Pope stops conferring title 'monsignor' on priests
September 13, 2013
Pope Francis has stopped conferring the title “monsignor” on priests.
The Italian daily Il Messagero has reported that shortly after his election, the Pope instructed the Secretariat of State to stop approving requests for priests to be given the rank of monsignor. The Pope said that the moratorium on granting the title should continue at least until October; it is not clear whether he will continue the new policy beyond that time.
The moratorium does not apply to members of the Vatican diplomatic corps who are given the title “monsignor” in connection with their assignments as representatives of the Holy See.
A priest is ordinarily raised to the status of “monsignor” on the recommendation of his diocesan bishop. However, all such honorary titles require the approval of the Holy See.
For all current news, visit our News home page.
Further information:
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
-
Posted by: unum -
Sep. 19, 2013 6:37 AM ET USA
I always wondered why the Church found it necessary to award worldly titles to clergy and laymen for serving God. Can recognition by men hold a candle to one's eternal reward? Sainthood is quite a different matter, calling attention to the life of a deceased holy person in order to encourage and inspire the living.
-
Posted by: hartwood01 -
Sep. 17, 2013 11:17 PM ET USA
Did seem silly to me,these titles of honor for doing one's job. The priesthood is not a corporation,but a vocation.
-
Posted by: jacquebquique5708 -
Sep. 16, 2013 10:37 AM ET USA
It must be emphasized that this is a "moratorium" (at least until October) and not an outright denial. I would hope that there be more stringent regulation. However, this is a note of honor for loyal priests.
