How do we address non-Catholic Christian clergy (title-wise)? - Page 7

JoanneSmith · #91 Jun 24, '12, 10:43 am

Honestly, I've always just said Mister just because it seemed normal and respectable. I didn't know people were offended by it.

ETA I hope if someone's title is really important to them, then they would inform of how they wish to be addressed.

Ohana · #92 Jun 24, '12, 11:14 am

this has been informative as I look back through the thread. I have always called Protestant ministers Reverend, but I see that may not be so correct. Yet, it seems a good fall back position when you just don't know. They are due the respect of a title. These are men and women who have answered a call from God and have spent a time of preparation to do His work.

On the other hand, I have no problem with calling clergy by their first names if that is what they prefer - among other things, we are in an age of informality which does not mean lack of respect. I once had a Bishop who preferred the use of his first name. "Bishop Bob" made this clear on his first visit to our parish after being installed. He turned out to be a great Bishop!

OK, a question. Is it correct to call a Jewish Rabbi, Rabbi? Or is there another title one should use?

OLofMtCarmel · #93 Jun 25, '12, 12:41 am

Well, frankly, if I know the preacher I simply call them by their first name because that's the custom in some groups..

OLofMtCarmel · #94 Jun 25, '12, 12:47 am

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ohana

this has been informative as I look back through the thread. I have always called Protestant ministers Reverend, but I see that may not be so correct. Yet, it seems a good fall back position when you just don't know. They are due the respect of a title. These are men and women who have answered a call from God and have spent a time of preparation to do His work.

On the other hand, I have no problem with calling clergy by their first names if that is what they prefer - among other things, we are in an age of informality which does not mean lack of respect. I once had a Bishop who preferred the use of his first name. "Bishop Bob" made this clear on his first visit to our parish after being installed. He turned out to be a great Bishop!

OK, a question. Is it correct to call a Jewish Rabbi, Rabbi? Or is there another title one should use?

The problem with this thinking is that it's not correct. Some denominations, that don't believe in denominations, would be insulted or irritated it you called them Reverend, Bishop. Preacher works, Just call them by their first name or Mr. or Mrs./Ms./Miss. otherwise. It all depends on the denomination. You won't see me calling them anything other than what i just said because that was my custom before Catholicism. They can get over themselves in my opinion and just tell me what they prefer. I can't get myself to call them anything other than this though unless they have a doctorate. We always called them brother. Never really knew any female preachers other than one, who would never hear pastor, reverend or else from me other than Mrs. They're not validly ordained and therefore deserve the title of any lay minister in the Church.

GaryTaylor · #95 Jun 25, '12, 3:03 am

brother

Ohana · #96 Jun 25, '12, 2:14 pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by GaryTaylor

brother

I like it, but what about Jewish clergy? I cannot see calling a Rabbi, Brother. Just does not sound right to me. Since I am pretty old, is it ok if I call them Brother Honey?

Sky Pilot · #97 Jun 25, '12, 4:41 pm

Habit is a hard thing to break.
If I am in uniform it's automatic.
Whatever their denomination I address them "Padre."
When I call them "Padre," I am not calling them "Father," and yes I know that is the translation of the word: I am using what I understood to be a generic form of address for the clergy of all kinds.
If I am not in uniform, I am still a creature of habit.
It's "Parson," and yes that is archaic and obsolete, but then so am I.