curé

Curé is a French term for the parish priest, the clergyman in charge of one or more parishes within a diocese. The word derives from Old French curé, from Latin curatus, meaning “one who is cared for,” via curāre “to care for.” In Catholic contexts, a curé holds canonical charge of a parish and is responsible for pastoral leadership, the administration of sacraments, preaching, catechesis, and the spiritual welfare of parishioners, as well as the management of parish property, finances, and staff. The exact duties vary by country and diocese, but the curé functions as the primary representative of the church in the parish and as a liaison with diocesan authorities.

In many French-speaking regions, the term is also used colloquially to denote a priest in general, even when not serving as the formal parish priest. The official title in canon law is typically “prêtre,” with the designation of curé used when the priest is in charge of a parish. Historically, abbé referred to a priest who did not have pastoral charge. The term conveys both professional role and local identity, especially in rural or small-town settings, and it appears frequently in literature and media.

Notes: In the Catholic Church, ordination is not open to women, so the term curé denotes a male parish priest. In English-language contexts, translations include “parish priest,” and occasionally the archaic “cure of souls” to reflect pastoral care.