A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
A member of the chief order of prelates attached to the papal Curia. there are four types: 1. Those who sign papal documents, act in connection with the consistories and processes of canonization, examine candidates, and confer certain ecclesiastical degrees; 2. certain canons of St. Peter's, the Lateran, St. Mary Major, and a number of cathedral chapters outside of Rome; 3. those entitled to the same external insignia as the first class above; and 4. priests outside of Rome who receive the dignity.
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.