Catechetics Online

Addressing Clergy

One of the most common questions received at Catechetics Online is how to properly address our clergy.

Deacons

The first level of holy orders are deacons. They can be permanent or transitional deacons. All priests and bishops start out as transitional deacons, usually for one year, before they are given the next step in the Sacrament.

A deacon may be addressed as "Deacon". During the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass they will be in vestments and will wear what you may recognize as a sash (similar to what boy scouts wear but without the badges). These are called stoles. A deacon wears his stole over the left shoulder and tied at his right side.

Priests

A priest may be addressed as "Father". Deacons may not stand during the consecration at mass, and does not have the gift to consecrate the bread and wine. Priests do so. In a letter you would address them as "Reverend".

Bishop

A bishop has received the fullness of holy orders and is a prince of the Church. A bishop is addressed as "Bishop" in a letter and may be addressed as "Your Excellency" in person as well as to the opening of a letter.

Cardinal

A Cardinal may vote in a papal election an is addressed as "Your Eminence".

Pope

A pope is the successor of Peter and the head of the Church on earth. He holds the "keys of the kingdom" a clear symbol that he is the second in command of the kingdom, under Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. Just as in the kingdom of David the man who held the keys of the kingdom was second in command. A pope should be addressed as His Holiness.

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Monsignor

A priest with a special designation by the pope.