What is the Council of Priests?

The Council of Priests is a body of priests who assist the Bishop in governing the Diocese. It serves as a consultative group, providing advice and support to the Bishop on matters concerning the pastoral welfare of the diocese.

Purpose and Function

The Council’s primary role is to:

• Advise the Bishop on pastoral issues affecting the diocese.
• Foster unity and collaboration among the clergy.
• Support the implementation of diocesan policies and initiatives.
  

Through regular meetings and discussions, the Council ensures that the perspectives and experiences of priests are considered in diocesan decision-making.

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What is the Cathedral Chapter?

The Cathedral Chapter is a college of priests appointed as Canons by the Bishop to support the spiritual and pastoral mission of the diocese.

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According to the general law of the Church, the role of the chapter is to celebrate the more solemn liturgical functions in the Cathedral. It is also advises the bishop to assist him in his governance of the diocese. The chapter draws up its own agenda for meetings, and so any issue they consider relevant can be presented to the bishop after their own deliberations. By custom, should the bishop's post become vacant, the Chapter, having been convened by the Provost, chooses a priest to administer the diocese until a new bishop is appointed by the Pope. It is a smaller body than the Council or Priests - in Lancaster diocese there are 10 canons plus a provost.

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Moreover, in the Diocese of Lancaster the Chapter functions as the canon law College of Consultors who advise the Bishop on specific issues laid down in the law.