Letter
Benjamin Franklin to Mason Locke Weems, July 18, 1784
Benjamin Franklin advises Mason Locke Weems on the difficulties of obtaining ordination without swearing allegiance to the Archbishop of Paris or converting to Catholicism. He suggests exploring ordination through the Church of Ireland or other Protestant churches, noting the limited options if British and Irish bishops refuse. Franklin also mentions the possibility of following the example of early American Episcopalian clergy as an alternative.