Addressing Clergy/Priests etc

[lizw]

I need to know how to correctly address members of churches temples mosques etc, ie is a Vicar Dear Reverend - if anyone can point me in the right direction I would be very grateful and these letters have to go in the post tonight!

[Sylday]

If you search in Google under "forms of address" (with the quotes), you'll be directed to various helpful websites, inc the one below. (However, you may have some difficulty with finding anything for the Islamic clergy.) - http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0001618.html

[lizw]

thank you so much you - that's great - have at least managed to find phone numbers which I can ring and check. Really appreciate it.

[Cetti]

This should also be very useful as it's Debrett's Etiquette on Correct Forms of Address for just about everyone and anyone who's important in the UK except the Islamic clergy. http://www.debretts.co.uk/etiquette/correct_forms_of_address .html

[RevShirls]

I haven't checked the links mentioned, but most members of the clergy are used to a wide assortment of addresses. In formal letters for ministers and vicars it is usually Dear Rev followed by surname. Eg In my case it would be "Dear Rev Blair Warg" but many people write "Dear Rev Shirley" and just as many "Dear Shirley". Most clergy that I know are happy with any I have mentioned.

[RevShirls]

I meant also to say that if you are speaking to clergy or people of other faiths(ie not in a letter), it is often best to say to them: "How should I address you" as nowadays many religious leaders prefer to be addressed in a more informal way.