Conventicle Act

The Conventicle Act, first passed in England in 1664, was a law aimed at restricting religious gatherings outside the Church of England. It targeted Nonconformists, such as Puritans and Quakers, who held secret meetings (or conventicles) for worship. The Act made it illegal for more than five people to gather for religious purposes unless they were attending an official Anglican service. This was part of broader efforts to enforce religious conformity and suppress dissent. Over time, the Act faced opposition and was eventually repealed, reflecting changing attitudes toward religious freedom.