Definitions

1. adjective

characterized by or relating to a system of church government in which a parish is a self-governing unit with its own clergy and finances, and the bishop has no authority over it.

“The paroecious churches were known for their independence from the central authority.”

2. noun

A self-governing parish or ecclesiastical unit.

“The paroecious was an integral part of the local community, with its own priest and church.”