Minister

In public law. One of the highest functionaries in the organization of civli government, standing next to the sovereign or executive head, acting as his immediate auxiliary, and being generally charged with the administration of one of the great bureaus or departments of the executive branch of government. Otherwlse calied a "cabinet minister," "secretary of state," or "secretary of a department" In international law. An officer appointed by the government of one nation as a mediator or arbitrator between two other nations who are engaged in a controversy, with their consent, with a view to effecting an amicable adjustment of the dispute. A general name given to the diplomatic representatives sent by one state to another, including ambassadors, envoys, and residents.

In ecclesiastical law. A person ordained according to the usages of some church or associated body of Christians for the preaching of fhe gospel and filling the pastoral office.

In practice. An officer of justice, charged with the execution of the law, and hence termed a "ministerial officer;" such as a sheriff, bailiff, coroner, sheriff's officer. Britt. c. 21. An agent; one who acts not by any inherent authority, but under another.

— Foreign minister. An ambassador, minister, or envoy from a foreign government. Cherokee Nation v. Georgia, 5 Pet 56, 8 L. Ed. 25.

— Public minister. In international law. A general term comprehending all the higher classes of diplomatic representatives,
—as ambassadors, envoys, residents,
—but not including the commercial representatives, snch as consuls.