The new office and title authorized by the Second Vatican Council, “Episcopal Vicar,” has been conferred on three archdiocesan priests, it was announced today. Monsignor Joseph E. Moylan, Monsignor Joseph E. Cassidy and Monsignor Patrick J. O’Connor are the first to hold these new posts in the archdiocese.

They will enjoy the same kind of authority which the canon law grants the vicar general, according to the conciliar decree, the Pastoral Office of Bishops. This authority will extend, however, to a particular area of responsibility, and not to the entire archdiocesan structure in the manner of a vicar general.

As announced last week, Bishop-elect Joseph L. Bernardin, Auxiliary Bishop, will be the single vicar general exercising with the residential bishop all the duties proper to the Episcopacy.

Monsignor Moylan will be Episcopal Vicar for the Clergy. Although all archdiocesan priests are welcome to discuss pastoral or personal matters with both bishops, those who prefer, may consult with Monsignor Moylan, in confidence, on any subject they wish. Unless they specifically ask that he speak with one of the bishops, all matters discussed with him will remain secret and confidential.

Episcopal Vicar for Sisters will be Monsignor Cassidy. Although nuns are bound by their community rules and are free to consult in confidence with visitators from their own motherhouse, they may also address Monsignor Cassidy on matters relevant to their work in the archdiocese.

Continuing his long and fruitful experience in religious vocations, Monsignor O’Connor has been named Episcopal Vicar for Vocations. He will seek out and interview candidates, and serve on the archbishop’s committee for judging them.

“In each case, the experience and skills of the new vicars will be a tremendous resource for the Church. In planning programs for each area, another priest will probably be named this year to act as executive director,” Archbishop Paul J. Hallinan said today.

“It is our aim in the reorganization of the archdiocesan structure to make the best use of each priest’s abilities. When this is blended with the new duties of competent laymen, the mystery of the Church will live more vividly in the people of God. The structure is needed to house the Spirit,” he added.