definition
strict definition
parish church
A church which serves a designated parish community and where certain ceremonies or sacraments may be performed.
A parish church is a church which forms the official center of a local community (a "parish") in certain denominations, and which has full rights to perform certain sacraments and ceremonies (depending on the denomination) especially baptism, confession, and burials.
Parish churches exist only in Christian denominations which designate parishes explicitly, including the Anglican, Lutheran, Eastern Orthodox, and Roman Catholic denominations. Also in Scotland the Presbyterian Church designates parish churches.
Very often a parish church has a parish house associated with it, which holds community and administrative functions.
parish church Photos
Related definitions
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basilica designation
An honorary title given to a Roman Catholic church by papal brief, conferring distinction and ceremonial privileges. -
cathedral designation
A church officially designated by its religious authorities as the seat of a bishop or a similarly ranking figure. -
chapel
A house of worship in certain Christian denominations without the rights of a parish church. -
pilgrimage site
A place that is widely or formally recognized as a destination for devotional travelers. -
religious affiliation
A place operated by or connected closely with one particular religious faith.