ARCHDEACON, an ecclesiastical dignitary or officer, next to a bishop, whose jurisdiction extends either over the
whole diocese or only a part of it. Archdeacons are appointed by their respective bishops, and by § 27, 3d and 4th Vict., c. 27, they must have been six full years in priests' orders. Their duty is to visit their archdeaconries from time to time; to see that the churches and chancels are kept in repair, and everything done conformably to the canons, and to receive from the churchwardens representations of any matters of public scandal.
The visitation of the archdeacon may be held yearly, but is imperative every third year. The income attached to the office is very inconsiderable, but it is generally held by persons who are possessed of benefices and other preferments in the church. There were formerly 60 archdeacons in England and Wales, but by 6th and 7th Will. IV., c. 97, seven new archdeaconries were established.