ABSTRACT
Clergymen of various denominations contributed to public debate on social, political and military issues, and so helped to shape public views of the Navy. The public image of the Navy was influenced also by religious societies of the period that reflected a close relationship between Christian philanthropy and patriotism. The Anglican Church explained rationally that the Navy, under God, was the chief strength and defence of the nation, and the means of its wealth and commerce. During the time of the French Revolution, new taxes and vast loans needed for the massive expansion of the military and naval establishment caused great resentment. The clergy played a vital role in helping to counteract this by persuading people that religion and loyalty to the government were essential for national security at this time, and reconciling them to greater expenditure on military force. Clergymen were naturally able to use the well-worn trope of the sea voyage as a metaphor for life.
