As a result , they explored various options .
The Catholic clergy at the time of the new Republic were keenly aware that anti-British sentiment made their canonical allegiance to Bishop Richard Challoner , the vicar - apostolic of the London district , somewhat suspect .
They explored various options .
The Catholic clergy at the time of the new Republic were keenly aware that anti-British sentiment made their canonical allegiance to Bishop Richard Challoner , the vicar - apostolic of the London district , somewhat suspect .