Archpriest / Archimandrite / Protopresbyter (Teachings of the Orthodox Church)

Christianity. Orthodoxy. Catholicism. Sense of life. Articles for Christians.

And if thy hand cause thee to stumble, cut it off: it is good for thee to enter into life maimed, rather than having thy two hands to go into hell, into the unquenchable fire. where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. And if thy foot cause thee to stumble, cut it off: it is good for thee to enter into life halt, rather than having thy two feet to be cast into hell, where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. And if thine eye cause thee to stumble, cast it out: it is good for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell; where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.

Christian Portal

Christian Resources

Vote!


	Archpriest / Archimandrite / Protopresbyter (Teachings of the Orthodox Church)

QUESTION:

The priest who performed the wedding that Iattended recently has been elevated to the dignity of Archpriest in the Antiochian Church. He is married. Is Archpriest or Propresbyter the highest he can go as a married man?

Also, just what is a Propresbyter?

ANSWER:

The term "archpriest" is awarded to certain married clergy. A somewhat comparable term for monastic clergy is "archimandrite," although this generally designates the head of a monastery.

While the term "protopresbyter" (first- or lead-priest) could almost literally be translated as "archpriest," it is often used as a separate designation for certain clergy in highly visible or distinguished positions.

In the Orthodox Church in America, for example, the Chancellor of the OCA, the Dean of St Vladimir's Seminary, and a few others are awarded this title. I do not know of any parish priests bearing the title "protopresbyter."

Published in January 2011.

Read more Christian articles

Recommend this page to your friend!