Site Glossary

A 13th-century British scholar, bishop and clerical reformer known for his piety, humility, and serving the poor. Feast day: April 3.

A raised shelf or ledge behind the altar, which may hold a cross, candles and flowers.

Mass or Eucharist offered on behalf of the dead.

If not subject to disciplinary proceedings, a member of the clergy may renounce his or her orders and be removed from the active exercise of the ordained ministry.

A canonically recognized community of men or women with episcopal oversight who dedicate themselves to prayerful communal living according to a rule of life including vows, typically obedience, celibacy, and poverty.

A house owned by the congregation and provided for the rector’s home. Called a vicarage when the priest is a vicar.

A priest elected by the vestry and approved by the bishop to lead a congregation, serving with tenure.

A 19th-century British priest, theologian, and leader of the Oxford Movement. Feast day: Sept. 18.

1) An autonomous member church of the global Anglican Communion. 2) One of nine geographic divisions of The Episcopal Church, each comprising several dioceses for regional organization and coordination.

Lying full length and face down on the floor or ground as a gesture of humility and devotion.

The chief bishop in an Anglican province is called its primate. In most provinces the title used is archbishop, but the title for The Episcopal Church’s primate is presiding bishop.

In The Episcopal Church, presbyter is a seldom used synonym for a priest.