ABSTRACT
Amidst the existing state of feeling with regard to the Church, its wealth and its inefficiency for the religious instruction and guidance of the people, it was impossible for any government to feel or assume indifference to its condition. The ecclesiastical commissioners were incorporated by Act of Parliament in 1836; their number then consisting of thirteen, and including several members of the government. One of their first operations was a re-arrangement of episcopal sees. In 1838, an Act passed, the object of which was to correct the abuse of non-residence, – to render it impossible henceforth for the beneficed clergyman to be absent, at his own pleasure, from the field of his duties, while enjoying the proceeds of his living. Religious liberty could not become understood but by improved general education; and general education could not be had for want of religious liberty.
