The rector of a church; one that has full possession of all the rights of a parochial church. The appellation of “parson,” however it may be depreciated by familiar, clownish, and indiscriminate use, is the most legal, most beneficial, and most honorable title that a parish priest can enjoy, because such a one, Sir Edward Coke observes, and he only, is said vicem seu peruana m ecclesifr f/crcrc, (to represent and bear the person of the church.) 1 Bl. Comm. 384.
Black’s Law Online Dictionary
