Conventicles were small, informal gatherings of people, often for religious purposes, that took place outside of established churches. These meetings were particularly common among groups that sought to practice their faith freely, especially during times of persecution or strict religious control. In the 17th century, conventicles were significant in the context of the English Civil War and the rise of Nonconformist movements. Participants often included those who disagreed with the doctrines of the Church of England, leading to the formation of various sects and denominations that valued personal interpretation of scripture.