TRADITIONAL CATHOLIC DICTIONARY ONLINE—C

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Caeremoniale, n.; L. See ceremonial.

Caeremoniarius, n.; L. See Master of Ceremonies.

Calced, adj.; L. Wearing shoes; certain members of religious orders who wear shoes distinguishing them from others belonging to another branch of their order who go barefoot or wear sandals.

Calefactory, n.; L.The common room or community room of a monastery; a room of the monastery in which there is a fireplace.

Calendar (ecclesiastical), n.; L. The days of the civil year set apart for religious celebrations; an arrangement marking the feasts of the Church assigned to each day of the year. A liturgical calendar gives the day by day course of feasts as followed by the Church in her liturgy; this begins with the first Sunday of Advent and continues in the cycle till the following first Sunday of Advent in the next year, and this calendar changes each year because many of the feasts of the Church are determined by the date of Easter.

Caligae, n. pl.; L. Buskins; leggings; liturgical stockings worn by a bishop for Pontifical Mass.

Calotte, n.; It. A small skullcap worn by the Pope, bishops, and other prelates. A zuchetto, a berrettino.

Calumny, n.; L., Fr. A falsehood directed against the reputation of a person. Restitution must be made in as far as possible, (Cf. Slander, Detraction.)

Calvary, n.; L. (1) The small hill to the west of Jerusalem where Christ was crucified. (2) A cross mounted on three steps.

Camauro, n. It. A cap or headpiece made of red velvet trimmed with white fur worn by the Pope on occasions other than liturgical. One of white damask ie worn during the Easter octave. This cap takes the place of the biretta.

Camera, n.; L., It. Camera Apostolica. An office of the Roman Curia, presided over by the Cardinal Camerarius, and entrusted with the administration of the Holy See, especially when the Holy See is vacant. The financial executor of the Holy See.

Camerlengo, n.; It. Also Camerarius. The name attached to the cardinal holding the office of chamberlain of the Roman Church. The one holding this office certifies the death of the Pope and calls the conclave for electing a successor; he is in charge of the retenues of the sacred college of cardinals.

Campanile, n,; It. (1) A bell tower. Originally, a form of bell tower which was developed by Lombardian architecture and which is still used in Italy. The campanile is usually a slender tower, detached from the church building and crowned with a turret containing the bells; now it more frequently is attached to the church, or is found only in its similar construction, the steeple. (2)The name is also applied to an open construction on top of a roof in which a bell is placed.

Candelabrum, n.; L. Pl. candelabra. A multibranched candlestick or candle support, usually with five or seven branches.

Candlemas, n.; L., A.S. Common name attached to the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin, Feb. 2, and derived from the blessing of candles which takes place upon this Feastday.

Candle, n.; L., A.S. A cylindrical wax stick or taper with a wick in the center used for illumination. Candles used in the church for liturgical purposes are of pure wax for the greater part and white in color except in Masses for the dead when they may be of yellow wax. The rubrics prescribe the usage of a specified number to be lighted during various ceremonies.

Canon, n.; Gr., L. (1) Originally this meant a rule or measure. In the Church it has come to mean a rule of belief or conduct. A formal law of the Church. (2) of a chapter, a member of the clergy forming a cathedral or collegiate chapter which lives in a semicommunity life. (Cf. Chapter.)

Canon (Pontificalis), n.; Gr., L. A liturgical book containing the ordinary and Canon of the Mass and some liturgical forms proper to prelates. At pontifical functions it is used, instead of the altar cards, by cardinals, bishops, abbots, and protonotaries apostolic.

Canon Law, n.; Gr., L., A.S. The name attached to that body of rules or laws for the direction of all faithful in matters of faith and conduct. It is that group of laws prescribed to Christians, i.e., baptized persons, by the authority of the Church regarding faith, morals, and discipline. Today we follow the Code (Codex Juris Canonici) promulgated by Pope Benedict XV on May 27, 1917; its binding force began in full on May 19, 1918 The Code is divided into five books: the first is introductory; the second treats of persons as affected by the law; the third treats of things, such as sacraments and sacramentals and the temporal affairs of the Church; the fourth gives the laws governing ecclesiastical procedure; the fifth deals with crimes and their penalties.

Canon (of the Mass), n.; Gr., L. The portion of the Mass proper beginning after the Sanctus and ending Just before the Pater Noster. The sacrificial action of the Mass.

Canon (of the Scripture), n.; Gr., L. The books of Scripture recognized as authentic and prescribed as parts of the Bible by the infallible authority of the Church. The Canon recognizes the books of the Catholic Bible as true and inspired Scripture.

Canonical Hours,(adj.), n. pl.; Gr., L. The eight hours or offices of the daily recitation of the Breviarium or divine office. They are: Matins, Lauds, Prime, Terce, Sext, None, Vespers, and Compline.

Canonicity, n.; Gr., L. The recognition by the Church of a book of Sacred Scripture as inspired.

Canonist, n.; Gr., L. One who is skilled or learned in Canon Law; usually refers to one who has received the degree of Doctor of Canon Law. It also is used loosely to refer to a judge or official of an ecclesiastical court who is generally well trained in Canon Law.

Canonization, n.; Gr., L. The decree of judgment and the declaration of that judgment by tlie Church, given in a Papal bull, that a particular person lived a life of virtue in the heroic degree, that the prescribed number of miracles have been attested and proven, and that the person may be universally venerated and honored by the faithful as a saint.

Canopy, n.; Gr., L., It. (1) A cloth suspended on four poles and carried above the minister who bears the Blessed Sacrament in procession. (Cf. Baldacchinum. Also the similar word, baldaquin.) (2) Canopy of an altar is that rooflike covering of an altar and footpace usually so called when it is rigid, that is, made of masonry or wood, supported by columns; a civory; a ciborium magnum. (3) The tentlike veil or cloth covering the tabernacle. (Cf. Conopaeum.)

Cantate Sunday, n.; L., It. The fourth Sunday after Easter, so named from the first words of the introit of the Mass of that day.

Canticle, n.; L. A sacred song or poem found in the Bible; e.g., one from the Old Testament as recorded in Daniel 3:52-57; or one from the New Testament as found in Luke 1:46-55.

Cantor, n.; L. The song leader of a choir; the precentor; a chanter.

Capital (sins), n.; L. The so-called "deadly sins," seven in number, called "capital" because they are the source of most other sins; called "deadly" because they easily lead to mortal sins. They need not be separate acts but can exist as habits or vices. The seven capital sins are: pride, covetousness, lust, anger, gluttony, envy, and sloth.

Capitulary, n.; L. A set of "chapters" each of which was a law. The name given to the canons or laws passed by provincial councils. Historically it refers to the laws, each called a "chapter," promulgated by the Prankish kings of the first and second dynasties.

Cappa, n.; L. A cape; a long cloaklike garment worn over the shoulders.

Cappa Magna, n.; L. A long vestment with a hood lined with silk or fur, according to the season, worn by cardinals and bishops as a cape. The cappa magna is of scarlet silk when worn by cardinals and of purple wool when worn by a bishop. In procession the train of the cappa magna is usually carried by pages.

Capsula, n.; L. A metal vessel supported on a stand in which the Host for Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament is reserved. (Cf. Luna.)

Cardinal, n.; L., It. The name given to the members of the Sacred College appointed by the Pope; the number of these members should not exceed seventy. They govern in the Church and advise the Holy Father in council; upon the death of the Pope they gather to elect a successor. In the College of Cardinals there are three ranks of dignity ranging in order: Cardinal bishops. Cardinal priests, cardinal deacons, (1) Cardinal Protector is one of the Cardinals of the Sacred College appointed to watch over the interests of a particular religious order, congregation, or nation but who has no jurisdiction over it. (2) Cardinal Vicar is the vicar general of the Pope as the Bishop of Rome who administers the spiritual affairs of the diocese; he is always a cardinal.

Cardinal (virtues), n. pl.; L., It. The four great moral virtues of prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance, so named because of their importance since all other moral virtues are connected with one or other of these.

Carmel, n.; Heb., L. The original Hebrew word means a garden; it is a ridge of mountains in northwestern Palestine on the Mediterranean coast; sometimes the name given a Carmelite monastery.

Carnival, n.; It., Fr. The three days preceding Lent which are a time of celebration before taking on the penances of the Lenten season. (Cf. Shrovetide.)

Cask, n.; L., It. One of two small containers of wine given by the new bishop to his consccrator after the Offertory of the Mass of consecration.

Cassock , n.; It., Fr. A tunic shaped garment reaching from the neck to the heels worn as an outside garment by priests or clerics. In French, a soutane.

Castel Gandolfo, n.; It. The summer residence of the Pope near Rome.

Casuistry, n.; L., Fr. The science which treats of matters of conscience. Strictly, the study of moral principles through concrete cases; applied moral theology. (Cf. Moral theology.)

Casus, n.; L. A real or imaginary example used in teaching canon law or moral theology to illustrate a point and to give practice in applying general principles to particular circumstances.

Catacomb, n.; L., It. An underground place of burial of the early Christians which became a place of refuge during the persecutions, and where public services might be held. They were dug in the tufa granolare, a soft strata of earth adaptable to excavation. When used in the plural, they usually refer to those outside of Rome, but there are also catacombs at Syracuse and Palermo, and in Tuscany and Etruria.

Catafalque, n.; It., Fr. (1) A frame shaped like a bier covered with a black cloth or pall and used during Masses of the dead when the coffin and corpse are not present and over which the absolution for the dead is given. (2) A stand or support on which the coffin (or sometimes a casket, when the body is absent) is placed during the funeral service. (3) A structure built in some places over the coffin and covered with a pall. Sometimes incorrectly called a hearse.

Catechetics, n. pl.; Gr., L. The science and art of instructing the young in Christian doctrine; the teaching of catechism; instructions given to converts.

Catechetical, adj.; Gr., L. Pertaining to catechetics; or the instruction in Christian doctrine; pertaining to the catechism or the work of the catechist.

Catechism, n. Gr., L. Instructions in Christian doctrine, usually of the question and answer form, by which the elements of faith or belief are taught to children or those preparing to enter the Church as converts. Also a collection of questions and answers; usually a book or booklet, used for instruction in Christian doctrine.

Catechist, n. Gr., L. One who teaches those preparing to receive Baptism; one giving instructions in catechism.

Catechize, v.t. and intr.; Gr., L. To instruct in the teachings and doctrines of the Catholic religion; to teach the catechism; to convert; to evangelize; to ask questions pertaining to Christian doctrine.

Catechumen, n.; Gr. L. One who is preparing to receive Baptism. In the early ages of the Church a period of two years or more was usually required before the instruction was considered complete and the sincerity of the person was proven.

Catechumenate, n. Gr., L. A period of preparatior preceding the reception of Baptism a period of preliminary instruction In the early Church this period lasted for two years or more. Some times referred to the place where the instructions were given.

Cathedra, n.; Gr., L. (1) The chair in which the bishop sits; now termed the throne. (2) A symbol of the authority of the bishop; also a symbol of authoritative teaching. (3) ex cathedra, a term used to denote the Pope's supreme and infallible authority when he teaches the faithful regarding matters pertaining to faith and morals.

Cathedral, n.; Gr., L. The home church of the bishop in his diocese; the church in which the chair of the bishop is located and from which it derives its name.

Cathedraticum, n.; L. A small, determined tax, payable to the Bishop by all churches and benefices of a diocese in token of subjection. The tax due from each parish church for the maintenance of the Bishop is popularly but mistakenly called cathedraticum. (Cf. Synodaticum.)

Catholic, adj. and n.; Gr., L. (1) Universal; the word was applied from very early ages to the True Church and today is recognized as the name of the Church. (2) A member of the Roman Catholic Church.

Catholic Action, n.; Gr., L. The acts of the laity in the liturgy, prayer, conversion, and work of the Catholic hierarchy upon approval and under the direction of the bishop. Work to advance the cause of Christ in temporal and spiritual matters, first, in ourselves, second, in our families, and third, in the associations of our social life.

Catholicism, n.; Gr., L. The religion teaching the faith and morals revealed to man by God.

Catholicity, n.; Gr., L. (1) Universality. (2) That one of the four marks of the Catholic Church according to which the Church extends to all times and peoples, and teaches all the truths necessary for salvation.

Cause, n.; L., Fr. (1) That which produces an effect or result. (2) A course of action; a suit in court. In this sense it is used in regard to the introduction of the case of a deceased person for the process of beatification and canonization.

Celebrant, n.; L. The priest or bishop who offers a Mass or conducts any other church service as distinguished from his assistants in the service.

Celebret, n.; L. A testimonial letter by a bishop or major superior of an exempt clerical in- stitute to one of his clergy stating that the priest bearing the letter has been duly ordained and is free of canonical censure, and asking that he be allowed to celebrate Mass in other dioceses. Literally: "He may celebrate."

Celibacy, n.; L. The state of being unmarried. A law in the western Church forbidding under pain of nullity the marriage of men in Holy Orders, beginning with the subdiaconate, and prohibiting a married man who has received Holy Orders from co habiting with his wife.

Cell, n.; L., O.Fr. (1) A small unit of a monastery. (2) The room or separate dwelling of a monk; his living quarters.

Cellarer, n.; L. The procurator of a monastery; the one in charge of buying, storing, and dispensing food at a monastery.

Cemetery, n.; Gr., L. A burial ground; a place set aside for burying; a graveyard. Land consecrated and set apart for the burying of Christians; each lot may be consecrated individually. Burial in consecrated ground is a mark that the departed died in communion with the Church.

Cenacle, n.; L., Fr. The upper room where Christ and His Apostles ate the Last Supper.

Censer, n.; L., O.Fr. The vessel in which incense is burned at certain liturgical functions. Also called thurible. (Cf. Thurible.)

Censor, n.; L. A person appointed by the bishop to pass judgment regarding correct doctrine of faith or morals contained in a book or other writing previous to publication. Usually a priest known for his learning.

Censure, n.; L., Fr. A spiritual and reforming penalty imposed by the Church on a baptized person for the correction of an offense. The censure deprives that one of spiritual advantages or benefits connected with spiritual matters. Absolution from censures is governed in accordance with the offense and the penalty attached; thus it may be reserved to one in authority, to the bishop, or to the Pope. In danger of death, any priest can absolve from all censures. (Cf. Reserved cases.)

Cerecloth, n.; L. A linen doth waxed on one side; it is cut to the dimension of the altar and is placed under the three linen altar cloths, with the waxed side to the table. It is most frequendy used where the altar is of stone, and though not necessary, it serves as a protection for the other cloths against moisture or the oils of consecration on a newly consecrated altar. The chrismale,

Ceremonial (of Bishops), n.; L. Latin: Caeremoniale Episcoprum. A liturgical book containing a detailed account of the order to be observed in religious ceremonies and divine worship. It is the Church's official manual of ceremonies. It contains no texts but is entirely composed of rubrics. It deals with the more solemn functions of the sacred liturgy as they are celebrated in cathedral or collegiate churches, especially when they are Pontifical, i.e., celebrated by, or in the presence of, the Bishop. It is divided into three books, the first giving general rules for the Bishop and his ministers; the second treating of the solemn celebration of Mass and the Divine Office, and of the chief functions of the liturgical year; the third is concerned with the rules for particular prelates who hold certain high offices.

Ceremony, n.; L., O.Fr. (1) An external act performed in the worship of God. (2) The action (attitude, gesture, etc.) of external worship. (3) The actual performance of a rite.

Chair, n.; L., O.Fr. The cathedral seat or throne of a bishop.

Chalice, n.; L., O.Fr. The cup-shaped vessel used in the Mass in which the wine is consecrated. It should be of gold or silver, or the cup should be of silver and gold lined; it is consecrated by the bishop with chrism except by those in Holy Orders or those to whom permission has been given.

Chalice veil, n.; L., O.Fr. A square silk veil used to cover the paten and chalice. Also called pepium.

Chamberlain, n.; Fr.(1) An official of the papal court; one acting as a member of the Roman curia; a camerlengo. The camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church is a cardinal and has charge of the properties and finances of the Holy See. The camerlengo of the Sacred College is the secretary-treasurer of the College of Cardinals, (2) Chamberlain is the tide given to those who have duties about the papal apartments. They may be either clerics or laymen. The title is usually given as an honorary award.

Chancel, n.; L., O.Fr. (1) That part of the church between the altar and the nave, deriving its name from the rails which form the separation. (2) A college (i.e., a corporation or organized body of persons with common duties and privileges) of clerics organized by ecclesiastical authority to carry out the sacred liturgy in a more solemn manner and to perform certain other ecclesiastical functions.

Chancellor, n.; L, O.Fr. The one in charge of a diocesan chancery; the priest appointed by the bishop as a church notary whose duly it is to care for the diocesan archives, keep the records, and write up official documents.

Chancery , n.; O.Fr. (1) Episcopal — the business office from which all documents pertaining to the exercise of the bishop's jurisdiction proceed; a place of retaining all legal papers in all matters pertaining to the fivefold jurisdiction of the bishop. (2) Apostolic an office of the Roman Curia which expedites letters providing for the erection of new provinces and dioceses, and for other matters of greater importance.

Chant (gregorian), n.; L. The official music of the liturgy, called gregorian because of its final development by St. Gregory; and prescribed for those parts of the liturgy which are to be sung.

Chantry, n.; L., O.Fr. A place set aside from the body of the church where Mass was said for the benefit of the soul of some particular person. (Obs.)

Chapel, n.; L. A building, smaller than a church, for divine worship; private or semipublic oratory; also a portion of a church set aside for celebrating Mass or for a particular devotion.

Chaplain, n.; L., O.Fr. Literally, a priest given charge of a chapel; a priest appointed to exercise the sacred ministry in an institution such as a convent or hospital; one appointed to serve in a particular way, as, e.g., an army chaplain.

Chaplet, n.; L., O.Fr. Originally a wreath worn about the head. A name sometimes applied to ihe rosary.

Chapter, n.; L., O.Fr. (1) Cathedral—a group living a semi-community life, made up of dignitaries and canons attached to the cathedral of a diocese to carry on the sacred liturgy in a more solemn inanner, to aid the bishop as his council and, when the see is vacant, to take his place in the administraiion of the diocese. It is chiefly a European term and institution. (2) Collegiate—a group of secular priests attached, not to the cathedral, but to another important church which they serve especially in the celebration of the sacred liturgy. (3) Conventual — the assembly of delegated monks for the discussion, improvement, or change of the rules of their order. (4) Sometimes a short passage of Sacred Scripture in the Divine Office is called a "little chapter."

Chapter house, n.; L., O.Fr. A meeting place of the canons of the cathedral; also the meeting place of monks or religious within their monastery.

Character, n.; Gr., L. In theological usage, a spiritual mark imprinted upon the soul by the reception of the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders.

Charismata, n. pl. sing. charisma; Gr. Charisms. The extraordinary graces given to certain Christians for the benefit of others rather than for the spiritual welfare of the recipient; marks of favor.

Charisms, n. pl.; Gr, A name applied to particular and wonderful gifts of grace, especially the gifts of the Holy Ghost; special gifts or favors of grace given for the benefit of others rather than for the spiritual welfare of the recipicient (Cf. Charismata.)

Charity, n.; L., Fr. A divinely infused virtue by which we prefer God as the sovereign good before all else and by which we do His will and are united with Him. The virtue that disposes us to love God, ourselves, and our neighbors for the sake of God.

Charity (works of), n.; L., Spiritual and corporal works mercy.

Chastity, n.; L., O.Fr. (1) The virtue excluding all volutary pleasure or indulgence in acts arising from the sexual impulse in unmarried persons, and moderating within the bounds of right reason acts pertaining to sexual relations in the married. (2) The evangelical counsel which prompts one to vow permanently not to indulgulge in any deliberate pleasure arising from the natural sexual appetite. The vow is voluntarily made by those ordained subdeacons in the western Church and by monks and nuns and other religious at their professions. A vow of voluntary chastity may be made by a person privately.

Chasuble, n.; L., Fr. The external garment or vestment worn by the priest in celebrating Mass, worn as a mantle over his shoulders and covering the body, front and rear, and descending to the knees. The Roman style of chasuble is more squarely shaped, while the Greek style is more circular in shape and hangs down on the upper parts of the arms.

Cherubim, n.pl.; Heb. The second of the choirs of angels, near to the throne of God because of their more "full knowledge." Singular; cherub.

Chevet, n.; Fr. A series of chapels placed around the east or apsidal end of a Gothic church; one or more small chapels arranged.

Choir, n,; L., Fr. (1) The persons who sing certain parts of the liturgy; sometimes the place or gallery from which they sing. (2) The innumerable host of angels or the of the nine divisions of angels. (3) In cathedral, collegiate, and conventual churches, that part of the building raised up and closed off from the nave where the canons or monks (or nuns) have their stalls. (4) The clergy who are taking part in a liturgical function, seated in stalls arranged along the walls of the church between the sanctuary or apse and the nave or body of the church.

Chorister, n.; L., Fr. A singer in a church choir; the name is generally applied to male singers.

Chrism, n.; Gr., L., A.S. A mixture of olive oil and balsam blessed by the bishop and used in the administration of the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and in the ordination of a priest. Chrism is used in the consecration of bishops, the consecration of churches, altar stones, chalices, patens, and in the solemn blessing of bells and baptismal water. Chrism is blessed on Maundy Thursday, (Cf. Oils, holy.)

Chrismal, n.; Gr., L. Chrismarium, chrismatory. A vessel for containing holy chrism. Also the corporal or pall used in covering the chalice. Sometimes applied to a vessel holding a relic.

Chrismale, n.; L. The cerecloth. (Cf. Cerecloth.)

Christ, n.; Heb., Gr., L. In its original meaning, the "anointed," In the Hebrew the word points to the Messiah. It is the official title of our Lord.

Christening, n.; L., A.S. Formerly a term applied to the Sacrament of Baptism. The act of naming in the ceremony of administering Baptism.

Christian (name), adj.; L., A.S. The name given to the one receiving Baptism, hence a baptismal name.

Christian, Gr., L. In earliest times the name applied to a follower of Christ. Later used as (1) a term designating one who possessed a belief in Christ; (2) a Catholic; (3) a baptized person.

Christ-life, n.; Gr., L., A.S. By Baptism one receives a vital influence of grace from Christ whereby one is united to Him and lives in Him; hence, the life of one in the Mystical Body; the Pauline doctrine of living intimately the life of Christ by manifesting Christ in all our actions. (Gal. 2:19, 20.) The basic motivation for Catholic Action.

Christmas, n.; Gr., L. The twenty-fifth day of December; the day celebrating the birth of Christ; the Feast of the Nativity.

Christogram, n.; Gr., L. A symbol of Christ; chiefly that made up of the first two Greek letters in the name of Christ, namely, Chi and Rho, which is formed thus, XP

Christology, n.; Gr. The formal study of Jesus Christ; scientific study of the doctrine and theory of Christ's natures and person.

Christus, n.; Gr., L. (1) The Latin name of Christ; (2) name applied to the chanter or singer who sings the words spoken by our Lord during the recital of the Gospel story of the passion. (Cf. Passion music.)

Chronista, n.; Gr.; L. A narrator; the cleric who sings the narrative parts of the Gospel of the passion when it is sung solemnly by chanters. (Cf. Passion music.)

Church (church), n.; Gr., A.S. (1) A group of Christians. (2) A place where Christians assemble. A building devoted to divine worship for use of the faithful in a group.

Church History, n. The account of the rise and continuance of the Catholic Church from its founding to the present time. The written account which gives the history of the Catholic religion. Eusebius; Bishop of Caesarea in the fourth century, is said to be the father of Church history.

Church of Christ, n. The Catholic Church. The body of Christian; who profess the faith of Christ and believe in all the teachings of Jesus Christ, use the same means of grace, the Sacraments, and of the same authorities, their pastors united under one visible head, the Pope who is the representative of Christ on earth; that Church instituted by Christ with infallible authority under the visible head, the Pope; the Church which has all four of its marks: One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic.

Church Militant, n.; L., Fr., Those members of the Catholic Church living on earth; so named because those members are "fighting" to attain salvation, they are the "soldiers of Christ"; the living members of the Mystical Body of Christ; all living Christians.

Church property, n. That which is possessed by the Church as a corporation or as a moral person. Any property, movable or immovable owned by a moral personality created by the Church, such as parish, religious house, and the like.

Church Suffering, n. The souls in Purgatory forming part of the Mystical Body of Christ; the poor souls.

Church Triumphant, n. The souls in heaven; the saints forming part of the Mystical Body of Christ. The Church Militant, Suffering, and Triumphant form the Communion of Saints.

Churching (of women), n.; Gr., L.) A.S. A blessing given to women after childbirth; the custom of receiving such a blessing according to the ritual is symbolical of the re-entrance of the mother into the church.

Churchyard, n.; Gr., L., A.S. The land or property belonging to the church and immediately surrounding the church, often devoted to the burial of members of the congregation; sometimes called a cemetery.

Ciborium, n.; Gr., L. The vessel, chalicelike in shape and having a cover, in which communion hosts are kept in the tabernacle. The early meaning was that of a canopy over the altar. (Cf. Luna, Capsula.)

Cilicium, n.; L, A garment worn for penance; a hairshirt,

Cincture (sing-shure), n.; L. A woven cord used as a belt about the waist to hold the alb; a girdle binding the alb. A cingulum.

Cingulum, n ; L. A cincture; a girdle or cord symbolizing purity.

Circumcision (Feast of) , n.; L. The feast celebrated on January 1, commemorating the submission of Jesus to the Jewish law of circumcision.

Circumincession, n.; L. The existence in each other of the three persons of the Holy Trinity. "I am in the Father, and the Father in me." (John 14:10.)

Circumninsession, n. L. See Circumincession.

Citation (si-tay-shun), n.; L., O.Fr. A summons; the calling of a person to give testimony beiore an ecclesiastical court or judge, usually by letter in which the time and place is given; all ecclesiastical citations must be obeyed or a penalty is imposed.

Civil marriage, n.; L., Fr. The contract of marriage entered into before an authorized civil authority and bearing force in civil law.

Civory, n.; also, cibory, L., A.S, The ciborium magnum. The canopy of wood, stone, or metal supported by columns which covers the altar and platform. Sometimes referred to as a baldachin.

Clandestine, adj.; L., Fr. That marriage which is null and void because of the lack of the matrimonial form prescribed by canon law. Said of a marriage of a baptized person which is not performed before one's proper pastor or a priest delegated by him, and before at least two witnesses.

Classics, n.pl.; L., Fr, A term denoting the great writings of Greece and Rome which have survived; in Catholic circles this refers to the writings of the patristic ages, the time of the monastic schools, or the time of the universities in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries when the classical studies had begun a decline. The literature or the classical Christian writers.

Clausura, n.; L. The enclosure, (1) That part of a monastery or convent which has been canonically set apart as the place of residence of the religious and which may not be transgressed by an outsider. (2) The rule separating members of a convent from the world by forbidding them to commune with those outside the walls. (Cf. Enclosure; also Cloister.)

Clementine, adj.; Gr., L. (1) Apocryphal writings attributed to St. Clement of Rome. (2) Also used of an edition of the Vulgate; the Clementine edition.

Clementine Instruction, n. The book containing the regulations for the Forty Hours' Prayer as given by Pope Clement VIII in 1592 and modified and reissued by Pope St. Pius X in 1914. The Instructio Clementina.

Clergy, n.; L., O.Fr. Persons who have received tonsure or Holy Orders; those elevated to a higher rank than the laity and given a special duty in the divine service or in administering to the Church. Sometimes the use of the word includes all religious, even Sisters and lay brothers.

Cleric, n.; L. One belonging to the clergy; one raised to the clerical state; applied to those who have received tonsure or the minor or major orders preparatory to ordination.

Clerical, adj.; L, Of or pertaining to a cleric or an ecclesiastic.

Clerk, n.; Gr.. L., A.S. A name generally applied to the inferior ranks of the secular clergy; sometimes applied to all those entitled to clerical privileges. (Obs.)

Clinical (Baptism), adj.; Gr., L. In the early ages of the Church this was reception on the bed of sickness of the Sacrament of Baptism. (Obs.)

Cloister, n.; L., O.Fr. (1) The canonically enclosed living quarters of a convent or monastery. (2) The close. An enclosed space,square or oblong in shape, with covered passages around the outer wall and pillars on the inner side; the covered passageway around the inner square or garden often found in monasteries.

Clothing , n.; A.S. An investiture; the ceremony at which the habit of a religious order is given to one of a religious community of women who has completed her postulancy.

Coadjutor, n.; L., O.Fr. One who helps a bishop in performing the duties of the diocese. An administrator bishop. (Cf. Bishop.)

Coat (the holy), n.; O.Fr. The relic kept in the cathedral of Treves which tradition holds to be the seamless coat worn by our Lord at His passion.

Coats of arms, n.pl.; Fr. An escutcheon. The hierarchy of the Church, that is, the Pope, cardinals, archbishops, and bishops have coats of arms. These are heraldic emblems, usually consisting of a shield surmounted by the tiara or ecclesiastical hat from which cords with tassels descend. Usually a motto is also attached. The coat of arms of a cardinal is distinguished by a scarlet ecclesiastical hat A papal from which drop two coat of arms cords, each having fifteen tassels; the archbishop's has a green hat and ten tassels on each descending cord; the bishop's has a green hat also, but only six tassels on each cord. The right (from the viewpoint of the bearer) side of the shield represents the diocese; the left side the family arms of the prelate.

Coconsecrators, n. pl.; L. The two bishops assisting the presiding bishop in an episcopal consecration.

Code, n.; L., Fr. The collection of laws known as canon law; the codex. The Church law. The name applied to the collection of laws promulgated on May 27, 1917. The code binds Catholics of the Latin rite only. (Canon I.) (Cf. Canon Law.)

Codex, n.; L. (1) A manuscript of a part or the whole of the Bible, usually forming a book. (2) A collection of writings which have authority. (3) When used alone it usually refers to the Codex Iuris Canonici (the code of canon law).

Coenobite (Senno-byte), n.; Gr. In the early eastern Church, one who lived in a community, religious in nature; a word equivalent in the eastern Church to monk. Also cenobite.

Collarium, n.; L. The name sometimes applied to the large, stiffly starched linen collar worn by the members of some religious orders of sisters or nuns.

Collateral, ad.; L. Term applied to the line of descent of indirect blood relationship, the bond between persons descending from the same stock; brother or sister, uncle or aunt, nephew or niece, first or second cousin. This is opposed to the direct line of descent, that of grandparent and grandchild,

Collation, n.; L., O.Fr. (1) The light meal taken on days of fast; a meal of eight to ten ounces. (2) The act of an ecclesiastical authority in appointing a suitable person to a vacant benefice.

Collect, n.; L. The prayer said during the Mass between the Gloria and the Epistle.

Collection, n.; L. Offering, usually made in money, taken up during services in the church; an alms offered during Mass.

College, n.; L., O.Fr. (1) A corporation of persons Joined in a common pursuit. The colleges of the different nationalities at Rome for the training of theological students. (2) An institution of higher learning of a general rather than a professional character. It may also be applied to a particular branch of a university, e.g., the college of journalism. (3) The collective name used in regard to the cardinals who form the advisory body of the Pope: "the college of Cardinals."

Collegiate Church, adj.; L., O.Fr. Church other than the cathedral church served by a body of secular canons. Chiefly an English term.

Colobium, n.; Gr., L. A long sleeveless garment of royalty in which Christ is often pictured.

Color (liturgical), n.; L. The colors which may be used in the vestments of the Church. They are: white, red, green, purple, black, and old rose for use on the third Sunday of Advent and the fourth Sunday of Lent. Sometimes sky blue is permitted. Cloth of gold may be substituted for white, red, or green; silver for white only.

Comb, n.; A.S. An ivory comb required by the rubrics for the consecration of a bishop, used to smooth the hair of the consecrated bishop after the application of the chrism.

Comes, n.; L. The lectionary. (Cf. Lectionary.)

Commandments (of God), n. pl; L. The commandments or laws given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai; the decalogue; the ten commandments.

Commandments (of the Church), n. pl. Laws binding under conscience, which the Church by law-ful authority has made and imposed on the faithful. The laws: usually six in number, for the spiritual good of the faithful impose obligations under pain of sin They are: (1) To hear Mass on Sundays and Holydays of obligation; (2) to fast and abstain on all days appointed; (3) to receive holy Communion during the Easter season; (4) to receive the Sacrament of Penance at least once a year (5) to contribute toward the support of our priests; (6) to refrain from marrying within the fourth degree of kindred, or to solemnize marriage during the forbidden times.

Commemoration, n.; L. Act of remembrance a prayer of the Mass. All commemorations of the Mass are made up of Collect, Secret, and Postcommunion. There are four kinds of added prayers: (a) those of feasts occurring on the same day (b) prescribed anniversary prayers or prayers prescribed for definite occasions, during exposition, etc.; (c) prayers added to fill up a required number demanded by the rubrics (orationes de tempore or orationes votivae) a prayer or prayers added to the Mass by local episcopal direction (orationes imperatae).

Commendation (of the soul), n.; L.  The prayers for the dying, found in the Rituale Romanum.

Commendatory letters, n.pl.; L. Letters given by the bishop as introductions to members of the faithful who travel to a foreign country and wish to be identified as being in communion with the Church. Such letters are now given to clerics who go from one diocese to another, testifying that they are duly ordained and free of canonical censure. (Cf. Celebret.)

Commission, n.; L., Fr. The doing of something; applied to an act of sin which consists in the doing of something forbidden, as distinguished from a sin of omission which consists in the neglect to do something commanded. (Cf. Omission.)

Commission, n.; L. Fr. A group of ecclesiastics appointed to perform special duties or to carry out certain work; the group may be papal or diocesan.

Common, n.; L. (1) The ordinary of the Mass, especially the sung parts. (2) The part of the Missal or Breviary wherein are found the Masses and offices of all saints who are not assigned special Masses or offices.

Communicate, v.t.; L. To receive the Eucharist; to partake of communion.

Communion, n.; L. a. (1) A word often applied to the Eucharist, derived from the time of the Mass when the Eucharist is received; the name designating the Sacred Host and Wine in which the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Christ are present. (2) The reception of the Sacred Species of wine and bread by the priest in Mass. (3) The Sacred Species received by one communicating. (4) The antiphon said by the priest after the ablutions of the Mass. (5) Spiritual Communion: the earnest desire to communicate and the spiritual uniting of oneself with our Lord in the Eucharist through appropriate prayers or acts of Love and Thanksgiving, b. Frequent Communion: the term by which daily communion, or communion received on many days other than Sundays or Holydays, is known.

Communion of Saints, n.; L. The union binding together in charity all living members of the Church, joining them with the Church Suffering in purgatory and the Church Triumphant in heaven; the three states of the faithful; the Mystical Body. (Cf. Church Suffering, Church Militant, and Church Triumphant.)

Commutation, n.; L. The substitution of another work for the fulfillment of an obligation; particularly with reference to the obligation assumed by one in making a vow, (Cf. Vow.)

Compensation (occult), n.; L. The act of a creditor compensating himself for a debt justly due to him from the goods of the debtor without the latter's knowledge,

Compline, n.; L., O.Fr. The last hour of the Holy Office; the final prayer in the hours of the breviarium.

Concelebration, n.; L. The joint celebration of Mass by a priest and his assistants; in the Latin Church such celebration of Mass is made by the priests only on the day of ordination or by bishops on the day of their consecration.

Conclave, n.; L., Fr. The place of assembly for the cardinals at the electing of a new Pope; also the assembly itself.

Concomitance, n.; L. The presence of Christ's Body and Blood, under either consecrated bread or wine, by "concomitance" or by virtue of the fact that a glorified living body cannot be divided; the presence of the Body of Christ in the Eucharistic bread, together with the Blood, Soul, and Divinity, because these are inseparable from the Body; the presence of Christ, whole and entire, in both species of the Sacrament.

Concordance, n.; L., O.Fr. An alphabetical index to the Bible, arranged according to the principal words in each text.

Concordat, n.; L., Fr. A treaty drawn up between the Holy See and a secular state or gov-ernment concerning the interests of religion in that particular country.

Concupiscence, n.; L. The appetite tending to the gratification of the senses; in itself it may be either good or bad, depending on whether or not its object is conformable to right reason. Most frequendy it refers to the immoderate desires of the flesh due to original sin, an inordinate sensual appetite for sinful pleasures of sense.

Concurrence, n.; L Term applied to the Joining in vespers of two offices which follow one upon the other.

Concursus, n.; L. The examination of candidates to be raised to ecclesiastical benefice; (2) Divine— the providence of God which permits man to exist and because of which God concurs in man's acts, and by which God co-acts with His creature.

Conditional, adj. L. Depending upon conditions. Applied to the intentions of the minister in administering the sacraments when he doubts if all the requisites for validity are present may be expressed orally by the the clause: "If" with the statement of the particular doubt, placed before the essential words of the form i.e. "If thou art not already baptized, I baptize thee....etc. (Cf. Intention.)

Confession (Sacramental), n.; L. The telling of our sin; to a duly ordained priest who has the authority to give absolution the receiving of the Sacrament of Penance; the confessing of sin vocally. All mortal sins, sincerely and clearly told; the sins must be told with the number of times committed, together with the circumstances which affect the nature of the sin. Also called auricular confession.

Confession, n.; L. (1) A profession of faith. (2) In early times the term applied to the tomb of a martyr if an altar had been erected over the grave. (Obs.)

Confessional, n.; L. The seat or place used by a priest when hearing the confessions of the faithful. The place of confession set aside in the church for this purpose; a place of two compartments separated by a screen in one of which the one type of priest is seated and in the other the penitent kneels. Also a name given to the transverse arms that extend from either side of the nave in a cruciform church building.

Confessor, n.; L. (1) The name applied to those saints in early times who confessed the Christian faith or Divinity of Christ in times of persecution and suffered torment but not martyrdom for their confession. Later it was applied to those who confessed faith in Christ through their heroic virtue, writing, or preaching. (2) The priest, duly ordained, having received faculties, who hears confessions.

Confirmation, n.; L. The sacrament through which grace is bestowed on baptized persons to strengthen them in Christian faith. It increases sanctifying grace and imprints a lasting character or mark on the soul. Through the anointing with chrism on the forehead of the person, the Holy Ghost is received to make ore a strong and perfect Christian and a soldier of Jesus Christ. The ordinary minister of this sacrament is the bishop who signs the person with chrism in the Sign of the Cross on the forehead.

Confiteor, n.; L. The name applied to the prayer beginning with this word in the Lntin, meaning "I confess," said at the beginning of Mass during the prayers at the foot of the altar.

Confraternity, n.; L., Fr. A corporate fraternal group of the faithful devoted to the furtherance of works of piety or of charity and likewise for the increase of divine worship. An association of confraternities is called an archconfraternity. (Cf. Sodality.)

Congregation, n.; L. A group of Catholics, usually members of a parish, assembled in church.

Congress, n.; L. A mass gathering of the Catholic of the faithful and clergy for the advancement of spiritual, social, and intellectual activities. The most common of these today are the National or International Eucharistic Congresses.

Congruism, n.; L. A theory of grace expounded by the theologian, Suarez. The grace is given in accordance with the circumstances in which God foresees that it will be accepted and used it is thus termed "congruous."

Conopaeum, n.; L. Also: conopeum or conopium. canopy. (Cf. Canopy, 3.)

Consanguinity n.; L. In the natural sense, the bond between persons descended from the same stock; blood relationship. In canon law, consanguinity makes marriage invalid in the direct line of descent in all degrees and to the third degree inclusive of the collateral line. (Cf. Collateral.)

Conscience, n.; L. A Judgment of reason concerning the goodness or badness of an act which one is contemplating performing, according to the principles of moral law. A person is bound to follow his conscience even it be inculpably erroneous and, also one is bound to form a right conscience.

Consecration, L. (1) The solemn blessing dedicating a person, a place, or a thing to the service of God. (2) — Mass. The action of the Mass; the part of the Canon of the Mass which the celebrant changes the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Christ. This occurs when he takes the bread and says, "This My Body, etc.," and the wine saying, "This is the chalice of My Blood, etc." (3) — of altars. The consecrating or blessing by the bishop of altars and altar stones by an anointing with chrism and the placing of relics within the altarstone, Such consecration lasts until the altar stone is broken or the seal of the relics is broken. Chalices and churches are also consecrated.

Consistory, n.; L. A meeting or the place of meeting where official business is transacted. The term is applied to a papal consistory which is a group of cardinals presided over by the Pope and deliberating upon matters of ecclesiastical importance.

Constitutions, n. pl.; L. (1) An ordinance in canon law, of an ecclesiastical authority, either by letter or decree. (2) The particular regulations governing the life of members of a religious institute.

Consubstantial, adj.; L. The term used to denote the oneness of the nature of Christ with that of the Father and the Holy Ghost, and the oneness of Christ's substance with God. Through this oneness of substance we also confess the equality of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost, and their co-eternity.

Consubstantiation, n.; L. The heretical doctrine which holds that the substance of the bread and wine merely exists together with the substance of the Body and Blood of our Lord after consecration.

Consultors, n. pl; L. Men of special knowledge who serve to advise the Roman Congregations. Also, in America, the advisors of a bishop.

Contemplation, n.; L. A high state of interior union with God. A term applied to the manner of life of religious who devote themselves to prayer and meditation rather than to active works, such as teaching, etc.

Continence, n.; L. (1) Abstinence from the indulgence of sexual actions and desires. (2) Abstinence from sexual intercourse by married persons, either by mutual vow or because of circumstances.

Contract, n.; L. An agreement in which one or more persons are bound to another person or persons to perform or not to perform a stated act.

Contrition, n.; L., O.Fr. Sorrow and detestation of sin which has been committed together with the purpose of sinning no more. It is perfect contrition if it is based on love of God, imperfect contrition attrition if based on a lower motive. (Cf. Attrition.)

Convent, n.; L. The community living quarters of sisters or brothers. It may include all the accessory buildings which form a part of the community property. Likened to a monastery.

Conventual, adj.; L., A.S. (1) Pertaining to a convent or to the monastic life; opposed to life in the world. (2) — church. A church attached to a monastery or convent of religious.

Conversion, n.; L. (1) The technical term used in theology to express the mode of the passage of the entire substance, both matter and form, of the bread and wine, in the transubstantiatlon of the Holy Eucharist. (Cf. Transubstandation.) (2) The turning toward the Church by acceptance of her teachings; becoming a member of the Church. (3) "Conversion of manners": literally, a change. The overcoming of vices and the practice of virtue.

Conversus, n.; L. A lay brother; one who seeks a conversion of manners.

Convert, n.; L. A person who has not been baptized or one baptized as a non-Catholic who becomes a Catholic by reception of Baptism or by profession of faith and abjuradon of errors; one who becomes an active, participating member of the Catholic Church.

Cooperation; L. The formal or material assistance given another in the commission of a sin. Formal cooperation is the concurrence with the will of the sinner or a partaking in his sinful act; this is never permitted. Material cooperadon is the providing of means or material which the sinner himself uses for the commission of the sin against the will of the one cooperating. For a sufficient reason, miterial cooperation is sometimes lawful.

Cope, n.; L. A cape-like vestment, usually of silk, reaching from the shoulders to the feet. It is fastened with a clasp in front called the morse and usually has a smaller cape resting on the shoulders. It is the external vestment worn for liturgical services as Exposition or processions and the absolution of the dead, and yet is not a vestment limited to the use of priests alone but may he worn by a cantor, even if a layman.

Copts, n. pl.; Gr., L. (1) The Christian Egyptians who adhered to Monophysism and are governed by the Patriarch of Alexandria. (2) Catholic Copts, using the Coptic rite, who were purged of doctrinal error and had restored to them their Patriarch of Alexandria by Pope Leo XIII.

Cornette, n.; Fr. Also cornet. The large tri-cornered white headdress worn by certain sisters.

Corona, n.; L. (1) Five mysteries of the Rosary. (2) Candles or vigil lights arranged in a circle. (3) The circlet of hair on the head of a tonsured cleric.

Corporal, n.; L. The square linen doth which is carried to the altar in the burse and placed on the table of the altar before the tabernacle and on which the chalice is placed; it symbolizes the winding sheet in which the body of Christ was buried.

Corporal (works of mercy), n.; L. Seven forms of charity or mercy directed to the physical well-being of a needy person; the seven works of mercy are: to feed the hungry, to clothe the naked, to give drink to the thirsty, to visit the sick, to visit prisoners, to give shelter to strangers, and to bury the dead.

Corpus Christi, n.; L. Literally, "the body of Christ." The name of the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament celebrated on the Thursday following the first Sunday after Pentecost.

Costume (clerical), n.; L., Fr. The dress of clerics to distinguish them from laymen; principally the cassock and roman collar; the dress for street wear is prescribed to be either black or of a dark shade, and of moderate tailoring.

Cotta, n.; L., It. Originally a garment worn by laymen; it is now the short surplice.

Council, n.; L. An assembly of higher ecclesiastics and rulers in the Church to discuss and decide upon ecclesiastical matters, either of legislation or doctrine. Councils may be either for the Church in general or for a particular country or for an ecclesiastical province or a particular diocese. A diocesan council is called a synod. (Cf, Ecumenical.)

Counsel, n.; L. A gift of the Holy Ghost; prudence in recognizing and doing what is right, especially in difficult circumstances.

Covetousness, n.; O.Fr. Avarice. Excessive love of temporal things, usually riches; desire for things of the world. The desire becomes excessive when not guided by reason; it is reasonable when directed toward moderation, e.g., the desire for sufficient means for one's family. It becomes a grievous sin when it is not reasonable and leads to other grievous sins such as injustice, neglect to pay just debts, dishonesty, etc. Covetousness is one of the capital sins because it easily leads to other sins. Its contrary virtue is liberality. (Cf. Capital sins.)

Cowl, n.; L., A.S. A hood usually attached to the upper part of a monk's habit which may be pulled up to cover the head.

Create, v.t.; L. To make a thing from nothing; to cause to exist.

Creation, n.; L. The act of God causing something to be made out of nothing; the calling of a thing into existence; the causing of a thing's existence. Also applied to all created things together.

Creche, n.; Fr. See Crib. Sometimes used as a name for lying-in hospitals for the poor and for public day nurseries.

Credence, n.; L., O.Fr. The table placed in the sanctuary near the Epistle side of the altar which the cruets containing wine and water are placed. During a solemn high Mass the chalice and burse and humeral veil for the subdeacon are placed upon it when not in use at the altar.

Creed, n.; L. A listing of the principal articles of faith; a prayer in which the articles of faith are contained and which may be said as a profession of faith. The creeds in the Catholic Church are four: The Apostles' Creed, the Nicene Creed, the Athanasian, and the Creed of Pius the Fourth.

Cremation, n.; L. The act of burning the mortal remains of a person. Because this was not in keeping with the rite of Christian burial which reverences the body that in life was the temple of the Holy Ghost, and because historically the practice originated among unbelievers as a means of expressing scorn for the doctrine of the resurrection of the body, it is condemned by the Roman Catholic Church. It is one of the grounds for refusal of Christian burial.

Crib, n.; L., A.S. The place wherein Jesus is said to have been laid after His birth at Bethlehem; a representation of the stable, together with Jesus, the Blessed Virgin, and St. Joseph, erected at Christmas dme in churches. Also called creche.

Crosier, n.; L., O.Fr. Crozier. A staff with a curved top or a crook at the top and pointed at the lower end, about the height of a man (6 ft. 10 in.), which is a symbol of authority for the bishop; sometimes called pastoral staff. It is presented to a bishop at his consecration.

Cross, n.; L. (1) The chief implement of execution used at the death of Christ; a single upright with a slighdy shorter crossbar bisecting the upright toward the upper part. (a) Greek. the equilateral cross, the four arms being equal in length, (b) Latin the cross in which the transverse beam is shorter th;in the upright and the headpiece projects above the transverse bar. (2) The sign of the cross is a sacramental which represents the cross of Christ through the making of the form by touching the forehead, breast, and each shoulder and repeating the words "In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost."

Crotalum, n.; L. The wooden clapper used during Holy Week in place of bells; a tabula. (Cf. Tabula.)

Crucifix, n.; L., O.Fr. A representation of the cross of crucifixion together with the figure of Christ. The crucifix differs from the cross in that it has affixed to it the body or corpus or a representation of Christ.

Cruet, n.; O.Fr. Vessel with a long neck and a handle in which the wine or water to be used at Mass is contained. A vaselike vessel with a stopper.

Crypt, n.; Gr., L. Originally this was an underground place used for concealing persons or things. It was used during the persecutions. A place of burial beneath a church. A basementlike place beneath a church sometimes used for services when fitted with an altar.

Cuculla , n.; L., It. A cowl; an ample choir cloak to which a cowl is attached.

Culdees, n. pl; Celt. A celtic word applied to those who devote themselves to divine service either as monks or secular priests. (Obs.)

Culpa (cool-par), n.; L. A fault; a transgression.

Cultus, n.; L. The term which means either veneration or worship; it embraces all the acts of adoration, direct or indirect, by which honor is given to God. The Church distinguishes three kinds of cultus: (a) Latria, the worship which is due to God alone and which cannot be given to any crea- ture without sinning by idolatry. (b) Dulia, that veneration given to saints and angels, (c) Hyperdulia, that veneration given to the Blessed Virgin because of her exalted nature.

Curate, n.; L. A priest assisting a pastor in caring for souls; an assistant to a pastor.

Cure of Souls, n.; L., O.Fr. The responsibility resting upon the parish priest in regard to the souls of those within his district or juris- diction, which is the administering of the Sacraments, the giving of necessary instruction, and the other cares which may be necessary for the spiritual welfare of the parishioners.

Curia, n.; L. The Roman Curia, the Pope's court or cabinet. The entire group of organized bodies and their personnel which assists the Pope in the government and administration of the Church; namely, the congregations, tribunals, and the curial offices. The diocesan curia is the court and personnel of a diocesan bishop which assists in the administration of the diocese.

Curialia, n. pl; L. The duties and functions of one attached to the Roman Curia, or to the ecclesiastical court.

Cursing, n.; A.S. The expression of a desire that some evil will befall a person, place, or thing. The act of calling down evil upon God or His creatures; if calling down evil on God or on creatures as connected with God, it is a form of blasphemy. (Cf. Blasphemy.)

Cursus, n.; L. The order in which the psalms are arranged in the breviary; sometimes applied to the Divine Office alone.

Custodial, n.; L. The round metal case in which the lunette is kept; the luna. (Cf. Pyx.)

Custom, n.; L., O.Fr. An action or practice repeated under similar circumstances. A long established practice which may have the force of law if it is good and useful and is performed by the majority of people with the intention of binding themselves to it. Furthermore, in Church law, custom must have the consent of a competent superior before it can obtain the force of law.

Cycle, n.; Gr., L, A series of numbers or letters standing for numbers or parts in a series which are counted again in the same order after the first counting has been completed, e.g., counting from one to ten and then starting again with one. A time for fixing dates, i.e., a system of measuring the time elapsed between dates. The lunar cycle has nineteen years, so after nineteen years the full moon re-occurs on nearly the same day. The solar cycle is of twenty-eight years, after which Sundays and week days fall on the same days of the month. Both cycles are necessary for the determination of the Church calendar.

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