Catholic Dictionary

Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

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PRESBYTERY

Originally the senate that, in some early dioceses, assisted a bishop in the administration of his see. Later the term was applied to the part of a church reserved for the Sacrifice of Mass, now called the sanctuary, usually admitting only the clergy for services, except as ministers and in marriage ceremonies. Now occasionally used of the rectory or residence of the clergy.