Final answer:
Kit is offended when the clergyman prays for Mercy, as she views Mercy as a genuinely good-hearted and devout person who is already blessed.
Step-by-step explanation:
In The Witch of Blackbird Pond, Kit is offended when the clergyman prays for Mercy because she believes Mercy is already blessed and perceives her as genuinely good-hearted and devout. Kit's opinion of Mercy is high; she admires Mercy's kindness and inner strength.
This offensive situation arises from Kit's appreciation of Mercy's qualities and her belief that Mercy is self-sufficient in her spirituality and does not need public petitions for help or blessing.
In "The Witch of Blackbird Pond," Kit feels protective of Mercy; she perceives Mercy as weak and in need of guidance. Kit is offended when the clergyman prays for Mercy because she believes that public displays of prayer are hypocritical.
She wants to protect Mercy from being judged by others and believes that Mercy deserves genuine care and support.