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S

Sacraments: A formal church ritual frequently described as an outward and visible sign of an internal and spiritual grace, such as Baptism.

Sacred: Something which is holy or devoted to God.

Sacristy: A room near the altar where the communion vessels, altar hangings, candlesticks, etc. are kept and cleaned. The room is often seen as the exclusive domain of the Altar Guild.

Salvation: The remission of sins and healing of the gulf between an individual and God.

Sanctus: The part of the Holy Communion service that beings with the words, "Holy, Holy, Holy."

Saviour: Another title for Jesus. Used to show belief that he rescued people from their sins by dying on a cross.

Schism, great: The formal split between the Eastern Orthodox and the Roman Catholic churches in 1054 CE. Also used to refer to the interval from 1378 to 1417 CE when as many as three individuals simultaneously claimed to be pope.

Seasons: A way of marking time in the Church. There are six seasons: Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, and the season after Pentecost.

Sermon: A talk given in church on a spiritual or moral theme.

Server: Someone who assists the celebrant at the altar, helping him or her set the table and perform ablutions.

Shrove Tuesday: The final day before the season of Lent begins, usually marked by pancake suppers

Sin: Doing something wrong that separates you from God.

Stole: A long strip of cloth (often silk) worn around the neck of the priest and allowed to hang down the front of the clerical vestments. Only bishops, priests and deacons are allowed to wear stoles.

Sunday: The Christian holy day; day of rest.

Surplice: A white over-garment worn over other vestments (usually a cassock).

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