They have a high position in the church (5)

I believe the answer is:

bells

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'they' is the definition.
Both the answer and definition are plural nouns.
Perhaps there's an association between them I don't understand?

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for bells that I've seen before include "Musical instruments" , "Summoned by -- (Betjeman)" , "Ringing objects" , "Those ringing in the New Year" , "Scotch?" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

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