NBE Funeral Directing Practice Exam

In the Roman Catholic faith, who is referred to as a brother?

1. A male church elder who is ordained

2. A man in training for priesthood or religious orders

3. A layperson who manages church activities

4. A deacon assistant in the church

The correct answer is: A man in training for priesthood or religious orders

In the Roman Catholic faith, the term "brother" specifically refers to a man who is in training for the priesthood or is a member of a religious order but has not yet been ordained as a priest. This title signifies a commitment to a life of service and community, typically within a religious congregation where the individual may engage in various ministries or educational roles while progressing in his spiritual formation. Brothers often live according to the rules of their religious order, which includes community life, prayer, and serving the Church and its members. They focus on internal formation and community involvement, preparing for either ordination as a priest later or continuing to serve as a lay brother within the community. The other options do not accurately represent the specific use of "brother" in the context of the Roman Catholic faith. A male church elder who is ordained refers to a priest or bishop, a layperson managing church activities is simply a layperson without any special title, and a deacon assistant is known as a deacon, which is a distinct role within the Church hierarchy.