Denominations, the Three

Denominations, The Three the designation of an association of dissenting ministers residing in London, or the immediate neighborhood, belonging to the Presbyterian, Independent, and Baptist denominations. It is usually known as The General Body of Protestant Dissenting Ministers of London and Westminster. At first its proceedings included loyal addresses to the throne. Dr. Calamy preached in 1731 the first sermon to ministers in Dr. Williams's library, in Redcross Street; and this concio ad clerum continued for several years. "Every congregation of Protestant dissenters, Presbyterians, Independents, and Baptists, in and within twelve miles of London, appoints two deputies. Since 1737 the election has regularly taken place, and the committee have unremittingly watched over bills brought into Parliament in any way affecting dissenters, kept alive an interest in behalf of the repeal of the Test and Corporation acts, supported every measure which promised to be beneficial in extending and consolidating religious liberty, and successfully exerted themselves in protecting individual ministers and congregations against those molestations to which they have been exposed on the part of bigoted and persecuting churchmen."