Glossary

A gesture of reverence performed by touching one knee to the floor (or lowering it toward the floor) while keeping the upper body upright, before returning to a standing position. Genuflection is not mentioned in the BCP, and is practiced most often in Anglo-Catholic congregations.

A short acclamation of praise used primarily in the Daily Offices: “Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.”

The Friday before Easter Day, on which the church commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus. Traditionally a day of fasting, acts of discipline, and self-denial.

From an Old English term meaning, “good news,” the proclamation of salvation through Jesus Christ. Also, a literary genre describing Christ’s life, death, and resurrection. The four official Gospels of the New Testament are Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

The term names a liturgical function, referring to a member of the clergy who proclaims the Gospel in a worship service.

A psalm, hymn, or anthem that is sung or read at a Eucharist between the Old Testament reading and the epistle.

The response of assent by the congregation at the conclusion of the Eucharistic Prayer. It is printed in all capitals in the BCP to signify its importance.

A lengthy intercessory prayer including various petitions that are said or sung by the leader, with fixed responses by the congregation. Especially appropriate during Lent.

A fourth-century Cappadocian bishop, and a leading theologian on the topic of the Trinity. Feast day: May 9.

A fourth-century Greek bishop and leading defender of the faith expressed in the Nicene Creed. Feast day: March 9.