Dort, Synod of

An assembly of Dutch Calvinists 1618–19 in Dordrecht (Dort), Holland. The main purpose of the assembly was to formulate a response to Arminianism, which it condemned. A victory for strict Calinists (Gomarists) in both religious and political issues, the assembly clarified the central precepts of Calvinism and led to the suppression of moderate Calvinism – the scholar Grotius was imprisoned and the statesman Oldenbarneveldt, a supporter of the Arminianists, beheaded.

The official delegates were all strict Calvinists. Representatives of the Remonstrants (the supporters of Armenianism) were heard, but took no part in the procedure, and were eventually expelled. Emissaries from German, Swiss, and British churches were present, the English delegation including three future bishops and John Hales, chaplain to the ambassador.

A new Dutch version of the Bible was commissioned, and arrangements were made for a new catechism and for the censorship of books. Five sets of articles were approved, asserting: the doctrines of election not dependent on belief; limited atonement (for the elect only); the total depravity of man; irresistible grace; and the impossibility of the elect's falling into sin. The authority of the Belgic Confession and the Heidelberg Catechism were also endorsed.