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By Father Kenneth Doyle • Catholic News Service • Posted April 18, 2017

Q. Could you explain for me the difference (if any) between “priest” and “monsignor”?

Under what circumstances is a priest given the title of “monsignor”? (Burke, Virginia)

A. “Monsignor” is a title bestowed on a priest who has distinguished himself by exceptional service to the church.

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It is a title granted by the pope — typically, upon the recommendation of the priest’s diocesan bishop. It is a purely honorary title and has no effect on the priest’s duties or ministerial assignment.

Nearly 50 years ago, the Priests’ Senate in my own diocese passed a resolution asking that our bishop no longer name any priests as monsignors.

As I recall our discussion, we felt that it was a medieval and inappropriate title (it derives from the Italian words meaning “my Lord”) and that its bestowal co