Believers often have to turn to the clergy - for example, to receive a blessing. At the same time, church etiquette should be observed, which prescribes certain rules when addressing clergy.
Instructions
Step 1
To avoid mistakes when contacting the clergy, it is necessary to have certain knowledge in this matter. It is unlikely that a priest will correct you if you address him with the words "Hello, father." Nevertheless, an Orthodox person needs to know and observe church etiquette.
Step 2
There are three degrees of priesthood in Orthodoxy. The youngest is a deacon, or assistant priest (hierodeacon in monasticism). He does not have the grace-filled power that priests have, so they do not approach him for a blessing. The correct address to a deacon is “Father deacon”.
Step 3
The next level of priesthood is occupied by priests. In the white clergy, these are: priest (priest, presbyter), archpriest, protopresbyter. In the black clergy, that is, in monasticism, they are: hieromonk, abbot, archimandrite. When addressing a priest, ask for a blessing like this: "Bless, father."
Step 4
An address to a hieromonk, abbot and archimandrite may look like: "Bless, holy father" or "Bless, honest father." The latter is more correct, since in Orthodoxy it is not customary to use the words "holy father", although in practice this address is used by the laity quite often. If you know the name, contact me like this: "Bless, Father Nikolai." Of course, the name may be different. In an official setting, as well as in writing, the hieromonk should be addressed with the words: "Your Reverend", to the hegumen and archimandrite - "Your Reverend".
Step 5
The third step of the priesthood is occupied by bishops (bishops). The following dignities are distinguished: bishop, archbishop, metropolitan, patriarch. All these dignities are only in the black clergy. It is customary to address the bishop with the words "Your Grace". To the archbishop or metropolitan - "Your Eminence". To the Patriarch: "Your Holiness." If communication takes place in a more intimate setting, the address “Vladyka” is permissible.
