Terms starting with F

The story in Genesis 3 of humanity's first disobedience — Adam and Eve eating the forbidden fruit — and the brokenness of the world and human nature that Christians believe followed.

Going without food — or something else — for a set time as a spiritual practice, usually paired with prayer, to focus on God and express dependence on Him.

The ways Christians address God in prayer. "Father" is Jesus' own word; "Lord" is the most common; "Abba" is the Aramaic Jesus used, close to "Dad."

A day on the church calendar honoring a saint or an event in the life of Christ or Mary — marked with special readings, sometimes a Mass or Liturgy, and often, despite the name, no feast.

Christian friendship and community — the shared life of people in a church, from deep spiritual bonds to coffee after the service.

The church's multipurpose room — used for meals, classes, receptions, and events — usually with a kitchen attached and folding tables stacked against the wall.

"I had a strong inner sense that I should do this" — an impression Christians attribute to God's guidance through the Holy Spirit.

A deeper experience of God's presence and power in a person's life. Pentecostals see it as a distinct event after conversion, often marked by speaking in tongues; other traditions describe it as ongoing.

Asking God for a specific sign before making a decision — from the story of Gideon, who laid out a sheep's fleece and asked God to make it wet while the ground stayed dry.