Convocation

Convocation, an assembly of the clergy protected from molestation by 8 Hen. 6, c. 1. Its purpose is stated to be the enactment of canon law, subject to the license and authority of the sovereign (as required by the Act of Submission [25 Hen. 8, c. 19)], and the examination and censure of all heretical and schismatical books and persons. It is held during the session of parliament, and is convened by the sovereign. There are two convocations, one for the province of Canterbury, the other for that of York. Convocation consists of an upper and a lower house. In the upper sit the bishops and in the lower all the deans, the senior archdeacons, and the proctors of the clergy. A canon made in 1922 provides in detail for the consolidation of the lower houses. Convocation, by express license from the Sovereign, may legislate by making canons, which bind the clergy only. See Steph.Com., book 4, c. vi.; Hook's Church dictionary, tit. 'Convocation'; Reg. v. Archbishop of York, (1888) 20 QBD 740. See NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND.