Peculium Clericale

Peculium Clericale is that property of a priest which is derived from benefices conferred on him, and from the performance of clerical duties. Ancient ecclesiastical usage did not permit the disposal of its surplus either by gift or will, but this was returned to the Church; and so also the Council of Trent ordered (sess. 25, cap. i, De Reform.). But in modern times the priest has the same privileges in disposing of the "peculium clericale" as over his own private property and private earnings.