Sexton Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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sexton
[ˈsɛkstənt ]
Definition
church official
A sexton is a person who is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of a church building and its grounds. This role often involves overseeing the preparation for services and events, as well as taking care of the cemetery. Traditionally, sextons have been responsible for ringing the church bells. In some communities, the sexton may also assist with administrative duties related to the church.
Synonyms
caretaker, churchwarden, janitor.
Examples of usage
- The sexton rang the bell to signal the start of the service.
- As the new sexton, she took great pride in maintaining the church grounds.
- He was appointed sexton after years of volunteering at the church.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Religious Significance
- In many traditions, the sexton plays a ceremonial role, assisting with rites of passage like weddings and funerals.
- Historically, the sexton often rang the church bells, signaling the community for worship or important events.
Cultural Context
- In England, the role of sexton dates back to medieval times when they were essential for maintaining church properties.
- The position has varied widely across cultures, with some sextons performing duties similar to that of a traditional janitor or groundskeeper.
Literature and Art
- In literature, a common portrayal of a sexton is that of a humble worker, often symbolizing the dedication to the spiritual community.
- Artistic representations in paintings and novels sometimes depict a sexton highlighting the human aspect of church life, reflecting their vital role in society.
Modern Usage
- Today, the role of sexton can extend beyond churches, with some serving in community centers and other public spaces.
- The responsibilities of a sexton can evolve, encompassing administrative tasks and community outreach in addition to maintenance.
Origin of 'sexton'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'sexton' comes from the Latin word 'sextus', meaning 'sixth', perhaps referencing the sixth hour of the day when church services were held.
- Originally, the term referred to a church officer who was responsible for the church's upkeep and operated as a caretaker.
The word 'sexton' originates from the Middle English term 'sacristan', which itself was derived from the Latin 'sacrista', meaning 'one in charge of sacred objects'. Medieval churches had various officials for different duties, and the sexton was designated specifically to look after the church property and serve the clergy. Over time, as responsibilities evolved and church functions modernized, the role of the sexton became more recognized as a distinct profession, particularly in Protestant denominations. In some cultures, the sexton’s responsibilities also extend to supervising cemetery operations. This development indicated a transition from a purely clerical role to one that engaged with the broader community and its needs.