1. the office or rank of a presbyter or priest
Usage: ecclesiastical
2. the body of presbyters or priests collectively
Usage: ecclesiastical

Examples

• He was ordained to the presbyterate after completing seminary.
• The presbyterate gathered for their annual conference.
• She felt called to serve in the presbyterate from a young age.
• The bishop addressed the entire presbyterate of the diocese.
• His admission to the presbyterate was celebrated by the congregation.
• The presbyterate plays a vital role in church governance.