Dictionary
A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
RECTOR
The head of a religious community of men, or of an educational institution. Popularly applied to designate a pastor, and hence the term rectory. But in canonical language a rector is the priest in charge of a church that is neither parochial nor capitular nor annexed to the house of a religious community for its religious functions. (Etym. Latin rector, ruler, leader, director.)
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
Recent Catholic Commentary
Pope Francis the Frank June 18
Top Catholic News
Most Important Stories of the Last 30 Days
Pope acknowledges 'gay lobby' influence in Vatican CWN - June 11