Geweihte

Geweihte is a German term used to refer to persons who have undergone a sacred rite of consecration and are set apart for religious duties. The word translates roughly as “consecrated” or “hallowed,” and in everyday usage it denotes those who have received Holy Orders or, less commonly, members of religious life who have taken vows.

In many Christian traditions, especially the Catholic Church, the Orthodox Churches, and the Anglican Communion, Geweihte describes individuals who have been ordained and thus entrusted with sacramental and pastoral responsibilities. The main ordained grades are deacons, priests, and bishops. The exact powers and duties of the Geweihte vary by denomination, but commonly include celebrat­ing the Eucharist, preaching, administering the sacraments, and providing spiritual leadership within a diocese or community.

The term can also be used in a broader sense to refer to members of religious orders who have taken public vows and live a consecrated life. In such cases they may not be ordained but are nonetheless regarded as Geweihte because they have committed themselves to a sacred purpose and community life.

Etymology and usage: Geweihte derives from the German weihen, “to consecrate,” with ge- forming a perfective sense. In German-language religious discourse, Geweihte is a formal designation for those set apart by sacred rites; in English contexts the equivalents are “the clergy,” “the ordained,” or “the consecrated.” The term is primarily used within Christian contexts and is uncommon outside liturgical discussions.