Laurence of Rome
A third-century deacon and martyr who was executed after he refused to hand over the church’s treasure to Rome. Feast day: Aug. 10.
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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.
Lavabo
Ritual cleansing of the celebrant’s hands at the offertory of the Eucharist and the basin that contains the water for this act. From the Latin lavabo meaning “I will wash,” taken from Psalm 26:6.
Law, William
An 18th-century English priest and spiritual writer, whose writing had a profound effect on Charles and John Wesley. Feast day: April 10.
Lay Reader
A trained layperson licensed by the bishop to lead worship in the absence of clergy.
Lectern
A book stand or reading desk that holds the book used for reading Scripture in public worship.
Lectionary
An ordered system for designating the Holy Scriptures to be read at the Eucharist, the Daily Offices, and on specific dates and occasions.
Lector
A trained layperson who reads lessons, and may also lead the Prayers of the People. Licensing by the bishop is not required.
Lent
The period beginning on Ash Wednesday and concluding the day before Easter, traditionally a season of fasting, self-examination, and penitence.
Leo of Rome
A fifth-century bishop and theologian known for compelling preaching and as a defender of orthodoxy. Feast day: Nov. 10.
Lesser Feasts and Fasts (LFF)
A collection of proper collects, lessons, and psalms for the Eucharist on each of the weekdays of Lent, weekdays of Easter season, and each of the lesser feasts of the church year. LFF 2024 is currently in use by the church.