Individual Clergymen and Denominational Assessments of the Constitution

Thousands of individuals and many organizations were actively engaged in the debate over ratifying the Constitution. The influence that emanated from pulpits was no small matter. Throughout the United States, parishioners looked to clergymen for insights and opinions during the ratification process. For Federalists and Antifederalist alike, the influence of the clergy was deemed essential in the formation of public opinion. In a letter to George Washington, Federalist Benjamin Lincoln noted that it was advantageous to have the support of the clergy since “they have in this State a very great influence over the people and they will contribute much to the general peace and happiness.” John Leland, a prominent leader among Virginia Baptists, had circulated his objections to the Constitution. John Spencer wrote to James Madison urging Madison to visit Leland and persuade him to support the Constitution. Surprisingly, there were few official denominational statements regarding the Constitution. Most of the assessments below are from individual clergymen. 

Assessments by Individual Clergymen About the Constitution

Denominational Assessments of the Constitution