prelate

noun

A high-ranking member of the clergy, especially a bishop.

An ecclesiastic of a higher order, having direct and not delegated authority over other ecclesiastics.

To act as a prelate; perform the duties of a prelate.

A clergyman of a superior order, as an archbishop or a bishop, having authority over the lower clergy; a dignitary of the church.

intransitive verb

To act as a prelate.