The form of addressing a Christian clergyman has been formed since the beginning of the existence of the religion itself. Today, despite the schism, the priests of Orthodox, Catholic and other churches can be called the same titles.
Instructions
Step 1
Western films and some Soviet Westerns instilled the opinion that Catholic priests should be called "holy father." Try to approach your pastor in this manner and you will immediately see where you were wrong. Most likely, he will give you a quote from the Old Testament: "No one is holy but God." This form is unacceptable in any Christian church.
Step 2
Traditional forms of address are captured in biographical documents, notes of the students of one or another priest. Familiarize yourself with them (for example, Motovilov's book about Fr. Seraphim), pay special attention to the forms of addressing the holy elders.
Step 3
Hear live speech. Especially watch out for regular churchgoers who understand the rules and regulations. Parishioners usually address the priest in a canonical manner. Copy it, use the same words and phrases.
Step 4
For ordinary clergymen who have only the rank of priest (no higher), the following formulas are applicable: "Father John", "Father" (an outdated form, the so-called vocative case). It is permissible to refer to "father", to which you can, but not necessarily add a name. These forms are applicable to clergymen and the Orthodox Church, and Catholic, and Protestant.
Step 5
It is customary to address bishops (bishops, archbishops) as "lord"; it is also permissible to give a full name. However, if you accidentally call a high-ranking minister “father,” there is no critical error. You may be reprimanded, but nothing more. In Catholicism, these addresses are not used.
Step 6
Formulate your requests and questions in simple, modern language. Father is the same person as you, lives in the same world. He will equally understand statements in an archaic and simple form, but the second option is more appropriate.
