Who is Chaplin David Hardy from The Mote in God's Eye and what is their importance?

David Hardy started his professional life as a linguist. When his wife died he had a crisis of faith, and in his searching entered the seminary to earn his ministerial credentials. While he loves serving the faith he is not well equipped to either teach or lead a parish. So, he comes to his next career and assignment: ministering to military men on Navy vessels. As a linguist and trained priest he is a perfect fit for the mission to the aliens.