Priests during medieval times were exempt from taxes due to the honorable nature of their work. They provided care for community members and led Mass in various wards. The clergy held a special status in society.
The diverse responsibilities undertaken by priests
included offering spiritual guidance and absolving the sins of their parishioners. They were also tasked with managing property and conveying messages to the community, from the Pope or religious leaders.
The answer is 'the broad application of the Fourteenth Amendment to state policy'.
In 1837, the incorporation of the Bill of Rights into the Fourteenth Amendment had an opportunity but was dismissed by the Court. After the Slaughterhouse Case, the Court essentially impeded any further progress regarding the privileges and immunities clause.
