Insacrati

Insacrati

the name usually given in the ancient canons to the inferior clergy. The superior clergy are commonly called the Ἱερούμενοι , Holy or sacred; the others Insacrati, unconsecrated. Different ceremonies were observed at their ordination: the higher orders were set apart at the altar by the solemn imposition of hands; the others had no imposition of hands. The superior orders ministered as priests, celebrating the sacraments and preaching in the church; the inferior performed some lower or ordinary duties, and generally attended upon the others in their sacred services. (See Inferior Clergy).