Prebendary
Prebendaries have a Prebend Stall in certain Cathedrals or Collegiate Churches. The appointment is similar to a non-residentiary Canon.
How to Address a Prebendary
The recommended (social) style of address is as follows:
| Beginning of letter | Dear Prebendary (or Dear Prebendary Smith) |
| End of letter | Yours sincerely |
| Envelope | The Rev Prebendary John Smith |
| Verbal address | Prebendary (or Prebendary Smith) |
| Invitation | The Rev Prebendary John Smith |
| Joint invitation* | The Rev Prebendary John and Mrs Smith |
| Description in conversation | The Prebendary (or Prebendary Smith) |
| List of Directors or Patrons | Prebendary John Smith |
| Place card | Prebendary John Smith |
*Note: Traditionally, invitations to a married couple, when sent to their home address, are addressed to the wife alone, with both names being inscribed on the invitation card. It has become increasingly acceptable, however, to address the envelope with both names.
How to Address a Retired Prebendary
After retirement he is addressed as other clergy, unless he is appointed to emeritus rank. In this case he continues to be addressed as Prebendary. The word "emeritus" is only used in official documents.
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