By divine institution, we have the episcopate, the priesthood, and the diaconate; this threefold gradation corresponds to the three grades of the Sacrament of Orders. By ecclesiastical institution, next in order of rank and dignity we have the subdiaconate; then the four minor orders acolyte, exorcist, reader, porter.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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