Social Structure

Catholic Social structure and Clergy is arranged in a strict and often overlapping hierarchy.

Archbishop

An archbishop is the head bishop of a main metropolitan diocese, or an archdiocese. A cardinal can concurrently hold the title of an archbishop.

Deacon

A seminarian studying for the priesthood. A permanent deacon can be married and can assist in administering some sacraments.

Pope

The Pope is the head of the Roman Catholic Church, and is based at the Vatican. He is flawless and faultless, unable to make mistakes, in defining matters of faith and morals within the Church.

Bishop

A bishop is ordained to his station, like a priest. He is:

A teacher of Church Doctrine.
A priest of sacred worship
a minster of church government.

Cardinal

Cardinals are appointed by the Pope, and they make up the College of Cardinals, which advises the pope, and when he dies elects a new Pope.

There are 178 cardinals worldwide.

Priest

an ordained minister, who is able to administer sacraments, and is committed to serving the congregation.

Can administer:

Eucharist
Baptism
Marriage