Dictionary
A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
BENEFICE
A juridical entity erected in perpetuity by competent ecclesiastical authority. It consists of a sacred office and the right to receive the corresponding revenues. The revenues may arise variously from: 1. property movable or immovable owned by the benefice; 2. obligatory contributions made by a family or some moral person; 3. voluntary offerings of the faithful; 4. stole fees paid according to diocesan statute or custom; 5. choir distributions if revenues consist of such distributions. In many countries parishes are regarded as benefices according to ecclesiastical law.
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
