absolution- An essential part of the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation in which the priest pardons the sins of the person confessing, in the name of God and the Church.
abstinence- The avoidance of a particular kind of food as an act of penance or spiritual discipline; in Catholicism, the avoidance of meat on certain days.
acolyte- A liturgical minister who assists a priest or bishop at liturgical celebrations. Priests and deacons receive this ministry before they are ordained. When young people serve in this ministry, they are often called altar servers.
Act of Contrition- A prayer of sorrow for one’s sins, a promise to make things right, and a commitment to avoid those things that lead to sin. Such a prayer can be said anytime but is always part of the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation. This prayer can also be said prior to receiving the Eucharist at Mass.
adoration- The prayerful acknowledgment that God is God and Creator of all that is.
Advent- The four-week liturgical season during which Christians prepare themselves for the celebration of Christmas.
almsgiving- Freely giving money or material goods to a person who is in need. It may be an act of penance or of Christian charity.
Amen- A Hebrew word meaning “let it be so” or “let it be done" or "so be it". As a conclusion to prayer, it represents the agreement by the person praying to what has been said in the prayer.
angel- Based on a word meaning “messenger,” a personal and immortal creature with intelligence and free will who constantly glorifies God and serves as his messenger to humans to carry out His saving plan.
annulment- A declaration by the Church that a marriage is null and void—that is, it never existed. Catholics who
divorce must also have the marriage annulled by the Church to be free to marry again in the Church.
Annunciation- The biblical event in which the angel Gabriel visits the Virgin Mary and announces that she is to be the Mother of the Savior.
Anointing of the Sick, Sacrament of- One of the Seven Sacraments, formerly known as “the Sacrament of the dying,” - in which a gravely ill, aging, or dying person is anointed by the priest and prayed over by him and attending believers. One need not be dying to receive the Sacrament.
Apostles- The general term apostle means “one who is sent” and can be used in reference to any missionary of the Church during the New Testament period. In reference to the twelve companions chosen by Jesus, also known as “the Twelve,” the term refers to those special witnesses of Jesus on whose ministry the early Church was built and whose successors are the bishops.
Apostolic Fathers- A group of early Church writers from the late first and early second centuries. They are our chief source of information about the early Church and may have historical connections to the Apostles.
Apostolic Succession- The uninterrupted passing on of authority from the Apostles directly to all bishops. It is accomplished through the laying on of hands when a bishop is ordained.
Apostolic Tradition- See Tradition.
Ark of the Covenant- A sacred chest that housed the tablets of the Ten Commandments. It was placed within the sanctuary where God would come and dwell.
Ascension- The “going up” into Heaven of the Risen Christ forty days after his Resurrection.
assembly- Also known as a congregation, it is a community of believers gathered for worship as the Body of Christ.
Assumption of Mary- The dogma that recognizes that the body of the Blessed Virgin Mary was taken directly to
Heaven after her life on earth had ended.
atheist; atheism- One who denies the existence of God; the denial of the existence of God.
Baptism, Sacrament of - The first of the Seven Sacraments, by which one becomes a member of the Church and a new creature in Christ; the first of the three Sacraments of Christian Initiation, the others being Confirmation and the Eucharist.
Baptism of blood- The Catholic Church’s firm conviction that someone who dies for the faith without being baptized actually receives the Sacrament of Baptism through his or her death.
Beatitudes - The teachings of Jesus during the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5: 3-12) in which he describes the actions and attitudes that should characterize Christians and by which one can discover genuine meaning and happiness.
Benediction- In general, another name for a blessing prayer. For Catholics, it more often refers to the prayer in which the Blessed Sacrament is used to bless the people.
Bible, also called Sacred Scripture- the collection of Christian sacred writings accepted by the Church as inspired by God. Composed of the Old and New Testaments.
bishop- Based on a word for "overseer", one who has received the fullness of the Sacrament of Holy Orders, is a member of the College of Bishops, and is recognized as a successor of the Apostles. When he serves as head of a diocese, he is often referred to as the ordinary or local bishop.
blasphemy- Speaking, acting, or thinking about God in a way that is irreverent, mocking, or offensive. It is a sin against the Second Commandment.
Blessed Sacrament- Another name for the Eucharist, especially when reserved in the tabernacle for adoration or for distribution to the sick.
Blessed Trinity- The three Divine Persons in one God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The central mystery of our
faith. See also Father; Holy Spirit; Son of God.
blessing- A prayer asking that God care for a particular person, place, or activity. A simple blessing is usually made with the Sign of the Cross.
Body of Christ- A term that, when capitalized, designates Jesus’ Body in the Eucharist, or the entire Church, which is also referred to as the Mystical Body of Christ.
breviary- A prayer book that contains the prayers for the Liturgy of the Hours. See also Liturgy of the Hours.
brothers- See religious life; congregation; order.
calumny- Ruining the reputation of another person by lying or spreading rumors. It is also called slander and is a sin against the Eighth Commandment.
canon- This word has a variety of meanings. The canon of Scripture refers to the Church’s list of books of the Bible. The canon of the Mass is another name for the Eucharistic prayer. Canon law is the official body of laws for Catholics.
canonization- The official proclamation by the Pope that a deceased member of the Church is to be recognized as saint and may serve as a model of the Christian ideal for all believers; also the name of the process by which one is found worthy of such recognition. See also saint.
canticle- From the Latin canticum, meaning “song.” It usually refers to biblical hymns (other than Psalms), such as those found in the hymns of Mary (see Luke 1:46-55) and Zechariah (see Luke 1:68-79).
cardinal virtues- Based on the Latin word for "pivot", four virtues that are viewed as pivotal or essential for full Christian living: prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance.
catechesis- Based on a word meaning “to echo,” the process of education and formation of Christians of all ages, by which they are taught the essentials of Christian doctrine and are formed as disciples of Jesus. Those who serve as ministers of catechesis are called catechists.
catechism- A popular summary, usually in book form, of Catholic doctrine about faith and morals and commonly
intended for use within programs of formal catechesis. The official and most authoritative Catholic catechism is the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
catechumen- One who is preparing for full initiation into the Catholic Church by engaging in formal study, reflection, and prayer.
catechumenate- The name of the full process, as well as of one formal stage within the process, by which persons are prepared for full initiation into the Church. The process is commonly reserved for adult converts to Catholicism.
cathedral- Based on a word for “chair,” the official church of the bishop of a diocese, at which he is recognized as the chief pastor. The bishop’s “chair” symbolizes his teaching and governing authority within the diocese.
Catholic Church- The name given to the universal group of Christian communities that are in communion with the Pope, the successor of Peter. It was established by Christ on the foundation of his Apostles.
celebrant- The person who oversees any act of public worship. In a Eucharistic Liturgy or Mass, the celebrant is always an ordained priest.
celibacy- The state or condition of those who have chosen or taken vows to remain unmarried in order to devote themselves entirely to service of the Church and the Kingdom of God. See also vow(s).
charism- A special gift or grace of the Holy Spirit given to an individual Christian or a community, commonly for the benefit and building up of the entire Church.
charity- The theological virtue by which we love God above all things and, out of that love God, love our neighbor as ourselves.
chastity- The virtue by which people are able successfully and healthfully to integrate their sexuality into their total person; recognized as one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit. Also, one of the vows of the religious life.
chief priests- In biblical Judaism, the priests (descendants of the Tribe of Levi) were responsible for the proclamation of God’s will, the interpretation of the Law, and worship and ritual sacrifice in the synagogues. Jesus often found himself in conflict with them.
Christ. See Jesus Christ.
Christian Initiation- The process by which a nonbaptized person is prepared to become a full member of the Church. The three Sacraments of Christian Initiation are Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist.
Christmas- The feast day on which Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus; also refers to the liturgical season that immediately follows Christmas Day.
church- In common Christian usage, the term church is used in three related ways: (1) the entire people of God throughout the world; (2) the diocese, which is also known as the local church; and (3) the assembly of believers gathered for celebration of the liturgy, especially the Eucharist. In the Creed, the Church is recognized as One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic—traits that together are referred to as Marks of the Church.
civil authorities- The people in society who are responsible for making and enforcing civil laws. They have a responsibility for safeguarding human freedom and human dignity.
civil disobedience- Deliberate refusal to obey a law prescribed by the state, usually on moral grounds.
civil laws- The laws that govern society. Civil laws should reflect the natural law that God has placed in every human heart.
clergy- Men who receive the Sacrament of the Holy Orders and serve the Church as deacons, priests, or bishops.
College of Bishops- The assembly of bishops, headed by the Pope, that holds the teaching authority and responsibility in the Church.
commandments- In general, a norm or guide for moral behavior; commonly, the Ten Commandments given by
God to Moses. Jesus summarized the Ten Commandments within the twofold or Great Commandments to love God and neighbor.
common good- Social conditions that allow for all citizens of the earth, individuals and families, to meet basic needs and achieve fulfillment.
Communion of Saints- The spiritual union of all those who believe in Christ and have been redeemed, including those who have died and those who are still living. See also saint.
Concluding Rites- The final part of the liturgy, composed of a Final Blessing and the Dismissal.
concupiscence- The tendency of all human beings toward sin, as a result of Original Sin.
confirmand- A candidate for the Sacrament of Confirmation.
Confirmation, Sacrament of - With Baptism and the Eucharist, one of the three Sacraments of Christian Initiation. Through an outpouring of special gifts of the Holy Spirit, Confirmation completes the grace of Baptism by confirming or “sealing” the baptized person’s union with Christ and by equipping that person for active participation in the life of the Church.
conscience- The “interior voice” of a person, a God-given internal sense of what is morally wrong or right. Conscience leads people to understand themselves as responsible for their actions and prompts them to do good and avoid evil. To make good judgments, one needs to have a well-formed conscience.
conscientious objection- Refusal to join the military or take part in a war, based on moral or religious grounds. Conscientious objectors must seek official approval of their status from the government.
consecrated life- A state of life recognized by the official Church in which a person publicly professes vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.
Consecration- Making a person (candidate for ordinatlon), place (a new church), or thing (bread and wine) holy. During the Mass, the term refers to the point in the Eucliaristic prayer when the priest recites Jesus’ words of institution, changing the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Christ.
contemplation- A form of wordless prayer in which one is fully focused on the presence of God; sometimes defined as “resting in God,” a deep sense of loving adoration of God.
contrition- To have hatred for our sin and a commitment not to sin again.
conversion- A profound change of heart, turning away from sin and toward God.
Council of the Church- An official assembly of Church leaders, often for the purpose of discernment and decision
making about particular issues. When represented by and concerned with the entire Church, it is called ecumenical, from a word meaning “the whole wide world.” Councils can also be regional or local.
covenant- In general, a solemn agreement between human beings or between God and a human being in which mutual commitments are recognized; also called a testament.
In the Bible, two covenants are central:
(1) the covenant between God and the ancient people of Israel established in the Sinai Covenant with Moses; also called the Old Testament or Old Covenant; and (2) the New Covenant established by Jesus through his sacrificial death and Resurrection; also called the New Testament. The term testament has come to be associated primarily with the Sacred Scripture that records the history and meaning of the two biblical covenants.
Creation- The beginning of all that exists as a result of an act of God, who made everything from nothing. The account of Creation is told in the Book of Genesis.
Creator- A title given to God to signify that God and only God is the ultimate creator of everything that is and everything that ever will be.
creed- An official profession of faith, usually prepared and presented by a council of the Church and used in the Church’s liturgy. Based on the Latin credo, meaning “I believe,” the two most familiar Catholic creeds are the Apostles’ Creed and the Nicene Creed. See also the Nicene Creed.
deacon; diaconate- The third degree or level of the Sacrament of Holy Orders, after that of bishop and priest. Deacons are ordained to assist priests and bishops in a variety of ministries. Some are ordained deacons as one stage of their preparation for eventual priesthood. Others do not seek priesthood, but commit to lifelong ministry to the Church. The latter are known as permanent deacons.
Decalogue- Another name for the Ten Commandments. Also called the Law or the Law of Moses.
denomination- A group of religious organizations uniting under a single legal and administrative body and subscribing to the same creed and moral code.
Deposit of Faith- The heritage of faith contained in Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition. It has been passed on from the time of the Apostles. The Magisterium takes from it all that it teaches as revealed truth.
detraction- Revealing something about another person that is true, but is harmful to his or her reputation.
devil; demon- A fallen angel, one created naturally good but who sinned against God by refusing to accept his Reign. The term Devil refers to Satan, Lucifer, or the Evil One, the chief of the fallen angels; demon refers to an agent of the Evil One.
diocesan priest- A man ordained by the bishop for service to the local Church in parish ministry or another diocesan apostolate.
diocese, also known as a “particular” or “local” Church,- the regional community of believers, who commonly gather in parishes, under the leadership of a bishop. At times, a diocese is determined not on the basis of geography but on the basis of language or culture.
discernment- From a Latin word meaning “to separate or to distinguish between,” it is the practice of listening for God’s call in our lives and distinguishing between good and bad choices.
disciple- A follower of Christ. Based on a word for “pupil” or “student,” used both to designate those who learned from and followed Jesus in New Testament times (the disciples) and those who commit themselves to follow him today.
disposition- An inner attitude and readiness to receiving God’s gifts (graces), particularly through the Sacraments.
Divine Revelation God's self-communication through which he makes known the mystery ol his divine plan.
Divine Revelation is a gift accomplished by the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit through the words and deeds of salvation history. It is most fully realized in the Passion, death, Resurrection, and Ascension of Jesus Christ.
doctrine- An official teaching of the Church based on the Revelation of God by and through Christ.
dogma- Those teachings that are recognized as central to Church teaching, defined by the Magisterium, and accorded the fullest weight and authority.
domestic church- Another name for the family, the first and most fundamental community of faith.
doxology- A prayer of glory and praise to one God in three Divine Persons. Two examples of doxologies from the Mass are the Glory to God and the words that precede the Great Amen.
Easter- The day on which Christians celebrate Jesus’ Resurrection from the dead; considered the most holy of all days and the climax of the Church’s liturgical year. See also Triduum.
Ecumenical Council- A gathering of all Catholic bishops, convened by the Pope and under his authority and guidance. The last Ecumenical Council was Vatican Council II, called by Pope John XXIII in 1962.
ecumenism- The movement to restore unity among the Christian Churches and, ultimately, of all humans throughout “the whole wide world” (the literal meaning of the word).
efficacious- The power something holds to cause a desired effect. The Sacraments are efficacious in bringing about the spiritual reality they signify.
encyclical- A letter written by the Pope and sent to the whole Church and, at times, beyond the Church to the whole world; commonly focused on Church teaching regarding a particular issue or currently important matter.
envy- Jealousy, resentment, or sadness because of another person’s good fortune. It is one of the capital sins and contrary to the Tenth Commandment.
etiology- A story that explains something’s cause or origin.
Eucharist, the- Also called the Mass or Lord’s Supper, and based on a word for “thanksgiving,” the central Christian liturgical celebration; established by Jesus at the Last Supper. In the Eucharist, the sacrificial death and the Resurrection of Jesus are both remembered (“Do this in memory of me") and renewed (“This is my Body, which will be given up for you”).
The Sunday celebration of the Eucharist is considered the heart of the Church’s life and worship, and participation in it is expected of all Catholics of the age and ability to do so.
Eucharistic adoration- A type of prayer in which one meditates before the Blessed Sacrament, either privately or during a communal prayer such as a benediction.
Eucharistic Prayer- The part of the Mass that includes the Consecration of the bread and wine. It begins with the Preface and concludes with the Great Amen.
euthanasia- A direct action, or a deliberate lack of action, that causes the death of a handicapped, sick, or dying person. Some people attempt to justify it as an act of mercy intended to relieve suffering, but the Catholic Church rejects that position and considers euthanasia a violation of the Fifth Commandment against killing.
evangelist- Based on a word for “good news,” in general, anyone who actively works to spread the Gospel of Jesus; more commonly and specifically, one of the persons traditionally recognized as authors of the four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
evangelization- The proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus through word and witness.
examination of conscience; examen- Prayerful reflection on and assessment of one’s own words, attitudes, and actions in light of the Gospel of Jesus; more specifically, the conscious evaluation of one’s life in preparation for reception of the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation.
exorcism- A power given to the Church, in the name of Jesus Christ, to free or protect a person or object from the power of the Devil.
exposition- As part of Eucharistic adoration, exposition is the custom of taking the Eucharist from the tabernacle and placing it in a special vessel called a monstrance, designed to hold a host and “expose” it—that is, to make it visible—so that people can pray before it.
faith- In general, the belief in the existence of God. For Christians, the gift of God by which one freely accepts his full Revelation in Jesus Christ. It is a matter of both the head (acceptance of Church teaching regarding the Revelation of God) and the heart (love of God and neighbor as a response to God’s first loving us); also, one of the three theological virtues.
Fall, the- also called the Fall from Grace, the biblical revelation about the origins of sin and evil in the world, expressed figuratively in the story of Adam and Eve in Genesis. See aIso Original Sin.
fasting- Refraining from food and drink as an act of spiritual discipline or as an expression of sorrow for sin; sometimes required by the Church, especially during the liturgical season of Lent.
Father- The name for God used most commonly by Jesus and, therefore, held in high esteem by the Church. See also Trinity.
Final Judgment- The judgment of the human race by Jesus Christ at his second coming, as noted in the Nicene Creed. It is also called the Last Judgment.
First Friday- A particular devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus that involves receiving the Eucharist on nine consecutive first Fridays of the month. According to Tradition, those who do so will receive special graces.
fortitude- Also called strength or courage, the virtue that enables one to maintain sound moral judgment and behavior in the face of difficulties and challenges; one of the four cardinal virtues.
forty hours’ devotion- A three-day period of worship of the Blessed Sacrament, approximately equaling the time Jesus lay in the tomb. The Blessed Sacrament is exposed in a monstrance during this time.
free will- The gift from God that allows human beings to choose from among various actions, for which we are held accountable. It is the basis for moral responsibility,
Fruits of the Holy Spirit- The characteristics and qualities of those who allow themselves to be guided by the Holy Spirit. They are listed in Galatians 5: 22-23.
genuflection- Kneeling on one knee as a sign ol reverence for the Blessed Sacrament.
Gifts of the Holy Spirit- Special graces given to us by the Holy Spirit to help us respond to God’s call to holiness.
The list of seven gifts is derived from Isaiah 11:1-3.
Gospel- Most basically, “the good news” (the phrase on which the word gospel is based) of the Revelation of God in and through Jesus Christ, proclaimed initially by him, then by the Apostles, and now by the Church; also refers to those four books of the New Testament that focus on the person, life, teachings, suffering, death, and Resurrection of Jesus.
grace- The free and undeserved gift of God’s loving and active presence in the universe and in our lives.
See also sanctifying grace.
Great Commandments- Jesus’ summary of the entire Law as the love of God and the love of neighbor.
Healing, Sacraments of- The two Sacraments that are concerned with healing the mind, body, and spirit: the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick and the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation.
Heaven- Traditionally, the dwelling place of God and the saints, meaning all who are saved; more accurately, not a place but a state of eternal life and union with God, in which one experiences full happiness and the satisfaction of the deepest human longings.
Hell- The state of permanent separation from God, reserved for those who freely and consciously choose to reject him to the very end of their lives.
heresy- The conscious and deliberate rejection of a dogma of the Church.
hierarchy- In general, the line of authority in the Church; more narrowly, the Pope and bishops, as successors of
the Apostles, in their authoritative roles as leaders of the Church. See also Magisterium.
Holy Communion- Another name for the Eucharist, the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.
holy days of obligation- Feast days in the Liturgical Year on which, in addition to Sundays, Catholics are obliged to participate in the Eucharist.
Holy Orders, Sacrament of- The Sacrament by which members of the Church are ordained for permanent ministry in the Church as bishops, priests, or deacons.
Holy Spirit- The Third Person of the Blessed Trinity, understood as the perfect love between God, the Father, and the Son, Jesus Christ, who inspires, guides, and sanctifies the life of believers. See also Blessed Trinity.
holy water- Blessed water used in ritual sprinklings or when making the Sign of the Cross as a reminder of Baptism.
Holy Week- In the Church’s Liturgical Year, the week preceding Easter, beginning with Palm Sunday; it culminates
the annual celebration of Christ’s Passion, death, and Resurrection.
hope- The theological virtue by which we trust in the promises of God and expect from God both eternal life and the grace we need to attain it; the conviction that God’s grace is at work in the world and that the Kingdom of God established by and through Jesus Christ is becoming realized through the workings of the Holy Spirit among us.
human dignity- The idea that because all people are created in God’s image, they have fundamental worth. This notion is the foundation of Catholic social teaching.
human rights- The basic political, social, and economic rights that every human being claims, by virtue of their human dignity as beings created by God. Society cannot grant these rights and must not violate them.
humility- The virtue by which one understands that one totally depends on God and also appreciates and uses properly the gifts she or he has received from God.
idolatry- Worship of other beings, creatures, or material goods in a way that is fitting for God alone. It is a violation of the First Commandment.
Ignatian Gospel contemplation- A prayer form that uses the imagination to immerse a person in a story from Scripture to better understand the story’s meaning.
Immaculate Conception- The Catholic dogma that theBlessed Virgin Mary was free from sin from the first moment of her conception.
immortality- The quality or state ol unending, everlasting life; the (Catholic doctrine that the human soul survives the death of the body and remains in existence, to be reunited with the body at the final resurrection; identified in the creed as belief in “the resurrection of the body and life everlasting.”
Incarnation- Based on words meaning “in flesh,” the mystery of the Son of God becoming man in the person of Jesus of Nazareth. The Incarnation means that Jesus, the Son of God and Second Person of the Trinity, is both fully God and fully man.
indissoluble- A property of the Sacrament of Matrimony that excludes any possibility for breaking the marital bond.
inerrancy- The fact that the books of Scripture are free from error regarding the spiritual and religious truth God wishes to reveal through them for the sake of our salvation. See also inspiration, biblical.
infallibility; infallible- The gift of the Holy Spirit to the whole Church by which the leaders of the Church—the
Pope and the bishops in union with him-—are protected from fundamental error when formulating a specific teaching on a matter of faith and morals.
inspiration, biblical- The guidance of the Holy Spirit in the development of Scripture, whereby the human authors were guided to teach without error those truths of God necessary for our salvation. It is on the basis of inspiration that we can call the Bible, the Word of God. See also inerrancy,
intercession- A prayer on behalf of another person or group.
Introductory Rites- The opening of the liturgy, designed to prepare the assembly for the celebration. It consists of the Entrance Chant, Greeting, Penitential Act, Kyrie, Gloria, and Opening Prayer (Collect).
Israelites- The Chosen People ol God; members ol the twelve Tribes descended from Jacob who inhabited the land of Israel during biblical times.
Jesus Christ- The Son of God, the Second Person of the Trinity, who took on flesh in Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus in Hebrew means “God saves” and was the name given the historical Jesus at the Annunciation. Christ, based on the word for “Messiah,” meaning “the anointed one,” is a title the Church gave Jesus after his full identity was revealed.
Judaism- The religious practices, beliefs, perspectives, and philosophies of the Jewish People. The biblical roots are in the Hebrew Scriptures, particularly in the Torah (which is also the first five books of the Bible). The Jews also have a rich wisdom tradition handed down to them from their rabbis (teachers).
justice- The cardinal virtue concerned with rights and duties within relationships; the commitment, as well as the actions and attitudes that flow from the commitment, to ensure that all persons—particularly the poor and oppressed—receive what is due them.
justification- God’s act of bringing a sinful human being into right relationship with him. It involves removal of sin and the gift of God’s sanctifying grace to renew holiness.
just war- War involves many evils, no matter the circumstances. For a war to be just, it must be declared by a lawful authority, there must be just cause and the right intention (such as self-defense), and weapons must be used in a way that protects the lives of innocent people.
Kingdom of God- The reign or rule of God over the hearts of people and, as a consequence of that, the development of a new social order based on unconditional love. Also called the Reign of God.
Kyrie Eleison- Greek for “Lord, have mercy.” The short prayer, along with its counterpart, Christe Eleison, “Christ,
have mercy,” is part of the Penitential Act at the beginning of a Eucharistic Liturgy.
laity- All members of the Church, with the exception of those who are ordained. The laity share in Christ’s role as priest, prophet, and king, witnessing to God’s love and power in the world.
Last Supper- A supper during the Jewish celebration of Passover that was the last meal Jesus shared with his disciples before being handed over for Cruxifixion, during which he instituted the Eucharist. It is commemorated on Holy Thursday.
Law, the- Another name for the Ten Commandments, it is also called the Law of Moses or the Old Law.
lectio divina- A form of meditative prayer, usually focused on a passage from Scripture, that involves repetitive readings and periods of reflection; can serve as either private or communal prayer.
Lectionary- The official liturgical book from which the readings selected for the Liturgy of the Word during Mass are proclaimed.
legitimate defense- The teaching that limited violence is morally acceptable in defending yourself or your nation from an attack.
Lent- The liturgical season during which the Church focuses on penance for sin. The forty days of Lent begin with Ash Wednesday and end with the celebration of the Paschal Mystery in the Easter Triduum.
literal sense- A form of biblical interpretation that considers the explicit meaning of the text. It lays the foundation for all other senses of Scripture.
liturgical celebration or ritual- See liturgy.
Liturgical Year- The annual cycle of religious feasts and seasons that forms the context for the Church’s worship.
liturgist- One who has the training and responsibility for planning and coordinating all aspects of the worship life of a faith community.
liturgy- Based on a word meaning “public work,” the official public worship of the Church, the heart and high point—or source and goal—of which is the Eucharist.
Liturgy of the Eucharist -The second major part of the Mass, it is composed of the Presentation and Preparation of the Gifts, the Prayer over the Offerings, the Eucharistic Prayer, and the Communion Rite.
Liturgy of the Hours- The official, nonsacramental daily prayer of the Catholic Church. The prayer provides standard prayers, Scripture readings, and reflections at regular hours throughout the day. See also breviary.
Liturgy of the Word- The first major part of the Mass. It is composed ol three scriptural readings, a Responsorial Psalm, a homily, the Nicene Creed, and petitions.
Lord- The Old Testament name for God that in speaking or reading aloud was automatically substituted for the name Yahweh, which was considered too sacred to be spoken; in the New Testament, used for both God the Father and for Jesus Christ, to reflect awareness of Jesus’ divine identity as the Son of God.
Lord’s Day- Another name for Sunday. Catholics are required to attend Mass on Sundays and refrain from any work that might stand in the way of relaxation and renewal of mind and body.
Lord’s Prayer- Called the Lord’s Prayer because it is the prayer Jesus taught us, this prayer has been described as the most perfect of prayers because it contains a summary of the whole Gospel, because it expresses all that Scripture reveals about God and his plan for our salvation. Also called the Our Father.
love- The human longing for God and a selfless commitment to supporting the dignity and humanity of all people, simply because they are created in God’s image. Also called “charity,” it is one of the three theological virtues.
The Magisterium- official teaching authority of the Church, whose task is to interpret and preserve the truths of salvation revealed in both Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition.
Magnificat- Mary’s prayer of praise when she visited her cousin Elizabeth. It is recorded in Luke 1:46-55. The name of the prayer is the first word of the prayer in Latin, which means “magnify.”
Marks of the Church- The four characteristics of the true Church of Jesus Christ: One, Holy, Catholic (universal),
and Apostolic. These Marks are recited at Mass as part of the Nicene Creed.
marriage; Matrimony- Marriage is an exclusive, permanent, and lifelong contract between a man and a woman in which they commit themselves to care for each other and to procreate and raise children; when the marriage takes place between a baptized man and a baptized woman who enter into a covenant modeled on that between Christ and the Church, it is recognized as the Sacrament of Matrimony. The two terms are often interchanged.
martyr- A person who voluntarily suffers death because of her or his beliefs. The Church has canonized many martyrs as saints.
Mary- The Mother of Jesus, sometimes called the Blessed Virgin Mary. Because Jesus is the Son of God and the Second Person of the Trinity, Mary is also given the title Mother of God.
Mass- Another name for the Eucharist. Based on the Latin word missa, meaning “to be sent,” refers to the Dismissal, in which worshippers are told to “Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life.”
meditation- A form of prayer involving a variety of methods and techniques in which one engages the mind, imagination, and emotions to focus on a particular truth, biblical theme, or other spiritual matter.
Messiah- Hebrew word for “anointed one.” The equivalent Greek term is Christos. Jesus is the Christ and the Messiah because he is the Anointed One.
ministry- Based on a word for “service,” in a general sense any service offered to help the Church fulfill her mission; more narrowly, particular expressions of such service (e.g., the ministry of catechesis and liturgical ministries).
miracle- A special manifestation, or sign, of the presence and power of God active in human history.
modesty- From the same root word as “moderation,” it means keeping one’s attitudes, actions, speech, dress, and other behaviors controlled in a way that acknowledges one’s own dignity.
monotheism- Belief in one God instead of many.
monstrance- The special vessel designed to hold a host and make it visible for Eucharistic adoration.
morality- Dealing with the goodness or evil of human acts, attitudes, and values; involves matters such as right judgment, decision-making skills, personal freedom, and responsibility.
mortal sin- An action so contrary to the will of God that it results in a complete separation from him and his grace. To be a mortal sin requires three conditions: it must involve grave matter, the person must have full knowledge of the evil of the act, and the person must give his or her full consent in committing the act.
mysticism- An intense experience of the presence and power of God, resulting in a deeper sense of union with him; those who regularly experience such union are called mystics. See also venial sin.
natural law- Our God-given instinct to be in right relationship with God, other people, the world, and ourselves. The basis for natural law is our participation in God’s wisdom and goodness because we are created in the divine likeness. The fundamental expressions of natural law remain fixed and unchanging, which is why natural law is the foundation for both personal morality and civil norms.
natural revelation- The process by which God makes himself known to human reason through the created world. Historical conditions and the consequences of Original Sin, however, often hinder our ability to fully know God’s truth through natural revelation alone.
New Law- The law of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, it is a law of love, grace, and freedom. It is distinguished from the Old Law, or the Law of Moses.
New Testament- The twenty-seven books of the Bible written during the early years of the Church in response to the life, mission, death, and Resurrection of Jesus; also, another name for the New Covenant established between God and humanity by Jesus.
Nicene Creed- The formal statement or profession of faith commonly recited during the Eucharist. See also creed, novena From the Latin word for “nine,” it is a public or private devotion that extends for a period of nine days. In some cases a novena is offered on a designated day for nine weeks or nine months.
obedience- Based on a word meaning “to hear or listen,” the willingness and commitment to submit to God’s will, as well as to Church teachings and practices that reflect the will of God. see also vows
Oil of the Sick- The oil used in the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick. It is blessed by the bishop along with other holy oils during the annual Chrism Mass.
Old Law- The Law of Moses, the Ten Commandments. It contrasts with the New Law of the Gospel.
Old Testament- The forty-six books of the Bible that record the history of salvation from Creation, through the story of ancient Israel, and up to the time of Jesus; also refers to the Old Covenant established between God and the people of Israel in God’s encounter with Moses on Mount Sinai.
ordained ministers or clergy- Those who have received the Sacrament of Holy Orders, that is, deacons, priests, and bishops.
Ordinary Time- The time in the Liturgical Year that is not part of a special season like Advent, Christmas, Lent, or
Easter.
ordination- See Holy Orders.
Original Sin- The sin by which the first humans disobeyed God and thereby lost their original holiness and became subject to death. Original Sin is transmitted to every person born into the world. See also Fall, the.
papacy- The name given the office and authority of the Bishop of Rome, the Pope. As the successor of Saint Peter, the Pope serves as both a symbol and an agent of the unity of all believers.
parable- A story intended to convey a religious truth or particular teaching through the use of metaphors; a central feature of Jesus’ teaching ministry.
Paraclete- A name for the Holy Spirit, based on a word for “helper” or “advocate.”
parish- A specific community of believers, commonly but not always defined geographically, whose pastoral and spiritual care is guided by a priest or other leader appointed by a bishop.
Parousia- The second coming of Christ, when his Kingdom will be fully established and his triumph over evil will be complete.
Paschal Lamb- A name for Jesus, whose death and Resurrection redeemed humanity. The name is associated with Passover, a commeroration of the deliverance of the Jewish people from Egypt. To avoid the slaughter of firstborn sons by the angel of death, the Jews sprinkled the blood of a lamb on their doorposts.
Paschal Mystery- The work of salvation accomplished by Jesus Christ mainly through his Passion, death, Resurrection, and Ascension.
Passion, the- The suffering and death of Jesus.
pastoral- Refers to the daily life of the Church, especially as it takes place at parish and diocesan levels. Based on a word for “shepherd” or “shepherding,” the person who tends to the pastoral care of a community is commonly called the pastor.
penance- In general, an attitude of the heart in which one experiences regret for past sin and commits oneself to a change in behaviors or attitudes; particular acts of penance may include the practice of spiritual disciplines such as prayer or fasting, or participation in the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation.
Penance and Reconciliation, Sacrament of- One of the Seven Sacraments of the Church, the liturgical celebration of God’s forgiveness of sin, through which the sinner is reconciled with both God and the Church.
Pentecost- The biblical event following the Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus at which the Holy Spirit was poured out on his disciples. In the Liturgical Year, the feast fifty days after Easter on which the biblical event of Pentecost is recalled and celebrated.
People of God- The biblical image for the Church. Those who share in Christ’s mission as priest, prophet, and king.
perjury- The sin of lying while under an oath to tell the truth.
permanent deacon- See deacon; diaconate.
petition- A prayer form in which one asks God for help and forgiveness.
Pharisees- A Jewish sect during the time of Jesus known for their strict adherence to the Old Law and their concern with superficial matters.
Pope- Based on a word for “father,” the successor of Saint Peter and Bishop of Rome, who holds the office of the papacy. Often called the Holy Father.
praise- A prayer of acknowledgment that God is God, giving him glory not for what he does, but simply because he is.
prayer- The lifting of mind and heart to God in praise, petition, thanksgiving, and intercession; communication with God in a relationship of love.
Precepts of the Church- Sometimes called the commandments of the Church, these are obligations for all Catholics that are dictated by the laws of the Church.
presbyter- A term used for officials in the early Church. Today it is an alternative word for priest.
priest; priesthood- The second of three degrees or “orders” in the Sacrament of Holy Orders, along with bishop and deacon. The priest is called to serve the community of faith and its members by representing and assisting the bishop in teaching, governing, and presiding over the community’s worship. Priests generally minister within a parish, school, or other setting within a diocese.
priesthood of the faithful- The belief that the Body of Christ is made up of priestly people who share in Christ’s royal priesthood.
private confession- Telling one's sins to a priest, It is an essential element of the Sacrament of Penance and
Reconciliation.
prostration- A prayer posture in which a person lies stretched out on the ground, face down, as a sign of adoration, submission, and humility. This posture is part of the Rite of Ordination.
prudence- The virtue by which a person is inclined toward choosing the moral good and avoiding evil; sometimes called the rudder virtue, because it helps steer the person through complex moral situations; related to conscience and one of the four cardinal virtues.
Purgatory- A state of final purification or cleansing, which one may need to enter following death and before entry into Heaven.
reason- The natural ability human beings have to know and understand truth.
Reconciliation- See Penance and Reconciliation, Sacrament of.
redemption; Redeemer- The process by which we are “bought back” (the meaning of redeem) from slavery to sin into a right relationship with God. We are redeemed by the grace of God and through the life, Passion, death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. As the agent of our redemption, Jesus is called the Redeemer.
Reign of God- See Kingdom of God.
religious life; congregation; order- A permanent state of life and an organized group of Christians, recognized by the Church, who have taken vows to live in community and to observe the disciplines of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Religious men are often called brothers, monks, or friars; religious women are called sisters or nuns.
religious priests- Priests who are ordained within a religious community for service to the community and its ministries. With the permission of the local bishop, they may also lead parishes within a diocese.
religious vows- The vows, or promises, made by a person who becomes a full member of a religious community. Traditionally there are three vows: poverty, chastity, and obedience.
reparation- Making amends for something one did wrong that caused harm to another person or led to loss.
repentance- An attitude of sorrow for a sin committed and a resolution not to sin again. It is a response to God's gracious love and forgiveness.
restitution- Making things right with another person or people who have been harmed by an injustice, or returning or replacing what rightfully belongs to another.
Resurrection, the- The passage of Jesus from death to life on the third day after his Crucifixion; the heart of the Paschal Mystery and the basis of our hope in the resurrection of the dead. See also resurrection of the dead.
resurrection of the dead- The resurrection of all those deemed righteous by God to live forever with him in Heaven; the conviction that not only our souls, but also our transformed bodies will live on after death (“I believe in the resurrection of the body”). See also Resurrection, the.
Revelation- See Divine Revelation and natural revelation.
ritual- The established form of the words and actions for a ceremony that is repeated often. The actions often have a symbolic meaning, such as the anointing with Chrism at Confirmation.
Rosary- A devotional prayer that honors the Blessed Virgin Mary and helps us meditate on the life of Jesus.
Sabbath- In the Old Testament, the “seventh day” on which God rested after the work of Creation was completed; in Jewish Law, the weekly day of rest to remember God’s work through private prayer, communal worship, and spiritual disciplines such as fasting;
for Catholics, Sunday, the day on which Jesus was raised, which we are to observe with participation in the Eucharist in fulfillment of the Commandment to “keep holy the Sabbath.”
Sacrament- One of the seven efficacious signs of God’s grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, by which divine life is dispensed to us.
sacramental character- A permanent and indelible spiritual mark on a person’s soul, sealed by the Holy Spirit as a result of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders. For this reason these Sacraments cannot be repeated.
sacramentals- Sacred signs (such as holy water and a crucifix) that bear some resemblance to the Sacraments, but which do not carry the guarantee of God’s grace associated with the Seven Sacraments.
Sacraments at the Service of Communion- The name given to the two Sacraments that are directed toward building up the People of God, namely Holy Orders and Matrimony.
Sacraments of Healing- See Healing, Sacraments of.
Sacraments of Christian Initiation- See Christian Initiation.
Sacred Chrism- Perfumed oil, consecrated by the bishop, which is used for special anointings in the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders. It signifies the Gifts of the Holy Spirit.
Sacred Scripture- Generally, the term for any sacred writing. For Christians, the Old and New Testaments that make up the Bible and are recognized as the Word of God.
Sacred Tradition- This term (from the Latin, meaning “to hand on”) refers to the process of passing on the Gospel
message. Sacred Tradition, which began with the oral communication of the Gospel by the Apostles, was written down in Scripture, is handed down and lived out in the life of the Church, and is interpreted by the Magisterium under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
sacrilege- An offense against God. It is the abuse of a person, place, or thing dedicated to God and our worship of him.
saint- Someone who has been transformed by the grace of Christ and who resides in full union with God in Heaven. See also canonization; Communion of Saints.
salvation- Liberation from sin and eternal union with God in Heaven. Salvation is accomplished by God alone through the Paschal Mystery.
salvation history- The pattern of events in human history that exemplify God’s presence and saving actions.
sanctifying grace- A supernatural gift of God by which our sins are forgiven and we are made holy. It restores our friendship with God.
Satan- The fallen angel or spirit of evil who is the enemy of God and a continuing instigator of temptation and sin in the world.
scandal- An action or attitude—or the failure to act—that leads another person into sin.
scribes- In Jewish history these were government officials and scholars of the Law of Moses. They enforced the requirements of the Law.
sin- Any deliberate offense, in thought, word, or deed, against the will of God.
sisters (nuns) - See religious life; congregation; order.
slander- Injuring another person’s reputation by telling lies and spreading rumors. It is also called calumny.
social doctrine- The body of teaching by the Church on economic and social matters that includes moral judgments and demands for action in favor of those being harmed.
social encyclical- A letter from the Pope addressed to members of the universal Church regarding topics related to social justice, human rights, and peace.
social justice- The defense of human dignity by ensuring that essential human needs are met and that essential human rights are protected for all people.
social sin- The collective effect of sin over time, which corrupts society and its institutions by creating “structures of sin.” Examples of social sin are racism, sexism, and institutionalized poverty. See also social justice.
society- A broad part of the human community that is distinguished by common values, traditions, standards of living, or conduct.
solidarity- Union of one’s heart and mind with those who are poor or powerless or who face an injustice. It is an act of Christian charity.
Son of God- Title frequently applied to Jesus Christ, which recognizes him as the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity. See also Trinity.
soul- The spiritual life principle of human beings that survives after death.
spirituality- In general, the values, actions, attitudes, and behaviors that characterize a person’s relationship with God and others. For Christians, lives guided by the Holy Spirit, lived out within the community of believers, and characterized by faith, hope, love, and service.
spiritual sense- A form of biblical interpretation that goes beyond the literal sense to consider what the realities and events of Scripture signify and mean for salvation.
Stations of the Cross- A religious devotion that helps us meditate on Jesus’ Passion—his suffering and death on the cross.
stewardship- An attitude that we do not own the gifts God has given us, but are trustees of those gifts. We have an obligation to share our time, talents, and material treasures with others.
superstition- Attributing to someone or something else a power that belongs to God alone and relying on such powers rather than trusting in God. It is a sin against the First Commandment.
symbol- An object or action that points us to another reality. It leads us to look beyond our senses to consider the deeper mystery.
tabernacle- The receptacle in a church in which the Eucharist is reserved for Communion for the sick and dying; sometimes the focus of private and communal prayer and adoration.
temperance- The cardinal virtue by which one moderates her or his appetites and passions to achieve balance in the use of created goods.
temptations- Invitations or enticements to commit an unwise or immoral act that often include a promise of a reward, to make the immoral act seem more appealing.
thanksgiving- A prayer of gratitude for the gift of life and the gifts of life.
theological virtues- The name for the God-given virtues of faith, hope, and love. These virtues enable us to know God as God and lead us to union with him in mind and heart.
theology- Literally, “the study of God”; the academic discipline and effort to understand, interpret, and order our experience of God and Christian faith; classically defined as “faith seeking understanding.”
theophany- God’s manifestation of himself in a visible form to enrich human understanding of him. An example is God’s appearance to Moses in the form of a burning bush.
Theotokos- Greek for “God-bearer.” The name given to Mary after an Ecumenical Council in the fifth century to affirm that she is the Mother of the human Jesus and the Mother of God.
Torah- A Hebrew word meaning "law", referring to the first five books of the Old Testament.
Transubstantiation- In the Sacrament of the Eucharist, this is the name given to the action of changing the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.
Triduum- The three days of the Liturgical Year that begin with the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday and end with evening prayer on Easter Sunday. See also Easter.
Trinity- See Blessed Trinity.
venerate- An action that shows deep reverence for something sacred. For example, on Good Friday, individuals in the assembly venerate the cross by bowing before or kissing it.
venial sin- A less serious offense against the will of God that diminishes one’s personal character and weakens but does not rupture one’s relationship with God. See also mortal sin.
vice- A practice or a habit that leads a person to sin.
vigil for the deceased- Another name for a wake service. It is a prayer service that takes place before a funeral, to pray for the repose of the soul of the deceased and for strength for those who grieve the loss.
virtue- A good habit, one that creates within us a kind of inner readiness or attraction to move toward or accomplish moralgood. The theological virtues are faith, hope, and love.
vocal prayer- A prayer that is spoken aloud or silently, such as the Lord’s Prayer. It is one of the three expressions of prayer, the other two being meditation and contemplation.
vocation- A call from God to all members of the Church to embrace a life of holiness. Specifically, it refers to a call to live the holy life as an ordained minister, as a vowed religious (sister or brother), in a Christian marriage, or in single life.
vow(s)- A free and conscious commitment made to other persons (as in marriage), to the Church, or to God. Religious vows— those taken by members of religious congregations or orders— commonly include poverty, chastity, and obedience. See also celibacy; obedience.
wake service- See vigil for the deceased.
worship- Adoration of God, usually expressed publicly in the Church’s official liturgy, as well as through other prayers and devotions.
Yahweh- The Old Testament name for God, frequently translated as “I am who I AM.