Glossary

A disciple of the Apostle John, who named him bishop of Smyrna. Polycarp was burned at the stake for refusing to burn incense to the Roman emperor. Feast day: Feb. 23.

A person recognized by the bishop as beginning the canonical process leading to ordination as a deacon or priest. Postulancy is followed by candidacy. See Candidate.

See Book of Common Prayer

Communal intercessory prayers offered during the Eucharist and other services. Preferably led by a deacon who is charged with bringing the needs, hopes, and concerns of the world to the church; also led by laypeople.

A piece of music played immediately before a worship service.

In The Episcopal Church, presbyter is a seldom used synonym for a priest.

The chief pastor and chief executive officer of The Episcopal Church, providing leadership, vision, and mission strategy. Elected by the House of Bishops and confirmed by the House of Deputies for a nine-year term.

One of the three orders of ordained ministry, the others being bishop and deacon.

A duly ordained priest serving in a congregation by appointment of the bishop, with the same canonical authority and duties of a rector but without tenure and serving only so long as the bishop directs.

In ecclesiastical terms, primacy is the status of being first, or presiding, among other bishops.