Dekanat

Dekanat, in the Catholic Church, is an administrative subdivision of a diocese that groups together several parishes within a defined geographic area. It is headed by a dean (dekan), a senior presbyter appointed by the diocesan bishop. The dean is typically supported by a deanery council, composed of parish clergy and sometimes lay representatives, which assists in planning and coordinating activities across the parishes.

Functions and scope

The deanery coordinates pastoral programs, catechetical initiatives, youth and charitable activities, liturgical arrangements for major feasts, and the sharing of resources such as clergy and supplies. It facilitates mutual support among parishes, helps organize joint events, and assists with administrative matters, including some aspects of parish property and records. The dean serves as a liaison between the parishes and the diocesan authorities, transmitting policies and directives and reporting on local needs and developments.

Relation to diocesan authority

The dean acts as an intermediary between the diocese and the parishes, representing the deanery in diocesan meetings and ensuring implementation of diocesan guidelines at the local level. He may coordinate the movement and assignments of clergy within the deanery and support canonical compliance and pastoral planning across the parishes.

Appointment and tenure

The bishop appoints the dean, usually selecting a priest with significant experience and leadership ability. The term of office can vary by diocese and may be renewed. In some regions, the dean’s responsibilities are adapted to local practice, but the role remains to foster cooperation and coherence among parishes under the diocese.

See also

Diocese, Parish, Deacon, Decanus.