Dictionary
A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
SLAIN IN THE SPIRIT
A phenomenon of pentacostalism and the charismatic movement, where a person is believed to be overcome by the Holy Spirit. The experience is temporary, during which the individual collapses in a faint, although the faculties of thought and volition remain intact. The "slaying" takes place when a charismatic, already possessed by the Spirit, lays his or her hands on the head of another person. It is considered one of the external signs of a special outpouring of divine grace.
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
Recent Catholic Commentary
Making Sense of Society: The Ebook 3 hours ago
The Smell of the Sheep May 16
Top Catholic News
Most Important Stories of the Last 30 Days