Forms of Clerical Address

Clerical titles can cause considerable confusion. This is particularly so when it comes to writing letters or verbally addressing priests – who unfortunately cannot agree among themselves what they should be called. Some prefer Mr. or Ms., others Father or Mother with either their last or their first names. Some abhor the choices made by others. The only way to be sure of what they prefer is to ask them. In this diocese, failing other knowledge, you are pretty safe addressing priests as either Mother or Father. In other, more “protestant” dioceses, you may not be. Fortunately, with bishops, deans, archdeacons, canons and deacons, things are simpler.

* Depending on the individual’s preference.
** It is incorrect to say, for example, “the Reverend Smith.” It is correct to say “the Reverend William C. Smith.”