Prêtres

Prêtres is a term of French origin that translates to "priests" in English. It refers to ordained male members of the clergy within various Christian denominations, particularly Catholicism, Orthodox Christianity, and Anglicanism. The primary role of a prêtre is to serve as a spiritual leader and mediator between God and the congregation. This typically involves performing religious ceremonies such as celebrating Mass or Divine Liturgy, administering sacraments like baptism, confession, and anointing of the sick, and preaching sermons.

The path to becoming a prêtre involves a period of theological education and spiritual formation, culminating in ordination by a bishop. Within the Catholic Church, prêtres generally take vows of celibacy. In other traditions, this may not be a requirement. The responsibilities of a prêtre extend beyond liturgical duties to include pastoral care, offering guidance and support to their parishioners, and often managing the administrative affairs of a parish or church community. The term emphasizes their role as consecrated individuals set apart for sacred service.