Great Reform Bill of 1832 contributed to the revival of Convocation's active business. This reform altered the composition and perceived nature of Parliament, prompting some churchmen to seek alternative forums for the Church's voice.

Why did many churchmen argue that Parliament and the bishops in the House of Lords did not express the mind of the Church as a whole after the Great Reform Bill of 1832?

After the Great Reform Bill of 1832 changed the political landscape, many churchmen felt that neither Parliament nor the bishops in the House of Lords adequately represented the collective views and interests of the entire Church. This sentiment fueled the desire for Convocation's revival as a more direct voice for the clergy.

What event in 1847 coincided with the routine session of Convocation and led to a debate on reviving its powers?

In 1847, the routine session of Convocation coincided with the controversial nomination of Dr. Hampden to the see of Hereford. This event triggered a lengthy debate on the formal address to the Queen, resulting in an amendment that prayed for the revival of Convocation's active powers.

Who was the driving force behind the campaign to achieve the revival of Convocation's active powers?

The driving force behind the campaign to revive Convocation's active powers was Henry Hoare, a London banker who dedicated himself to this cause. His efforts were instrumental in advocating for the resumption of Convocation's business.

What were some of the significant oppositions to the revival of Convocation?

Opposition to the revival of Convocation was considerable, coming from half the clergy, most of the laity, and many politicians. Archbishops John Bird Sumner and Thomas Musgrave also initially opposed the revival, showing the breadth of resistance.

What was Archbishop Musgrave's stance on the revival of Convocation, and how did it affect the Northern Convocation?

Archbishop Musgrave maintained his opposition to the revival of Convocation until his death in 1860, even physically locking the room where it was scheduled to meet. Consequently, the Northern Convocation remained inactive until his successor took office.

What was the historical composition of the Convocations regarding clergy and laity?

Historically, the Convocations were exclusively clerical assemblies, meaning they consisted solely of clergy members. Lay participation was not constitutionally part of Convocation itself.

When were parallel Houses of Laity established, and what was their status?

Parallel Houses of Laity were established in 1885, elected by lay members of diocesan conferences. However, these Houses were not constitutionally part of Convocation and served only in an advisory capacity, lacking formal decision-making power.

What was the Representative Council, and what authority did it possess?

At the beginning of the twentieth century, both Convocations, along with their Houses of Laity, met as a Representative Council. This council, however, possessed no legal authority or formal constitutional position within the church structure.

What superseded the Representative Council in 1920, and what right was it given?

The Church Assembly superseded the Representative Council in 1920. It was granted the significant right to propose measures to Parliament through the "Enabling Act of 1919."

What is the current status of the Convocations within the General Synod of the Church of England?

Currently, the Convocations still exist, and their members form the two clerical houses of the General Synod of the Church of England. However, all significant legal authority is now vested in the General Synod, established in 1970, with the Convocations retaining only residual and formal responsibilities.

In North America, what does "convocation" typically refer to in a university context?

In North America, "convocation" typically refers to a university's graduation ceremony. This is a formal event that marks the completion of academic studies for students.

What does "convocation" refer to at Harvard and Columbia universities at the start of the academic year?

At Harvard and Columbia universities, "convocation" specifically refers to the matriculation ceremony. This event formally welcomes new students at the beginning of the academic year.

What does "convocation" mean at some universities in the UK and other countries regarding decision-making bodies?

At some universities in the UK and other countries, "convocation" refers to the formal body composed of university members who meet to make official decisions. This body often includes graduates and plays a role in university governance.

What was the original composition and function of Convocation at the University of Oxford?

Originally, Convocation at the University of Oxford served as the main governing body. It was composed of all doctors and masters of the university, who were responsible for its governance and decision-making.

What are the current remaining functions of Convocation at the University of Oxford?

Today, Convocation at the University of Oxford comprises all university graduates. Its only remaining functions are to elect the university's chancellor and the Professor of Poetry.

When was Convocation established at Durham University as the assembly of members?

Convocation was established as the assembly of members at Durham University by the university's fundamental statute in 1835. This formalized the body responsible for university membership gatherings.

Until what year were Durham's degrees awarded at meetings of Convocation?

Durham University awarded degrees at meetings of Convocation until 1938. After this year, the authority to award degrees was transferred to the senate, and degrees were subsequently conferred at congregations.

As of 2024, what is the composition of Durham University's Convocation?

As of 2024, Durham University's Convocation includes the chancellor, the vice-chancellor and warden, the deputy vice-chancellor and provost, the pro-vice-chancellors, registered graduates of the university, and other university officers appointed by the council.

What was the University of London's Convocation, and when was it abolished?

The University of London's Convocation, which existed from its establishment in 1858 until its abolition in 2003, was composed of the university's graduates who participated in its governance. It served as a key body for alumni involvement.

What are "courts of convocation" in New Zealand universities?

In New Zealand universities, "courts of convocation" are specific bodies through which all graduates elect representatives to the institutions' governing bodies. This system ensures graduate representation in university administration.

What is "convocation" used as a collective noun for?

"Convocation" is used as a collective noun for eagles. This is a specialized term used in contexts discussing groups of these birds.

What is another general meaning of "convocation"?

Another general meaning of "convocation" is simply a formal or ceremonial meeting or assembly. This broader definition applies outside of specific ecclesiastical or academic contexts.

What specific type of meeting involves "convocation" in the context of the Holy Royal Arch?

In the context of the Holy Royal Arch, "convocation" refers to a meeting of companions of a chapter. This is a specific usage within that particular fraternal order.

What does the image of a graduation ceremony depict?

The image depicts a student receiving an academic degree from Azim Premji during a convocation ceremony. This visual represents a formal academic milestone.

Who is visible in the background of the graduation ceremony image?

Adi Godrej is visible in the background of the graduation ceremony image, alongside the main figures receiving or conferring degrees.

What is depicted in the image of the Royal Military College of Canada?

The image shows a cadet from the Royal Military College of Canada playing bagpipes in Currie Hall. This scene captures a moment during a formal college event.

What is the context of the bagpiper in the image from the Royal Military College of Canada?

The bagpiper is shown during the College's fall Convocation ceremony. This indicates the use of traditional music in formal academic or military gatherings.

What does the banner in the image represent in the context of India?

The banner in the image represents a college convocation in India. It signifies a formal academic assembly within the Indian educational system.

Convocation Wiki: The Convocation Chronicle: Assemblies of Authority and Academia

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Overview

Definition and Etymology

A convocation, derived from the Latin convocare meaning "to call together," signifies a formal assembly of individuals for a specific purpose, predominantly within ecclesiastical or academic spheres. The Britannica dictionary defines it as "a large formal meeting of people (such as church officials)." This term encapsulates gatherings ranging from significant church councils to the ceremonial assemblies of academic institutions.

Academic Context

In academic usage, "convocation" can refer to the collective body of an institution's alumni. More commonly, it denotes a ceremonial assembly, particularly during graduation or commencement ceremonies. At certain institutions, it marks the formal welcome of incoming students at the start of the academic year, signifying a structured transition into the academic community.

Ecclesiastical Convocations

Origins and Structure

Synodical assemblies of the church are sometimes referred to as "Convocations." Historically, the Convocations of Canterbury and York represented the synodical assemblies of the two Provinces of the Church of England. Their origins trace back to the late seventh century, evolving into distinct bodies for each province by 733 AD. Membership evolved to include bishops, deans, archdeacons, and representatives of cathedral chapters and clergy. By the fifteenth century, these convocations were divided into an upper house (Bishops) and a lower house (other members).

Legislative and Historical Role

The legislative powers of these convocations varied significantly over centuries. Until 1664, they determined taxes for the clergy. Their powers were curtailed by Henry VIII in 1532/4. From the Reformation until 1965, they were summoned and dissolved concurrently with Parliament. Notably, between 1559 and 1641, decisions made by Convocation were given the force of law via letters patent, including the Thirty-Nine Articles (1571) and the Canons of 1603.

Post-Commonwealth Restoration (1660): Convocations were restored and approved the Book of Common Prayer.
18th Century Tensions: Debates over clerical representation and theological disputes (e.g., the Bangorian controversy) led to periods of inactivity, with sessions often becoming purely formal.
19th Century Revival: Following the Great Reform Bill of 1832, arguments arose that Parliament and bishops no longer fully represented the Church's mind. Campaigns led to the revival of active business in Convocation, starting with Canterbury in 1852 and York in 1861.
20th Century Transition: Parallel Houses of Laity were established, and a Representative Council formed. This was superseded in 1920 by the Church Assembly, empowered by the "Enabling Act of 1919" to propose measures to Parliament.
Modern Structure: Convocations continue to exist, forming the clerical houses of the General Synod of the Church of England, established in 1970, which now holds most legal authority.

University Use

Formal Assemblies and Ceremonies

Within universities, "convocation" often refers to a graduation ceremony, a formal assembly marking the conferral of degrees. It can also denote any formal gathering of the university community, akin to "congregation" in some British universities. At institutions like Harvard and Columbia, it specifically names the matriculation ceremony that formally welcomes new students, signaling the commencement of their academic journey.

Governing Bodies and Alumni

In some UK and international universities, convocation constitutes the body of members responsible for official decision-making. At the University of Oxford, it historically served as the primary governing body, comprising all university doctors and masters. Today, it consists of all university graduates and retains specific functions such as electing the chancellor and the Professor of Poetry. Similarly, universities in New Zealand utilize "courts of convocation" where graduates elect representatives to institutional governing bodies.

University of Oxford: Comprises all graduates; current functions include electing the chancellor and Professor of Poetry.
University of Cambridge: The equivalent body is the Senate.
Durham University: Established in 1835, it includes registered graduates and officers; it appoints the chancellor and receives the annual report.
University of London: Between 1858 and 2003, its graduates involved in governance formed the convocation.
New Zealand Universities: Institutions like Massey, Waikato, Victoria University of Wellington, Lincoln, and Auckland have "Courts of Convocation" for graduate representation.

Other Uses

Diverse Applications

Beyond its primary ecclesiastical and academic contexts, the term "convocation" finds application in other specific areas:

It serves as a collective noun for a group of eagles.
It can generally refer to any formal or ceremonial meeting or assembly.
Within certain fraternal organizations, it denotes a meeting of companions of a Holy Royal Arch chapter.

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References

York, Durham, Carlisle, Chester, and Man. In medieval times there were only four: Galloway, York, Durham and Carlisle. (Kemp Counsel and Consent pp.247,248) Only with the establishment of the Diocese of Ripon in 1836 did the number increase.

They could only meet at the royal pleasure; they needed royal permission to discuss and make canons; no action of theirs could go against the sovereign's prerogative, or the customs, laws and statutes of the realm.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Convocation Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not academic or ecclesiastical advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding historical, theological, or institutional matters. Always refer to official documentation and consult with qualified experts for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Convocation Chronicle

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Overview ℹ️

🏛️ Definition and Etymology

📜 Academic Context

Ecclesiastical Convocations ⛪

⚖️ Origins and Structure

👑 Legislative and Historical Role

University Use 🎓

🏫 Formal Assemblies and Ceremonies

📜 Governing Bodies and Alumni

Other Uses 🦅

📚 Diverse Applications

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Definition and Etymology

Academic Context

Ecclesiastical Convocations

Origins and Structure

Legislative and Historical Role

University Use

Formal Assemblies and Ceremonies

Governing Bodies and Alumni

Other Uses

Diverse Applications

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice