clericalism
Quick Summary
Clericalism is a policy focused on maintaining or increasing the power of a religious hierarchy. This concept is distinct from the role of a priest, who is primarily a ritual expert possessing specialized knowledge of worship practices like prayers and sacrifices.12
In some Christian traditions, particularly Roman Catholicism, a strong clerical identity is fostered, setting ordained ministers apart from lay members through distinct attire and gender restrictions, as only men can become Catholic priests. This distinctiveness is also linked to the practice of clerical celibacy, which has been a source of significant debate and dissatisfaction within the modern church. While celibacy is a requirement for bishops in the Eastern Orthodox Church, priests and deacons are generally married men, provided they were married only once before ordination.345
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
Eastern OrthodoxyClergy and laity…life inhibited the development of clericalism, the tradition of enhancing the power of the church hierarchy. The early Christian practice of lay participation in episcopal elections never disappeared completely in the East. In modern times it has been restored in several churches, including those in the United States. Besides being…
Read More…life inhibited the development of clericalism, the tradition of enhancing the power of the church hierarchy. The early Christian practice of lay participation in episcopal elections never disappeared completely in the East. In modern times it has been restored in several churches, including those in the United States. Besides being…
Read More
Roman CatholicismThe priesthood and the diaconate…centuries has fostered a distinct clerical identity, symbolized by clerical garb, which sets priests as a class apart from lay Catholics. The most identifiable piece of garb worn by priests is a white collar, sometimes called a Roman collar.
Read More…centuries has fostered a distinct clerical identity, symbolized by clerical garb, which sets priests as a class apart from lay Catholics. The most identifiable piece of garb worn by priests is a white collar, sometimes called a Roman collar.
Read More