Originally they held ecclesiastical functions, but from the sixteenth century they also acquired civil roles.

With the municipality reform of 1862, the ecclesiastical and civil functions of the parish were separated.

Indeed, the ecclesiastical function of the ruler was not just symbolic but actual, particularly as an ecclesiastical judge.

Only the pope wears the pallium by right, and he may wear it at all ecclesiastical functions without restriction.

By contrast to an extinct language which no longer has any speakers, a dead language may remain in use for scientific, legal, or ecclesiastical functions.

He continued to perform ecclesiastical functions and maintained his academic position, becoming an ordinary professor in 1872.

The result of this publication was Geddes's suspension from all ecclesiastical functions.

Ana became its first parish priest, exercising one-man authority over ecclesiastical and civil functions.

For many years, the civil and ecclesiastical functions of the parish overlapped.

Finally, the suspension from all ecclesiastical function was confirmed on 13 May 1729.