The Encyclopedia Americana (1920)/Abbess

ABBESS, the female superior of some convents of nuns, corresponding to the abbot over monks. She was elected from the monastery by secret votes, inducted by a bishop's consecration, and held office three years of even for life unless deprived for misconduct. The Council of Trent fixed the required age at 40, with eight years of professed membership in the monastery. She could discipline and even expel the nuns, subject to the bishop; but, being a female, could exercise only certain functions, such as giving religious counsel and administering the rule, but no spiritual jurisdiction, as ordaining, conferring the veil, or excommunicating.