Vicar vs. Priest — What's the Difference?

A vicar, in its broadest sense, represents someone who serves as a substitute or agent. In the context of the Church of England and some other Anglican churches, a vicar is a parish priest appointed by the bishop. They act on behalf of the bishop and are responsible for their respective parishes. On the other hand, a priest, a broader term in Christian denominations, is someone who has been ordained to perform religious rites, preach, and administer sacraments.

In Roman Catholicism, the term "vicar" takes on various specific roles. For example, the Pope, as the Bishop of Rome, has under him the Vicar General of Rome. This vicar oversees the pastoral care of the diocese of Rome on behalf of the Pope. A priest in Catholicism, meanwhile, can be anyone ordained to the second highest order of the ministry, having the authority to celebrate Mass and forgive sins.

The title of "vicar" isn't universally used across all Christian denominations. Its application and meaning can differ. In contrast, the term "priest" is more universally recognized, denoting someone ordained in a religious capacity in various Christian traditions, from Eastern Orthodoxy to Anglicanism to Catholicism.

Understanding the nuance between vicar and priest is key. While all vicars (in the context of Anglican churches) are priests, not all priests are vicars. A vicar is defined by their role in representing the bishop and managing a parish, while a priest's definition hinges on their ordination and religious capacities.