I am a stanch church of England

In Chapter 42 of Far From The Madding Crowd, the phrase "I am a stanch Church of England" is a dialogue rendered by Jan Coggan. 

Here: 
Stanch is an archaic form of staunch, meaning firm, loyal, steadfast or strongly devoted. Church of England is Anglican church. 
The speaker means that I am a firm and loyal supporter or the member of the Church of England. 
Hardy's folk characters often speak with exaggerated seriousness about religion while sitting in taverns drinking ale or gossiping.  The religious identity is more cultural and social than theological. The conversations also reflect village pride, and attachment local traditions. 

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