A prelature is a specific type of ecclesiastical jurisdiction in the Roman Catholic Church, typically led by a prelate. It is often established to oversee particular regions or communities, especially where the Church seeks to promote its mission and pastoral care. Prelatures can be territorial or personal, depending on their focus and the needs of the faithful. One well-known example of a personal prelature is the Opus Dei, which was founded to help laypeople integrate their faith into everyday life. Prelatures are distinct from dioceses, as they may not have the same administrative structure or responsibilities, allowing for flexibility in addressing various pastoral needs.