Forms of expression

Architecture, design and decoration of Catholic churches

Blessed Sacrament: Consecrated hosts kept in the tabernacle
Nave: The main worship and seating area
Sanctuary: The sacred space where the altar is and where Mass is celebrated

Different internal features of a Catholic church

Transubstantiation: The belief that the bread and wine change into the body and blood of Christ in an unseen way

Sacred objects within Catholicism

Rood screen: A decorated screen or iron work in front of the sanctuary
Vestments: Special clothes worn by the priests when conducting worship

Paintings, frescoes and drawings in Catholicism

Friar: A wandering preacher who has taken vows of poverty
Halo: A golden circle around Christ or a saint’s head to show they are holy
Icon: A holy image painted in a certain style on wood
Secular: Not connected with religious or spiritual matters

Sculptures and statues

Intercede: To act or pray on behalf of someone in difficulty or trouble
Keys to the kingdom: The authority Catholics believe St Peter (and the Popes) received from Christ
Madonna: A painting or statue of the Virgin Mary
Patronal: Relating to a patron saint
Votive candle: A candle that is lit as a prayer that is offered

Symbols and images

Evangelist: Author of a Gospel
Paschal: Relating to Easter

Drama, Mystery plays and Passion plays

Assumption: The belief that the Virgin Mary was taken into heaven body and soul
Atonement: Reconciliation between God and humans
Medieval: To do with the Middle Ages
Veneration of the Cross: Kissing and honouring a cross, especially on Good Friday

Music in Catholicism

Antiphonal: Plainchant where the verses are sung alternately by soloist and choir, or by choir and congregation
Canticle: A hymn or chant
Doxology: Praise of God
Responsorial Plainchant: Where a soloist or choir sings verse with a response from the choir or congregation