Site Glossary

A term based on the Greek word apostolos, which means someone sent out. The original 12 apostles were contemporaries of Jesus Christ.

An archbishop of Canterbury in the 11th century, murdered by the Danes during a drunken fest. Feast day: Apr. 19.

Liturgical expression of praise, “Praise ye the Lord,” from the Hebrew Hallelujah.

The formal act by a bishop or priest of pronouncing God’s forgiveness of sins through Jesus Christ.

A senior bishop in the Church of England, second only to the archbishop of Canterbury, serving as the metropolitan bishop of the province of York, which includes 10 dioceses.

A 13th-century Dominican scholar, considered the leading theologian of the medieval church. Feast day: Jan. 28.

The belief that bishops are the successors to the apostles and that episcopal authority is derived from the apostles by an unbroken line of succession in the ministry.

Sacramental use of oil as an outward sign of God’s active presence for healing, initiation, or ordination.

Spiritual beings serving as agents and messengers of God. Archangels are seen as leaders and protectors.

A 17th-century English bishop and spiritual writer. Feast day: Sept. 26.

Also called the Commemoration of All Faithful Departed, observed on Nov. 2.

Latin for Lamb of God, a fraction anthem used at the breaking of the bread during a Eucharist.