The text analyzes, from a micro perspective, the actions of the clergy of the Diocese of Santa Marta in the context of the struggle between civil and Catholic authorities, motivated by the liberal reformism of the mid-nineteenth century. It examines the way in which religious officials resolved the dilemma of acceptance or rejection of the oath of office and came out ahead of the pressures exerted on them by government agents and the religious hierarchy. The article argues that the clergymen were autonomous in their decisions, as well as successful in developing strategies according to their individual, doctrinal or partisan interests.