Site Glossary

Refers to the authority vested in a bishop to oversee matters related to the spiritual life and governance of a diocese. In the absence of a bishop, the standing committee holds ecclesiastical authority.

Of or pertaining to the church.

Another term for Easter season, the Great Fifty Days between Easter and Pentecost.

A 17th-century English priest and poet, considered one of the greatest preachers of his time. Feast day: March 31.

Geographical section or area within a diocese, with an elected or appointed dean who is styled “the Very Reverend.” Also, the house where a dean of a cathedral or seminary lives.

Ninth-century Slavic brothers from Thessalonica. Both became priests and monastics, and Methodius became a bishop. Feast day: February 14.

The pastoral staff of a bishop topped by a shepherd’s crook, symbolizing pastoral authority and care.

Archbishop of Canterbury from 1533 to 1556 and leader of the Anglican Reformation. Burned at the stake in 1556 by order of Queen Mary I. Feast day: Oct. 16, along with Hugh Latimer and Nicholas Ridley.

A religious community and residence, traditionally for women, where members live under vows and a common rule of life devoted to prayer, communal worship, and service.

The first Native American ordained in The Episcopal Church. An Ojibwe ordained deacon in 1859, his name means “He that prays for his people while standing.” Feast day: June 12.

An American author and pioneering lay leader in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, who led the Woman’s Auxiliary for 40 years, mobilizing women who had little power or influence in church governance at the time. Feast day: Jan. 9.

Most often refers to the familiar hymn verse that begins “Praise God from whom all blessings flow.” Can also refer to other verses praising or glorifying God.