Induction

Induction (Lat. inductio, from duco, I lead) is a term in ecclesiastical law for the act by which a clergyman in the Church of England, having been presented to a benefice by its patron is brought in to the possession of the freehold of the church and glebe. This is usually done by a mandate, under the seal of the bishop, addressed to the archdeacon, who either in person inducts the minister, or commissions some clergyman in his archdeaconry to perform that office. The archdeacon, or his deputy, inducts the incumbent, by laying his hand on the key of the church as it lies in the lock, and using this form: "I induct you into the real and actual possession of the rectory or vicarage of M., with all its profits and appurtenances." The church door is then opened; the incumbent enters, and generally tolls a bell, in token of having entered on his spiritual duties. In Scotland the Presbytery induct the minister.