Vicar General

Vicar generals are not military officers, but priests who serve as second in command of a diocese and are appointed by the local bishop to help him govern his region. Sometimes, episcopal vicars are appoited to head certain areas, such as vocations, personnel, community outreach, and so on. In exceptionally large dioceses, such as New York, vicars general often act as de facto auxiliary bishops, meaning that they can fulfill some of the offices of a bishop.

These priests can be given the honorary title of monsignor. There is no extra authority or salary granted with this title. A monsignor can be recognized by the color of his cassock (a long, close-fitting garment worn by clerics). Monsignor is an honorary title that the pope bestows at the request of the local bishop. There are 3 different forms:

Papal Chamberlain: Also known as Chaplain of His Holiness, the lowest ranking of the monsignor title. They can be recognized by their black cassocks with purple buttons and trim.

Domestic Prelate: These monsignors are known as Honorary Prelates of His Holiness. They wear purple or black cassocks with red buttons and trim.

Prothonotary Apostolic: This is the highest-ranking monsignor. They wear a purple ferraiolone, which is a silk cape draped over the cassock.

Prior to the Second Vatican Council, the requirements for each rank were very specific and would be associated with certain duties. After 1969, the divisions became a bit more blurry, and less job-specific. The differences today between the titles are complicated and difficult to explain in a blog post. Someone is welcome to try in the comments section below.