archdeacon

Definition

The middle management of church hierarchy—a senior administrative official ranking just below the bishop in Anglican and Eastern Orthodox systems, often overseeing an archdeaconry. Think of them as the regional manager of the religious world, handling the bureaucratic minutiae that bishops are too important (or busy) to deal with. Despite the impressive title, they're basically ecclesiastical paper-pushers with fancy vestments.

Example Usage

As archdeacon, Father Thompson spent more time reviewing parish budgets and resolving property disputes than he did delivering sermons.

Source: Wiktionary via Free Dictionary API

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