Glossary

A document created in preparation for a search for new clergy leadership, providing information about the history, mission, worship, congregational life, programs, outreach, finances, and goals of the congregation.

Concerning a parish. Clergy who do not work for a church are sometimes called nonparochial.

An annual, official data-gathering instrument of The Episcopal Church. The report includes extensive information about membership and attendance; the number of baptisms, confirmations, marriages and burials; outreach; and finances.

A large candle symbolizing the risen Christ. Often decorated with a cross and other symbols. “Paschal” concerns Easter or Passover. Each year a Paschal candle is lit for the first time from the new fire at the Easter Vigil.

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.