Canons, Minor

Canons, Minor (also called victars), are clergymen in England attached to a cathedral under the dean and chapter. During the period from the Conquest to. the Reformation, each canon was bond to maintain a vicar skilled in music, to supply his place when absent, in the ministrations of the Church. Before the Reformation they were enjoined to keep perpetual residence, and never to be absent without leave from the dean. In 1835 power was given by the ecclesiastical commissioners, with the sanction of an order in council, to reduce the number of minor canons; in no case more than six, nor less than two; each to have an income of £150; each may hold one benefice, but within six miles of the cathedral.