Service within the Pontifical Court
The Patriarchal Chapter, known as the Pontifical Order of St. Stephen, is the seniormost body of the Pontifical Court. It advises and supports the ministry of His Apostolic Highness the Supreme Pontiff in the governance of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church.
Composition and Office
The Chapter unites the senior prelates and principal officers whose service supports the ecclesiastical, ceremonial, and administrative life of the Holy Apostolic See.
Sacred College of Cardinals
The Cardinals serve within the senior consultative and governing life of the Church and form part of the Patriarchal Chapter.
Capitular Prelates
The Chapter includes the Capitular Archbishop and Bishops of St. Stephen, Deans ad Honorem, Prelates di Fiochetto, and Canons in minor or major orders.
Patriarchal Basilicas
The Archpriests and Canons of the Patriarchal Major Basilicas are drawn from the Patriarchal Chapter.
The Dean
The Dean heads the Chapter and is the senior prelate within the Pontifical Court.
First Archdeacon
The First Archdeacon, the chief assistant to the Supreme Pontiff and administrative leader of the Patriarchal Curia, is a member of the Chapter.
The Chancellor
The Chancellor of the Holy Apostolic See serves among the principal officers represented within the Chapter.
Learn more about the Sacred College of Cardinals.
Select Capitular Portraits
Selected current and former members of the Patriarchal Chapter.
Cardinal Bishop of Porto Antico, 2021–2022
Capitular Vesture
Vesture and insignia identify offices and ranks within the Patriarchal Chapter and the wider Pontifical Court.
These companion publications present the historic attire and living ceremonial order of the Pontifical Court.