Term used to designate:
(1) a group of French intellectuals of the 18th century who contributed articles to the Encyclopedie;
(2) especially, many writers, known as "philosophers," who belonged to their group and helped promote the views set forth in the "Encyclopedie."
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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