What is a canon?

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In a nutshell, what is a "canon"?

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A canon is a member of the Roman Catholic clergy, having particular canonical and liturgical obligations within the religious community in which they serve. Canons are consecrated priests who live in community and are often associated with a cathedral or a chapter.

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The first canons, called clerici canonici, appeared as early as the 4th century. Etymologically, the word "canon" comes from the Greek "kanôn", which means rule.

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The different types of canons today

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• Secular canons are religious living according to a rule and in community. They are generally attached to a cathedral or basilica. They thus form a chapter of canons, whose dean is primus inter pares. The chapter's role is to advise the bishop and help him administer the diocese. Today, chapters of canons are uncommon. Historically, regular canons officially appeared in 1063, under the impetus of Pope Alexander II. They follow a monastic rule, the Rule of Saint Augustine. They are not cloistered religious and therefore their vocation is also missionary.
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• There are also canonesses and lay canons (that is, non-religious), but these two cases are uncommon.
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• Finally, some priests may be titled honorary canon, in recognition of the work they have accomplished.

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Canons are appointed to their position by the bishop of their diocese and are considered important collaborators of the bishop in conducting the religious affairs of the diocese. Their primary role is to celebrate religious services, preach, dispense the sacraments, and conduct pastoral activities of their community. Canons are also required to participate in chapter assemblies where they discuss and make decisions on religious and administrative matters of their community.

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The liturgical obligations of canons include the daily celebration of religious offices, such as Matins and Vespers, as well as participation in Sunday Mass and other liturgical celebrations. Canons may also be called upon to celebrate marriages, funerals, and confessions.

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To discover communities of canons that can welcome you for a spiritual retreat, visit:

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• ‍the abbey of Mondaye, a jewel of classical architecture in the heart of Calvados!

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• Lagrasse, an abbey nestled among the Occitan hills

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• Champagne, between Lyon and Valence!

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The linguistic point and the little family expression

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Did you know the expression "avoir une mine de chanoine"? It means you are the picture of health, that you're in great shape.

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