Relations between Philip II of Spain and the Papacy were often strained for several reasons. Philip exercised significant control over the Spanish church, which worried the Papacy. There were also tensions over foreign policy, as Philip and the Popes did not always agree on the best approach towards countries like England and France. While they shared the goal of defending Catholicism, Philip saw himself as God's representative on Earth rather than an agent of the Pope, and the two powers had different priorities.