Site Glossary

Forgiveness and absolution.

The material remains of the body of a saint or martyr after death, such as bones, teeth, or hair.

1) Reception occurs when a bishop formally receives a person as a member of The Episcopal Church by acknowledging their baptism in another church. 2) The church’s recognition and affirmation of the validity of ordination already conferred elsewhere. 3) The church’s recognition and incorporation of a new belief, practice, or theological understanding.

The reverent movement of participants in a liturgy from one place to another.

A duly ordained priest serving in a congregation by appointment of the bishop, with the same canonical authority and duties of a rector but without tenure and serving only so long as the bishop directs.

One of the three orders of ordained ministry, the others being bishop and deacon.

A piece of music played immediately before a worship service.

A cross, typically of silver or gold, suspended by a chain around the neck, that rests on the chest. Bishops normally wear a pectoral cross.

A principal feast of the church year, on the seventh Sunday after Easter, when the Holy Spirit descended on Jesus’ followers in “tongues of fire.” Also associated with speaking in tongues.

A liturgical exchange of greeting through word and gesture, initiated by the celebrant with the words, “The peace of the Lord be always with you.” The congregation responds, “And also with you,” or, “And with thy spirit.”

A corporate rite of repentance that can precede a Eucharistic liturgy or form the basis of a stand-alone service. It includes an acclamation, confession of sin and absolution.

Third-century Christians who were martyred in the arena at Carthage. Feast day: March 7.