diocésains

Diocésains is a French term used to designate the people who belong to a diocese or to things associated with a diocese. In Catholic practice, a diocese is a territorial and organizational unit governed by a bishop; similar structures exist in Anglican and Orthodox churches. The diocese comprises parishes, clergy, and various church institutions, and serves as the local organizational level for pastoral care, education, and administration.

Etymology and scope: The word diocese comes from Latin dioecesis, itself from Greek dioikēsis, meaning administration or jurisdiction. The masculine plural form diocésains is used for male or mixed groups; feminine forms would be diocésaines, and the adjective is diocésain/diocésaine.

Usage: As a noun, diocésains denotes members of the diocese—laity and clergy alike. As an adjective, diocésain designates things related to the diocese, such as diocesan institutions or events (for example, a diocesan newspaper). The diocese typically maintains a curia and a vicar general to administer its affairs; laypeople participate through diocesan councils and synods.

History and scope: The diocese originated within the late Roman administrative framework and was adopted by Christian churches as a territorial jurisdiction. Today there are hundreds of dioceses worldwide, with boundaries that may be adjusted over time.

Differences: Diocesan clergy are assigned to a specific diocese and answer to the bishop; members of religious orders are part of different ecclesial structures under religious superiors.

See also: diocese, diocesan, bishop, parish, synod.