Author Topic: Monsignor and Bishop, whats the difference? (Read 3187 times)

Thursday · « **on:** November 15, 2011, 07:58:04 PM »

Ok, who can tell me the difference? Why do use monsignor and Bishop?

ServusSpiritusSancti · « **Reply #1 on:** November 15, 2011, 08:44:53 PM »

After some research, it appears this is how it works with monsignors:

"A Catholic priest is given the title of Monsignor by the Pope in recognition of outstanding service to the Catholic Church. A monsignor is still a priest but also has this great honor to his name.

The process begins once a diocese bishop nominates a priest for this high honor. The bishop submits the priest's name, biography and works to the Holy See. At that point, the Pope reviews the information and determines whether or not to make the priest a monsignor. The Vatican will issue a diploma designating the new title and rank.

There are three grades of monsignor. The Protonotary Apostolic is given to a priest who serves seven positions in the Roman Curia. A Protonotary Apostolic wears a black cassock with red buttons and a fuchsia sash and cape. A grade 2 monsignor is Prelate of Honor to His Holiness. It can be given to priests outside the papal court. The Prelate of Honor to His Holiness wears a bishop's choir cassock and a fuchsia sash. The Chaplain to His Holiness is grade 3 and is given to a priest inside or outside the Roman Curia. They wear a black cassock with a fuchsia sash."

Thursday · « **Reply #2 on:** November 15, 2011, 11:30:51 PM »

Thanks, that's a great help.

Gregory I · « **Reply #3 on:** November 16, 2011, 12:19:00 AM »

Is it proper to refer to a priest who is a monsignor who becomes bishop as a monsignor?

I have heard it done before I think.

Pyrrhos · « **Reply #4 on:** November 16, 2011, 12:41:23 AM »

Quote from: Gregory I

Is it proper to refer to a priest who is a monsignor who becomes bishop as a monsignor?

I have heard it done before I think.

I think you are thinking of the "Monseigneur (Lefebvre)" as form of address of a Bishop. This is a common form in many countries, but traditionally not in English speaking ones.
As one is always addressed with the highest title in possession, it would not make sense to be called a Monsignor in the sense of a lesser prelate when one actually is a Bishop.

In addition to what Matthew said, it should maybe pointed out that before Paul VI. there were 14 classes of of monsignori or "lesser prelates".