definition
strict definition
religious housing
Residences designated for clergy, monastics, or other people belonging to religious service or an order.
Religious housing is any kind of residence designated for persons in religious service, including clergy, monastics, and members of religious orders such as nuns. Usually some religious affiliation can be assigned to this type of housing to specify which religion operates it or uses it.
The designation concerns the residents' religious service or membership. A private home does not become religious housing merely because its occupants practice a religion.
The living arrangement can be an individual clerical residence or a collective home for an order. A rectory, monastery, and convent describe more specific forms.