Glossary

The redemptive suffering of Jesus Christ in the events surrounding his death. A Gospel narrative of the Passion is read liturgically during Holy Week, often with congregants taking different parts.

See Palm Sunday.

An eight-day Jewish festival that celebrates the events leading to the Jewish Exodus from Egypt. Jesus and his disciples were in Jerusalem celebrating Passover when he was arrested, tried, and crucified.

Shallow dish or small plate for the bread at the Eucharist.

A fifth-century British bishop and missionary to Ireland. Feast day: March 17, which also is widely celebrated secularly as St. Patrick’s Day.

A 19th-century martyr who was the first missionary bishop to Melanesia. Along with members of his company, he was speared to death on the island of Nukapu, reportedly after being mistaken for a slave trader. Feast day: Sept. 20.

A liturgical exchange of greeting through word and gesture, initiated by the celebrant with the words, “The peace of the Lord be always with you.” The congregation responds, “And also with you,” or, “And with thy spirit.”

A cross, typically of silver or gold, suspended by a chain around the neck, that rests on the chest. Bishops normally wear a pectoral cross.

A person seeking the church’s ministry of reconciliation by making a confession to a confessor.

A corporate rite of repentance that can precede a Eucharistic liturgy or form the basis of a stand-alone service. It includes an acclamation, confession of sin and absolution.