Beneficed meaning

To be beneficed means to be granted a paid position within the church.


Beneficed definitions

Word backwards decifeneb
Part of speech The word "beneficed" is the past tense form of the verb "benefice."
Syllabic division ben-e-ficed
Plural The plural of beneficed is benefices.
Total letters 9
Vogais (2) e,i
Consonants (5) b,n,f,c,d

Beneficed refers to an individual who holds a benefice, which is a permanent church appointment that provides a source of income. Benefices are typically granted to clergy members for their service to the church. These appointments can come with various duties and responsibilities, such as overseeing a parish or performing specific religious ceremonies.

Types of Benefices

Benefices can come in different forms, including rectories, vicarages, and prebends. A rectory is a type of benefice where the clergy member receives the income from the church's land and property. A vicarage, on the other hand, is a benefice where the clergy member receives a salary instead of income from land. Prebends are benefices that involve a position within a cathedral chapter.

Appointment and Responsibilities

Benefices are typically granted by the bishop or other ecclesiastical authorities within a specific religious denomination. In addition to their regular duties, beneficed clergy members may also be responsible for the upkeep of the church and its property. They are expected to provide pastoral care to the members of their parish and participate in community events and activities.

Historical Significance

In medieval times, benefices played a significant role in the church's power structure. Wealthy benefices were often granted to nobles or other influential individuals as a way to maintain their loyalty to the church. This practice led to issues of corruption and nepotism within the clergy, as benefices were sometimes given to individuals based on their social status rather than their qualifications or dedication to the church.

Today, the system of benefices has evolved, and appointments are typically made based on a clergy member's qualifications and experience. While benefices still provide a source of income for clergy members, they are no longer used as a means of political influence or control within the church.


Beneficed Examples

  1. The beneficed clergyman received a generous donation from a parishioner.
  2. In medieval times, a beneficed position often came with land and income.
  3. The beneficed bishop oversaw multiple parishes in the diocese.
  4. The beneficed vicar was known for his charitable work in the community.
  5. A beneficed chaplain provided spiritual guidance to the royal family.
  6. The beneficed priest conducted regular services at the local church.
  7. Many beneficed positions were appointed by the monarch.
  8. A beneficed rector was responsible for the upkeep of the church building.
  9. The beneficed archdeacon played a key role in the administration of the diocese.
  10. A beneficed canon was responsible for maintaining the cathedral's sacred relics.


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  • Updated 29/06/2024 - 03:46:47