Program terms and definitions, with audio.
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abba the Aramaic word with the English equivalent of “daddy” or “papa”
abortion the deliberate termination of a pregnancy by killing an unborn child. It is a grave sin.
absolution words spoken by the priest during the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation to grant forgiveness of sins in God’s name
Advocate literally means “he who is called to one’s side.” The Holy Spirit is our Advocate, guiding and comforting us, strengthening us to know and live by the truth.
Annunciation the Angel Gabriel’s announcement to Mary that she would be the Mother of God and give birth to the Savior
Anointing of the Sick one of the Sacraments of Healing for people who are seriously ill or in danger of dying. In the Sacrament, the person’s forehead and hands are anointed with the blessed oil of the sick.
Apostles the twelve men Jesus chose to be his closest followers and to share in his work and mission in a special way
apostolic a Mark of the Church. The Church is apostolic because her teaching authority comes directly from Jesus and his chosen Apostles, handed down through the bishops of the Church, who are direct successors of the Apostles.