Clergy
“The identity of priests is built around their being for, which is inseparably linked to their mission. Indeed, he who “tries to find his priestly identity by soul-searching and introspection may well encounter nothing more than ‘exit’ signs, signs that say: exit from yourself, exit to seek God in adoration, go out and give your people what was entrusted to you, for your people will make you feel and taste who you are, what your name is, what your identity is, and they will make you rejoice in that hundredfold which the Lord has promised to those who serve him.” Apostolic Letter, A Fidelity that Generates the Future, Pope Leo XIV on December 8, 2025.
The Catholic clergy is organized as follows:
Pope: Head of the church; he is based at the Vatican. The Pope is addressed as “His Holiness” or “Your Holiness”.
Cardinal: Appointed by the Pope, cardinals worldwide make up the College of Cardinals. As a body, it advises the pope and, on his death, elects a new pope. The Cardinal is addressed as “His Eminence” or “Your Eminence”.
Archbishop: An archbishop is a bishop of a main or metropolitan diocese, also called an archdiocese. A cardinal can concurrently hold the title. The Archbishop is addressed as “His Grace” or “Your Grace”.
Bishop: A bishop, like a priest, is ordained to this station. He is a teacher of church doctrine, a priest of sacred worship, and a minister of church government. The Bishop is the head teacher, head liturgist, and father of the poor. The Bishop is addressed as “His Excellency” or “Your Excellency”.
Priest: The priest is an ordained minister who can administer most of the sacraments, including the Eucharist, baptism, and marriage. He can be with a particular religious order or committed to serving a congregation. The Priest is addressed as “Father”.
Deacon: A transitional deacon is a seminarian studying for the priesthood. A permanent deacon can be married and assists a priest by administering some of the sacraments. The Deacon is addressed as “Reverend Mr.”
NOTE: The title Monsignor is granted to priests as a reward for service to the church or as a sign of some special function they serve in church governance. It is usually on the proposal of the local bishop that the Pope grants this title to Catholic diocesan clergy. The grant is subject to the criteria of the Holy See, including a minimum age, which Pope Francis has raised to 65 years. The Holy See announced the changes in January 2014, highlighting a renewed sense of simplicity and humility.