Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Impropriation is a legal term used in the church. It means giving a church to a person who is not a member of the clergy. This person can be an individual or a group. It is different from appropriation, which means giving a church to a spiritual organization.
Definition: Impropriation refers to the granting of an ecclesiastical benefice (a position or income in the church) to a layperson (someone who is not a member of the clergy), whether an individual or a corporation.
For example, a church might be granted to a wealthy landowner or a company instead of being used for its intended purpose by the church.
This practice was known as impropriation and was distinct from appropriation, which referred to the allocation of a church to a spiritual body.
Overall, impropriation allowed laypeople to gain control over church property and income, which could lead to conflicts between the church and secular authorities.