Suffragan

usgb/ˈsʌfrəɡən/
noun

A bishop who assists a higher-ranking bishop without his own diocese.

The bishop appointed a suffragan to help him oversee the large, metropolitan area.
Visual representation of "suffragan" - A bishop who assists a higher-ranking bishop without his own diocese.

Often appears as...

  • suffragan bishop
  • suffragan see

Usage tips

Formal

Academic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "suffragan"
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Church Hierarchy

Suffragan refers to ranks within a church, highlighting a structured order among bishops.

Illustration for Church Hierarchy
During the synod, a few suffragans reported on regional matters.
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Assistance Role

A suffragan supports a senior bishop, particularly in large ecclesiastical jurisdictions.

Illustration for Assistance Role
The suffragan handled the confirmations while the diocesan bishop was away.
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No Own Diocese

Unlike other bishops, a suffragan doesn't govern a diocese; their role is supportive.

Illustration for No Own Diocese
He was honored to serve as a suffragan, assisting with diocesan duties.
Visual representation of the word "Suffragan"

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