Believers often have to turn to the clergy - for example, to receive a blessing. At the same time, one should observe church etiquette that prescribes certain rules when addressing clergy.
Instruction manual
1
To avoid mistakes when addressing the clergy, in this matter it is necessary to have certain knowledge. It is unlikely that the clergyman will correct you if you turn to him with the words "Hello, Father." Nevertheless, an Orthodox person needs to know and observe church etiquette.
2
There are three degrees of priesthood in Orthodoxy. The youngest is the deacon, or assistant priest (hierodeacon in monasticism). He does not have the grace power that priests possess, therefore they do not approach him for a blessing. The correct address to the deacon is “Father Deacon”.
3
The next priesthood is occupied by priests. In the white clergy this is: priest (priest, presbyter), archpriest, protopresbyter. In the black clergy, that is, in monasticism, these are: hieromonk, hegumen, archimandrite. When addressing priest, ask for blessings like this: "Bless, Father."
4
An appeal to the 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 treat the words "holy father", although in practice this treatment is used often enough by the laity. If you know the name, please contact: "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 abbot and archimandrite - "Your High Reverend".
5
The third level 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 appeal of the Lord is acceptable.
