Clergy

Dictionary.com noun, plural cler·gies. the group or body of ordained persons in a religion, as distinguished from the laity. Etymonline.com c. 1200, clergie "office or dignity of a clergyman," from two Old French words: 1. clergié"clerics, learned men," from Medieval Latin clericatus, from Late Latin clericus (see clerk(n.)); 2. clergie "learning, knowledge, erudition," from clerc, also from Late Latin clericus. Meaning "persons ordained for religious work, persons consecrated to the duties of public ministration in the Christian church" is from c. … Continue reading Clergy

Baptism

What exactly is baptism? Dictionary.com noun Ecclesiastical. a ceremonial immersion in water, or application of water, as an initiatory rite or sacrament of the Christian church. any similar ceremony or action of initiation, dedication, etc. a trying or purifying experience or initiation. Etymonline.com "initiatory sacrament of the Christian faith, consisting in immersion in or application of … Continue reading Baptism

Atonement

Dictionary.com noun satisfaction or reparation for a wrong or injury; amends. (sometimes initial capital letter) Theology. the doctrine concerning the reconciliation of God and humankind, especially as accomplished through the life, suffering, and death of Christ. Christian Science. the experience of humankind's unity with God exemplified by Jesus Christ. Archaic. reconciliation; agreement. Etymonline.com 1510s, "condition of being at one … Continue reading Atonement