Narthex
Entry space, foyer, or anteroom of a church between the front door and the nave, used for the gathering and formation of processions.
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Glossary
An Episcopal Dictionary of the Church
Glossary definitions adapted from An Episcopal Dictionary of the Church, A User Friendly Reference for Episcopalians, edited by Don S. Armentrout and Robert Boak Slocum, provided courtesy of Church Publishing Incorporated, New York, NY.
Nashotah House
A seminary of The Episcopal Church in the Anglo-Catholic tradition, located in Nashotah, Wisconsin, offering intensive sacramental, spiritual, and monastic-like formation for ministry.
Nave
The place where the congregation gathers to worship. Often referred to as the sanctuary, although that term properly is reserved for the area around the altar.
Neale, John Mason
A 19th-century British cleric, hymn writer, and translator. Feast day: Aug. 7.
Nicene Creed
The fundamental statement of Christian faith, dating to the fourth century. Recited by the congregation during most Eucharistic services.
Nicholas of Myra
A fourth-century Greek bishop who became known as the patron saint of children and of seafarers. Santa Claus is based on Nicholas, who was a bearer of gifts to children. Feast day: Dec. 6.
Ninian
A fifth-century bishop and missionary to what is now Scotland. Feast day: Sept. 16.
Noonday Prayer
A midday prayer service, part of the Daily Office.
Novice
A trainee in a religious order or community who typically has already trained as a postulant.
Novitiate
Period of training of novices in a monastery or religious community.