Archdeaconries

/ˌɑːrkˈdiːkənriz/ noun

Definition

Plural of archdeaconry; multiple jurisdictions, territories, or offices governed by archdeacons.

Etymology

From archdeaconry (archdeacon + -ry, suffix indicating territory or jurisdiction) with plural -ies. Multiple diocesan divisions each under an archdeacon's authority.

Kelly Says

Large medieval dioceses were divided into archdeaconries so bishops didn't go crazy managing everything themselves—it was basically the church's solution to the problem of 'too many churches, not enough bishops!'

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