Terms starting with M

The Catholic worship service, centered on the Eucharist — scripture readings, a homily, prayers, and communion, in a fixed order every time.

The Thursday before Easter, remembering the Last Supper — when Jesus washed His disciples' feet, instituted communion, and gave the "new commandment" to love one another. It opens the three holiest days of the year.

Formally joining a church — usually after a class, sometimes a vote, interview, or ceremony — as distinct from just attending.

A written statement of commitments — to attend, give, serve, live by the church's standards, and submit to its leadership — that some churches ask members to sign when they join.

An older or more experienced Christian who guides someone in their faith — meeting regularly, teaching, and taking an interest in their growth.

Any organized work of serving others in the church or in Jesus' name — from a food pantry to a choir to a career as a pastor. "My ministry" means the particular service someone does.

Christian work of sharing the faith and serving people in another culture or country — for a week (a mission trip), a few years, or a lifetime (a missionary).

An intense spiritual high — often at camp, a retreat, or a conference — when God feels close and everything is clear. "The valley" is what comes after.

One church with several locations — "campuses" — often sharing a sermon by video from the main site, with each campus having its own live band and pastor.