Anglo-Saxon term used prior to the 11th century, to distinguish a duly ordained priest from a simple cleric in minor orders; applied in medieval times to a secular priest as opposed to a monk. From the 16th century, a contemptuous designation for priests among Reformers in England, when the Mass was the chief object of their hatred.
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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