Rectory

A rectory is the residence, or former residence, of an ecclesiastical rector, but in some cases an academic rector (e.g., a Scottish university rector) or other person with that title. Rectories frequently serve as the administrative office of the local parish.

These homes are typically owned and maintained by a church, as a benefit to its clergy. The practice exists in many denominations because of the tendency of church officials to be transferred from one church to another at relatively frequent intervals. Catholic clergy houses may be lived in by several priests from a parish, as opposed to other denominations.