The French Clergy refers to the body of religious leaders and officials within the Roman Catholic Church in France. Historically, the clergy played a significant role in French society, influencing politics, education, and culture. They were divided into two main groups: the higher clergy, consisting of bishops and abbots, and the lower clergy, which included priests and deacons. During the French Revolution, the clergy faced significant challenges as the state sought to reduce their power and influence. Many clergy members were forced to take an oath of loyalty to the state, leading to a division between those who complied and those who resisted, known as the non-jurors. This period marked a significant transformation in the relationship between the church and the state in France.