What is a deanery in the Catholic Church?

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In the Code of Canon Law, bishops are given the authority to assemble parishes into smaller geographical groups. These groups of parishes within a diocese are put under the care of a “dean” and called “deaneries.”

 

A diocese is a large geographical region and in order to govern the diocese effectively, the bishop needs deans to help oversee the parishes and ensure they are functioning properly. Deans are the local representatives of the bishop. 

 

If there is an issue with a parish or priest, lay people are instructed to consult the local dean first. Then, if the issue is not resolved, the dean presents the problem to the bishop.