priests

A priest is a religious leader authorized to perform rites, lead worship, and provide spiritual guidance within a tradition. The word derives from Latin presbyter, meaning elder, via Greek presbyteros, and in English has come to denote an ordained minister in Christian contexts, though other faiths use different titles for similar roles.

In Christianity, priests typically oversee liturgy, administer sacraments such as baptism and the Eucharist, hear confessions, preach, and offer pastoral care. In Catholic, Orthodox, and some Anglican communities, priesthood is an ordained, sacramental ministry within a hierarchical structure that includes bishops and deacons. In the Latin Catholic tradition, ordination is typically restricted to men and celibacy is required for diocesan priests, though exceptions and non-Latin rites exist. Protestant denominations vary widely; many use the term minister or pastor, and practices regarding sacraments and church governance differ, with some traditions ordinizing women and allowing married clergy.

Beyond Christianity, the term is less commonly used. Hindu temples employ priests (pujaris or purohits) who perform ritual worship, rites, and lifecycle ceremonies. In Judaism, clergy include rabbis and cantors, with leadership focused on study, teaching, and guidance; the historical priesthood associated with temple rites no longer functions in the same way. Other religions have analogous roles, often centered on conducting rituals, teaching, and community leadership.

Training for priests usually involves formal theological education, practical formation, and oversight by a religious authority. The modern role of priests often includes pastoral care, education, social service, and leadership within religious communities, adapting to changing social and cultural contexts while preserving tradition.