Lectionary Calendar
Thursday, May 2nd, 2024
the Fifth Week after Easter
the Fifth Week after Easter
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Bible Encyclopedias
Penitential Priests
Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature
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officers appointed in many ancient churches, when private confession was introduced, for the purpose of hearing confessions and imposing penances. The office originated in the time of the Decian persecution, and was abolished by Nectarins, bishop of Constantinople. The example of Nectarius was followed by all the bishops of the East, but the office was continued in the Western churches, chiefly at Rome. The Council of Lateran, A.D. 1215, ordered all bishops to have a penitentiary; and such a dignitary is still connected with most Romish cathedrals, whose duties, however, are quite different from those of the original penitentiary.
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These files are public domain.
These files are public domain.
Bibliography Information
McClintock, John. Strong, James. Entry for 'Penitential Priests'. Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature. https://www.studylight.org/encyclopedias/eng/tce/p/penitential-priests.html. Harper & Brothers. New York. 1870.
McClintock, John. Strong, James. Entry for 'Penitential Priests'. Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature. https://www.studylight.org/encyclopedias/eng/tce/p/penitential-priests.html. Harper & Brothers. New York. 1870.
