E W o U G . A C * v L ( t c l . . A p J 3161 A CATHOLIC W O R D LIST A Reference Work for Religion Classes, Discussion Clubs, and Newspaper Reporters By Rev. Rudolph G. Bandas (Reprinted with permission f r o m the "Catholic Bulletih," St. Paul, Minnesota) Imprimatur Sti. Pauli, die 19a Februarii, 1941 + J O A N N E S GREGOR1US MURRAY, Archiepiscopus Sti. Pauli Second Edition 10,000 Published In U. S. A. June 20, 1949 by Our Sunday Visitor Press Huntington, Indiana A C A T H O L I C W O R D LIST A Abbess— the superioress of nuns who holds an office corresponding to t h a t of an abbot in com- munities of men. She bears a ring, pectoral cross, and pastoral staff which symbolize her dignity. She has full domestic author- ity but unlike the abbots has no spiritual powers. Abbey— a monastery governed by an abbot or abbess. Abbot— the superior, or head, of Benedictines, Cis- tercians, or other monks. He is elected for life, is blessed by the bishop a f t e r election, wears a ring and pectoral cross, may pon- tificate at mass, using the crosier and throne, he may confer minor orders, and has complete authority over his monks who live as a family in a settled location. Ablutions— that part of the Mass a f t e r Communion when the priest removes drops of the Prec- ious Blood from the interior of the Chalice by having wine poured into it, and when he removes particles of the Sacred Host which may be on his thumbs and fore- fingers by having wine and water poured over them into the Chalice. Abraham's The Limbo of the just or of the fathers, a bosom— place where the souls of the just men a f t e r expiating their venial sins and temporal penalties in purgatory had to wait until heaven was reopened to them by the Re- demption (Luke XVI, 22). I t is often found used to designate heaven itself. Absolu- the power to forgive sins conferred by tion— Christ upon the Apostles and their success 6 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Absti- nence— Acolyte— sors (John XX, 23) and exercised by the priest in the sacrament of Penance. Also the prayers said for a dead person a f t e r a requiem mass. Absolu- the priest not being Certain whether the tion, condi- penitent has fulfilled all the conditions tional— necessary for receiving absolution validly, gives absolution dependency upon the ful- fillment of such conditions. not eating flesh meat. the highest of the four minor orders. The special duty of acolytes is to carry the can- dles and bring up the wine and water at the celebration of mass. The name is common- ly applied to anyone serving mass. Action, the participation of the laity in some man- Catholic— ner in the hierarchical apostolate. is that help of God which enlightens our mind and moves our will to shun evil and do good. sin—is any thought, word, or deed which is con- t ra ry to the law of God. Adeste the Latin name of a Christmas hymn. The ^ideles— English translation is "Come, all ye faith- ful." Ad limina visits of the bishops to the tombs of the visits— Apostles Peter and Paul in Rome every three to ten years. On the occasion of these visits the bishops give a report on their dio- ceses to the Pope. Advent— a period of four weeks of preparation and penance before Christmas. It recalls the thousands of years of waiting before the arrival of t h e promised Redeemer, com- memorated by Christmas. Actual grace— Actual 7 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Affinity— the relationship existing between a wife and her husband's relatives, and between the husband and his wife's relatives. This relationship is an impediment to marriage, affecting persons of every degree in the direct line of the relationship and as f a r as the second degree in the collateral line. Age of refers to that age at which a person is able reason— to distinguish right from wrong. (Usually seven years.) Alleluia— A Hebrew word meaning "praise the Lord." Alpha and the first and last letters of the Greek alpha- Omega— bet; the words are often attributed to Christ, the beginning and the end of all things. Altar— Structure or table on which the Sacrifice of the Mass is offered. Altar little wafers made of white unleavened breads— wheaten flour. Altar, an altar to which the Apostolic See has at- privileged— tached a plenary indulgence which every time mass is offered on it, may be gained by the person for whom the mass is offered. Altar of the side altar at which is kept the second repose— host consecrated on Holy Thursday to be consumed at the Mass of the Presanctified on Good Friday. Amen— a Hebrew word meaning assent ("so be i t " ) . Amend- an essential part of contrition by which we ment, pur- resolve to sin no more. pose of— Amice— a rectangular piece of white linen cloth which the priest draws over his head and 8 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Angelic Doctor— Angelical Salutation— Angelus— Anglican Orders— Annuncia-, tion— Annul- ment— Apocryphal books— Apolo- getics- shoulders and wears under the alb when saying mass. a title given to St. Thomas Aquinas be- cause of the angelic quality of his mind and sanctity of his life. another name for the prayer, "Hail Mary," which repeats the angelic greeting of the archangel Gabriel to Mary the Mother of God. A prayer in honor of the Incarnation. It consists of saying the Hail Mary three times, each time in connection with cer- tain words by which the Angel ("An- gelus") announced the Incarnation to Mary. During the Easter season it is re- placed by the prayer, "Queen of Heaven, Rejoice," which is called the Regina Coeli in Latin. The invalid orders (ordination of priests and bishops) conferred by bishops of the Anglican Church. They were pronounced invalid by Pope Leo XIII in 1896. the message of the angel informing the Blessed Virgin that she was chosen to be the Mother of God. The Incarnation took place on this same occasion. The event is commemorated on March 25. a declaration that in a particular case there never was a valid marriage, books which at one time or another pre- tended to be inspired but which were never accepted as such by the Catholic Church, and were never placed in the Bible. a theological study which establishes by arguments from reason the foundations on which the Catholic f a i t h is based. Apostasy— Apostle- ship of Prayer— Apostolic Delegate— Ascetical Theology— Apse— Archdio- cese— Arch- bishop— Arch- priest— Ark of the Covenant— Asperges A CATHOLIC WORD LIST 9 Total rejection of the Catholic Faith by one who has been baptized. A pious association founded in France in 1844. Its object is to promote the practice of prayer and of offering oneself to God, praying for the intentions of the Holy Father, and receiving Holy Communion monthly and even weekly. One who represents the Roman Pontiff in a country whose government has no diplo- matic relations with the Holy See. A theological study which treats of virtue and perfection and the means by which they are to be attained. The semi-circular end of a church where the sanctuary is located. A diocese ruled by an Archbishop. The bishop of an archdiocese, who has cer- tain authority, as determined by canon law, over the bishops of a section of the country usually called a province. The archpriest was the representative of the bishop in the territory or any subdivis- ion of the territory of the bishop. The oblong chest, kept in the holy of holies of the Jewish Temple in which were the two tables of stone containing the Ten Commandments. It also contained the rod of Aaron and a dish of manna. I t dis- appeared in 587 B.C. a f t e r the fall of Jeru- salem. The ceremony of sprinkling the people with holy water before the principal mass on Sunday. During the ceremony is sung the 10 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST antiphon from which the ceremony takes its name, "Asperges me Domine", ("Thou shalt sprinkle me, 0 Lord") from Psalm 50, 9. During the Paschal season the Anti- phon "Vidi Aquam" ("I have seen water") from Ezechiel 47, 2 is sung instead. Assistant Patriarchs, Archbishops, or Bishops, who at the have been appointed by the Pope to belong Pontifical to the Papal Chapel. They rank a f t e r the Throne— Cardinals and have a special place around the papal throne. Assistant A helper or assistant to the parish priest; Priest— a curate. Also, the first minister in dignity assisting the bishop at a pontifical mass. Assump- The teaching of the Church that Mary's tion— body, without undergoing the corruption of the grave, was reunited to her glorious soul, and that in this state Mary was taken into heaven. Athanasian Composed during the life of St. Athanasius Creed— (died 343) but not by him. An official statement of Christian doctrine principally regarding the Holy Trinity and the Incar- nation in opposition to the heresy of Arius. Atone- (At-one-ment). The act of uniting man to ment— God which Jesus Christ as mediator effected by His loving obedience which culminated in His passion and death. Aureole— Two Meanings— 1. In Christian art it is the halo sur- rounding sacred persona, and representing the glory of the person depicted. 2. In theology a distinguishing reward given in Heaven to those who have with- stood heroically their trials on earth, as, for example, virgins, martyrs. 11 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Ave Maria—The first words of the Hail Mary in Latin; sometimes called the Angelic Salutation. Azymes— The Jewish feast of the Passover during which unleavened bread alone was eaten. B Balda- chino— Banns of marriage- Baptism of blood— Baptism of desire— Baptismal vows— Baptist- ery— The canopy over the main altar; also can- opy carried over the Blessed Sacrament in procession, or canopy over bishop's throne. The word comes from Baldacco, the Latin for Bagdad, whence originally came ma- terials used in constructing these canopies. Announcement of an intended marriage on three different Sundays or holydays in the church or churches of the parties, in order that those who know of any existing im- pediment to the marriage, may bring it to the attention of the-pastor making the an- nouncement. Martyrdom for Christ or His Church which, being a perfect act of charity, removes sin from the soul and gives sanctifying grace. It does not imprint the sacramental char- acter. A perfect act of contrition or love of God which contains implicitly the desire to do everything that God has ordained for our salvation and therefore the desire to re- ceive baptism. It does not imprint the sac- ramental character. A promise to renounce Satan, his works, and his pomps, made by the person baptized or by his sponsors for him. In the early centuries a special building or a part of the church used for administering baptism and usually dedicated to St. John the Baptist. Today, that part of the church containing the baptismal font. 12 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Basilica— A title of honor conferred by the Holy See on certain churches because of their archi- tectural beauty, age and historical connec- tions (Rome, Bethlehem, Assisi) and on some of the principal churches in a nation. The title carries certain ceremonial rights for the priests of such a church. Beatifica- Declaration by the Pope, as Head of the tion— Ghurch, that a member of the Church is to be regarded as dwelling in heaven and as deserving of public veneration. Benedic- An exposition of the Holy Eucharist for tion of the adoration on the altar, and the blessing of Most Bless- the people in the form of a cross with the ed Sacra- monstrance containing the Blessed Sacra- ment— ment. Bination— Offering^of the Sacrifice of the Mass twice on the same day by the same priest. Biretta— A stiff square cap with three ridges and a t u f t on the top worn by the clergy. Bishop— A successor of the Apostles, the supreme ecclesiastical ruler of a diocese. Bishop, A bishop appointed by the Holy See to Auxiliary— assist a ruling Bishop on account of the latter's age, ill-health, or great amount of work. He has no rights to succeed the bishop whom he assists. Bishop, A bishop appointed by the Holy See to Coad- assist a bishop who is incapacitated f r o m . jutor— performing his duties himself, for example, because of insanity. He has the right of succession. Bishop, Since neither the Auxiliary Bishop nor the titular— Coadjutor Bishop has a real diocese, he bears the title of a diocese which once ex- isted but whose territory is now pagan. 13 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Black- friars— Blessed Sacra- ment— Boat (of incense)— Breviary— Bull— Burse— Name given to the Dominicans because of the black cloak and hood which they wear over their white habit. A title given to the Eucharist to indicate its primacy among all sacraments. A container, so called because of its shape, which holds the incense before it is put into the censer. The book containing the prayers which priests and those in sacred orders or nuns must say daily. A name given to the most solemn and im- portant letters of the Pope. So named from the "bulla" or seal attached to the letter. A square case made of two pieces of card- board, bound together on three sides, and containing the folded corporal. The outer side is covered with silk of the same mater- ial and color as the vestments. Calumny— Calvary— Candlemas Day— Candles- Destroying another's good name and repu- tation by deliberately telling a lie about him. One guilty of calumny must repair the harm he has done. A hill near Jerusalem where Christ was crucified. The Latin word "Calvaria" means skull, and the hill was so called be- cause in shape it resembled a head or a skull. Another name given to the feast of the Presentation or Purification on February 2. The name is derived from the blessing and distribution of candles before the prin- cipal mass on that day. A sacramental used in all the Church's lit- 14 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST urgical services. The candle must be of pure beeswax. It is a symbol of Christ the Light of the World. Candle, The large candle lighted at important ser- Paschal— vices on the Gospel side of the altar between Holy Saturday and Ascension Day. It typi- fies the Risen Christ, the Light of the World. Candles, Candles lighted before statues, shrines, Votive— relics, etc. They symbolize a votive offering given to Our Lord or to a saint. Canon Law—A collection of the laws of the Church. The New Code of Canon Law is divided into five sections and contains in all 2414 canons of laws. Canon, of Mass— Canon of Scrip- ture— Canoniza- tion— Canopy— The principal and solemn part of the Mass, beginning with the prayer "Te Igitur" ("We therefore") a f t e r the "Sanctus" ("Holy") and ending with the Amen be- fore the "Pater Noster" ("Our F a t h e r " ) . The Greek word "Canon" means the "rule", and the "Canon of the Mass" is that part of the Mass which is so fixed that it is usually said without any change. The list of books which the Church has placed in the Bible as inspired. A Declaration of the Holy See decreeing that a person who has already been beati- fied be regarded as a Saint and venerated everywhere. Two major miracles through the intercession of the person occurring a f t e r the beatification are necessary for canonization. An ornamental covering of cloth, wood or metal above an altar, throne, statue, etc. 15 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Cappa, Magna— Cardinal— Capital Evil inclinations or sinful habits. The name Sins— comes from the Latin word "caput", mean- ing head. Capital sins are the sources of many other sins. They are seven in num- ber : Pride, Covetousness, Lust, Anger, Gluttony, Envy, Sloth. The "great cape" used by a Bishop at pro- cessions and solemn functions. It is a cloak covering the whole person reaching down to the feet in front and ending behind in a long train. A counsellor and assistant to the Pope in the government of the Church. Cardinals are equal in rank to princes and are often spoken of as Princes of the Church. They fill a vacancy in the papacy by electing a successor to the deceased Pope. The four moral virtues of justice, prudence, temperance and fortitude. So called because all other virtues hinge upon them. The word "Cardinal" comes from the Latin word "Cardo", meaning hinge. A close fitting garment, worn by clerics, reaching to the heels and fastened down the f r o n t with buttons. The word comes from the Italian "casacca" meaning "great coat". Cata- Underground burial places and under- combs—• ground places of worship during the per- secutions in the early centuries. Catafal- A framework of wood outside of the Com- que— munion railing covered with a black pall, surrounded by six candles, and symboliz- ing the corpse at a requiem mass. Catechu- One receiving instruction in Christian Doc- mew— trine and preparing for Baptism. Cardinal virtues— Cassock— 16 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Cateche- The method to be followed in the religious tics— instruction of youths from their earliest years until the full attainment of a mature religious life. Cathedra- Contributions from parishes as a tribute in ticum— recognition of the jurisdiction of the bishop who rules from his "cathedra" or seat of authority. Cele- The one who carries out the principal part brant— of the religious services, as distinguished from the others who assist him. Celebret— ("Let him celebrate")—A document, issued by a bishop or religious superior, showing that the one who carries it is a priest and deserving of being permitted to say Mass. Celibacy, of A law of the Church forbidding all those the clergy'— in major orders to marry and binding them to observe perfect chastity. Censor of ("Censor Librorum") A priest appointed books— by the bishop to examine books to see that they contain no erroneous or false teach- ings. When a publication contains nothing against f a i t h or morals, the censor attaches to it the words "Nihil obstat" ("there is no objection"). Chained Prior to the invention of printing, Bibles Bibles— were very rare and expensive, and were often chained to the pillars of the churches or libraries to prevent their being stolen. Enemies of the Church often contend that the Church chained the Bibles in order to prevent their being read by the people. Chalice— A gold or silver cup for the wine to be con- secrated in the Mass. Chan- The priest in charge of the diocesan chan- cellor— eery office. 17 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Chancery office— Character (of Sacra- mente)— Chas- uble— Chrism (holy)— Churching (of women)— Ciborium— Cincture— Circum- cision— Circumin- session— The bishop's office which carries on the administration of the diocese and handles diocesan business. A spiritual and indelible mark impressed upon the soul by the sacraments of bap- tism, confirmation, and holy orders. It is the supernatural power to receive or do something sacred. The uppermost vestment, covering all the rest, worn by the priest at Mass. A mixture of olive-oil and balm, blessed by the Bishop on Holy Thursday, and used in the administration of Baptism, Confirma- tion, and Holy Orders, and the anointing of chalices, churches and altars in the cere- mony of consecration. The saying of a prayer of thanksgiving to God by a priest over a woman who has given birth to a child, and the imparting of a blessing to her. The rite carries no idea whatsoever of a taint or of a purification. A sacred vessel, resembling the chalice in shape, containing the consecrated Hosts f o r the communion of the faithful. A double cord girdle worn by clerics around the waist to gather up and hold the alb in place close to the body, and thus secure easy movement of the feet. A cut in the flesh by which a child was made a member of the Jewish faith, a par- taker of the privileges of the Jews, and be- came subject to the Mosaic Law. The mutual indwelling of the Three Divine Persons—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost—one in another because of their oneness of nature. 18 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Collation— The light meal (about 8 ounces) allowed on f a s t days. Collect— The short prayer said by the priest before the Epistle of the Mass, and expressing the spirit of the feast of the day. It consists of an invocation, petition, and conclusion. In the early ages it was known as the prayer of the assembled or "collected" people College, The body of the Cardinals of the Church Sacred— who act as advisers to the Sovereign Pon- tiff with a dean at its head and an admini- strator who has charge of its small revenues. Commemo- A recitation of only a part of the prayers ration— of a lesser feast in conjunction with the prayers of a higher feast which has re- placed the lesser feast. Common The prayers which are the same in every (of the Mass or "common" to every Mass. The Or- Mass)— dinary of the Mass. Common That part of the Missal (or the breviary) (of Saints)— in which are found the Masses (or pray- ers) assigned to Saints who have no special ones assigned to them. Commun- Receiving the Body and Blood of Christ. ion, Holy— Commun- The spiritual union in Christ between the ion of faithful on earth, the souls in Purgatory, Saints— and the saints in Heaven. Compline— The concluding part or prayer in the brev- iary. Concele- The saying of the same Mass and thé con- bration— secration of the same bread and wine by several priests together. Conclave— The place where the Cardinals assemble to 19 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST elect a new Pope, or the assembly of the Cardinals itself which elects the Pope. Concor- A treaty or agreement between the Holy dat— See and a civil power in regard to religious matters. Confer- Periodical meetings of the priests of a dio- ences cese of of a deanery within the diocese to (clergy)— discuss theological questions. Consan- Blood-relationship constituting within cer- guinity— tain degrees a diriment impediment to marriage. Consecra- The celebrant's actions and words at Mass tion, at by which the bread and wine are changed Mass— into the Body and Blood of Christ. Consis- An assembly of Cardinals and sometimes tory— of others summoned by the Pope to discuss Church affairs of great importance. Consult- The official advisers of the Bishop in mat- ors— ters of diocesan administration. Convent— A house in which Sisters dwell. Cope— A long vestment, reaching to the heels, open in front, fastened at the breast with a clasp, semicircular in shape, and worn by the priest in nearly all public functions in which the chasuble is not used. Coram ("In the presence of a bishop"). A Mass Episcopo— "co-ram episcopo" is one which the bishop does not say himself but at which he assists from the throne. Corporal— A square or rectangular piece of white linen cloth, spread on the altar over the altar stone, and large enough to contain the chal- ice, Host, and ciborium. Corpus ("Body of Christ"). Feast celebrated in Christi— honor of the Blessed Sacrament on the Thursday a f t e r Trinity Sunday. 20 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Cosmol- A study of the origin, nature, and purpose ogy— of the world. Council A meeting of the Bishops and theological (ecumeni- scholars from the entire Church summoned cal)— and presided over by the Pope. Cowl— A long ample garment worn over the head by the members of certain religious orders. Crema- The conversion by fire of a dead body into tion— ashes; forbidden by the laws of the Church. Credence A small table on the Epistle side of the altar table— on which are placed the cruets, towel, chal- ice, candles of the acolytes, etc. The old Latin word "credentia" meant a side table. Criteriol- A branch of psychology dealing with the ogy— means and laws governing the attainment of truth. Crosier— The bishop's staff. Cross, pec- A golden cross worn on the breast by bish- toral— ops, abbots and certain prelates. Cross pro XCross "for Church and Pope") a reward Ecclesia et given to both men and women since Leo Pontífice— XIII's time for services to the Church and to the Holy See. Cruets— Small vessels or flasks, made of glass, crystal or metal, and containing the water and wine used at mass. D Dalmatic— Vestment worn by Deacon at High Mass, and by a bishop under the chasuble at a Pontifical Mass. Day Hours—All the hours of the Breviary or Divine office except Matins; a book containing the same. Deacon— The second of the Major Orders. A dea- con's duty is to minister at the altar, to 21 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST baptize, and to preach; at High Mass he sings the Gospel and assists the priest. Dean— A priest having the oversight of a section of a diocese, known as a deanery and em- bracing several parishes. Deadly Sins, A common though less accurate name for Seven— the capital sins. Debt, Mar- The marriage relation due between husband riage— and wife. Decade One mystery of the ordinary rosary con- (Rosary)— sisting of one Our Father, ten Hail Mary's and one Glory. Decalogue— The ten Commandments of God. Dégrada- A rite whereby a cleric in punishment is tion— deposed from his office, is deprived of his clerical dress, and is reduced to the lay state. A degraded priest retains his priest- ly character and remains bound by thé obli- gations of the priesthood. Demon— An evil spirit ; a fallen angel. Deo A formula of thanksgiving, used frequent- Gratias— ly in the Mass and in the breviary, and meaning "Thanks be to God." Deposition, Mass celebratéd at the end of the Forty Mass of— Hours devotion. De Profun- First two words of Psalm 129, which is one dis of the seven penitential psalms ; the Church uses this psalm principally in her prayers for the dead. Desecra- A criminal act violating the sanctity of a tion— holy place or thing. Detraction— Injury to our neighbor's character by making known without a sufficient cause his real but secret faults. 22 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Deutero- canonical Books— Dialogue Mass— Dies Irae- Diocese— Diocesan Clergy— Diriment Impedi- ment— Discipline of the Secret— Disparity of Cult— Dispensa- tion— Those books of the Old Testament which were placed in the Bible a f t e r the other books. They a r e : Tobias, Judith, Wisdom, Ecclesiasticus, Baruch, and the two Books of Machabees, together with fragments of Esther and Daniel. These are not found in the Protestant Bible. A low Mass at which the responses ordi- narily made by the server are recited by all those present. The sequence or hymn in the Mass for the dead. A definite territory with its population governed by a Bishop. Priests organized under the Bishop of the Diocese. A hindrance arising either from the natural law or from the law of the Church and making a marriage null and void unless a dispensation is first granted by the bishop. A dispensation can be granted only in cer- tain instances and for sufficient reasons. The practice of the early Church of keep- ing the knowledge of the mysteries and of some of the sacraments from the heathen and from the catechumens, in order to pro- tect these sacred things from irreverence through ignorance or lack of appreciation and esteem for their sacred character. A marriage impediment arising between one who is not baptized and one who is baptized in the Catholic Church, or convert- ed to the Church. Suspending the law in a particular case. 23 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Divine Office, The- Doctor of the Church- Dogma— Dom- Domestic Prelate— Dominus vobicumr- Douay Bible— Dowry- Doxology— The text of the Breviary consisting of •psalms, prayers, hymns and readings. The recitation of this text by all clerics in major orders constitutes the public and official prayer of the Church. Title conferred by the Pope or a General -Council on a saint whose writings show profound learning and freedom from error. A revealed t r u t h contained in Scripture or Tradition, and infallibly accepted or defined by the Church. Title given to professed monks of the Bene- dictines, Carthusian, and Cistercian Orders, and to members of several other orders. I t is an abbreviation for the Latin "dominus" meaning "master" (Mr.). In Italy the title "Don" is used. Honorary distinction conferred by the Holy See on a priest, by which he is made a member of the Pontifical family and grant- ed certain privileges of dress. His title is "Right Reverend Monsignor." R. E t cum Spiritu tuo: "The Lord be with you. R. And with thy spirit." An ancient form of Christian greeting occurring eight times in the Mass and before the principal prayers in the Breviary. The popular English version or translation from the Latin of the Holy Scriptures. The Old Testament was published at Douay in 1610 and the New Testament at Rheims in 1582. Property which a woman brings to a re- ligious community to be invested for her support until death. A prayer expressing praise and glory to God. 24 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST E Easter Duty— Ecstasy— The obligation of Catholics to receive the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist during Easter time, that is, from the first Sunday in Lent to Trinity Sunday. A state in which the soul is so wholly occu- pied with God that the activities of the senses are suspended: conferred by God upon some saints. Elevation— The raising of the Sacred Host and Chalice at Mass for the adoration of the faithful. Ember Days of f a s t and abstinence instituted for days— the purpose of doing penance and obtaining God's blessing upon the clergy during the season specified for the ceremonies of or- dination. The Ember days a r e : the Wed- nesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays following the first Sunday of Lent, Pentecost, the feast of the exaltation of the Cross (Sep- tember 14), and the third Sunday of Advent. Eminence— The title of a Cardinal, who is spoken of as, "His Eminence," and addressed as "Your Eminence." Emmanuel—A name given to Our Lord by the prophet Isaias and meaning "God is with us." Encyclical— A letter addressed by the Pope to Bishops and the f a i t h f u l of the entire Church, in order to re-affirm the truth of the age-old doctrines of the Church in the face of new errors, .and to show how they are to be applied in the changed conditions of modern life. Episco- 1. The fulness of the priesthood received pate— by a bishop at his consecration. 2. The period of time during which a Bishop rules. 3. The body of Bishops taken as a whole. 25 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Epiphany— The name of the feast celebrated on Janu- ary 6, which commemorates the manifesta- tions of Our Lord. Three events are cele- brated: The visit of the Magi to Bethle- hem; The Baptism of Christ; The miracle of the marriage feast of Cana. A selection from Scripture read at Mass a f t e r the oration. At Solemn High Mass it is sung by the Sub-deacon. That branch of the study of Theology which deals with the doctrines of the last things, namely, death, judgment, heaven or hell. The science which lays down the laws of right conduct in the light of reason direct- ing man according to the natural law. Eucharist-— The Sacrifice and Sacrament which contains the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Our Lord Jesus Christ under the appear- ances of bread and wine. Eucharistic A gathering of clergy and laity for the pur- Congress— pose of adoring and glorifying Christ in the Eucharist, discussing the means of spreading knowledge, love and devotion to the Eucharist, and establishing the kingship of the Eucharistic Christ over society. Euthanasia—A deliberate painless killing, or hastening the death of a person who is incurable or in great pain. Evangelist—One of the authors of the four Gospels, namely, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Evolution— The gradual development of forms of life from the lowest to the most highly organ- ized form. Ex Cath- (Latin) "From the chair," "from the epis- edra copal throne". The pronouncements of the Pope on questions of f a i t h and morals in Epistle— Eschato- logy— Ethics— 26 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Excommuni- cation— Exegesis—• Exorcism— Exposition, Mass of— Faculties— Faith— Fall (of Adam) — his official capacity as Teacher of all Chris- tians. A punishment by which a Christian is de- prived of the Sacraments, Christian burial and the prayers of thé Church, because of some serious offense which he has commit- ted. of passages of Sacred The interpretation Scripture.- Prayers and ceremonies used by the Church to drive out devils f r o m persons, places or things. The Mass celebrated at the beginning of Forty Hours devotion when the Blessed Sacrament is exposed. P The powers granted by the Holy See to bishops, or by bishops to priests, f o r the exercise of the sacramental power for which jurisdiction is lacking. As an act is an assent of the mind, under the command of the will, and under the in- fluence of God's grace, to revealed truths because of the authority of Cod revealing. As a supernatural virtue faith disposes the mind to believe as true the things revealed by Him, not because of the intrinsic truth of the things as perceived by human reason, but because of the authority of God re- vealing. Adam's mortal sin of pride and disobedi- ence by which he lost for himself and the whole human race the supernatural g i f t s (indwelling of the Blessed Trinity, sancti- fying grace), and the preternatural g i f t s (freedom from ignorance, suffering and death) which God had bestowed on him. A CATHOLIC WORD LIST • 27 Fast— the refraining from food before receiving Holy Communion; this f a s t begins at mid- night and is called the Eucharistic fast. The other f a s t permits only one full meal a day, with small quantities of food in the morning (about two ounces) and evening (about eight ounces). Fathers of Men distinguished to an extraordinary de- the Church— gree for their knowledge, holiness, and correctness of teaching, who during the early centuries transmitted to others or wrote down the teachings which came down to them orally from Christ and from the Apostles. Ferial— A week day, especially one neither a festival nor a fast. First-born—The first boy born to Jewish parents. He was called "first born" whether there were other children born a f t e r him or not. Fisherrrian's A ring bearing the figure of St. Peter fish- ring— ing from a boat and encircled with the name of the pope. This ring is broken upon the Pope's death. Flectamus From the Latin which means "Let us bend genua— the knee." It is a prayer chanted by the deacon during Solemn Mass on Ember Days and certain days of Lent. Forbidden The periods extending from the beginning times of of Advent until Christmas Day, and from Marriage— Ash Wednesday to Easter Sunday inclusive- ly. Forty-hours Solemn exposition of the Blessed Sacra- devotion— ment for forty hours, in memory of the forty hours which Christ's body remained in the tomb. 28 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Frankin- ("finest incense") One of the g i f t s offered cense— to Christ by the Magi. Freemas- A society, forbidden to Catholics under pain onry— of excommunication, because of its oath of absolute secrecy and blind obedience, be- cause of its religious ritual, and because of its plotting against Church and state. Friar— ' ( " b r o t h e r " ) A member of one of the so- called mendicant (living by begging alms) orders, such as the members of the Fran- ciscan, Dominican, and Carmelite orders. Frontal— Also called the antependium—a veil cover- ing the f r o n t of the altar. It is usually of the same color as the vestments of the day. Fruits of the Charity, joy, peace, patience, benignity, Holy Ghost—goodness, longanimity, mildness, faith, mod- esty, continency, and chastity. They are those final products of grace in the soul which are characterized by a certain spir- itual suavity and joy.. Fruits of The general f r u i t in which all the faithful the Mass— share; the special f r u i t which is applied to those for whom the Mass is said; the most special f r u i t which belongs to the celebrant himself. G Gate of A title applied to the Blessed Virgin Mary heaven— because through her Christ, Who merited heaven for us, came into the world, and because all the graces, with the aid of which we hope to attain heaven, come to us through her mediation. The devil and all the powers of evil. of Gates hell— Gaudete Sunday— The third Sunday of Advent, so named from the opening word of the Introit of that day's Mass, "Gaudete," meaning "Rejoice." 29 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Geneal- Family trees; the records of the descend- ogies— ants from one family. General A confession of all the sins of one's past Confession—life, even the ones which have been con- fessed before, or a confession of all the sins since the last general confession. General of The highest Superior of the whole Order, an Order— usually elected for some fixed term by rep- resentatives from different provinces or branches of the Order. Gentiles— In Biblical usage, one who is not a Jew. Gifts of the Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel, Forti- Holy Ghost—tude, Knowledge, Piety, and Fear of the Lord, with the aid of which one more read- ily cooperates with the inspirations of the Holy Ghost and thus avoids evil and does good. Gift of The g i f t given to the Apostles to speak one tongues— language and to be understood by different nationalities in their own tongue; also the g i f t of being able to speak or understand many languages. Gloria in ex-"Glory be to God in the highest!" The celsis Deo—opening words of the prayer usually sung or said in the Mass a f t e r the Kyrie Eleison. Gloria P a i n , "Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, et Filio, et and to the Holy Ghost," the first part of a Spiritui short prayer to the Holy Trinity, called the Sancto— Doxology. Godparents—Sponsors at Baptism who make the promis- es for the child and have the obligation of watching over the Christian education of the child if the parents neglect it or if they die; and those who place their hand on the shoulder of the recipient of the Sac- rament of Confirmation. 30 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST God's Acre—A cemetery blessed for those who are en- titled to Christian burial. Golden An ornament in the shape of a rose which rose— is blessed by the Pope every year on Lae- tare Sunday, and sometimes sent by him to Churches, Catholic rulers, or other peo- ple of distinction. Golden "Do unto others as you would wish them to rule— do to you." Grace— A supernatural g i f t given to men or angels for the purpose of fitting them for eternal life. Gradual— Verses and responses from Scripture said or sung a f t e r the Epistle at Mass, formerly sung on the step of the altar. The name comes from the Latin word "gradus" (step). Gregorian Plain chant, or that church music said to chant— owe its final iarrangement to Pope Gregory the Great (604). Gregorian Thirty successive Masses said for a deceas- Mass— ed person. I t is believed that the soul will be released from Purgatory as soon as they are said. Gregorian Holy Water used in the Consecration of a Water— Church, containing wine, salt, and ashes, and taking its name from Pope Gregory I who prescribed its use. Gremial A cloth placed over the knees of the bishop veil— during various ceremonies. It is usually of the same material and color as the vest- ments. Grille— An enclosure constructed of wrought iron or bronze, separating the cloister of nuns from the outside. 31 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST H Habit, religious— Habitual grace— Haceldama- (Aramaic— the field of blood)—• Hagiology— Halo— liane igitur- Hearse— Heathen— Heaven— HeU— The clothes or uniform proper to a Relig- ious Order. A supernatural gift, inherent in the soul, making it j»st, holy, and pleasing to God. The burying place for strangers bought with the money which Judas received for betraying Christ. Books and other records treating of the lives and actions of saints and holy people. In representations of holy persons, a bright circle or disk surrounding the head, and symbolizing virtue, grace, and sanctity. The opening Latin words of the prayer in the canon of the Mass, "We therefore be- seech Thee, 0 Lord, graciously to accept this oblation", in which God is asked to ac- cept our oblation and to dispose our days in peace. As the priest says this prayer he elevates and spreads his hands over the bread and wine. A vehicle for conveying the dead to the grave. In Biblical usage one not a Jew, in Chris- tian usage one not acquainted with the trut h s and principles of revelation. The place and state where we shall see the Triune God face to face, and enjoy the companionship of the Blessed Virgin and the saints. The place and state where demons and damned souls are forever deprived of the vision of God, and are tortured by a fire which is real and capable of affecting the 32 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST damned according to the measure of their sinfulness. Not the hell of the damned, but the Limbo of the Just or of the Fathers of the Old Testament, who had expiated their venial sins and temporal penalties in purgatory, and were now awaiting the coming of the Redeemer. The Creed calls the Limbo of the just "hell" because in biblical lan- guage any place lower than heaven was called "hell." A title of Our Lady added to the Litany of Christians— the Blessed Virgin a f t e r the victory of the Christians over the Turks in the battle of Lepanto in 1571. Heortology—The science and study of the origins, his- Heresy— Heretic— Hermen- eutics— Heroic Act An act by which a Catholic offers to God of Charity—for the souls in purgatory all indulgences and all the satisfactory works he perform- ed during life, and all the prayers offered for him a f t e r death. Heroic The practice of virtue in an extraordinary Virtue— and heroic manner; the practice of virtue with exceedingly great promptness, readi- ness and perfection. Hell, "He descended into"— Help of tory and meaning of Church feasts and cele- brations. The rejection of one or more revealed truths, infallibly defined by the Church, by one who had been baptized and had pro- fessed the Christian religion. One, who, having been baptized, deliberate- ly and knowingly rejects a doctrine taught by the Catholic Church. The principles which govern the right in- terpretation of the Sacred Scriptures. 33 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Hierarchy— The ranks and orders of the Catholic Clergy in successive grades, with special reference to those who have the episcopal office. High Mass—A sung Mass without the assistance of a deacon or subdeacon. High A chief priest; the head of the Jewish Priest— priesthood. Hindering A cause or fact which makes a marriage impedi- unlawful although not invalid. ment— His Holiness A title of respect and honor reserved to the (title of)— Pope. Holy Child- An organization which strives to interest of)— Catholic children in the temporal welfare hood (Soci- and eternal salvation of pagan babies and children in the whole world. Holy Hour—An hour spent in prayer and meditation be- fore the Blessed Sacrament exposed on the altar. Holy Office—A Congregation composed of six Cardinals and the Pope, acting as a final court of ap- peal in matters concerning doctrine and morals. Holy of The innermost section of the Jewish taber- holies— nacle and temple where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. Holy Oils— These are of three kinds: Oil of Cate- chumens: used in blessing fonts, consecra- tion of churches, ordaining priests, etc. Oil of the sick: used in Extreme Unction. Chrism or oil mixed with balm: used in Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Orders, and other consecrations and blessings. Holy A sacrament by which bishops, priests, and Orders— other ministers of the Church are ordained 34 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST and receive the power and grace to per- form their sacred duties. There are seven steps by which a cleric advances in succes- sion to the priesthood: Ostiarius (Porter), Exorcist, Lector, Acolyte, Sub-deacon, Deacon, Priest. The first four are called Minor Orders and the last three are called Holy Orders. Holy A sacramental consisting of water mixed Water— with salt and blessed by a priest; used to bless persons and things. Hope— A divine virtue by which we firmly t r u s t that God will give us eternal life and the means to obtain it. Hosanna— A Hebrew word, taken from the Psalms, meaning, " 0 Lord, save, we pray." Host— 1. The unleavened bread which is conse- crated at the Mass. 2. Christ present under the appearance of bread a f t e r the Consecration of the Mass. House of Refers to the Blessed Virgin Mary in whose God— womb Christ dwelt; may also refer to a Catholic church wherein Christ dwells. House of a title given to the Blessed Virgin signify- Gold— ing that she was adorned with the most precious g i f t s and virtues. Humeral From Latin "humerus", meaning shoulder. Veil— It is an oblong veil (about 8 by 3 feet) worn over the shoulders by the Subdeacon at a Solemn Mass, by a priest at the Bene- diction of the Blessed Sacrament and dur- ing processions. Hyper- A special veneration, above that paid to the dulia— saints and less than that paid to God, given to the Blessed Virgin because of her dig- nity as Mother of God. A ÓATHOLÌC WORD LIST ¿5 The union of the human and divine natures in the one person of Christ. The leafy twigs of a plant used for sprink- ling in Jewish ceremonies; a sprinkler f o r holy water. I A created thing or person to which divine worship is paid. Divine worship given to anyone or anything but the true God. Abbreviation of the name of Jesus as it was written in Greek. That which is unlawful or forbidden. For example a marriage between a Catholic and a validly baptized Protestant, without a dispensation, is illicit though not invalid. A representation or likeness of any person, sculptured, drawn, painted, or otherwise made perceptible to our sense of sight. The veneration given to images is referred to the person whom they represent. Images, The The practice of the Church of covering all Veiling of— the crosses, pictures, and statues with un- adorned purple veils before the First Ves- pers on Passion Sunday. The veils are re- moved from the crosses on Good Friday and the others on Holy Saturday morning. Imitation A devotional treatise sometimes called "The of Christ— Following of Christ," published in 1418 and generally attributed to Thomas a Kempis. I t is a series of counsels of perfection in four books. Immaculate The doctrine that the creation of Mary's Conception— soul, its adornment by sanctifying grace, and its infusion into Mary's body, were all simultaneous. In other words, Mary's soul Hypostatic TJnion— Hyssop— Idol- Idolatry— 1. H. S.— Illicit— Image— A CATHOLIC WOfcD LIST was never for a moment without sanctify- ing grace, never for an instant with orig- inal sin. . mmersion—Method of Baptism employed in the early Church, by completely immersing the can- didate into water. It is still considered as valid Baptism, but it is no longer used in the Western Church. The survival of the soul a f t e r its separa- tion from the body at death and its contin- ued conscious .existence for all eternity. Feasts which are assigned to a certain day in the month, such as the feasts of the dif- ferent saints. The immortality of the body and its per- manent freedom from all sufferings and afflictions. Sinlessness; Christ was sinless because the Person which worked through His human will was divine, and a divine Person cannot sin; Mary was sinless because she had a "fullness of grace." Impediments Obstacles which render a marriage unlaw- (to marri- ful or invalid. age)— . Imposition An action denoting the conferring of a of Hands— blessing, power or grace. I t is an essential part of the Sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Orders, and is also used in adminis- tering the Sacraments of Extreme Unction and Baptism, in several blessings, and in the Consecration of the Mass. Impotency— A physical inability to carry out the mar- riage act. If it exists before the marriage and is incurable, it makes the marriage in- valid. Sterility, however, is not an impedi- ment to marriage. Immortal- ity— Immovable Feasts— Impassibil- ity— Impeccabil- ity— 37 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Impri- Latin word meaning "let it be printed" matur— usually placed at the beginning or end of a publication to indicate that the publication contains nothing against faith and morals and that it has the approval of the bishop. Imjrrimi Latin words meaning "it may be printed" Potest— by which the Superior of a religious order approves a publication by a member of the order. Impro- Reproaches addressed by Christ to all men peria— in the person of the Jews, and usually sung by the choir during the veneration of the Cross on Good Friday. Indissolu- A property of a valid marriage whereby it bility of cannot be broken except by the death of Marriage— one of the parties. In Petto— From the Italian meaning "in the breast" or "secretly", refers to an occasional decis- ion of the Pope to withhold from publishing the name of a new Cardinal. Incarna- (From the Latin word "caro" meaning tion— "flesh"). The taking of a human nature by the Word or the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity. Incense— A granulated resin or vegetable gum which when burnt on coal in the censer produces a f r a g r a n t sweet-smelling smoke. Its burn- ing is a symbol of the zeal by which we should be consumed; its fragrance of a pure and virtuous life; and its smoke of our prayers by which we should continually tend and ascend to God. Index of List of books harmful to faith and morals, Forbidden which Catholics are not permitted to read Books— without a special permission from the Bishop. 38 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Indulgence—A remission granted by the Church of the temporal punishment which remains due to sin, a f t e r its guilt has been forgiven. If it remits all punishment is it called plenary. An indulgence may be partial, i. e., part of the temporal punishment of sin is remit- ted to persons rightly disposed. Indulgence, Indulgences attached by the Pope or his Apostolic— delegate to crucifixes, rosaries, medals, and other images. I n d u l t A permission to do something not allowed by the common law of the Church, such as the Workingman's Indult granted in regard to abstinence. Indwelling A special presence of the Holy Ghost and of the the whole Trinity in the soul of one. in thè Holy Ghost—state of sanctifying grace. Infallibil- The inability of the Pope, speaking either ity— alone or together with all the bishops of the Church, to err when he proclaims a teaching of f a i t h or morals. Infidel— ' One who has never been baptized; one who rejects Christianity as divine revelation. Infused Virtues which come into the soul together Virtues— with sanctifying grace, as the virtues of faith, hope, and charity. Innocence, The state of Adam and Eve before the original— fall. Inquisition—An ecclesiastical organization for discover- ing and preventing heresy. I. N. R. I.—An inscription found atop the crucifix meaning, Jesus of Nazareth/- King of the Jews. Inspiration—Divine aid given by the Holy Ghost to the authors of the books of the Bible whereby A OATHOÌilC WORD LIST 39 Installa- tion— Interdict— Internum do- Interpella- tions—i Introit- Irregular- ity— Israel— Ite, Missa est— these writers rightly understood and then faithfully wrote down the divine truths communicated to them. The giving possession of an office with the usual rites or ceremonies. A penalty inflicted by the Pope or bishop upon a group barring them from the use of the sacraments, religious services, and Christian burial. An Envoy of the Pope to minor countries; ranking below nuncio. Examining the attitude of a non-baptized and non-converted party by the other party who has been baptized and converted, in regard to the willingness of the first party to consent to the continuation of their mar- riage union. From the Latin term "introitus" meaning "entrance"; the first prayer that the priest reads from the Missal a f t e r the prayers at the foot of the altar. It is usually part of a psalm. A disqualification for receiving Holy Orders; or the infraction of the rules gov- erning the performance of clerical func- tions, making the cleric unfit for carrying out f u r t h e r clerical functions. ("Strong against God") name given by the angel to Jacob, because he had wrestled against an angel of God. The descendants are the Jewish people. "Go, the Mass is ended," words occurring before the last Gospel. 40 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Joys of the Blessed Virgin— Jubilee— Judgment (General) - Judgment (Particu- lar)— Judgment (Private) - Jurisdic- tion— Justice— Justifica- tion— The happy or joyful events in Mary's life, namely the Annunciation, the Visitation, the Nativity, the Epiphany, the Finding in the Temple, the Resurrection, and the Ascension. A period of special remission of the tem- poral penalties due to sin proclaimed from time to time by the Pope. At present this period occurs every twenty-five years. The final judgment by Christ a f t e r the • general resurrection, when every deed of man will be made known to all, and when man will be rewarded or punished not only in soul but also in the risen body. A sentence by God in the form of an illum- ination of the soul immediately a f t e r death whereby the soul's lot is determined for all eternity. The teaching of Luther that each private individual, as opposed to the infallible auth- ority of the Church, can explain the Bible by himself and for himself and fashion his life accordingly. The legislative, judicial, and executive pow- ers of the Church over her members where- by she guides her children to eternal salva- tion. A virtue whereby we give to everyone what is his due. In the Bible the word often denotes the state of sanctifying grace. The indwelling of the Blessed Trinity in the soul together with the infusion of sanc- tifying grace, of the virtues and of the g i f t s of the Holy Ghost. This state can- not coexist with guilt in the soul. 41 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST K Keys, Power The powers of the Church as centered in the of— Pope; from the words of Our Lord address- ed to St. Peter the first Pope: "I will give to thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven." (Mtt. XVI, 16). Kiss of A sign of fraternal charity which has come Peace— down to us from the old liturgies. I t is given in a solemn Mass immediately a f t e r the 'Agnus Dei' of the Mass. The celebrant kisses the Altar, puts his hands upon the Deacon's arms, both incline their V heads slightly, left cheek to left cheek; the priest says 'Pax tecum' (peace be to you), and the deacon answers ' Et cum spiritu tuo' (and with thy spirit). Kyrie Greek words meaning 'Lord Have Mercy Eleison— on Us', and occurring in the Mass immedi- ately a f t e r the Introit. L Laetare A medal presented annually on Laetare medal— Sunday by the University of Notre Dame, Indiana, to a Catholic layman who distin- guished himself by his services for Church and State. Laetare Fourth Sunday in Lent, also called Rose Sunday— Sunday, because rose vestments may be substitute for violet on that day; named from the first word of the Introit of the day, "Laetare," meaning, "Rejoice." Lamenta- A book of the Old Testament in which the tions— prophet Jeremias mourns over the des- truction of Jerusalem, over the ruins of the temple, and over the plight of his people. P a r t of these are sung at the Tenebrae services,—on the Thursday, Friday, and Mf?5; Saturday of Holy Week. 42 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Latvia— The supreme homage and religious worship due to God alone. Laudate Psalm 116, which is sung a f t e r Benediction Dominum— of the Blessed Sacrament. These first words of the psalm mean, "Praise the Lord." Lauds— The second hour of the breviary or Divine Office. Lavabo— ("I shall wash") The washing of the priest's hands a f t e r the Offertory of the Mass; it signifies the purity of heart re- quired for the worthy celebration of the Mass. The divine plan, existing in God's mind from all eternity, for directing the whole universe to its end. The eternal law impressed on the minds and the hearts of men, telling them to do good and avoid evil. A member of a religious order who doe3 not receive holy orders and who does not say the breviary, but who is occupied with • the secular affairs of the monastery, as, f o r example, the care of the buildings, farms, etc. Lectern— A high movable reading desk supporting the books used during liturgical services. Lector— Second of the Minor Orders, conferring the right and duty of reading the lessons in church. Legate, An envoy of the Pope sent as his special, papal— personal representative to a sovereign or government or to a special church function to act with the same power as if the Pope himself were present. Law, eternal— Law, natural— Lay brother— 43 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Lent— Levites— Licentiate— Ligamen— Light of Glory- Little Hours— Little Office- Liturgy— 1 Low Mass- Low Sunday— Lunette, Lunula—L The forty days' f a s t before Easter, begin- ning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Saturday at noon. Members of the tribe of Levi who served as assistants to the Jewish priests; Chris- tian clerics below the order of priest. A degree in Theology which comes a f t e r the degree of Bachelor and prepares one for the degree of Doctor. An existing valid marriage union constitut- ing an invalidating obstacle to another marriage by either party. A supernatural quality elevating and streng- thening the mind so that it may be able to behold God face to face in heaven. The shorter hours of the breviary or Divine Office, namely, Prime, Terce, Sext, and None. Form of prayer resembling in composition the breviary or Divine Office, but much shorter and on the whole varying very little. The most common is the Little Office of the Blessed Virgin. The public official service of the Church, consisting of all the public rites, ceremon- ies, and prayers of the Church, and especi- ally the Sacrifice of the Mass. • Mass that is read or recited by the priest. The English name for the Sunday immedi- ately a f t e r Easter, it is called "low" in contrast with the "high" feast of Easter of the preceding Sunday. A round receptacle, usually with glass sides, containing the Benediction Host, and in- serted into the monstrance during Bene- diction. 44 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST M Madonna— An Italian word meaning "My Lady", a title given to the Blessed Virgin in art and in devotions. v Magi— The wise men from the East (Gaspar, Mel- chior and Balthasar) who brought g i f t s to Jesus in Bethlehem a f t e r having followed the star. Magnificat— ("Anima mea Dominum"): "My soul doth magnify the Lord" (Lk. I, 46)—opening line of the hymn in which the Blessed Virgin gave expression to her own exalted dignity as Mother of God on the occasion of her visit to Elizabeth. Major The orders of subdeaconship, deaconship Orders— and priesthood, Maniple— A vestment about a yard long and three inches wide, worn on the left arm of those in major orders during Mass, so that it falls in equal length on both sides. The ends of the maniple are trimmed with fringe or tassels.- Manna— A miraculous food sent by God to the Jews during their journey to the promised land; a type of the Eucharist. Mantelletta—A sleeveless cloak with opening for the arms, and covering the whole rochet or surplice. Marks Qualities or properties which are proper to (of the the true Church and distinguish it as the Church)— Church of Christ from other Churches. The Church has four marks: It is One. It is Holy. It is Catholic. I t is Apostolic. Martyr- A list of Martyrs and Saints according to ology— the calendar with brief notices of their life and death, also of the feasts of Our Lord celebrated during the ye?r. 45 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Mass— The unbloody sacrifice of the Body and Blood of Christ made present on the altar by the priest's words of consecration. I t is a renewal of the Sacrifice of the Cross. Mass of the The Mass from the beginning until the Catechu- Offertory, at which part the Catechumens mens— were permitted to assist during early days. Mass of the The Mass from the Offertory to the end, Faithful— the sacrifice proper, to which in primitive times only the baptized faithful were ad- mitted. Mass of the Mass said on Good Friday with the Host pre-sancti- consecrated on Holy Thursday. fied— Master of One who directs the ceremonies at a solemn Ceremonies—Mass and at other liturgical services. Master of One who trains the novices of a religious Novices— order or congregation. Matins— From the Latin "Matutinum" meaning "morning"; the principal and longest part of the breviary, formerly recited very early in the morning. Matrimon- A group of priests appointed by the bishop ial Court— to discuss the validity of a marriage when nullity is petitioned. Matrimony—A sacrament uniting a Christian man and woman in lawful marriage. Maundy A name given to the Thursday in Holy Thursday— Week; "Maundy" comes from "Mandatum", the first word of the ceremony of the wash- ing of the feet. Mediator— One who intervenes between two persons or parties to reconcile them. Christ was the mediator between God and man. 46 Mediatrix of all Graces— Meditation— Memento— Mens a— Metaphy- sics— Metropoli- tan— Minor orders— Miserere— Missa Cantata— Missal— Mitre— A CATHOLIC WORD LIST The Blessed Virgin Mary as dispenser of all graces given to us by the Risen Christ. Some say that Mary intercedes for each and every grace given to us by Christ. Others go f u r t h e r and assert that no grace is given to us unless it first passes through Mary's hands. Application of the imagination and mind to the consideration of a particular divine truth, followed by a resolution of the will to put the t r u t h into practice in specific situations of our daily life. "Be mindful"; A recalling of the f a i t h f u l departed made soon a f t e r the consecration at Mass. A memento of the living made at Mass at the beginning of the Canon. (Latin: "a table") The flat top of an altar, A philosophical science which treats of the principles underlying all things, such as being, cause, substance, etc. An Archbishop who presides over a pro- vince and has other bishops under him. Lower ranks of the sacred ministry which must precede major orders, namely: porter, reader, exorcist, acolyte. The first Latin word of Psalm 50. ("Miser- ere mei Deus, secundum magnam misericor- diam tuam." 'Have mercy on me 0 God, according to thy great mercy') Psalm 50 is a penitential Psalm. (Sung Mass) A Mass sung, but without the help of a deacon and subdeacon. Book containing all the Masses for the en- tire year. A head-dress worn by bishops, abbots, and in certain cases by other distinguished ecclesiastics. 47 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Mixed Marriage between a Catholic and a validly Marriages— baptized member of a heretical or schis- matic sect or a false religion. Monastery—Dwelling place of members of a religious order who are given to the contemplative life and recite the Divine Office in common. Monk— A member of a religious order, who has the vows of obedience, poverty, and chastity, and who lives according to the rules of his community. Monothe- Belief that there is only one God. ism— Monsignor—A title given to the members of the Pope's household. The title is sometimes conferred as an honor on priests living outside of Rome. A vessel which holds the Blessed Sacrament during Benediction and processions. A theological branch which considers the character of actions not only in the light of the natural law, but also in the light of Christian revelation and of the positive law of the Church. Mortal sin— (From Latin word mors m e a n i n g " d e a t h " ) : a serious offense against God's law; called "mortal" because it brings sup- ernatural death to the soul; the requisites for mortal sin are serious matter, sufficient knowledge, and full consent of the will. (Latin phrase meaning "of one's own ac- cord") : a decree issued by the Pope in his own name without the advice of the card- inals or others. Feasts which occur earlier or later in dif- ferent years, being governed by Easter Sunday, which is always the first Sunday * Iter the first full moon in spring. Mon- strance— Moral theology— Motu proprio— Movable • feasts— 48 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Mozzetta— A cape with a small hood, closed in f r o n t by a row of small buttons. It is short enough to allow the rochet to be almost fully seen. It signifies authority and is worn by a bishop in his own diocese. Mystery— A t r u t h which cannot be comprehended by reason, but is not contrary to reason, and which has been revealed by God. The three great mysteries are the Incarnation, the Trinity, and the Eucharist. Mystical A term applied to Our Blessed Lady in the rose— Litany of the Blessed Virgin. The rose is the queen of flowers. The red rose is a symbol of Mary's perfect love of God, the white rose of her Immaculate Conception. Mystical That branch of theology which treats of the theology— progress of the soul in spiritual life and prayer. N Natural A branch of philosophy which establishes Theology— by arguments drawn from reason alone— without any reference to the Bible—the existence of God, His main attributes, and His relations to the world. Nave— That part of the Church reserved f o r the f a i t h f u l ; from the Latin navis meaning "ship," applied to the church because of its shape. Ne The opening words of a decree issued by Temere— Pius X in 1907, stating that thereafter all marriages of Catholics of the Latin Church to be valid, must take place before a qualified parish priest or his delegate and two witnesses. Nihil The words printed in the f r o n t part of a Ohstat— book by which .the censor of books indi- 49 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST cates that he has examined a given work and found nothing in it contrary to f a i t h and morals. Noble The highest rank in the Pope's military Guard— organization. The Commandant must be a Roman Prince and the members must be of the nobility. A certain number of the Noble Guards always accompany the Pope at a public function. Nocturn— A division of Matins in the breviary or Divine Office. Each nocturn consists of three psalms with their antiphons, a ver- sicle and response, the Our Father, an ab- solution, a blessing, and three lessons, each with its responsory. None— The hour of the Divine Office appointed to be said at the ninth hour, i. e., between noon and 3 P. M. In practice it is said earlier. Novena— Prayers for special graces extending over a period of nine days, in imitation of the Apostles who in prayer awaited the descent of the Holy Ghost. Novice— One who has been confirmed in a religious vocation as a postulant, and is now prepar- ing by a series of tests and exercises for the religious profession. Novitiate— The period or state of being a novice, or the place where novices are trained. Nun— A member of a religious order or congre- gation of women. Nuns, in the strict sense, are those who have solemn vows; Sis- ters those who have simple vows. Nuncio— A legate of the Holy See sent as an am- bassador to a foreign government as a per- manent diplomatic agent. 60 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Nuptial Pronouncing of the solemn blessing over a blessing— bride and bridegroom during the Mass. Nuptial The wedding Mass for the bride and bride- Mass— groom. O 0 Salutaris " 0 Saving Victim," etc. The hymn sung (Hostia)— at Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. I t forms the last two stanzas of the hymn "Verbum supernum prodiens," ("The Heavenly Word Proceeding Forth") com- posed by St. Thomas Aquinas in the 13th century. Oath— The calling upon God to witness the t r u t h of a statement. Obses- Action of the devil who attacks and shackles sion— the body from without, molesting it in var- ious ways, and at the same time vexing the soul with severe temptations. I t is dis- tinguished from possession whereby the devil enters into man's body and dwells there, using its members f o r producing un- usual acts. Occasion Any person, place or thing which of its own of sin— nature or because of our weakness generally leads us to commit sin. Octave— (from the Latin "octava dies" meaning "eighth day") Celebrating a feast over a period of eight days; the eighth day of such a commemoration. Odd A society forbidden to Catholics under ser- Fellows— ious sin, because membership would imply participation in its religious ritual and ob- servance of its oath of secrecy. Offer- 1) That part of the Mass in which the tory— priest offers bread and wine to God; 2) the prayers accompanying the offering. 51 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Office, The official prayer of the Catholic Church, divine— recited daily by the clergy and by religious men and women. I t is made up of several parts known as the canonical hours, viz., Matins, Lauds, Prime, Terce, Sext, None, Vespers, and Compline. Oil of Cate- One of the three holy oils used in the cere- chumens— monies of Baptism and Holy Orders; also called "Oleum sanctum" (holy oil). Oil of the One of the three holy oils, used in the Sac- Sick— rament of Extreme Unction, and also in the blessing of bells. Oil-Stock— A round metal vessel made of three sec- tions screwed together, containing the holy oils. Letters on each section indicate the kind of oil it contains. A heretical sect owing its origin to certain Catholics who refused to accept the de- cree of Papal infallibility by the Vatican Council in 1870. A body of men or women who have taken the three vows of poverty, chastity, and obe- dience, and who lead a life in common according to the rules of their community. A name given to the bishop in charge of a diocese, or a superior in charge of a relig- ious community of men. (Latin "order")—Regulations f o r the daily recitation of the breviary and the daily saying of Mass. Latin word meaning "Let us pray." I t in- dicates the union of the people with the priest in the offering up of the Mass. The state of our first parents before the Fall. It consisted of the Indwelling of the Blessed Trinity in the soul, of sanctifying Old Catho- lics— Order— ( religious ) Ordi- nary— Ordo, Oremus— Original justice— 52 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Orthodox Churches— Ostensor- grace, the virtues, and g i f t s of the Holy Ghost, and of freedom from ignorance, con- cupiscence, sufferings and bodily death. The Eastern religious groups which separ- ated from the Roman Catholic Church. A sacred vessel used for Benediction and ium, or mon-for Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. s trance— Oxford A sect, founded by Dr. Frank Buchman, Groups which strives at a complete transformation Move- of the individual and of society by means of ment— the so-called "house parties," aims at abso- lute honesty, purity, unselfishness, and love, and recommends to its members the prac- tice of confession, surrender, restitution, and docility to the guidance of the Holy Ghost. Pain of loss— Pain of sense— Pall— Pallium— Suffering of the soul arising from the knowledge that it is excluded from seeing God face to face. In hell this loss of God is permanent and is accompanied by despair; in purgatory the loss of the vision of God is temporary and is accompanied by hope. Suffering caused the demons and damned souls in hell, and to the souls in purgatory by a physical agent, fire; also the suffer- ing caused by the same fire to the risen body a f t e r the last judgment. A square cardboard covered with linen cloth used to cover the Chalice during Holy Mass; also the black covering on the cata- falque during a requiem Mass. A narrow band woven of white lamb wool granted by the Pope to an Archbishop to be worn on the shoulders over the Chasuble. 53 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST It symbolizes the fullness of episcopal power. Palm Sunday before E a s t e r ; so called from the Sunday— custom of blessing palm branches and carrying them in procession in commemora- tion of Christ's triumphal entry into Jeru- salem. Papacy— The authority of the Pope, the vicar of Christ and successor of St. Peter over the universal Church; the whole line of Popes since the time of-St. Peter. Papal An independent state within Rome, Italy, State—. on the right side of the Tiber, including the Vatican and St. Peter's—all together about 109 acres. Created February 11, 1929. Parable— A short story taken from nature or human experience and intended to teach a super- natural truth or precept. Paradise— a) The abode of Adam and Eve before their fall, b) Heaven. Para- ("Consoler")—Name applied to the third clete— person of the Blessed Trinity, the Holy Ghost. Parish— A portion of a diocese committed to the care of one Pastor who may or may not have assistant priests. Particle A portion, however small, which when con- of Host— secrated contains the fullness of the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. Pasch— Jewish term for our Easter. Paschal Large candle blessed and lighted on Holy candle— Saturday and remaining until Ascension Day at the Gospel side of the altar. It symbolizes Christ the Light of the World. 54 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Paschal Lamb— Passion— Passover- Pastoral letters— Paten— Pat- riarch— Pauline privilege- Pectoral cross— Penance— Lamb slain and eaten at the Jewish Pass- over. The sufferings of Jesus Christ, beginning on Holy Thursday night and culminating in the death of the Cross on Good Friday. An annual feast of the Jews commemorat- ing the liberation of the Jews from Egypt. The avenging angel which killed every first-born in Egypt "passed over" the Jewish homes marked with the blood of the Paschal lamb. Letters addressed by a bishop to the clergy or laity of his diocese. A circular disk of silver or gold—like a small plate, used to hold the host in the celebration of the Mass. In the Western Church, the Supreme Pon- tiff, the Pope. In the Eastern Church, any of the Bishops of the five ancient Sees of Jerusalem, Antioch, Alexandria, Constanti- nople, Venice. The power of the Catholic Church to dis- solve a marriage, even though consum- mated, of two unbaptized persons—when one is converted to the faith and the other refuses to be converted, or live in peace with the other party; proclaimed by St. Paul. A small cross suspended from the neck and worn on the breast by Bishops and other prelates. A Sacrament in which are forgiven the sins committed a f t e r Baptism. A penalty imposed by the priest in confession as a satisfaction to God for the temporal punish- ment due to sin. 57 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Pente- cost— Perjury- Peter's pence— Phari- sees— Philos- ophy— Plenary Council- Pontiff— Pontifical Mass— Pope— \ Portable Altar— Porter-— (from the Greek word pentecostes meaning fiftieth). A feast occuring the fiftieth day a f t e r Easter and commemorating the de- scent of the Holy Ghost on the Apostles. An assertion upon oath of something known or believed to be false. A voluntary annual contribution made by Catholics to the Holy See. An ancient Jewish Sect noted for its strict observance of the Mosaic law and of the so-called traditions of the fathers. An explanation of all things in the light of their highest or ultimate causes. A meeting of the Bishops of a region or nation assembled under the presidency of the Pope's legate to determine matters of rule and discipline. Any Bishop; generally used to signify the supreme Bishop, the Pope. A Solemn Mass celebrated by the Pope or a Bishop. A word meaning "father," applied to the Bishop of Rome as Vicar of Christ, succes- sor of St. Peter, and head of the Catholic Church. A consecrated stone slab containing the relics of two canonized martyrs, and in- serted into the table of an unconsecrated altar. Tha first of the minor orders which pre- cede major orders. This order gives the recipient the power of opening and closing the doors of the Church. 66 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Portiuvr The little church near Assisi, Italy, re- cvla— paired by St. Francis; the annual indul- gence attached to this church and later extended to all Franciscan churches. Posses- The action of the devil who enters a man's sion, body, dwells there, and operates there, demonia- using the members of the body to produce cal— unusual acts. Post The prayer in the Mass a f t e r the Com- Commurir munion, in which we ask God to enable us i o n — to profit by the f r u i t s of the Mass of that day. It changes daily. Postu- A candidate for admission to the novitiate lant— of a religious order or society during the first few months of training. Predella— The platform immediately in f r o n t of the altar. Predesti- The Calvinistic doctrine that God sends a nation— man to heaven or to hell independently of what the man does or tries to do. Preface of The prayer preceding the Canon in which the Mass— we praise God, thank Him for some par- ticular mystery, and ask that our praises be joined to those of the angels in heaven. Prefect The head of the Church in missionary Apos- countries where the hierarchy has not yet tolic— been established. He is usually a priest— with the rights and faculties of a resident bishop. Prelate— A churchman of higher order than a priest, such as a monsignor or bishop. Presenta- 1. The offering of Christ in the Temple tion, The— forty days a f t e r His birth. The feast of the Presentation (Feb. 2) is also called Candlemas because candles are blessed in 57 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Prie- Dieu— Priest- hood— Primacy- Primate- Prior— Privileged altar-— Pro-Cathe- dral— Profana- tion— Profes- Prohibit- ing impedi• ments— the church on this day in honor of Christ the Light of the World. 2. The offering of the Blessed Virgin in the Temple at the age of three years by her parents. The feast is observed on No- vember 21. A movable kneeling bench. The institution established by Christ for perpetuating His Incarnation and Re- demption; collectively all the priests or- dained in the Church; the life of a priest; the priestly character in the priest's soul. The supreme power of the Pope to rule the whole Church. A Bishop who had jurisdiction over the bishops of a province or country. Today merely an honorary title giving precedence over all other prelates in religious func- tions. The superior of a monastery. An altar which has attached to it a plenary indulgence given to the soul for whom Mass is said on that Altar. A church temporarily used as a Cathedral until a permanent Cathedral can be built. Disrespectful and contemptuous treatment of sacred things; desecration of a church or cemetery through commission of a crime within it. The taking of the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience in a particular religious or- der or congregation. An obstacle that makes a marriage unlaw- ful but not invalid. 68 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Propaga- tion of the Faith So- ciety— Prothono- tary Apos- tolic— Province— Publican— Purga- tory— Purifica- tion— Purifica- tor— Putative marriage- Pyx— An international association for the assist- ance of Catholic missionary priests, broth- ers, nuns, and catechists. One of the chief prelates in the Papal Court; the dignity which carries the right to use the pontificals (pectoral cross, mitre, sandals, gloves, ring, etc.) and is some- times conferred as an honor on priests out- side of Rome. A territory comprising several dioceses under an Archbishop or Metropolitan; in religious orders a section of the country governed by a superior or provincial. A tax gatherer for the Roman government in the time of Our Lord. A state or place where souls which de- parted from this life in sanctifying grace are expiating their venial sins, and the tem- poral penalties due to sins already forgiven. Legal cleansing of a Jewish mother which took place 40 days a f t e r the birth of a boy and 80 days a f t e r the birth of a girl. The mother went to the temple, where a Jewish priest prayed over her and sprinkled her with lustral water, and thereupon she made an offering of a lamb and a turtle dove or a young pigeon, or in the case of the poor two pigeons or two turtle doves. The folded linen cloth used to clean the interior of the chalice and the priest's lips and fingers at Mass. An invalid marriage contracted in good faith. A sacred vessel or case used to carry the Eucharist to the sick. 59 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Q Quaran- A term formerly employed to designate tines— an indulgence of a quarantine, or a release from as much temporal punishment due to sin as would be obtained by forty days of a strict rigorous penance in the early Church —but now abolished since 1938. Quarter An old English name for the Ember days, Tense— derived from the old French "quatres tens" meaning four times (a year). Quinqua- The Sunday immediately before Ash Wed- gesima nesday. So called because it is approxi- Sunday— mately fifty days before Easter. "Quo Latin for "Whither goest Thou?" The Vadis"— name of a chapel in Rome on the Appian Way where tradition says Christ met Peter fleeing from persecution and asked: "Quo vadis"—also name of a Polish novel by Henryk Sienkiewicz. R Rabat— Two rectangular pieces of white linen, at- tached to the collar of the habit and fall- ing on the chest, worn by Christian Broth- ers; the French clergy wear a black rabat edged with white. Rabbi— A Jewish title meaning "master, teacher"; An article of black cloth which is attached to the priest's Roman collar. Rabboni— Literally, "my great master"; a form of Rabbi. Raca— Empty headed fellow (Mtt. V, 22) Raccolta— (Italian, "a collection"), A collection of prayers and exercises to which the popes have attached indulgences. The Raccolta was first published at Rome in 1807. The most recent edition was made in 1938 nul- lifying all previous editions. 60 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Real The existence of the Body, Blood, Soul and Presence— Divinity of Our Lord Jesus Christ under the appearance of bread and wine in the Eucharist. Redeem- A title applied to Christ in so f a r as He er— liberates us from the slavery of sin, Satan, and death. Redemp- The act of atonement for the sins of man- tion— kind through the God-Man's or Second Adam's loving obedience, expressed in His sufferings and death, meriting graces which are distributed to us by the Risen Christ, and which restore to us the right to heaven and#-though not entirely in the same form . -—the g i f t s lost by the. first Adam. Redemp- The Congregation of the Most Holy Re- torists— deemer, founded by St. Alphonsus Liguori in 1732. Regina ( " 0 queen of Heaven, Joy to Thee")—The Coeli— Antiphon of the Blessed Virgin Mary for Paschal Time; said instead of the Angelus morning, noon, and evening during that season. Relic— The body of a Saint or an integral part of i t ; also any object that has been sanctified by physical contact with the living saint. Religious Priests organized under a superior of a re- Clergy— ligious community. Religious A "permanent community life, in which the Life, State—faithful besides observing the common pre- cepts, oblige themselves to the observance of the evangelical counsels by the vows of obedience, chastity, and poverty" (Canon 487). Reposi- The side altar where the Blessed Sacra- tory— ment is kept from the Mass on Holy Thurs- 61 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST day until the Mass (of the Presanctified) on Good Friday. Reli- Vessel in which relics are sealed, kept, and quary— exposed; often resembling a monstrance in shape. Requiem A Mass celebrated for a deceased person or Mass— persons. Black vestments are always used. Rescript— The answer of the Pope, or of a Sacred Congregation, to a question or a petition. Rerum An Encyclical letter of Pope Leo XIII, is- Novarum— sued in 1891, concerning the condition of the working classes. Reserved Sins or censures, the absolution from which Cases— is reserved to the Bishop, to the Holy See, or to a priest with special faculties. Restitu- The restoring of ill-gotten goods, or of an- fión— other's good name destroyed by calumny. Resurrec- The reunion, through His own power, of tion (of the soul of Christ which had been in Limbo Christ)— since He died, to His Sacred Body, which henceforth became not only living but glor- ious, impassible, incorruptible and immor- tal. Resurrec- The reunion at the general judgment of the tion (of the soul to the body of every human being, the body)— latter sharing in the glory or damnation of the former. Retreat— Withdrawing from worldly cares and affairs for a certain period in order to meditate on man's origin, purpose in the world, and final destiny. Revela- Truths made known to us by God and con- tion— tained in Sacred Scripture and Tradition. Rheims- The approved Bible of the Catholic Church, Douay in the English language. The Old Testa- Bible— ment was first published by the English 62 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST College at Douay, A. D. 1609, and the JNev, Testament was first published by the Eng- lish College at Rheims, A. D. 1582. R. I. P.— From the Latin "Requiescat in pace"— meaning "may he (or she) rest in peace." Rite— The manner of performing services for the worship of God and the sanctification of men—manner of celebrating Mass, admin- istering the sacraments, etc. Ritual— The priests' book of rites; the book in which is set down the order of administer- ing the sacraments, of blessing various ob- jects, of burial services, etc. Rochet— A linen surplice with close-fitting sleeves worn by bishops, abbots, and other prelates. Rogation The 25th day of April and the three days Days— before Ascension Thursday, on which the Litany of the Saints is recited during a procession, a special Mass is said, and God is besought to show His mercy towards us and bless the f r u i t s of the earth. Roman Collar buttoning in the back to which is Collar— attached a silk breast piece called the rabbi, worn by the hierarchy and clergy of the Catholic Church. Rorate Latin phrase meaning "Drop down dew ye Coeli— heavens" (Isaias VIII, and XLV). The words are of frequent occurrence in the Advent Liturgy and give expression to the longings of the prophets and patriarchs and now of the Church for the coming of Christ. Rosary— A devotion in which fifteen decades—each consisting of an Our Father, ten Hail Mary's and a Glory be to the Father are recited, and accompanied, each of them, by meditation on one of fifteen mysteries of our Lord, or of our Blessed Lady. 63 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Rota, The supreme tribunal at Rome for deciding Roman— cases on marriage, etc. Rubrics— (From the Latin "ruber" meaning "red") Directions in liturgical books for carrying out ceremonies, so called from their gen- erally being printed in red letters. Rule of The guide with the aid of which we know Faith— what to believe and what to do. The infal- lible Church, interpreting for us the Bible and Tradition, is our immediate living rule of faith. Sabbath— The seventh day of the week, (Saturday) on which God rested a f t e r creation, and the day on which the Jews rest and take part in divine worship. In the Christian ritual, the first day of the week; glorified by Christ in His Resurrection, and the Holy Spirit in His advent on Pentecost. Sacrament— An outward sign instituted by Christ to give grace. There are seven Sacraments: Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Eucharist, Penance, Extreme Unction, Matrimony, and Holy Orders. Sacramen- Anything set apart or blessed by the Church tal— to excite good thoughts and to increase de- votion, and through these movements of the mind and will to remit venial sin. Some of the most common sacramentals are holy water, images, crucifixes, rosaries, scapu- lars, etc. Sacrifice— An offering and alteration of a sensible thing by a legitimate minister, for the honor of God alone in order to acknowledge His supreme dominion, to implore His forgiveness, to thank Him for His benefits, 64 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST f to beseech His help, and to enter into communion with Him. Sacrilege— An offensive use of sacred persons, places, or things. Sacristy— . A section of the church adjoining the sanctuary, where vestments and sacred ob- jects are kept, and where the priest vests for Mass. Sadducees— The Jewish free thinkers in the time of Our Lord. They denied the existence of Angels, of the soul, and of the resurrection. They laid emphasis on only the first five books of the Old Testament. Saint— A person declared by the Church to have cultivated virtue to a heroic degree, to be in heaven and to deserve veneration in the whole Church. Salvation— A state of freedom from sin and its conse- quences; escaping God's wrath at the final judgment. Salve Latin words meaning "Hail Holy Queen." Regina— Samari- A people who arose from the intermarriage tans— of pagan Assyrians and the Jews, and lived in the central part of Palestine between Galilee and Judea. They were hated by the Jews, who considered them as tainted by pagan blood. Sanctifying A supernatural g i f t of God inhering in the Grace— soul and making it holy and pleasing to God. Sanctorale—That part of the Liturgical Year which commemorates the Saints, as distinguished from the Temporale which commemorates the mysteries of Our Lord's life. Sanctuary— The space in a church around the high al- tar, usually enclosed by a communion rail- ing. 65 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Sanctuary The light burning before the Blessed Sac- lamp— rament in a church and fed by beeswax or olive oil. Sanctus— The triple "Holy" forming the conclusion of the Preface. Sandals— Slippers worn by a bishop when he pon- tificates. Sanhedrin— In the time of Our Lord the supreme Jew- ish court consisting of 70 judges. Sapiential Those books of the Old Testament which Books— are considered as teaching wisdom: Pro- verbs, Ecclesiastes, .Wisdom, Ecclesiasticus. The Latin word "Sapientia" means "Wis- dom." Satan— Leader of the evil spirits, of the fallen angels. Satisfac- The redeeming work of Christ in so f a r as tion— it repairs the offense done to God and pro- cures the remission of sin. In the sacrament of Penance, repairing the offenses done to God, by carrying out the works (penance) imposed by the confessor. Scandal— Any word or act which leads another to commit sin. Scapular— A sacramental, a badge of a religious asso- ciation or order, consisting of two small square woolen pieces connected by two bands, and worn one on the breast and the other on the back. It gives the wearer the right to share in the spiritual blessings of the association or order. Schism— Willful separation from union with the Pope. Schismatic— A person belonging to a sect which, al- though having the same doctrines and pre- 66 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST cepts as the Catholic Church, refuses alleg- iance to the Pope. Scholastic- The system of thought having its own meth- ism— od of investigation and seeking to harmon- ize philosophy with revelation. The system reached its highest point of development in the middle ages and was fostered by such men as Scotus, St. Thomas Aquinas, and Suarez. The name "Scholasticus" was giv- en to a distinguished scholar during the Middle Agea. Scholastic— An exponent of scholasticism. A candidate for the Jesuit Order. Schoolmen— An English word for the Scholastics of the Middle Ages. Scripture, The Bible. Sacred— Seal (of con- The solemn obligation of the priest to re- fession)— veal nothing and to make absolutely no ref- erence to matters heard in confession. Seat of A title applied in the Litany of Mary who Wisdom— was the abode and Mother of Him Who is Supreme Wisdom, the Wisdom of God. Secret (in The prayer said (secretly), that is, silently, the Mass)— over the offerings of bread and wine which have now been "secreted," that is, separated from profane use. I t occurs immediately a f t e r the "Orate Fratres." Secret Societies forbidden to Catholics because of Societies— their oath of blind obedience and absolute secrecy and because of their religious ritual. Freemasonry is forbidden to Catholics under pain of excommunication. The fol- lowing societies are forbidden under pain of serious sin: Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias,. Sons of Temperance, and the In- dependent Order of Good Templars. A CATHOLIC WORD LIST 67 Sect— A religious group which has cut itself off from the Church. Secular Clergy who do not belong to a religious Clergy— order but labor for the sanctification of souls directly under the authority of the bishop, more properly called diocesan clergy. See— The territory ruled over by a bishop; a diocese. Septuage- ("The seventieth")—The third Sunday be- sima— fore Lent; approximately the seventieth day before Easter Sunday. Sequence— A hymn occurring before the Gospel in certain Masses. There are five of these hymns in the Missal. Servant of A person whose virtuous life the Church is God— investigating with a view of beatification. Servant of Title assumed by Pope Gregory the Great the Servants in the sixth century and retained by each of of God— his successors to express his office of a ser- vant to all who serve God. Servile Work forbidden on Sundays and Holydays. Work— Servile work is chiefly manual, mechanical, bodily work. Seven Words The seven statements of Our Lord while of Christ— He hung on the Cross. Sexage- (Latin, "the sixtieth")—Second Sunday be- sima— fore Lent; approximately the sixtieth day before Easter. Sext— One of the parts of the breviary originally said at the Roman sixth hour, or at midday. Shroud Linens in which Our Lord's body was (Holy)— wrapped in the tomb. Simony— Selling and buying of sacred offices or sac- red things. 68 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Simple Vows in a religious community permitting Vows— the member to own though not to adminis- ter property—as regards poverty; and to contract a marriage validly but not licitly without dispensation from the vow. Sin— A deliberate and willful breaking of God's law. Skull Cap— A tightly fitting cap worn on the crown of the head by bishops and other prelates. Slander— Spreading false reports about the character of another. Sloth—; Laziness in carrying out our obligations. Solemn Mass sung by a celebrant with the assist- Mass— ance of a deacon and subdeacon. Solemn Vows declared such by the Holy See; a Vows— member of a religious community with solemn vows can neither administer nor own property, nor validly contract a mar- riage without dispensation from his vows. Sorrows of 1. Prophecy of Simeon; 2. Flight into the B. V. Egypt; 3. Loss of the Child Jesus in the Mary— Temple; 4. Meeting of Jesus bearing His Cross; 5. Standing at the foot of the Cross; 6. The Crucifixion; 7. Burial of Jesus. Soul— The spiritual and immortal principle in man giving life to his body, and continuing to exist a f t e r separation from the body. Species The color, taste, smell, etc., of the bread {Eucharis- and wine a f t e r the substance has been tic)— changed into the Body and Blood of Christ. Spiritism— A system of religion that attempts to get in touch with spirits and departed souls and be governed by the communications from the dead. Sponsors— A godparent at baptism or confirmation who A CATHOLIC WORD LIST 69 promises to watch over the Christian train- ing of the god-child. Stabat ("At the Cross Her Station Keeping") — Mater— Sequence in the Mass of the Seven Dolors of the B. V. Mary. Stalls— Seats for the clergy or members of the choir in the sanctuary. Station Days on which, especially during Lent, the days— faithful in the early centuries gathered at a certain church for the celebration of Holy Mass. Stigmata— The five wounds of Our Lord appearing miraculously on the body of any person so favored by God. Stole— A sacred vestment in the form of a long ornamental band of silk worn around the neck during Mass and the administration of the Sacraments. Subdeacon- The first of the Major orders carrying with ship— it the obligation of celibacy and reciting the breviary. Suffragan— The bishop of a diocese within a province under an Archbishop or Metropolitan. Summa The last and chief theological work of St. Theolo- Thomas Aquinas, characterized by the per- gica— fection of his method and sublimity of doc- trine. Supernat- That which is above the nature, faculties, ural— needs, and merits of man. Surplice— A white linen garment worn over the cas- sock at the administration of the sacra- ments and assistance at liturgical services. Sursum (Latin, " L i f t up your hearts"). An exhor- Corda— tation said immediately before the Preface. 70 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Suspension.—A penalty by which a cleric is deprived of the exercise of some or all of his powers.. Symbols— Creeds: Apostles', Nicean, Athanasian. Synagogue—Jewish place of meeting, prayer, and wor- ship. Synod— A meeting of the priests of a diocese pre- sided over by the bishop for the purpose of enacting legislation. Tabernacle—A strong locked receptacle or safe, lined or curtained on the inside with silk, and situ- ated in the center and to the rear of the altar table in which is kept the Blessed Sacrament. A tent-shaped silken covering, frequently ornamented with braid and fringes, varying in color according to the feast of the day, covering the top and sides of the tabernacle. The top of the altar on which are placed the sacred vessels and liturgical books. In the Oriental languages a certain sum of money; name used by Our Lord in His parables for the g i f t s which God has be- stowed on us. ("Down in Adoration Falling"). A hymn always sung at Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, the last two stanzas of the Eucharistic hymn "Pange Lingua," ("Sing, My Tongue, the Savior's Glory") by St. Thomas Aquinas. ("We praise Thee, O God.") A hymn which is said or sung on occasions of thanksgiv- ing. Also said as a part of the breviary or Divine Office on feast days. Vows taken for only a certain length of time and ending when the time has expired. Tabernacle Veil— Table of Altar— Talent— Tantum Ergo— Te Deum Laudamus- Temporary Vows— 71 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Tempta- An attempt of our lower faculties to rebel tion— against the control of the mind and will, or an attempt of satan to lead us to sin. Tencbrae— A part of the Divine Office chanted publicly on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of Holy Week, formerly said at night. "Tene- brae" means "darkness" or "night". Terce— A part of the Divine Office, originally said at nine o'clock in the morning, or at the Roman third hour. Tertiary— A member of one of the Third Orders of a religious community. Theodicy— A study of the existence and attributes of God in the light of human reason alone. Theological Faith, Hope and Charity, so called because Virtues— they relate immediately to God. Theology— (From the Greek word "theos" meaning "God"). The science of God and of divine things in the light of revelation and of reason applied to revelation. Third Associations of laymen or laywomen spon- Orders,— sored by Religious Orders, first institut- ed by St. Francis of Assisi and St. Dominic in the 13th century. Thomism— The teachings in Philosophy and Theology of St. Thomas Aquinas; also the teachings of theologians since his time embodying the fundamental principles of his system. Three A devotion practiced on Good Friday from Hours— noon to 3 P. M. in remembrance of the three hours of Our Lord on the Cross. Throne— An armed chair, mounted on a platform with steps, and with a canopy above it, used by a bishop at solemn functions. Thurible— The vessel in which incense is burnt in the ceremonies of the Church. 72 Tiara— Titular See- Tongues, Gift of— Tonsure— Toties Quo ties— Tower of David— Tower of Ivory— Tract— A CATHOLIC WORD L I S T The head-dress with triple crown worn by the Pope at solemn functions. - A See in which the Church once flourished but which later was overrun by pagans and no longer has a resident bishop. Titular sees are now assigned to bishops who have no diocese of their own. (i. e. auxiliary bishops). The g i f t of speaking a foreign language or of understanding when addressed in a for- eign tongue. A ceremony consisting in cutting off some of the hair from the head, and indicating that the recipient has ceased to be a lay- man and has been received into the ranks of the clergy. In most Catholic countries the tonsure is made by shaving more or le3S of the crown of the head. Latin term meaning "as often as." I t means that indulgences may be obtained as often as one wishes as long as the necessary conditions are fulfilled, at a specified time Or place. A comparison of Mary in her Litany to David's tower, from which David defended himself against his enemies, to indicate Mary's defense of the Church against all heresies. A title applied to Mary in her Litany to in- dicate her beauty and purity. A scriptural passage following the Gradual, read or sung slowly, mournfully, and with- out interruption. The Tract occurs in Masses from Septuagésima to Holy Satur- day, a season of penance. 73 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Tradition— The teachings of Our Lord handed down orally from one generation to another and preserved in the writings of the Fathers of the Church and the authentic teaching of the Vicar of Christ. Transfigura- The momentary overflow of the glory of tion— Christ's soul on his body. Transub- The changing of the substance of the bread stantiation—and wine into the body and blood of Christ at the Consecration of the Mass. Treasury of The merits of Christ and the Saints from the Church—which the Church draws when she grants indulgences. Triduum— Triennial Vows— A three days prayer, retreat, or religious celebration. Vows taken for three years only. Uniat •Church— Unitive Way— Unleavened Bread— Urbi et Orbi— U Eastern Catholics who use a different rite or language from the Latin Church, but who recognize the jurisdiction of the Pope. The highest state of the spiritual life, in which the soul is in intimate union with God. Bread made without yeast, used in the Eucharistic particles in the Roman Catholic .Church. Latin words signifying "for the City and for the World", and referring to the solemn blessing given by the Pope a f t e r his elec- tion and at various occasions during the year. Decisions of the Pope binding Rome and the rest of the world. 74 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Conditions necessary for gaining indulgen- ces ; namely, the person desirous of gaining them must be a member of the Church; he should perform the good work as prescrib- ed; he should, at least before concluding the last work prescribed, be in the state of grace. In addition, f o r some plenary in- dulgences there is required the reception of the sacraments of Penance and of Holy Eucharist, and prayers for the intentions of the Pope. V Validation— Rectifying a marriage which has been in- valid because of a diriment impediment; the necessary dispensations must first be pro- cured and the necessary procedure observed. Vatican— 160 acres of territory together with the buildings in and about the City of Rome under the rule of the Holy See. Head covering worn by members of relig- ious communities of women. A title given to Servants of God because of their heroic virtue and sanctity, as first step toward beatification and canonization. Veneration Homage paid to the holy men and women of Saints— who have been canonized by the Catholic Church. Veni Creator ("Come Creating Spirit.") A prayer ask- Spiritus— ing the Holy Ghost to enlighten our mind and strengthen our will. Venial sin— An offense against God which does not des- troy the supernatural life of the soul, but weakens the soul, disposing it toward mortal sin. "Usual conditions, On the"— Veil, religious— Venerable— 75 A CATHOLIC WORD LIST Vespers— The evening hour or part of the breviary or Divine Office. Vestments— Garments used by the clergy of the Church in divine worship and in the administra- tion of the Sacraments. Viaticum— Holy Communion given to those in probable danger of death. The Latin word "viati- cum" means "provision for a journey." Vicar A priest designated by the bishop to help general— him rule the diocese. He has the powers of jurisdiction but not of order, in the episcopal office. , Vicar of A title given to the Pope, the visible head Christ— of the Church. . Vidi From the Latin meaning "I saw water." It Aquam— is an antiphon used in place of the "Asper- ges" during Easter time. Vigil— A day before a first class feast set aside for prayer and other devotions. The word "vigil" means "watchful expectation." Vigil light—A small lamp burned before a shrine or image. A symbol of prayer. Virgin A dogma of the Catholic Church which birth— holds that the Mother of God was a virgin before, during, and a f t e r the conception and birth of Christ. Virgin A title given to the Mother of God because Mary— of her perpetual virginity. Virginity— Bodily purity and abstinence from all sex- ual pleasure. Virtue— A disposition of the soul to act rightly in observance of the will of God. Vision of Seeing God face to face and understanding God— His mysteries. It is a state of perfect hap- piness. 76 Vocation— Votive candle— Vow— Vulgate— Whit Sunday— Worship— A CATHOLIC WORD LIST A call from God to a state of life in which we may serve Him. A small candle burned before the Blessed Sacrament or images of the Saints, a sym- bol of our devotion and supplication. A promise freely made to God to do some- thing pleasing to Him. The official Latin version or translation of the Bible used in the Catholic Church. The English Rheims-Douay version is a trans- lation from the Vulgate. W Common name f o r Pentecost Sunday. The day on which the Holy Ghost descended in the form of a dove upon the Apostles. "Whit" comes f r o m the white garment worn by those who were baptized on the Vigil of Pentecost. The supreme adoration given to God; the veneration due to the Saints. Year, Ecclesiasti- cal— Church year beginning with the F i r s t Sun- day of Advent. Zuchetto— A skull cap worn by bishops, and clerics of certain religious orders. ,