Ruridecanal is a word that is not commonly used, but it has a very specific meaning. The word refers to a rural dean or a member of a clerical hierarchy. The spelling of the word may seem daunting, but it is actually quite simple when one breaks down the syllables. Ruridecanal is pronounced as /ˌrʊrɪdɪˈka:n(ə)l/ with five syllables. The "rur" in the beginning is pronounced just like the word "rural" and the "decanal" at the end sounds like "deck-nal". The emphasis is on the third syllable, "dye".
Ruridecanal, also spelled as "Ruridecan" or "Rural Dean", is a term primarily used in the context of the Anglican Church to denote a geographical division within a diocese. Derived from the Latin roots "ruris" meaning "of the countryside" and "decanus" meaning "chief of ten," ruridecanal refers to an administrative district comprising multiple parishes or benefices located in a rural area.
A ruridecanal division is led by a rural dean, who is typically appointed by the bishop of the diocese. The primary role of a rural dean is to be the principal liaison between the bishop and the clergy in their designated region. They provide support and guidance to the clergy, oversee the spiritual and administrative aspects of the parishes, and ensure effective communication between the local churches and the diocese.
Within their jurisdiction, rural deans may be responsible for various tasks, including organizing periodic meetings with clergy, coordinating pastoral care programs, facilitating collaboration among churches, and addressing any concerns or conflicts that arise within the rural deanery. They play a crucial role in fostering unity and cooperation among the parishes, assisting in the implementation of diocesan policies, and advocating for the needs of their communities.
In summary, ruridecanal refers to a geographical division within a diocese, typically in a rural area, led by a rural dean who represents the local parishes and acts as a liaison between the clergy and the bishop.
The word "ruridecanal" is derived from Latin and has its roots in two Latin words: "ruri" meaning "in the countryside" or "in the country", and "decanus" meaning "a dean". In medieval times, the rural areas and parishes of a diocese were divided into smaller administrative units called "decanates" or "rural deaneries". Combining the Latin words, "ruridecanus" referred to a rural dean. Over time, the term evolved to "ruridecanal" to describe things related to rural deaneries or pertaining to rural areas. Nowadays, "ruridecanal" is mostly used in ecclesiastical contexts, referring to functions or areas associated with a rural dean or deanery.