Apostolates

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A religious mission or undertaking carried out by an individual or group to promote their faith
2. A commitment to spreading spiritual teachings and ideals through organized work or volunteer efforts
3. An active role in advocating for or practicing the principles of a religious community or belief system

Etymology: The plural "apostolates" is simply the form of "apostolate," which came into English by way of Late Latin "apostolātus," itself built from "apostolus," the Latin rendering of the Greek "apostolos," meaning "messenger" or "one sent forth." The English word keeps the old sense of office: an apostolate was originally the office or dignity of an apostle, the role of one sent out to preach. The ending "-ate" is the familiar Latin suffix that forms nouns of rank, office, or function, so the word literally names the position of being an apostle. Over time, the sense widened from the office itself to the work that office entails, and so today "apostolates" can refer to any mission carried out to spread a faith.

Synonyms: missions, ministry