(CE:1911a)
PATRIARCHAL DEPUTY, known in Arabic as wakil al-batriyarkiyyah, a position similar to that of vicar general in the Western church.
This deputy may be a priest, monk, or bishop, and is chosen by the patriarch to assist him in the administration of his diocese. The Coptic patriarchate has two deputies, one in Alexandria and another in Cairo, who deputize for the Pope in these two cities. Both of them are ex officio members of the HOLY SYNOD.
The post of patriarchal deputy is the highest ecclesiastical position a married priest can attain.
FUAD MEGALLY
