The term 'churchman' usually refers to official roles, such as priests, rather than volunteers or regular churchgoers. He spent decades as a churchman, eventually becoming the archbishop.
Pro Tip 2/3
Gender Specific
'Churchman' typically implies a male figure within the church; for women, terms like 'churchwoman' or 'clergywoman' are used. The churchman led the congregation, while his wife, a churchwoman, managed the choir.
Pro Tip 3/3
Denominational Use
Some denominations prefer titles like 'minister' or 'reverend' over 'churchman.' Although he was a churchman, he was more commonly referred to as 'Reverend Smith.'