Commendam meaning

Commendam is a temporary arrangement where a benefice is given to a cleric until a permanent appointment is made.


Commendam definitions

Word backwards madnemmoc
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division com-men-dam
Plural The plural of the word "commendam" is "commendams."
Total letters 9
Vogais (3) o,e,a
Consonants (4) c,m,n,d

Commendam is a legal term that refers to a temporary arrangement where a bishop or abbot grants the income and benefits of a vacant benefice to someone else, typically a member of the clergy or a layperson. This practice dates back to medieval times when it was used to ensure that the duties and responsibilities associated with the benefice were carried out in the absence of the actual holder.

History of Commendam

The practice of commendam originated in the Catholic Church as a way to prevent benefices from remaining vacant for extended periods of time. It allowed the bishop or abbot to appoint a temporary caretaker who would receive the income and other benefits associated with the benefice until a permanent replacement could be found.

Benefits and Challenges

One of the main benefits of commendam was that it ensured the continued functioning of the benefice and prevented its resources from being neglected. It also allowed the bishop or abbot to reward loyal supporters or curry favor with influential individuals by granting them the temporary use of a benefice.

However, commendam also had its challenges. It could lead to abuses of power if the temporary holder exploited the benefice for personal gain and neglected its duties. Additionally, the practice raised questions about the proper distribution of wealth and resources within the church.

Modern Usage

While commendam is no longer as commonly practiced in modern times, some vestiges of the tradition can still be found in certain religious institutions. In some cases, a bishop may still grant the temporary use of a benefice to a clergy member who is in need of support or assistance.

Overall, commendam is a fascinating historical practice that sheds light on the intricate inner workings of the Catholic Church and other religious organizations. It served as a practical solution to the problem of vacant benefices while highlighting the complex relationships between church officials and the wider community.


Commendam Examples

  1. He was appointed to a commendam position within the church.
  2. The commendam system allowed for temporary control of a benefice.
  3. The bishop granted the commendam to a respected priest.
  4. She was honored with a commendam for her outstanding work.
  5. He accepted the commendam with gratitude and humility.
  6. The commendam provided additional income for the parish.
  7. The commendam was a testament to his dedication to the church.
  8. The king granted the commendam to his loyal advisor.
  9. The commendam was a reward for his years of service.
  10. She declined the commendam in favor of a different role.


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  • Updated 17/06/2024 - 21:36:16