Diocesan priest

A diocesan priest is a Roman Catholic or Eastern Orthodox priest who commits himself to a certain geographical area, and is ordained into the service of the citizens of a diocese, a church administrative region. This includes serving the everyday needs of the people in parishes, but their activities are not limited to that of their parish.

Catholic

Preparation for Catholic priesthood generally requires eight years of study beyond high school, usually including a college degree followed by 4 or more years of theology study at a seminary.

At the time of their ordination as deacons (usually about a year before their ordination as priests) they promise respect and obedience to the diocesan bishop and his successors. They also promise to live in chastity, and according to the status of clergy (which includes a comparatively simple life). Diocesan priests do not make vows, technically speaking, and do not promise poverty. Therefore, they may own their own property, such as cars, and handle their own financial affairs.