James Bruce (minister)

More important was his success in establishing at Killeleagh in 1697 a 'philosophical school' for the training of the Presbyterian ministry and gentry, which proved obnoxious to the local Episcopalians and was closed in 1714.

[2] In 1699 Bruce was appointed one of the Synod's trustees for the management of the regium donum and continued in this office till his death.

His congregation was large; at his communion on 2 July 1704 there were seven successive tables and the services began at 7 a.m. and lasted till evening.

In the nonsubscription controversy (1720–6) Bruce sided with the subscribers (himself signing the Westminster Confession in 1721), but was unwilling to cut off the nonsubscribers from fellowship.

From his son Patrick (1692–1732), minister successively of Drumbo, County Down, Killallan, Renfrewshire, and Killeleagh, are lineally descended the Hervey Bruces of Downhill, baronets since 1804.