Site Glossary

The belief that the substance of Christ’s body and blood replaces the substance of the Eucharistic bread and wine. A Roman Catholic doctrine that differs from Episcopal and Anglican theology. See Real Presence.

An acolyte or server who carries a torch in procession, including the Gospel procession.

The distinctive garments worn by leaders during a worship service.

Large black scarf worn by clergy over surplice and cassock at the Daily Offices and Evensong.

A coauthor of several of Paul’s New Testament letters, and recipient of the First and Second Letters to Timothy. Believed to have become the first bishop of Ephesus. Feast day: Jan. 26, along with Titus, another devoted companion of Paul.

A service at night prior to Easter or a major feast or other important observance.

A vicar’s residence.

Reverence or honor paid by Christians to saints, sacred places and texts, crosses, altars, images, and icons. Stronger than respect and distinguished from absolute worship, which is due to God alone.

An honorific signifying respect. In The Episcopal Church, generally used as a title of address for an archdeacon, abbreviated as “The Ven.”

In a cruciform or cross-shaped church building, the parts of the building forming the two lateral arms of the cross.

The portion of the Canons of The Episcopal Church that regulates disciplinary proceedings pertaining to bishops, deacons, and priests.

A small metal pot on chains in which incense is burned during the Eucharist and other liturgies.