Parishioner: meaning, definitions and examples
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parishioner
[ pəˈrɪʃ.ən.ər ]
religious community
A parishioner is a member of a parish, which is a local church community. Parishioners typically participate in the religious services, events, and activities organized by the church. They may also contribute to the church's governance and community initiatives.
Synonyms
churchgoer, congregant, member, worshiper
Examples of usage
- The parishioner attended the Sunday service.
- Many parishioners volunteered for the church fundraiser.
- The parishioner helped organize charity events.
- She is a devoted parishioner of St. Mary's Church.
Translations
Translations of the word "parishioner" in other languages:
🇵🇹 paróquiano
🇮🇳 पारिशियनर
🇩🇪 Gemeindemitglied
🇮🇩 jemaat
🇺🇦 парафіянин
🇵🇱 parafianin
🇯🇵 信者 (しんじゃ)
🇫🇷 paroissien
🇪🇸 parroquiano
🇹🇷 cemaat üyesi
🇰🇷 신도
🇸🇦 رعية
🇨🇿 farník
🇸🇰 farník
🇨🇳 教区成员 (jiàoqū chéngyuán)
🇸🇮 župnik
🇮🇸 sóknarvinna
🇰🇿 парафия мүшесі
🇬🇪 პარაფიელი
🇦🇿 parokiya üzvü
🇲🇽 parroquiano
Word origin
The term 'parishioner' originated in the Middle Ages, deriving from the Old French word 'paroissien', which itself comes from the Latin 'parochialis'. The Latin form is related to 'parochia', meaning 'parish', which is a division of some Christian church. This structure was essential in medieval communities where local churches served as the center of spiritual life and community identity. As the church's influence expanded, the term became associated specifically with those who belong to a certain parish, highlighting the community aspect of religious practice. Over the centuries, the role of parishioners evolved with the church's practices, reflecting changes in societal structure and religious observance. Today, parishioners play vital roles in local church life and governance, engaging in various activities that promote both their faith and community welfare.