presbyterate

Presbyterate refers to the office of presbyter (elder) or to the body of presbyters within a church jurisdiction. The term derives from the Greek presbyteros, “elder.” In Catholic usage, presbyterate denotes the priestly order, one of the three degrees of Holy Orders (deacon, priest, bishop). It also designates the body of priests within a diocese, which the bishop leads. Priests are ordained by a bishop and exercise sacramental ministry: celebrating the Eucharist, presiding at the sacraments of baptism and marriage where permitted, hearing confessions, and anointing the sick, under the bishop’s oversight. The presbyterate collaborates with the bishop in pastoral governance and is often organized through a presbyteral council and parish assignments.

In Eastern Orthodox and Anglican traditions, presbyters are ordained clergy who serve in parishes under bishops and form the core of the local clergy. In many Protestant contexts, “elder” or “presbyter” may refer to lay or ordained leaders who share in governance.

The concept contrasts with the diaconate (deacons) and episcopate (bishops). The exact authority and governance of the presbyterate vary by rite, canon law, and local practice, but a common thread is the ordained ministry of priests serving under the bishop and contributing to the life and mission of the Church.