Definitions of key terms for Roman Catholics

Lay minister A nonordained person who takes on liturgical duties including those of a reader, altar server, cantor and extraordinary minister of Communion. In some cases, a lay minister’s duties include preaching. Lay participation in roles of leadership and service is rooted in baptism, a sacrament that gives all believers a share in the ministry of Christ.

Eucharistic minister A nonordained person who distributes Holy Communion either within or outside the celebration of Mass. Some laypeople are designated “extraordinary” ministers of the Eucharist and can exercise the ministry of the Word, preside over liturgical prayers, baptize and distribute Holy Communion when sufficient priests are not available.

Transitional deacon A man ordained to the diaconate with the expectation of being ordained to the priesthood after a limited period of time. In Maine, men studying for the priesthood usually are ordained deacons after their second year of seminary studies and one year before being ordained priest.

Permanent deacon A man ordained to the diaconate for life who does not intend to become a priest. The deacon can be authorized to carry out many of the same duties performed by a priest including preaching, performing baptisms, witnessing marriages, and leading wakes and funerals in absence of a priest. They

cannot, however, celebrate the Eucharist, but may distribute it. A married man may be ordained, but may not marry after

ordination or remarry on the death of his wife. He should ordinarily derive his own financial support from his secular occupation.

Priest A man ordained to the priesthood who receives in ordination the power of the Holy Spirit to act sacramentally in the role of Christ. The priesthood is a threefold ministry: teaching the word of God, administering the sacraments and providing community leadership. Only men can be ordained to the priesthood. Diocesan priests do not take vows but make promises of celibacy and obedience to their bishop. Priests receive salaries and are provided housing. Priests who join religious orders take vows of celibacy, obedience and, in some orders, poverty.

Source: HarperCollins Encyclopedia of Catholicism, 1995.