Halfway covenant

In New England, interest in the Puritan church began to dwindle as first-generation settlers died out. The Halfway Covenant of 1662 was an attempt to revive interest in the church and appease those who did not wish to make a full oath of allegiance to the church.

Related Topics:
New England - Puritan

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Prior to the covenant, settlers had to undergo a sort of conversion experience before they could gain full church membership. The covenant eliminated this requirement. A settler would be considered a member of the church under the covenant but could not vote. Devout Puritans hoped that these halfway members would see the benefits of being a full member of the Church and eventually take the full oath of allegiance.

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