A position similar to that of vicar general in the Western church.
This deputy may be a priest, monk, or bishop, and is chosen by the patriarch to assist him in the administration of his diocese. The Coptic patriarchate has two deputies, one in Alexandria and another in Cairo, who deputize for the Pope in these two cities. Both of them are ex officio members of the "holy Synod."
Dictionary of church terms. — St. GEORGE'S COPTIC ORTHODOX CHURCH SPORTING - ALEXANDRIA EGYPT. Fr. Tadros Yacoub Maiaty.