Site Glossary

Defined by the Canons as a local congregation recognized by the diocese, organized for worship, mission, and ministry under the care of a rector or priest-in-charge.

Person who leads the Daily Office or another church service.

A fifth-century bishop and missionary to what is now Scotland. Feast day: Sept. 16.

One of the principal Daily Offices; available in traditional and contemporary language in the BCP. Also, the principal act of Sunday worship in the absence of a priest.

A male member of a religious order typically living a vowed life of poverty, chastity, and obedience in community.

Liturgical headdress of bishops, typically pointed at the top, symbolizing their office and authority.

The Thursday in Holy Week, when Jesus washed the feet of his disciples and celebrated the meal that established what would become the Eucharist.

These sisters offered hospitality to Jesus. Martha prepared food, while Mary sat at Jesus’ feet and listened to his teaching. Feast day: July 29.

A 19th-century founder of the Christian church in India and Iran who translated Scriptures into Hindustani, Persian, and Arabic. Feast day: Oct. 19.

A fourth-century monastic, theologian, and teacher, and influential older sister of the Cappadocians, Basil of Caesarea and Gregory of Nyssa. Feast day: July 19.

A 13th-century French king who sought to live a Franciscan life of poverty and self-denial in the midst of royal splendor. Feast day: Aug. 25.

Refers to the rites or texts that provide order for worship services.