Catechumen
A person preparing for Christian baptism or confirmation.
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Glossary
An Episcopal Dictionary of the Church
Glossary definitions adapted from An Episcopal Dictionary of the Church, A User Friendly Reference for Episcopalians, edited by Don S. Armentrout and Robert Boak Slocum, provided courtesy of Church Publishing Incorporated, New York, NY.
Cathedral
A church that contains the diocesan bishop’s see (throne), or cathedra (bishop’s chair).
Catherine of Siena
A 14th-century Italian mystic and spiritual writer who devoted her life to serving the poor and converting sinners. Feast day: April 29.
Catholic
Derived from a Greek word meaning universal, catholic (lowercase “c”) emphasizes continuity with the undivided early church. Often used interchangeably (and imprecisely) with “Roman Catholic.”
Cecilia of Rome
See Agnes of Rome
Celebrant
The bishop or priest who presides at the Eucharist and at holy baptism, and at other sacramental and liturgical occasions such as the celebration and blessing of a marriage.
Cense
To perfume with the smoke of aromatic incense.
Chad of Lichfield
A seventh-century Anglo-Saxon monk and bishop, remembered for his simplicity, piety, and devotion to duty. Feast day: March 2.
Chalice
The cup for the wine that is consecrated and administered at the Eucharist.
Chancel
Area of the church set apart for the altar, lectern, pulpit, credence table, and seats for officiating and assisting ministers.