Glossary of Terms – Episcopal Ordination & Installation

Apostolic Administrator

A bishop or priest appointed by the Pope to temporarily oversee a diocese during a vacancy or transitional period.

Apostolic Mandate

An official papal letter issued by the Holy See that authorizes the ordination of the bishop-elect and his assumption of the office. During the installation, it is read aloud and then shown to the clergy and faithful in the cathedral.

Apostolic Nuncio

A representative of the Holy See who serves as both the Vatican ambassador to a country and the liaison to the local Church. The nuncio often plays a key role in recommending new bishops to the Pope.

Bishop-Elect

A priest who has been appointed by the Pope to become a bishop but has not yet been ordained.

Cathedra

The bishop’s chair in the cathedral, symbolizing his teaching authority and governance in the diocese.

Cathedral

The principal church of a diocese, where the bishop’s cathedra is located.

Chancery

The administrative offices of a diocese, typically directed by the bishop and his staff.

Coadjutor Bishop

A bishop appointed to assist and eventually succeed the diocesan bishop.

Consecration / Episcopal Ordination

The sacramental act that makes a man a bishop, conferring the fullness of the sacrament of Holy Orders.

Crozier

A pastoral staff shaped like a shepherd’s crook, carried by the bishop as a symbol of his role as shepherd of the diocese.

Diocese

A specific geographical area under the pastoral care of a bishop.

Episcopal Motto

A phrase chosen by a bishop, often scriptural, expressing his mission or spiritual focus.

Episcopal Ordination

Another term for the sacrament in which a man is ordained to the office of bishop.

Episcopal Ring

A ring worn by the bishop as a sign of his fidelity to the Church.

Imposition of Hands

A key moment in the ordination rite where the ordaining bishops place their hands on the head of the bishop-elect, invoking the Holy Spirit.

Installation

The formal ceremony, often occurring after ordination, in which the new bishop is seated in the cathedra, symbolically taking possession of the diocese.

Laying on of Hands

Another phrase for the imposition of hands, signifying apostolic succession and the calling down of the Holy Spirit.

Litany of the Saints

A chant invoking the saints, sung during the ordination ceremony while the bishop-elect lies prostrate in prayer.

Mitre

A liturgical headdress worn by bishops, symbolizing their authority.

Ordaining Bishop

The principal bishop who ordains the bishop-elect, often assisted by two co-consecrators.

Pallium

A vestment worn by metropolitan archbishops, made of lamb’s wool, signifying their unity with the Pope.

Pectoral Cross

A large cross, typically worn on a chain or cord over the chest by bishops. It signifies the bishop’s fidelity to Christ and his pastoral office.

Pontifical Mass

A solemn liturgy celebrated by a bishop, especially during major occasions like an ordination.

Presentation of the Book of the Gospels

Part of the ordination rite, when the Gospels are held above the bishop-elect's head, symbolizing his duty to preach the Word of God.

Prostration

A gesture of humility and surrender in which the bishop-elect lies face down during the Litany of the Saints.

Rite of Ordination

The liturgical rite in which a bishop-elect is ordained, including the calling of the candidate, the homily, examination, laying on of hands, prayer of ordination, and investiture.

Zucchetto

A small skullcap worn by bishops, typically purple in color.

Clergy Titles

Cardinal

A senior Church official, usually a bishop, appointed by the Pope to serve as a principal advisor and elector in papal conclaves. Cardinals often oversee major dioceses or Vatican departments.

Deacon

An ordained minister who assists in liturgies, proclaims the Gospel, may preach, baptize, witness marriages, and perform charitable works. Deacons may be transitional (on the path to priesthood) or permanent.

His Excellency

A respectful address for bishops and archbishops in formal correspondence and ceremonial contexts.

Monsignor

An honorary title granted by the Pope to certain priests in recognition of their service. It does not convey sacramental authority but is a mark of distinction.

Most Reverend

The formal title used before the name of a bishop or archbishop (e.g., Most Reverend Richard F. Reidy).

Nuncio

A diplomatic representative of the Holy See to a country or group of countries. The nuncio also plays a key role in the selection of new bishops within that region.

Reverend

The general title used for priests and deacons in both written and spoken communication.

Vicar General

A priest appointed by the bishop with executive authority to assist in the administration of the diocese.