What Are the Duties of a Monsignor?

Some priests have the honorary title of "monsignor."

The pope gives certain priests the title of "monsignor" in honor of their service and dedication to the Catholic Church. A monsignor does not have any special duties outside his responsibilities as a priest.

History

The term dates back to the 14th century. The lower classes addressed bishops and other high-ranking clergy or nobility as "monseigneur" or "monsignore," which translates to "my lord."

Process

A bishop must nominate priests for the honorary title. The priests' names and information on their service go to the Vatican for the pope's consideration. If chosen, the priest receives a special certificate from the Holy See.

Types

Monsignors have three ranks: protonotary apostolic, prelate of honor to His Holiness and chaplain to His Holiness. Protonotary apostolic titles usually go to priests who serve in Roman Curia, the church's governing body.

Identification

Monsignors can wear distinctive clerical garb, usually a black cassock with red or fuchsia buttons or piping along with a fuchsia sash. Protonotary apostolic monsignors can wear a fuchsia cape on special occasions.

Benefits

Priests who are elevated to monsignors become members of the papal household. They keep their titles after the pope's death.

References

• Becoming a Monsignor
• Catholic Encyclopedia: Monsignor

Resources

• Catholic Blogs.com: Monsignor