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.

Vigil

A service at night prior to Easter or a major feast or other important observance.

Virginia Theological Seminary (VTS)

The largest Episcopal seminary, founded in 1823 in Alexandria, Virginia. VTS affiliated with The General Theological Seminary (GTS) in 2022 to share governance, resources, personnel, and programs, while remaining distinct entities.

Vocation

A vocation is a way of life or inner sense of purpose. In a religious context, vocations may be for lay or ordained persons. Priests, nuns and monks are examples of people pursuing a vocation. From the Latin word vocare meaning “to call,” every person has a vocation because all people are called by God…

Votive

An item such as a small candle given in fulfillment of a vow or in expression of devotion or hope.

Votive Lights

Short thick candles inserted into small glass cups which worshippers may light as an act of devotion.