Glossary of Vaticanism and Vatican Politics

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Sarvarthapedia (Core Areas)

Glossary of key terms related to Vaticanism and Vatican politics.

(The study of the Vatican’s political, ecclesiastical, and diplomatic influence)

Ablutions (Ritual) – The ceremonial washing of the pope’s hands during Mass, symbolizing internal purification before handling the Eucharist, but often interpreted in Vaticanism as a metaphor for the Curia’s ritualized distancing from scandal.

Aedituus – A minor Vatican official responsible for the upkeep of a specific church or chapel, whose low rank belies potential access to sensitive liturgical and diplomatic spaces.

Annus Sanctus (Holy Year) – A jubilee year declared by the pope, traditionally every 25 years, during which special indulgences are granted, used politically to manage pilgrimage revenue and global Catholic morale.

Antipope – A rival claimant to the papacy, historically elected against the canonical pope; in modern Vaticanism, it refers to schismatic movements within traditionalist circles rejecting a sitting pontiff.

Apostolic Palace – The official residence of the pope within Vatican City, also housing the Vatican Museums and administrative offices, symbolizing the fusion of spiritual authority with bureaucratic power.

Apostolic Penitentiary – A Vatican tribunal handling matters of conscience, confession, and indulgences, whose decisions are kept under pontifical secret, making it a powerful tool for discreet political absolutions.

Apostolic Signatura – The highest judicial body in the Catholic Church, reviewing administrative disputes within the Curia and acting as a supreme court for canon law, often mediating internal power struggles.

Archivio Segreto Vaticano (Vatican Secret Archives) – Now renamed Vatican Apostolic Archive, a repository of state documents and papal correspondence, selectively opened to researchers, influencing historical narratives of papal diplomacy.

Audience (Papal) – A formal meeting granted by the pope to heads of state, bishops, or lay groups; the scheduling and frequency of audiences reveal geopolitical favor or disfavor in Vatican politics.

Aula Paolo VI (Paul VI Audience Hall) – A modern hall within Vatican City used for general audiences, designed with a serpentine roof symbolizing the Church in dialogue with the world, often a stage for papal political messages.

Basilica of St. Peter – The largest papal basilica, functioning as a liturgical and ceremonial epicenter; control over its canons and access routes is a persistent point of Curial factionalism.

Bishop of Rome – The pope’s primary title, emphasizing his role as local ordinary of the Diocese of Rome, often downplayed in global diplomacy but crucial for internal Italian-Vatican relations.

Black Nobility (Nobiltà Nera) – Aristocratic Roman families who remained loyal to the papacy after the loss of the Papal States in 1870, still wielding informal influence through Vatican finance and ceremonial roles.

Bolla (Papal Bull) – A formal papal document sealed with a lead bulla, historically used for major proclamations; in modern politics, bulls are rare but signal doctrinal or disciplinary finality.

Camerlengo (Chamberlain) – The cardinal responsible for administering the Vatican during a papal interregnum (sede vacante), a crucial power broker who seals the pope’s apartment and organizes the conclave.

Canon Law – The legal code governing the Catholic Church; revisions (e.g., 1983 Code) reflect shifting political priorities, such as centralization or subsidiarity within the Vatican system.

Cardinal – A senior church official appointed by the pope, serving as his chief elector and advisor; cardinalatial ranks (bishop, priest, deacon) carry different political weights and voting privileges in conclaves.

Cardinal Secretary of State – The Vatican’s equivalent of a prime minister or foreign minister, directing the Secretariat of State and managing day-to-day diplomacy, second only to the pope in power.

Casa Santa Marta – The guesthouse within Vatican City where Pope Francis chose to reside instead of the Apostolic Palace, a symbolic move against Curial luxury and a practical hub for informal political consultations.

Chirograph – A handwritten papal document, less formal than a bull but more authoritative than a rescript, often used for administrative directives affecting Vatican governance.

Città del Vaticano (Vatican City State) – A sovereign city-state established by the Lateran Treaty of 1929, providing the pope with temporal independence and a legal personality under international law.

Coat of Arms (Papal) – The heraldic insignia of each pope, featuring the papal tiara (or mitre), crossed keys, and personal motto; changes in design can signal political or theological ruptures.

Collegiality – The doctrine that bishops collectively share governance of the Church with the pope, often a flashpoint between Curial centralists and advocates for episcopal conferences’ political autonomy.

Conclave – The sealed assembly of cardinal electors (under age 80) to choose a new pope; its rules (e.g., two-thirds majority) are manipulated by factions through pre-conclave meetings (congregations).

Congregation for Bishops – The Vatican dicastery responsible for appointing bishops worldwide, a major patronage engine controlling episcopal loyalty and suppressing dissent through selective nominations.

Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) – The oldest curial congregation, tasked with defending Catholic doctrine; historically used to silence theological dissidents (e.g., liberation theology) and investigate clerical abuse.

Consistory – A formal meeting of the College of Cardinals convened by the pope, often to create new cardinals (red hats), signaling geopolitical favor (e.g., creating cardinals from peripheries).

Cortile di San Damaso – The courtyard within the Apostolic Palace where papal audiences and certain diplomatic ceremonies occur; access is tightly regulated by the Prefecture of the Papal Household.

Curia (Roman Curia) – The administrative apparatus of the Holy See, comprising dicasteries (congregations, councils, tribunals, and offices); reform of the Curia (e.g., Praedicate Evangelium, 2022) is a perennial political battleground.

Dataria Apostolica – A now-suppressed Vatican office that once granted benefices and dispensations for payment, emblematic of pre-modern simony; its abolition in 1967 reflected modernizing pressures.

Dicastery – A department of the Roman Curia (e.g., Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith), replacing the term “congregation” under Pope Francis’s reform to emphasize service rather than hierarchy.

Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Holy See – The body of ambassadors from 180+ states to the Holy See, managed by the Secretariat of State; their dean (usually the oldest) holds ceremonial precedence.

Doctrinal Note – A non-legislative but authoritative Vatican document clarifying church teaching, often used politically to signal disapproval of a theologian or national bishops’ conference.

Dominus Iesus – A 2000 declaration by the CDF asserting the necessity of the Catholic Church for salvation, a document that strained Vatican relations with other Christian denominations and non-Christian religions.

Extra Ecclesiam Nulla Salus – The ancient principle “outside the Church no salvation,” which modern Vatican diplomacy interprets loosely to allow interfaith dialogue, but traditionalist factions weaponize it against ecumenical policies.

Fabbrica di San Pietro – The office responsible for the maintenance and conservation of St. Peter’s Basilica, a source of lucrative construction contracts and patronage for Roman families.

Feria IV (Wednesday Audience) – The pope’s weekly general audience; canceling or altering Feria IV can signal illness, political crisis, or a deliberate reduction of public visibility.

Filioque – A theological term (“and the Son”) added to the Nicene Creed in the West, historically a point of schism with Eastern Orthodoxy; modern Vatican ecumenical politics downplays it to seek reunification.

Governatorato (Vatican City Governorate) – The body exercising executive power over Vatican City’s internal affairs (police, post office, museums), distinct from the Holy See’s spiritual mission; its president is appointed by the pope.

Great Schism (Western, 1378–1417) – A period of multiple rival popes, whose resolution via the Council of Constance established conciliarism (council above pope), a precedent Curialists have since suppressed.

Holy See (Sancta Sedes) – The central governing body of the Catholic Church, distinct from Vatican City State; it is the subject of international law, holding diplomatic relations and concluding concordats.

Index Librorum Prohibitorum – The abolished list of forbidden books (closed 1966), once a political censorship tool; its memory influences Vatican handling of dissident Catholic publishers.

Interregnum – The period between a pope’s death or resignation and the election of his successor, during which the Cardinal Camerlengo and the College of Cardinals manage routine affairs but cannot make major political decisions.

Istituto per le Opere di Religione (IOR – Vatican Bank) – A financial institute for religious works, notorious for scandals (e.g., Banco Ambrosiano, 1982); repeated reforms aim to meet international anti-money laundering standards.

Jus Exclusivae (Veto right) – A now-defunct power claimed by Catholic monarchs (e.g., Austria, Spain, France) to exclude a cardinal from the papacy; abolished by Pius X in 1904 after political abuse.

Lateran Pacts (1929) – The treaty between the Holy See and Italy, creating Vatican City and compensating the papacy for lost Papal States, ending the “Roman Question” and establishing modern Vatican sovereignty.

L’Osservatore Romano – The Vatican’s daily newspaper, founded in 1861; its editorials and news selection reflect curial factions’ influence, and changes in its masthead signal political shifts.

Magisterium – The teaching authority of the Church, divided into ordinary (daily) and extraordinary (ex cathedra definitions); disputes over magisterial scope are proxy battles for papal vs. curial power.

Major Penitentiary – A cardinal heading the Apostolic Penitentiary, one of the few curial officials whose term continues during a papal interregnum, ensuring continuity in absolution and secrecy.

Mensa (Papal household budget) – The pope’s personal living expenses and charitable fund; manipulation of the mensa has historically been used to reward loyalists or starve opponents within the Curia.

Motu Proprio – A legal document issued “by the pope’s own impulse,” without formal consultation; used for rapid administrative or liturgical changes, often surprising curial departments.

Nuncio (Apostolic Nuncio) – A Vatican ambassador to a state or international organization; nuncios report on local church politics and often influence bishop appointments, making them key intelligence gatherers.

Obolo di San Pietro (Peter’s Pence) – An annual collection from Catholics worldwide for the pope’s charitable and administrative needs; its distribution is a major political instrument for funding favored projects.

Ordinariato – A Vatican office for the pastoral care of specific groups (e.g., military ordinariates), which can bypass local bishops’ authority, creating parallel ecclesiastical structures favorable to Rome.

Ostpolitik – The Vatican’s Eastern policy during the Cold War, particularly under Paul VI and John Paul II, seeking dialogue with communist regimes (e.g., Poland, Hungary) to protect Catholic communities.

Palatine Cardinals – Historic cardinals attached to the papal court with ceremonial rather than diocesan duties; largely obsolete, but the title still appears in minor forms (e.g., cardinal protodeacon).

Papabile – A cardinal considered a likely candidate for pope; the term drives pre-conclave media speculation and factional maneuvering, often damaging a candidate’s chances (the “frontrunner curse”).

Papal Household – The group of clergy and lay officials (e.g., prelates, chaplains, Swiss Guards) directly serving the pope; control over household appointments is a path to daily papal access.

Pope Emeritus – Title used by Benedict XVI after his 2013 resignation, creating a unique dual-presence problem in Vatican politics, with potential for rival centers of loyalty until his death in 2022.

Pontifical Commission – A temporary or permanent body appointed by the pope to study a specific issue (e.g., Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors); commissions can be used to delay or implement reform.

Pontifical Secret – The highest level of confidentiality in Vatican governance, covering trials, certain financial matters, and cardinals’ conclave votes; violation can lead to excommunication.

Prefecture of the Papal Household – The office managing daily access to the pope, including the Pontifical Antechamber; its prefect is a powerful gatekeeper, deciding who meets the pope privately.

Promulgation – The official publication of a papal law (e.g., in Acta Apostolicae Sedis); a law takes effect only after promulgation, allowing curial officials to delay or sabotage implementation.

Protonotary Apostolic – A prelate with honorary duties at papal ceremonies; the office is often granted as a political reward, with no real power but high prestige and access.

Regency (of the Holy See) – A rare period when a cardinal governs during a prolonged papal incapacity (non-resignation); canon law lacks clear provisions, making it a constitutional crisis trigger.

Rota Romana – The Vatican’s appellate tribunal handling marriage cases, particularly annulments; its judges (auditors) are political appointees who can expedite or stall cases based on favor.

Sala Stampa (Holy See Press Office) – The Vatican’s press bureau; its daily briefings shape global news, and tensions arise between the director (appointed by the pope) and curial sources leaking anonymously.

Sede Vacante (Vacant See) – The period between a pope’s death or resignation and the next election; during sede vacante, the College of Cardinals gains limited authority, and all curial heads lose office except the Camerlengo and Major Penitentiary.

Segnatura di Giustizia – Another name for the Apostolic Signatura, the supreme tribunal; its decisions can overturn lower curial courts, making it a check on administrative overreach.

Secretariat of State – The most powerful curial department, divided into the Section for General Affairs (internal) and Section for Relations with States (foreign policy); its cardinal secretary is the pope’s right hand.

Simony – The buying or selling of church offices or sacraments; historically rampant in Renaissance Vatican, now a criminal offense under canon law, but accusations still surface in consistories.

Subsecretary – The second-highest official in a Vatican dicastery; often a career diplomat or canon lawyer, subsecretaries handle daily operations and can exercise power when the secretary is absent or weak.

Suburbicarian Diocese – One of the seven dioceses surrounding Rome (e.g., Ostia, Albano), assigned to senior cardinal-bishops; the Dean of the College of Cardinals holds Ostia, a primacy of honor.

Sussidio – A financial subsidy paid by the Holy See to poorer dioceses or religious orders; allocation of sussidi is a political lever for Rome to reward loyalty in developing countries.

Synod of Bishops – An advisory body of bishops meeting periodically in Rome; its instrumentum laboris (working document) and final relatio are negotiated texts reflecting curial-episcopal tensions.

Temporal Power – The pope’s historical authority over the Papal States (756–1870); its loss is mourned by traditionalists, but modern Vaticanism sees the tiny Vatican City as sufficient for political independence.

Titulus (Titular Church) – A church in Rome assigned to a cardinal as his nominal diocese; prestigious titular churches (e.g., San Pietro in Vincoli) carry political weight and access to local Roman clergy.

Uditore (Auditor of the Rota) – A judge of the Roman Rota; auditors are appointed for life, making the Rota a rare curial institution resistant to immediate papal pressure, but promotion depends on political alignment.

Urbi et Orbi (To the City and the World) – The pope’s Christmas and Easter blessing, also given after election; the text is vetted by the Secretariat of State, often including geopolitical references (e.g., peace in Ukraine).

Vacatio Legis – The waiting period between promulgation and enforcement of a Vatican law (typically three months); curial offices use this period to lobby for exceptions or reinterpretations.

Vatican City State’s Permanent Observer – The Holy See’s non-voting representative at the United Nations; the role allows political commentary without full membership, maximizing moral authority.

Vatican Gendarmerie – The police force of Vatican City, responsible for public order, investigations, and protecting the pope; its commander reports to the Governorate, not the Secretariat of State, creating jurisdictional lines.

Vatican Obelisk – The Egyptian obelisk at St. Peter’s Square, originally from Heliopolis; its central position symbolizes the papacy’s claim to universal spiritual dominion over pagan and imperial Rome.

Vatican Secret Archives (renamed) – See Archivio Segreto Vaticano; the name change to “Apostolic Archive” (2019) aimed to reduce negative connotations, but researchers still face selective access.

Vatican Television Center (CTV) – The broadcaster that records and distributes papal events; editorial decisions about which events to broadcast live (or delay) shape global Catholic political perception.

Vaticanist – A journalist or scholar specializing in Vatican affairs; a good Vaticanist cultivates multiple curial sources, as no single office controls all information, and leaks are common during power struggles.

Vescovo (Bishop) – A local ordinary; the Vatican’s power over bishops (appointment, transfer, resignation) is the core of centralization. Bishops who publicly criticize Rome risk forced early retirement.

Zelator (Curial zealot) – A derogatory term for a curial official perceived as overly devoted to factional interests rather than pastoral service; zelatori are often behind doctrinal crackdowns.

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Glossary of Vaticanism and Vatican Politics (Part One)

Ablutions (Ritual) – Ceremonial washing of the pope’s hands during Mass, symbolizing purification before handling the Eucharist.

Acta Apostolicae Sedis – The official gazette of the Holy See, publishing all major papal laws, appointments, and decrees.

Aedituus – A minor Vatican official responsible for the upkeep of a specific chapel or sacristy.

Aeterni Patris – 1879 encyclical by Leo XIII promoting Thomism as the foundation of Catholic philosophy and seminary education.

Albergo dei Poveri – Historic Roman poorhouse tied to papal charity; referenced in debates about Vatican social doctrine.

Ambo – The lectern in a Vatican basilica from which Scripture is read; control over who preaches reflects political favor.

Annuario Pontificio – The annual Vatican directory listing all curial officials, bishops, and diplomatic personnel.

Annus Sanctus – A Holy Year (jubilee) declared by the pope, traditionally every 25 years, to grant indulgences and manage pilgrimage revenue.

Anticamera – The anteroom outside the pope’s private study, where visitors wait and where political access is negotiated.

Antipope – A rival claimant to the papacy, historically elected against the canonical pope; a rare but potent symbol of schism.

Apostolic Blessing – A formal blessing given by the pope, often requested by bishops as a sign of Roman endorsement.

Apostolic Brief – A less formal papal document than a bull, used for administrative appointments or minor dispensations.

Apostolic Chancellor – Historic head of the Vatican chancery; now a ceremonial title merged into the Secretariat of State.

Apostolic Constitution – The highest form of papal legislative document, used for major doctrinal or structural changes.

Apostolic Exhortation – A papal writing encouraging a particular spiritual practice or pastoral approach, not defining doctrine.

Apostolic Palace – The official residence of the pope within Vatican City, housing administrative offices and state rooms.

Apostolic Penitentiary – A Vatican tribunal handling matters of conscience, confession, and indulgences under pontifical secret.

Apostolic Signatura – The highest judicial body in the Catholic Church, reviewing administrative disputes and canon law appeals.

Archbasilica of St. John Lateran – The cathedral of the Bishop of Rome (the pope), ranking above all other churches.

Archivio Segreto Vaticano – Vatican Apostolic Archive (renamed), a repository of papal correspondence and state documents.

Aula delle Benedizioni – The hall above St. Peter’s portico where the pope gives the Urbi et Orbi blessing.

Aula Paolo VI – Paul VI Audience Hall, a modern structure within Vatican City used for general audiences.

Avignon Papacy – The period 1309–1377 when popes resided in Avignon, France, under French crown influence.

Baccalaureate in Sacred Theology – Basic theological degree required for many curial positions, often from the Pontifical Lateran University.

Basilica – A major church with special papal privileges, including a porta santa (holy door) opened during jubilees.

Basilica di San Pietro – St. Peter’s Basilica, the liturgical and ceremonial epicenter of Vatican City.

Bedesman – An archaic term for a Vatican almoner who distributes papal charity to the poor.

Bishop of Rome – The pope’s primary title, emphasizing his role as local ordinary of the Diocese of Rome.

Bishops’ Conference – A national or regional assembly of bishops; Vatican politics often involves curial control over their agendas.

Black Nobility – Aristocratic Roman families who remained loyal to the papacy after 1870, wielding informal influence.

Bolla (Papal Bull) – A formal papal document sealed with a lead bulla, historically used for major proclamations.

Borgia Apartment – A suite of rooms in the Apostolic Palace associated with Pope Alexander VI, symbolizing Renaissance papal corruption.

Bucintoro – The ceremonial barge of the pope, used historically for maritime blessings; now obsolete.

Bullarium Romanum – A collected edition of papal bulls from the medieval period to modern times.

Camerlengo – The cardinal who administers the Vatican during a papal interregnum, sealing the pope’s apartment.

Campo Santo Teutonico – The German cemetery within Vatican City, a diplomatic burial ground with unique extraterritorial status.

Canon Law – The legal code governing the Catholic Church; revised in 1917, 1983, and ongoing.

Canon of the Mass – The central Eucharistic prayer; unauthorized changes have triggered political controversies.

Canonization – The formal declaration of a saint, a papal act that can serve political ends (e.g., national patronage).

Cappella Giulia – The choir of St. Peter’s Basilica, whose director is appointed by the pope.

Cappella Paolina – The Pauline Chapel within the Apostolic Palace, used for private papal Masses and consistories.

Cappella Sistina – The Sistine Chapel, site of the papal conclave and a symbol of Vatican artistic patronage.

Capuchin – A Franciscan order often serving as papal preachers; the current Preacher to the Papal Household is a Capuchin.

Cardinal – A senior church official appointed by the pope, serving as his chief elector and advisor.

Cardinal-Bishop – The highest rank of cardinal, holding one of the seven suburbicarian dioceses.

Cardinal-Deacon – The lowest rank of cardinal, often curial officials not heading a diocese.

Cardinal-Priest – A cardinal assigned a titular church in Rome, usually a diocesan bishop.

Cardinal Protector – A historic role where a cardinal represented a religious order or nation to the Holy See.

Cardinal Secretary of State – The Vatican’s equivalent of a prime minister, directing the Secretariat of State.

Cardinal Vicar – The cardinal who manages the Diocese of Rome on behalf of the pope.

Casa Santa Marta – The Vatican guesthouse where Pope Francis resides, a symbolic rejection of apostolic palace luxury.

Casuistry – A method of moral reasoning used in the Apostolic Penitentiary; often criticized as politically flexible.

Cathedra Petri – The Chair of St. Peter, a relic and symbol of papal teaching authority in St. Peter’s Basilica.

Catholic Action – A lay Catholic organization historically used by popes to mobilize political influence in Italy.

Causa Perfectionis – A legal proceeding in the Apostolic Signatura regarding the dissolution of religious orders.

Celam (CELAM) – The Latin American Episcopal Council, a major episcopal conference with a history of liberation theology tensions.

Cella – A private treasury within the Apostolic Palace, managed by the Prefecture of the Papal Household.

Chancery of Apostolic Briefs – The Vatican office that drafts and dispatches less formal papal documents.

Chirograph – A handwritten papal document, more authoritative than a rescript but less than a bull.

Chrism Mass – A Mass celebrated by the pope in St. Peter’s on Holy Thursday, consecrating oils used in sacraments.

Ciambellano (Papal Chamberlain) – A historic lay courtier role; now largely ceremonial but still granting access.

Città del Vaticano – Vatican City State, a sovereign entity established by the 1929 Lateran Treaty.

Civiltà Cattolica – A Jesuit-run journal reviewed by the Vatican Secretariat of State before publication.

Clericalism – Excessive emphasis on clerical power; Vatican politics often involves anti-clericalist reform movements.

Coadjutor Bishop – A bishop appointed with right of succession; used by the Vatican to manage problematic dioceses.

Coat of Arms (Papal) – The heraldic insignia of each pope, featuring crossed keys and a personal motto.

Code of Canon Law (1983) – The current legal code of the Latin Church, replacing the 1917 Pio-Benedictine code.

Coetus Internationalis Patrum – A traditionalist group of fathers at Vatican II, resisting certain reforms.

Collegiality – The doctrine that bishops collectively govern the Church with the pope, a frequent curial battleground.

Collegio Cardinalizio – The College of Cardinals, electors of the pope and his primary advisors.

Collegio Teutonico – The German seminary in Vatican City, a diplomatic training ground for German-speaking clergy.

Commissio Theologica Internationalis – The International Theological Commission, advising the Congregation for Doctrine.

Commissio Vaticana pro Russia – A 1920s commission managing Vatican relations with Bolshevik Russia.

Commissio Cardinalitia pro Instituto Operum Religionis – The cardinals’ commission overseeing the Vatican Bank.

Commissio de Rebus Economicis – A commission advising on Vatican finances, reformed under Pope Francis.

Commissio Pontificia pro America Latina – Pontifical Commission for Latin America, influencing episcopal appointments.

Commissio Pontificia pro Communione Internationali – Commission overseeing relations with traditionalist Catholic groups.

Commissio Pontificia pro Ecclesia Dei – Former commission handling former Lefebvrist traditionalists (suppressed 2019).

Commissio Pontificia pro Tutela Minorum – Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, addressing abuse.

Commissio Socialis – A Vatican social justice advisory body, now subsumed into dicasteries.

Commissio Theologica – A theological advisory commission preparing papal documents.

Commonitorium – A formal warning issued by the Congregation for Doctrine to a theologian.

Conciliarism – The doctrine that a general council has authority over the pope; condemned at Vatican I.

Conclave – The sealed assembly of cardinal electors (under age 80) choosing a new pope.

Conclave Capitulation – An agreement among cardinals before a conclave to limit the next pope’s power.

Concordat – A treaty between the Holy See and a state regulating church-state relations.

Congregation for Bishops – The dicastery responsible for appointing bishops worldwide.

Congregation for Catholic Education – Oversees seminaries and Catholic universities, controlling clerical formation.

Congregation for Clergy – Handles pastoral and disciplinary matters for diocesan priests.

Congregation for Divine Worship – Regulates liturgy and sacramental practice.

Congregation for Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) – The oldest dicastery, tasked with defending doctrine and investigating abuse.

Congregation for Eastern Churches – Manages relations with Eastern Catholic sui iuris churches.

Congregation for Evangelization of Peoples – Oversees mission territories; formerly Propaganda Fide.

Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life – Regulates religious orders and congregations.

Congregation for Oriental Churches – See Congregation for Eastern Churches.

Congregation for Saints’ Causes – Manages beatification and canonization processes.

Congregation of the Council – Historic body that implemented Trent’s reforms; now defunct.

Congregation of the Holy Office – The former name of the CDF, associated with the Inquisition.

Conscientious Objection (Canon Law) – A defense permitted in Vatican tribunals under limited conditions.

Consistory – A formal meeting of the College of Cardinals, often to create new cardinals.

Constitutio Apostolica – See Apostolic Constitution.

Constitutio de Sacra Liturgia – Vatican II’s constitution on liturgy (Sacrosanctum Concilium).

Constitutio Dogmatica de Ecclesia – Vatican II’s dogmatic constitution on the Church (Lumen Gentium).

Constitutio Pastoralis de Ecclesia – Vatican II’s pastoral constitution (Gaudium et Spes).

Consulta – An advisory body within a Vatican dicastery, often consisting of external experts.

Consulta della Segnatura Apostolica – A panel of legal scholars advising the Apostolic Signatura.

Contraception – A doctrinal flashpoint; the 1968 encyclical Humanae Vitae caused major Vatican political division.

Conventual Mass – A Mass celebrated by a religious community; Vatican liturgies are often conventual.

Coram Sanctissimo – A liturgical orientation where the priest faces the tabernacle; politically loaded in traditionalist circles.

Corpus Canonum – The body of canon law, including the 1983 Code and apostolic constitutions.

Cortile di San Damaso – Courtyard within the Apostolic Palace for audiences and diplomatic ceremonies.

Council of Trent – 1545–1563 council that defined Catholic reform and centralized papal authority.

Crosier – The pastoral staff of a bishop; the pope’s crosier is a symbol of universal jurisdiction.

Crucifer – The cross-bearer in papal liturgies, often a senior prelate.

Curia (Roman Curia) – The administrative apparatus of the Holy See, comprising dicasteries, tribunals, and offices.

Curialism – Excessive emphasis on central curial power over local bishops.

Custode del Sacro Palazzo – The custodian of the Apostolic Palace’s art collection.

Dataria Apostolica – A suppressed office that once granted benefices for payment; abolished 1967.

Dean of the College of Cardinals – The senior cardinal-bishop, presiding over the college and conclaves.

Decanato – The office of the dean; the dean holds the suburbicarian diocese of Ostia.

Decretal – A papal letter containing a legal decision, forming part of canon law.

Decretum Gratiani – The 12th‑century foundation of canon law, still referenced in Vatican tribunals.

Delatio Nominis – The process of presenting a candidate for episcopal appointment to the pope.

Dicaeology – The study of legal justice within canon law; a specialty of the Apostolic Signatura.

Dicastery – A department of the Roman Curia (e.g., Dicastery for Doctrine), replacing “congregation.”

Dicastery for Communication – Manages Vatican media, including L’Osservatore Romano and Vatican News.

Dicastery for Culture and Education – Merged from two former congregations; promotes Catholic intellectual life.

Dicastery for Divine Worship – See Congregation for Divine Worship (renamed).

Dicastery for Evangelization – One of the most powerful dicasteries under Pope Francis, overseeing missionary work.

Dicastery for Integral Human Development – Focuses on charity, migrants, and ecology.

Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue – Manages relations with non-Christian religions.

Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life – Promotes lay participation and family policy.

Dicastery for Legislative Texts – Interprets canon law authoritatively.

Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity – Handles ecumenical relations with other denominations.

Dicastery for the Causes of Saints – See Congregation for Saints’ Causes.

Dicastery for the Clergy – See Congregation for Clergy.

Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith – The renamed CDF under Pope Francis.

Dicastery for the Eastern Churches – See Congregation for Eastern Churches.

Dicastery for the Interpretation of Laws – See Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts (renamed).

Dicastery for the Roman Curia – The body of the pope’s closest collaborators.

Dicastery for the Service of Charity – Manages papal charitable funds, including Peter’s Pence.

Diplomatic Corps – Ambassadors accredited to the Holy See, managed by the Secretariat of State.

Disciplinary Decree – A punitive measure issued by a Vatican congregation against a cleric.

Dispensation – An exemption from a specific canon law, granted by the Apostolic Penitentiary.

Divino Afflante Spiritu – 1943 encyclical by Pius XII promoting biblical scholarship.

Domus Sanctae Marthae – See Casa Santa Marta.

Dominus Iesus – 2000 declaration asserting the necessity of the Catholic Church for salvation.

Donation of Constantine – A forged medieval document claiming papal temporal power over Western Rome.

Donation of Pepin – 756 grant of land that became the Papal States.

Dottorato in Utroque Iure – A doctorate in both canon and civil law, common for Vatican diplomats.

Dubium (pl. Dubia) – A formal doubt submitted to a Vatican dicastery for clarification; used to pressure the pope.

Economo (Vatican) – The treasurer of a curial office or diocese.

Ecumenical Council – A worldwide gathering of bishops; Vatican II was the most recent (1962–1965).

Editto (Papal Edict) – A legislative act of the pope, less formal than a constitution.

Election (Papal) – The conclave process; governed by the apostolic constitution Universi Dominici Gregis.

Embolism – A prayer inserted into the Lord’s Mass; changes to it have political implications.

Encyclical – A papal letter addressed to all bishops, often on doctrinal or social issues.

Episcopal Conference – See Bishops’ Conference.

Episcopus Vagans – A “wandering bishop” without jurisdiction; Vatican rejects such claims.

Equality of Votes (Conclave) – All cardinal electors have one equal vote.

Eroica Virtù – The “heroic virtue” required for beatification, judged by the Congregation for Saints’ Causes.

Estate of the Holy See – The Vatican’s financial holdings, partly managed by APSA.

Examen of Bishops – A review of a bishop’s governance by the Congregation for Bishops.

Excardination – Transfer of a cleric from one diocese to another, controlled by the Congregation for Clergy.

Exclaustration – Temporary permission for a religious to leave his order, granted by the relevant dicastery.

Excommunication – A censure excluding someone from communion; reserved to the Apostolic Signatura in some cases.

Exemption – A legal privilege freeing a religious order from local bishop’s authority.

Exequatur – State recognition of a Vatican appointment (e.g., a bishop), often a political bargaining point.

Exhortation – See Apostolic Exhortation.

Extra Ecclesiam Nulla Salus – “Outside the Church no salvation”; interpreted flexibly in modern diplomacy.

Extraordinary Form – The pre‑Vatican II Tridentine Mass; its regulation is politically contentious.

Fabrica di San Pietro – The office maintaining St. Peter’s Basilica, a source of patronage.

Fabbriceria – A committee managing a basilica’s finances; often dominated by local nobility.

Feria IV – Wednesday general audience; canceling it can signal papal illness or crisis.

Filioque – “And the Son”; a phrase in the Creed that divides Catholic and Orthodox churches.

Fiscal Promoter – A Vatican prosecutor in canonical trials.

Fondazione Vaticana – A Vatican foundation; used to channel funds anonymously.

Fratelli Tutti – 2020 encyclical by Pope Francis on social friendship, with political implications for global governance.

Freiburg Circle – A group of German theologians whose dissent on papal infallibility shaped Vatican I.

Gabinetto – A private study in the Apostolic Palace; access is highly restricted.

Gallicani – Advocates of French church autonomy from Rome; historical opponents of ultramontanism.

Gendarme Vaticano – A member of the Vatican Gendarmerie, responsible for security and investigations.

General Congregation (Conclave) – Meetings of cardinals before the conclave to discuss church needs.

General Secretariat of the Synod – The office organizing Synod of Bishops meetings.

Gerarchia – The hierarchical structure of the Catholic Church; curial politics revolve around rank.

Gesta – Official acts of a Vatican tribunal.

Governatorato – The body executing civil governance over Vatican City State.

Grand Master of the Equestrian Order – A Vatican-appointed head of a papal order of knighthood.

Gratis et Amore Dei – “Freely and out of love for God”; a phrase in papal documents rejecting simony.

Grave Inconveniens – “Grave inconvenience”; a legal standard for granting dispensations.

Gregorian Reform – 11th‑century reforms ending lay investiture and centralizing papal authority.

Guardia Svizzera Pontificia – The Swiss Guard, the pope’s ceremonial and security force.

Guerra di Carte – “Paper war”; a term for bureaucratic infighting within the Curia.

Habemus Papam – “We have a pope”; the announcement from the conclave balcony.

Habilitatio – Vatican permission for a layperson to teach theology in a pontifical university.

Heresy – Formal denial of a defined dogma; judged by the Congregation for Doctrine.

Hierarchy of Truths – A Vatican II concept ranking doctrines; used to downplay politically difficult teachings.

Holy Door (Porta Santa) – A sealed door opened only during jubilee years, symbolizing access to grace.

Holy Office – Historical name for the Congregation for Doctrine of the Faith.

Holy See – The central governing body of the Catholic Church, distinct from Vatican City State.

Homosexualitatis Problema – A 1986 CDF letter on homosexuality, politically significant in modern Vatican debates.

Humanae Vitae – 1968 encyclical reaffirming contraception ban; caused a major Vatican political crisis.

Iberian Cardinals – Spanish and Portuguese cardinals; historically a powerful voting bloc.

Imprimatur – “Let it be printed”; permission from a bishop for a religious publication.

In Camera Caritatis – A private, non‑judicial meeting within a Vatican congregation to resolve disputes.

In Consistory – A formal meeting of cardinals with the pope; appointments are made “in consistory.”

In pectore – “In the heart”; a cardinal named secretly by the pope, revealed later.

In persona episcopi – A liturgical direction meaning “in the person of the bishop”; used for certain blessings.

In perpetuum rei memoriam – “For perpetual memory”; a phrase opening papal bulls.

Incardination – A cleric’s canonical enrollment in a particular diocese.

Indult – A special permission from the Vatican, often for traditional liturgy.

Indulgence – Remission of temporal punishment for sin; managed by the Apostolic Penitentiary.

Index Librorum Prohibitorum – The abolished list of forbidden books (closed 1966).

Infallibility (Papal) – The pope’s immunity from error when defining doctrine ex cathedra.

Informatica Vaticana – The Vatican’s information technology and cybersecurity office.

Inquisitio – A canonical investigation preceding a doctrinal censure.

Institutio Generalis Missalis Romani – The General Instruction of the Roman Missal; its revisions are political.

Instrumentum Laboris – The working document for a Synod of Bishops, negotiated in advance.

Inter caetera – 1493 papal bull dividing the New World between Spain and Portugal.

Interdict – A censure forbidding sacraments in a territory or against a person.

Internuncio – A Vatican diplomat ranking below a nuncio; used for smaller states.

Interregnum – The period between a pope’s death or resignation and the next election.

Iota Unum – “The one iota”; phrase from the Council of Trent, referencing minor doctrinal changes.

Istituto per le Opere di Religione (IOR) – The Vatican Bank, subject to repeated financial reforms.

Jansenism – A 17th‑century theological movement condemned by Rome; its remnants influence traditionalist politics.

Jus Exclusivae – The abolished right of Catholic monarchs to veto a papal candidate.

Jus Patronatus – The right of a patron (e.g., a king) to nominate a bishop; largely abolished.

Jus Papale – Papal law, distinct from divine law; the pope can change it.

Jus Publicum Ecclesiasticum – The public law of the Church, studied at pontifical universities.

Lateran Basilica – See Archbasilica of St. John Lateran.

Lateran Pacts (1929) – Treaties creating Vatican City and ending the Roman Question.

Lateran Treaty – The political core of the Lateran Pacts, establishing Vatican sovereignty.

Latinitas – The quality of Latin style; the Vatican’s Latinists control official document aesthetics.

Lay Auditor – A layperson appointed to a Vatican tribunal; a modern reform.

Lefebvrists – Followers of Archbishop Lefebvre, who rejected Vatican II; reconciled partially in 1988.

Legate (Papal) – A personal representative of the pope, often a cardinal.

Letter of Credence – A document presented by a new ambassador to the pope.

Liber Diurnus Romanorum Pontificum – A medieval book of papal formulae.

Liber Pontificalis – A collection of papal biographies from St. Peter to the 15th century.

Libertas Ecclesiae – “Freedom of the Church”; a principle of papal political independence.

Licentiate in Canon Law – A graduate degree required for many curial legal posts.

Limina Apostolorum – The obligatory five‑year visit of a bishop to the tombs of Peter and Paul.

Litterae Apostolicae – Apostolic letters, a category of papal documents.

Litterae Encyclicae – Encyclical letters.

Litterae sub anulo Piscatoris – Letters sealed with the Fisherman’s Ring.

Lobby (Vatican) – An informal group of cardinals or laypeople pushing a particular political agenda.

L’Osservatore Romano – The Vatican’s daily newspaper, reflecting curial factions.

Lumen Gentium – Vatican II’s dogmatic constitution on the Church.

Magisterium – The Church’s teaching authority, divided into ordinary and extraordinary.

Maestro di Camera – The master of the papal household, managing daily logistics.

Maestro Pontificio delle Celebrazioni Liturgiche – The papal master of ceremonies.

Major Penitentiary – The cardinal heading the Apostolic Penitentiary.

Mansionario – A canon responsible for a basilica’s musical and liturgical schedule.

Manuale di Diritto Canonico – A standard textbook for Vatican legal training.

Mensa (Papal household budget) – The pope’s personal living expenses and charitable fund.

Mensa Cardinalizia – A cardinal’s personal income from his titular church.

Mensa Episcopalis – A bishop’s household budget; subject to Vatican financial review.

Missa Cantata – A sung Mass; regulations on Missa Cantata vary by political climate.

Missa Papale – A papal Mass, celebrated with full ceremonial.

Missa Sine Populo – A private Mass without a congregation; historically used for secret political meetings.

Monitum – A formal warning issued by a Vatican dicastery.

Motu Proprio – A legal document issued “by the pope’s own impulse,” without consultation.

Mundum Cor – “Clean heart”; a phrase used in Vatican financial reform documents.

Nazione (Vatican diplomatic) – A group of nations represented to the Holy See by a single ambassador.

Nepotism (Papal) – The historic practice of appointing relatives to curial offices; banned in 1692.

Nihil Obstat – “Nothing hinders”; a theological censor’s approval for publication.

Noble Guard – A former Vatican military corps abolished in 1970.

Nota Informativa – A background briefing distributed by the Holy See Press Office.

Notary (Vatican) – An official who authenticates canonical documents.

Notitia – An official notice published in Acta Apostolicae Sedis.

Nuncio (Apostolic Nuncio) – A Vatican ambassador to a state or international organization.

Obbedienza – The oath of obedience taken by bishops and curial officials to the pope.

Obolo di San Pietro – Peter’s Pence, an annual collection for papal charity and administration.

Oculus – A circular window in St. Peter’s dome; its opening ceremony is symbolic.

Officium de Liturgiis – The Vatican office overseeing liturgical books.

Olim – “Formerly”; used in Vatican documents to refer to pre‑Vatican II practices.

Omnium in Mentem – A 2009 apostolic letter correcting certain canon law provisions.

Opus Dei – A personal prelature (now a lay organization) with significant Vatican political influence.

Oratory – A private chapel; permission to maintain one is granted by the Apostolic Penitentiary.

Ordinariato – An office for pastoral care of specific groups (e.g., military ordinariates).

Ordinatio Sacerdotalis – 1994 apostolic letter reaffirming the ban on women’s ordination.

Ordo – A liturgical book; control over its revision is a political prize.

Ostpolitik – Vatican Cold War diplomacy with communist regimes.

Ostensorium – A monstrance; its use in political processions has been debated.

Ostia (Suburbicarian See) – The diocese assigned to the Dean of the College of Cardinals.

Palatine Cardinals – Historic cardinals attached to the papal court with ceremonial duties.

Palatine Guard – A former Vatican military corps abolished in 1970.

Palatium Apostolicum – The Apostolic Palace.

Palazzo del Sant’Uffizio – The palace housing the Congregation for Doctrine.

Palazzo Pontificio – Any papal residence, including Castel Gandolfo.

Pallium – A woolen band given to archbishops as a symbol of metropolitan authority.

Papa – Pope.

Papabile – A cardinal considered a likely candidate for pope.

Papal Chapel – The pope’s private liturgical space; access is tightly controlled.

Papal Household – Clergy and lay officials directly serving the pope.

Papal Master of Ceremonies – The official directing papal liturgies.

Papal Oath – The oath taken by each new pope; its text has changed over time.

Papal Sacristan – A prelate responsible for the pope’s liturgical vestments.

Papal States – Territories ruled by the pope from 756 to 1870.

Papal Tiara – The triple crown, symbol of temporal power; last used in 1963.

Parachurch Organization – A group operating alongside church structures; often subject to Vatican scrutiny.

Pari Passu – “With equal step”; used in Vatican concordats regarding mutual recognition.

Parish Priest (Rome) – A priest in the Diocese of Rome; appointed by the Cardinal Vicar.

Pastor Bonus – 1988 apostolic constitution reorganizing the Curia; replaced by Praedicate Evangelium.

Patriarch – The head of an Eastern Catholic church; his relations with the pope are politically delicate.

Patrimonium Sancti Petri – The historic patrimony of St. Peter, predecessor to the Papal States.

Pax Romana – A Catholic lay organization for intellectuals, with Vatican observer status.

Peculium – A cleric’s personal property; regulated by canon law.

Penal Precept – A formal command issued by a Vatican tribunal under threat of penalty.

Penisola – The Italian peninsula; Vatican politics cannot ignore Italian electoral outcomes.

Penitentiary – See Apostolic Penitentiary.

Peritus – A theological expert at an ecumenical council.

Permanent Observer – The Holy See’s non‑voting representative at the UN.

Personal Prelature – A canonical structure (e.g., Opus Dei) not tied to a territory.

Peter’s Pence – See Obolo di San Pietro.

Piscis – The Fisherman’s Ring, used to seal certain papal documents.

Placet – “It pleases”; a vote of approval in a Vatican congregation.

Placet Iuxta Modum – “Approved with modifications”; a conditional approval.

Plenitudo Potestatis – “Fullness of power”; the pope’s supreme authority.

Pompa Diaboli – “Pomp of the devil”; a phrase in baptism rites, politically cited by traditionalists.

Pontifex Maximus – An ancient Roman title adopted by the pope.

Pontifical Academy – One of several Vatican academies (e.g., Academy of Sciences).

Pontifical Antechamber – The waiting room before the pope’s private study.

Pontifical Commission – A temporary or permanent body appointed by the pope.

Pontifical Council – A former type of curial office (e.g., for Culture); many were merged into dicasteries.

Pontifical Delegate – A papal representative for a specific task, not a full nuncio.

Pontifical Secret – The highest level of Vatican confidentiality.

Pontifical University – A university granting degrees in the pope’s name (e.g., Lateran, Gregorian).

Porta di Bronzo – The Bronze Door entrance to the Apostolic Palace, guarded by the Swiss Guard.

Porta Santa – See Holy Door.

Positio – A document presenting a candidate for sainthood; reviewed by the Congregation for Saints’ Causes.

Postulator – The person advocating for a beatification or canonization.

Praedicate Evangelium – 2022 apostolic constitution reforming the Curia under Pope Francis.

Prefect – The head of a Vatican congregation or dicastery.

Prefecture of the Papal Household – The office managing daily access to the pope.

Prelate – A high‑ranking cleric with jurisdictional authority.

Prelate Auditor – A judge of the Roman Rota.

Prelate of Honour – An honorary title granted by the pope.

Prelature – A canonical jurisdiction (e.g., territorial prelature).

Presbyteral Council – A bishop’s advisory body; Vatican norms regulate its election.

President of the Governorate – The civil head of Vatican City State.

Primacy (Papal) – The pope’s supreme jurisdiction over the whole Church.

Primacy of Honor – A purely ceremonial primacy; denied by some Orthodox.

Primicerius – A senior canon in a basilica chapter.

Principe degli Apostoli – “Prince of the Apostles,” a title for St. Peter.

Prisoner in the Vatican – The self‑designation of popes from 1870 to 1929.

Privilegium – A legal privilege granted by the pope.

Pro hac vice – “For this occasion”; a dispensation valid only once.

Pro Memoria – A diplomatic memorandum.

Pro-Secretary – An acting head of a dicastery before formal appointment.

Pro-Synodal – An advisory body to a synod.

Pro-Vicar – An acting vicar during a vacancy.

Promotor Fidei – “Promoter of the Faith,” also called the Devil’s Advocate.

Promotor Iustitiae – A Vatican prosecutor in penal trials.

Promulgation – Official publication of a law in Acta Apostolicae Sedis.

Propaganda Fide – Historic name for the Congregation for Evangelization.

Protonotary Apostolic – A prelate with honorary duties at papal ceremonies.

Protosyncellus – The second‑in‑command in an Eastern Catholic eparchy.

Pseudo‑Council – A gathering falsely claiming ecumenical authority.

Pubblicista – A Vatican journalist or commentator.

Puntature – Marginal annotations in curial documents, often revealing political positions.

Quinquennial Report – A bishop’s five‑year report to the Vatican.

Quod non fecerunt barbari – “What the barbarians did not do”; a phrase about Vatican destruction of ancient monuments.

Rappresentanza Pontificia – Pontifical Representation, i.e., nunciatures.

Ras – A term for a senior Ethiopian Orthodox cleric; Vatican ecumenical politics involves the Ras.

Ratifichiamo – “We ratify”; a formula in Vatican treaty approvals.

Ratio Fundamentalis – The foundational document for priestly formation, revised periodically.

Ratio Institutionis Sacerdotalis – See Ratio Fundamentalis.

Recepisse – A receipt for a Vatican document; often a political record.

Reconciliatio et Paenitentia – 1984 apostolic exhortation on confession.

Recordatio – A memorandum circulated within the Curia.

Red Hat – The cardinal’s biretta, symbol of the office.

Redemptor Hominis – John Paul II’s first encyclical (1979), outlining his political vision.

Referendary – A Vatican official who prepares cases for the Apostolic Signatura.

Regency (Curial) – A period of temporary governance during a dicastery vacancy.

Regesta – Registers of papal letters, kept in the Vatican Archives.

Regolamento Generale della Curia Romana – The general regulations of the Curia.

Relatio – A report presented at a synod or congregation.

Relator General – The official who presents a synod’s working document.

Religious Order – A community under a specific rule; Vatican congregations supervise them.

Remissorial Letter – A letter from a bishop requesting Vatican approval for a marriage annulment.

Rescript – A written reply from a Vatican office to a specific query.

Rete di Protezione – “Protection network”; Vatican child protection procedures.

Retroactive Dispensation – A dispensation applied after the fact, used in matrimonial cases.

Revisio – A revision of a curial document; multiple revisiones can stall policy.

Riforma della Curia – Curial reform; a perennial political project.

Rituale Romanum – The Roman Ritual, containing sacramental rites.

Rocchetto – A linen garment worn by bishops; its use is regulated.

Roma Locuta Est – “Rome has spoken”; a phrase ending a doctrinal debate.

Roman Congregations – The former name for curial congregations.

Roman Question – The dispute over papal temporal power from 1870 to 1929.

Roman Rota – The Vatican appellate tribunal handling marriage cases.

Romano Pontefice – The Roman Pontiff.

Rota Romana – See Roman Rota.

Rubeo – A red garment; cardinals wear rubeo.

Rubric – A liturgical instruction; changing rubrics is politically charged.

Sacro Palazzo Apostolico – The Sacred Apostolic Palace.

Sacro Speco – The “Sacred Cave” monastery; papal visits signal attention to monastic politics.

Sacrosanctum Concilium – Vatican II’s constitution on the liturgy.

Sagrestia Pontificia – The papal sacristy, managed by the Papal Sacristan.

Sala Bologna – A reception hall in the Apostolic Palace.

Sala Clementina – A grand hall in the Apostolic Palace for state audiences.

Sala del Concistoro – The consistory hall where cardinals meet.

Sala dei Paramenti – The vesting hall before papal liturgies.

Sala Regia – The Royal Hall in the Apostolic Palace.

Sala Stampa – The Holy See Press Office.

Santo Padre – Holy Father; the pope.

Scala Regia – The royal staircase designed by Bernini leading to the Apostolic Palace.

Scrutiny (Conclave) – The ballot process; two scrutineers count votes.

Sede Apostolica – The Apostolic See.

Sede Plena – “With the see filled”; used when a bishop is in office.

Sede Vacante – “Vacant see”; the interregnum.

Segnatura Apostolica – See Apostolic Signatura.

Segnatura di Grazia – A former papal tribunal for matters of conscience.

Segnatura di Giustizia – Another name for the Apostolic Signatura.

Segretariato di Stato – The Secretariat of State.

Segretario Particolare – The pope’s private secretary, a powerful gatekeeper.

Segretario per i Rapporti con gli Stati – The Secretary for Relations with States (foreign minister).

Segretario per la Sezione Generale – The Secretary for General Affairs.

Segreti d’Ufficio – Official secrets; violation is a crime in Vatican City.

Seminario Romano Maggiore – The major Roman seminary, whose rector is appointed by the pope.

Seminario Vaticano – The Vatican’s own seminary for curial candidates.

Senatus – An advisory body in some dicasteries.

Sensus Fidelium – The sense of the faithful; invoked to challenge or support Vatican decisions.

Sessione – A working session of a Vatican congregation.

Settimana Santa – Holy Week liturgies, which the pope presides over.

Sfumatura – A subtle nuance; Vatican documents are famous for sfumature that allow political compromise.

Siccome – A formulaic opening for certain papal briefs.

Sigillo – The seal of a Vatican office.

Sigillo Pontificio – The papal seal, impressed on bulls.

Signatura – See Apostolic Signatura.

Simonia – Simony; a canonical crime.

Sinistra Storica – The “historic left” in Italian politics; Vatican has alternately opposed or engaged it.

Sistina – The Sistine Chapel.

Sisto V – Pope who reorganized the Curia in 1588; his structure lasted 400 years.

Società per l’Organizzazione dei Congressi – A lay Vatican organization managing papal events.

Sodality – A pious association; some have become political lobbying groups.

Soglio – The papal throne.

Sostituto – The Substitute for General Affairs, the third‑ranking official in the Secretariat of State.

Spicilegium – A collection of canonical texts.

Spirito del Concilio – “Spirit of the Council”; a contested phrase in Vatican politics.

Stanza – A room in the Apostolic Palace; the Stanze di Raffaello are famous.

Statio – A stational church; popes have celebrated Mass at stationes.

Statuto – The fundamental law of Vatican City State.

Stola – The stole; the pope’s stole has political symbolism.

Storico – A Vatican archivist or historian.

Studium – A course of study at a pontifical university.

Subanello – A ring worn under the Fisherman’s Ring.

Subdiaconate – A former minor order; abolished after Vatican II.

Sublimis Deus – 1537 papal bull condemning slavery.

Subsecretary – The second‑highest official in a dicastery.

Suburbicarian Diocese – One of seven dioceses around Rome held by cardinal-bishops.

Suffragio – A Mass for the dead; papal suffragi have political intentions.

Sui Iuris – “Of its own right”; used for Eastern Catholic churches.

Summorum Pontificum – 2007 motu proprio liberalizing the Tridentine Mass.

Superior General – The head of a religious order, who must seek Vatican approval.

Supernaturale – A theological category; Vatican politics often disputes its boundaries.

Supplica – A formal petition to the pope.

Suspensio a Divinis – A canonical penalty suspending a cleric from ministry.

Sussidio – A financial subsidy from the Holy See to a diocese.

Syllabus Errorum – 1864 document condemning modern errors, including separation of church and state.

Symmachus – A late antique pope whose election involved violence; early example of Vatican politics.

Synaxis – An Eastern Christian assembly; Vatican ecumenical dialogues use the term.

Synod of Bishops – An advisory body of bishops meeting periodically in Rome.

Synodality – A contemporary theme of Pope Francis, emphasizing consultation over hierarchy.

Tabellione – A Vatican notary.

Tabernaculum – The tabernacle; disputes over its placement have political angles.

Tacita – A secret vote in a Vatican congregation.

Talisman – A symbolic object used in papal ceremonies.

Tavolo – A negotiating table; Vatican diplomacy relies on tavoli tecnici.

Temporal Power – The pope’s authority over the Papal States.

Tertia Pars – “Third part”; a section of a Vatican document often containing exceptions.

Testimone – A witness in a canonical trial.

Testo Unico – A consolidated text of Vatican laws.

Theatrum – A ceremonial setting; the Vatican as political theater.

Theologate – A seminary program for theology; Vatican controls its curriculum.

Theologia Moralis – Moral theology; the Apostolic Penitentiary applies it to complex cases.

Tiara – See Papal Tiara.

Titular Bishop – A bishop with a nominal see, often a curial official.

Titulus – A cardinal’s titular church in Rome.

Tomacello – A small Vatican archival box; tomacelli can hold sensitive documents.

Traditio – A formal handover; e.g., of the pallium.

Traditio Legum – The “handing over of laws”; a papal ceremony.

Traditionalist Catholic – A movement favoring pre‑Vatican II liturgy and governance.

Transalpini – French cardinals or bishops; historically a faction.

Transubstantiation – The change of bread and wine into Christ’s body; a defined dogma.

Tribunale – A Vatican court.

Tribunale della Penitenzieria – The tribunal of the Apostolic Penitentiary.

Tribunale della Rota – The Roman Rota tribunal.

Tribunale della Segnatura – The Apostolic Signatura as a court.

Tribunale Ordinario – The ordinary court of Vatican City State for civil matters.

Tribunale Penale – The criminal court of Vatican City.

Tribunale Superiore – The superior tribunal of the Signatura.

Triduum – A three‑day liturgical period; papal Triduum ceremonies are politically scheduled.

Tridentine Mass – The pre‑Vatican II liturgy, regulated by Summorum Pontificum.

Triennio – A three‑year period; some curial appointments are for a triennio.

Triumphalism – An attitude of ecclesiastical superiority; Vatican II criticized it.

Trono – The papal throne; its use is ceremonial.

Tumultus – A disturbance in a conclave; procedures exist to suppress it.

Tunica – A liturgical garment; changes in tunica design signal liturgical politics.

Turnus – A rotation of cardinals on a curial congregation.

Uditore – An auditor of the Roman Rota.

Ultimatum – A diplomatic demand; rarely used by the Holy See but sometimes received.

Ultramontanism – The doctrine emphasizing papal supremacy over national churches.

Umbilicus – The “navel”; a term for the center of Vatican power.

Uniat – A member of an Eastern Catholic church; uniate politics involves tensions with Orthodoxy.

Unigenitus – 1713 bull condemning Jansenism; a model for doctrinal crackdowns.

Universi Dominici Gregis – 1996 apostolic constitution governing conclaves.

Urbi et Orbi – The pope’s blessing “to the city and the world.”

Urna – The ballot box in a conclave.

Uscita – An exit; in conclave, uscita refers to the new pope’s balcony appearance.

Ut Unum Sint – 1995 encyclical on ecumenism by John Paul II.

Vacante – See Sede Vacante.

Vacatio Legis – The waiting period before a Vatican law takes effect.

Valetudinarium – The Vatican’s medical clinic.

Vatican City State – See Città del Vaticano.

Vatican Gendarmerie – The police force of Vatican City.

Vatican Museums – A major source of revenue and diplomatic gift‑giving.

Vatican Obelisk – The central obelisk in St. Peter’s Square.

Vatican Radio – A broadcast service used for papal messages.

Vatican Secret Archives – See Archivio Segreto Vaticano.

Vatican Television Center – Broadcasts papal events.

Vaticanist – A journalist specializing in Vatican affairs.

Vaticano – Italian for Vatican.

Venerabile – A candidate for sainthood whose heroic virtues are recognized.

Venire – A summons to appear before a Vatican tribunal.

Verba – The words of a papal document; verba are debated line by line.

Vescovo – Bishop.

Vestiario – The papal wardrobe, managed by the Papal Sacristan.

Vestizione – The ceremony of giving a cardinal his red hat.

Veto – See Jus Exclusivae.

Viaticum – The Eucharist given to the dying; a papal viaticum has political symbolism.

Vicario di Cristo – Vicar of Christ, a papal title.

Vicario Generale – The vicar general of a diocese.

Vicario di Roma – The Cardinal Vicar for the Diocese of Rome.

Vicesgerens – The acting vicar of Rome when the cardinal vicar is absent.

Vigilantes – A Vatican security unit monitoring threats.

Vim – Force; Vatican tribunals distinguish vis (physical force) from vis moralis.

Vinculum – A bond, especially the marriage bond.

Violentia – Violence; a ground for annulment in some cases.

Virga – The papal staff.

Visita Ad Limina – See Limina Apostolorum.

Visita Pastorale – A pastoral visit; Vatican officials make visite pastorali to seminaries.

Visitatio – A formal inspection by a Vatican congregation.

Visitatore Apostolico – An apostolic visitor, sent to investigate a diocese or order.

Vita Consecrata – Consecrated life; a 1996 apostolic exhortation.

Votum – A vote or opinion submitted to a Vatican congregation.

Vulgata – The Latin Bible; its revisions involve Vatican scholars.

Zaccheo – A purse; the Vatican treasury.

Zelator – A curial zealot, excessively loyal to a faction.

Zelo – Zeal; zelo is admired but can lead to political excess.

Zimarra – A clerical cassock; the pope’s white zimarra is distinctive.

Zona – A region; Vatican diplomacy divides the world into zone.

Zucchetto – The skullcap worn by clergy; the pope’s white zucchetto is iconic.

Zuffa – A struggle; zuffa curiale refers to curial infighting.

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Glossary of Vaticanism and Vatican Politics (Part Two)

A.A.S. – Abbreviation for Acta Apostolicae Sedis, the official gazette of the Holy See.

Abstemius – A cleric who abstains from alcohol; historically relevant to Vatican wine allowances.

Accessus – The second ballot in a conclave when no candidate achieved two‑thirds on the first scrutiny.

Acta Curiae – Official acts of a curial congregation, published periodically.

Actor – The plaintiff in a canonical trial before the Roman Rota.

Actoratus – The office of a lay advocate pleading cases before Vatican tribunals.

Ad Beatissimi Patris – 1914 apostolic letter of Benedict XV urging peace during World War I.

Ad Casum – A legal opinion written for a specific case, not establishing precedent.

Ad Exsequendum – A Vatican mandate ordering a bishop to implement a specific decision.

Ad Limina Visit – See Limina Apostolorum (term 250).

Ad Nutum Sanctae Sedis – “At the nod of the Holy See”; a priest or bishop who serves at the pope’s pleasure.

Ad Perpetuam Rei Memoriam – “For perpetual memory of the matter”; opening formula of certain bulls.

Ad Probationem – A legal act intended to prove a fact in a Vatican tribunal.

Ad Rem – A curial committee that handles practical rather than doctrinal matters.

Ad Sanctam Sedem – A legal appeal lodged directly with the Apostolic See.

Ad Usum – A liturgical book approved for a specific diocese or religious order.

Ad Valorem – A tax on Vatican real estate transactions, levied by the Governorate.

Adiutor – An assistant to a curial prefect, often with limited authority.

Admittatur – “Let him be admitted”; a formula used when a candidate passes a Vatican examination.

Admonitio – A formal canonical warning less severe than a monitum.

Advocatus Diaboli – The Devil’s Advocate, formally the Promotor Fidei, who argued against canonization.

Advocatus Pauperum – An advocate for the poor in Vatican legal proceedings.

Aedis – A church building under Vatican jurisdiction.

Aegrotus – A sick cardinal excused from conclave attendance.

Aequitas Canonica – Canonical equity, a principle allowing flexibility in applying strict law.

Aerarium – The Vatican treasury, now managed by the Secretariat for the Economy.

Aestimatio – The valuation of church property for tax or sale purposes.

Aetas – The minimum age for receiving major orders; set by canon law.

Affidatio – A sworn statement submitted to a Vatican tribunal.

Affinitas – A legal impediment to marriage based on in-laws; dispensations granted by the Penitentiary.

Agenda – The daily schedule of the pope, managed by the Prefecture of the Papal Household.

Agnello – The “Lamb of God” wax medallion blessed by the pope on Holy Thursday.

Agnus Dei – A wax disc blessed by the pope, historically given to heads of state.

Albo – The official list of advocates admitted to practice before the Roman Rota.

Alienatio – The sale or mortgaging of church property, requiring Vatican permission.

Almo Collegio Capranica – The oldest Roman seminary, whose students serve papal Masses.

Alterum Tantum – “Another as much”; a rule requiring matching funds for certain Vatican expenditures.

Amministratore Apostolico – An apostolic administrator governing a diocese without a bishop.

Amnistia – A papal pardon or amnesty, historically declared during jubilees.

Anagnostes – A lector; the pope’s personal lector is a curial appointee.

Analecta – A collection of Vatican documents or historical sources.

Anathema – A formal curse of excommunication; reserved to the Apostolic See.

Ancilla – A “handmaid” religious order; Vatican congregations supervise their constitutions.

Angaria – The right of the pope to requisition transport; obsolete.

Annata – The first year’s revenue of a benefice, once paid to the Vatican.

Annulus Piscatoris – The Fisherman’s Ring, destroyed after a pope’s death.

Antecedente – A prior legal case cited in a Rota decision.

Antependium – The altar frontal; its design can signal liturgical politics.

Antesignanus – A curial official who prepares documents for the pope’s signature.

Antoniano – A choir or institution under the patronage of St. Anthony.

Anulus – Any ring worn as a sign of office; cardinals receive a gold ring.

Apocrisiarius – A papal representative to the Byzantine court; historical precursor to the nuncio.

Apographum – A certified copy of a Vatican document.

Apostata – An apostate from religious vows; subject to automatic penalties.

Apostolatus – An organization of lay people approved by the Holy See for a specific mission.

Appellatio – An appeal from a lower church court to the Roman Rota.

Approbatio – Vatican approval of a religious order’s rule or constitutions.

Aprile – The month when many consistories are held, avoiding summer heat.

Arca – The treasury chest of a Vatican congregation.

Arca Secretior – “More secret chest”; a locked archive for sensitive financial records.

Archicofradia – An archconfraternity, a lay association under papal protection.

Archidiaconus – The archdeacon of a Roman basilica, now a ceremonial role.

Archipresbyter – The archpriest of a major basilica (e.g., St. Peter’s).

Archivista – The archivist of a Vatican office.

Arcuarius – A Vatican accountant or treasurer.

Arefazione – The drying of papal bulls’ wax seals; a technical preservation term.

Aria – A financial “air” or margin in Vatican budgets.

Arma – The coat of arms of a pope or cardinal.

Armarius – The librarian of a Vatican library.

Ars Dictaminis – The art of composing papal letters, taught in curial schools.

Articolo – An article in a Vatican concordat or treaty.

Assegnazione – The allocation of Vatican funds to a specific dicastery.

Assistente al Soglio – An assistant to the papal throne, a historical ceremonial role.

Associatio – A Catholic association recognized by the Holy See.

Astenzione – Abstention from voting in a consistory or congregation.

Aula Concistoriale – The hall where consistories are held.

Aurum – Gold; the Aurum Oblationis was a gold offering to the pope.

Autentica – An authenticated copy of a Vatican legal document.

Autodeterminazione – Self‑determination; Vatican diplomacy supports it in certain territories.

Autorizzazione – Permission from a Vatican dicastery for a bishop to act.

Auxilium – Financial aid from the Holy See to a mission diocese.

Avallo – A guarantee or endorsement on a Vatican financial instrument.

Avaritia – Greed; a sin that Vatican financial reforms aim to combat.

Aversio – A formal withdrawal of Vatican recognition from a religious superior.

Avviso – A confidential intelligence bulletin circulated among curial cardinals.

Baculum – The pope’s staff, also called virga.

Baiulo – The bearer of a papal document or gift.

Baldacchino – The canopy over the altar in St. Peter’s, designed by Bernini.

Balla – A period of service for a Swiss Guard.

Ballottaggio – A runoff ballot in a conclave when no majority is reached.

Bambino – The Santo Bambino of Aracoeli, a political symbol for Rome.

Banco – A financial counter; the Vatican Bank’s banco is legendary.

Bando – A public proclamation by the Governorate of Vatican City.

Barba – The beard; clerical beards have been regulated by Vatican norms.

Baronato – A feudal title recognized by the Holy See, now purely honorary.

Basilica Minore – A minor basilica, granted papal privileges.

Basilica Patriarcale – A patriarchal basilica (e.g., St. Peter’s, St. John Lateran).

Beata – A blessed woman (beatified, not yet canonized).

Beatus – A blessed man; beatification is a step toward sainthood.

Beda – The Venerable Bede; his works are cited in Vatican doctrinal notes.

Beneficium – A church office with attached income; Vatican controls benefice appointments.

Biancheria – Linen for the altar; managed by the Papal Sacristan.

Biennio – A two‑year term for certain curial consultors.

Bigamia – Bigamy; an impediment to holy orders.

Bimillenario – A 2,000‑year anniversary; Vatican organizes major events.

Bolla Aurea – A golden bull, a ceremonial document with a gold seal.

Bombardino – A small cannon fired from Castel Sant’Angelo on papal elections.

Bonum Commune – The common good; a principle in Vatican social teaching.

Breve – See Apostolic Brief.

Breviarium Romanum – The Roman Breviary, the official prayer book for clergy.

Breviloquium – A concise summary of a longer Vatican document.

Buccellato – A ceremonial sweet bread distributed by the pope on certain feasts.

Bulla Cruciata – A bull granting crusade indulgences; historical.

Bulla Dominicalis – A bull read on Sundays in certain churches.

Bursa – A purse for hosting the Eucharist; also a Vatican financial fund.

Caccia – A “hunt” for votes before a conclave (technically forbidden).

Cadenza – A diplomatic note sent at regular intervals (e.g., every six months).

Cæremoniale Episcoporum – The ceremonial book for bishops.

Cæremoniale Romanum – The book of papal ceremonies.

Calefactor – A Vatican official who heats the conclave rooms.

Calendario Romano – The Roman calendar of saints; changes have political implications.

Calix – The chalice used by the pope, often a work of art.

Calle – A hidden passage in the Apostolic Palace.

Camauro – The red velvet cap worn by popes in winter; revived by Benedict XVI.

Camerino – A small private room in the Apostolic Palace.

Camerlengo del Collegio Cardinalizio – The camerlengo of the College of Cardinals.

Caminata – A large fireplace room used for informal curial meetings.

Campana – A bell; the Campana della Conclave signals voting.

Campanile – The bell tower of St. Peter’s.

Canale – A secret communication channel within the Vatican.

Cancellaria – The former Apostolic Chancery.

Cancelliere – A chancellor of a Vatican office.

Candela – A candle; the Candela del Conclave is extinguished after each vote.

Candidatus – A candidate for a Vatican office; subject to scrutiny.

Canon – A member of a cathedral chapter; also a law.

Canonicato – A canon’s office or prebend.

Canonicus – See Canon.

Cantina – The Vatican wine cellar, managed by the Prefecture.

Cantore – A singer in the Sistine Chapel choir.

Capella – A chapel; the Capella Papalis is the pope’s personal chapel.

Capitolo – A cathedral chapter; Vatican norms regulate its elections.

Cappellano – A chaplain; the Cappellano di Sua Santità is a papal chaplain.

Cappello – A hat; the cappello romano is a wide‑brimmed hat worn by clergy.

Capramica – A traditional Roman dish served at Vatican banquets.

Capsa – A box for the conclave ballots.

Capsarius – The keeper of the papal vestments.

Carabinieri – Italian police who coordinate with Vatican Gendarmerie.

Cardinalato – The office or rank of cardinal.

Cardinale Decano – The Dean of the College of Cardinals.

Cardinale Padrone – The “master cardinal” of a religious order.

Cardinale Protettore – A cardinal protector of a nation or order.

Cardinale Segretario – The cardinal secretary of a dicastery.

Cardinale Vicario – See Cardinal Vicar.

Carità – Charity; the Elemosineria Apostolica administers papal charity.

Carota – A “carrot” (incentive) offered to secure a cardinal’s vote in a consistory.

Carta – A document; Carta Segreta is a secret Vatican paper.

Casa – A house; Casa di Esercizi is a retreat house used by curial officials.

Cassazione – An appeal to the Apostolic Signatura against a Rota decision.

Castel Gandolfo – The pope’s summer residence, now partly a museum.

Castellano – The governor of Castel Gandolfo.

Castigo – A canonical penalty, including castigo canonico.

Casuista – A casuist, a specialist in the Apostolic Penitentiary.

Catacombe – Roman catacombs; Vatican jurisdiction over them is contested.

Catalogo – A list of Vatican officials, updated annually.

Catasta – A list of candidates for episcopal appointment.

Catena – A chain; the Catena di San Pietro relic.

Cattedra – The bishop’s chair; the Cattedra di San Pietro is a relic.

Cavaliere – A knight of a papal order (e.g., Order of Pius IX).

Cavallo – A “horse” used in Vatican diplomatic courier service.

Cedola – A coupon or voucher for Vatican services.

Celam – See CELAM (term 111).

Celebrazione – A liturgical celebration; papal celebrations are meticulously choreographed.

Cella Sacra – The “sacred cell” where conclave ballots are counted.

Censimento – A census of Vatican citizens, conducted every five years.

Censore – A censor of books for the Vatican’s Imprimatur.

Centesimus Annus – 1991 encyclical by John Paul II on social and economic justice.

Centro – A center; Centro Televisivo Vaticano is Vatican Television.

Cera – Wax for papal seals; managed by the Chancery.

Cerbero – “Cerberus”; a nickname for the Swiss Guard at the Bronze Door.

Cereo – A large candle; the Cereo Pasquale is blessed by the pope.

Certificato – A certificate of good standing required for Vatican appointments.

Cessatio – A cessation of office; cessatio a divinis is a penalty.

Cessione – A transfer of Vatican property requiring dicastery approval.

Cetera – “Other things”; a catch‑all in Vatican legal formulae.

Chiavi – Keys; the crossed keys are the papal symbol.

Chierico – A cleric; chierico di camera is a papal chamber cleric.

Chiesa – Church; Chiesa dei Santi Michele e Magno is a Vatican parish.

Chirografo – See Chirograph (term 51).

Ciambellano Partecipante – A participating chamberlain in papal ceremonies.

Ciborio – A canopy over the altar; also a vessel for hosts.

Cicisbeo – A historical Roman social role; irrelevant but found in gossip about Vatican salons.

Cifra – A code used in Vatican diplomatic cables.

Cimitero – A cemetery; Vatican extraterritorial cemeteries exist in Rome.

Cinta – A wall; the Leonine Wall surrounds Vatican City.

Cintura – A belt; the papal cintura is part of the vestments.

Cippo – A boundary marker of Vatican City.

Ciriegia – A cherry; the Ciriegia di Albano is a diplomatic gift.

Ciro – A wax used for the Fisherman’s Ring.

Cittadinanza – Vatican citizenship, granted for service, not birth.

Claustrum – A cloister; Vatican congregations have claustrum for meetings.

Clave – A key; the Clave di San Pietro is the papal symbol.

Clericus – A cleric; Clericus Vaticanus is a Vatican employee in holy orders.

Clientela – A patronage network within the Curia.

Coadiutore – A coadjutor bishop with right of succession.

Cocchiere – A coachman; the pope’s former coachmen are now part of the motor pool.

Codex – A manuscript; the Codex Vaticanus is a famous biblical manuscript.

Coercitio – Coercive power of Vatican tribunals.

Cognatio – Kinship; a marriage impediment.

Cognitio – A judicial examination in a Vatican court.

Cointeressenza – Shared financial interest; forbidden in Vatican contracts.

Colazione – Breakfast; the colazione of the pope is simple.

Colettività – A collective of Vatican employees; unions are forbidden.

Colle – A hill; the Vatican is on the Mons Vaticanus.

Collegamento – A liaison; collegamento between dicasteries is often poor.

Collegialità – See Collegiality (term 55).

Collegio – A college; Collegio dei Protonotari is the college of protonotaries.

Collegio Armeno – The Armenian College in Rome, under Vatican protection.

Collegio Bellarmino – A Jesuit college in Rome.

Collegio Lombardo – A seminary for Lombard clergy.

Collegio Notai – The college of Vatican notaries.

Collegio Teutonico – See Collegio Teutonico (term 92).

Colonnato – The colonnade of St. Peter’s Square.

Colore – Color; the pope’s white, cardinals’ red, bishops’ purple.

Comandante – The commander of the Swiss Guard.

Combinazione – A political combination or alliance among cardinals.

Comes – A companion; Comes Lateranensis is a historical title.

Cominform – The Soviet information bureau; Vatican counter‑intelligence monitored it.

Commedia – Dante’s Comedy; cited in papal addresses.

Commendatario – A cleric who holds a benefice in commendam (temporarily).

Commentarium – A commentary on Vatican documents.

Commissario – A commissioner appointed by the pope for a specific inquiry.

Commissio – See Commission (various entries).

Commodato – A loan of Vatican property for a specific purpose.

Comodità – Comfort; curial offices have varying comodità.

Comparatio – A legal comparison of texts in a Vatican tribunal.

Compatrono – A co‑patron saint of a Vatican office.

Compendio – A summary of a longer Vatican report.

Compenso – A salary or compensation for curial work.

Competenza – Jurisdiction; disputes over competenza are common.

Complesso – A building complex (e.g., Complesso di Sant’Uffizio).

Componenda – A compromise agreement in Vatican diplomacy.

Comporto – A conduct record for Vatican employees.

Compromissum – An agreement to submit a dispute to Vatican arbitration.

Comunione – Communion; Comunione dei Santi is the communion of saints.

Comunità – A community; Comunità di Sant’Egidio is a lay community influential in Vatican politics.

Concentus – A musical setting for papal liturgies.

Concessione – A concession granted by the Vatican to a state or religious order.

Concilio – A council; Concilio Vaticano II is the most recent.

Concistoro – See Consistory (term 98).

Conclavista – An attendant allowed to serve a cardinal in conclave.

Conclusio – The final decision of a Vatican congregation.

Concordato – See Concordat (term 101).

Concorso – A competitive examination for Vatican positions.

Concreto – A concrete decision as opposed to a general principle.

Conculia – A medieval tax paid to the pope.

Cursus Honorum – The career path of a curial official, from minor post to cardinal.

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Glossary of Vaticanism and Vatican Politics (Part Three)

Custode – A custodian; the Custode del Sacro Palazzo manages the Apostolic Palace’s art.

Dama – A lady of the papal nobility; Dame di Palazzo serve at ceremonial functions.

Dannum – Damage; dannum emergens is actual financial loss claimed in Vatican tribunals.

Datario – The former head of the Dataria Apostolica.

De Ambitu – A canonical crime of electoral bribery in conclaves.

De Cetero – “From now on”; a clause changing future practice in a Vatican document.

De Defectu – A trial concerning a defect of form in marriage.

De Fide – “Of faith”; a teaching proposed as definitively to be believed.

De Gestis – A historical record of papal acts.

De Indulgentiis – A treatise on indulgences, controlled by the Penitentiary.

De Jure – By law; as opposed to de facto.

De Lapsu – A penalty for a cleric who has abandoned his state.

De Lunae – A term for a Vatican employee hired without a competitive exam.

De Matrimonio – The canonical treatise on marriage, studied at the Rota.

De Missione – A papal mandate sending a nuncio to a post.

De Nihilo – A donation made “from nothing” (i.e., gratuitously) to the Holy See.

De Obligatione – A legal opinion on a binding duty.

De Partibus – A division of a Vatican congregation into territorial sections.

De Praecepto – A legal precept or command.

De Quo – “Concerning which”; a phrase introducing a specific case.

De Rebus – A congregation handling temporal goods.

De Residente – A requirement that bishops reside in their dioceses; enforced by the Congregation for Bishops.

De Sede – “Concerning the see”; used in vacancy documents.

De Tempore – A temporal limitation in a Vatican law.

De Verbo – “Concerning the word”; a theological review of a papal text.

De Voto – A vow; the Penitentiary dispenses from vows.

Decano – Dean; the Decano del Corpo Diplomatico is the longest‑serving ambassador to the Holy See.

Decima – A tithe; historically paid to the pope.

Decimatio – A 10% reduction in Vatican budget, occasionally decreed.

Decisio – A final judgment of the Roman Rota.

Declaratio – A formal declaration by a Vatican congregation.

Decoro – Decorum; a standard for Vatican liturgical and diplomatic behavior.

Decr. (Decretum) – A decree of a Vatican congregation.

Decretale – A decretal letter; a papal rescript forming part of canon law.

Decretista – A scholar of decretals.

Decretum Laudis – A decree praising a religious order’s constitutions.

Defensor Bond – The Defender of the Bond, a Vatican advocate arguing for marriage validity.

Defensor Fidei – Defender of the Faith; a title granted by the pope to monarchs.

Defensor Matrimonii – See Defensor Bond.

Definitio – A doctrinal definition, protected by infallibility.

Definitio Fidei – A definition of faith.

Definitor – A member of a religious order’s governing council, confirmed by the Vatican.

Degradatio – Degradation from clerical state; a penalty imposed by the Apostolic Signatura.

Delegatus – A delegate; delegatus non potest delegare (a delegate cannot sub‑delegate).

Deliberatio – A deliberative vote in a congregation.

Delictum – A canonical crime.

Delictum Gravius – A grave crime (e.g., abuse of a minor), reserved to the CDF.

Delictum Speciale – A special crime (e.g., violation of the Eucharist), reserved to the CDF.

Delictum Seditiosum – Sedition against the pope.

Delibera – A formal resolution of a Vatican commission.

Demanio – State property of Vatican City.

Demissio – The dismissal of a religious from his order.

Denegatio – A denial of a Vatican request or favor.

Denuntiatio – A denunciation; a report of a canonical crime to Vatican authorities.

Depositum Fidei – The deposit of faith; the pope is its guardian.

Depositus – A cleric who has been deposed from office.

Derogatio – A partial repeal of a canon law.

Desertor – A cleric who abandons his ministry without permission.

Designatio – A designation of a candidate for episcopal appointment.

Desponsatio – Betrothal; the Vatican regulates its canonical effects.

Destitutio – Removal from a church office.

Detentio – Custody of Vatican property.

Determinatio – A binding determination by the Apostolic Signatura.

Detractio – Defamation; a canonical crime judged by the Vicariate of Rome.

Devotio – Devotion; devotio moderna influenced Vatican spirituality.

Dextra – The right hand; the pope’s dextera is kissed.

Diaconatus – The diaconate; permanent deacons are under Vatican norms.

Diaconissa – A deaconess; historically in the West, now debated in Vatican ecumenism.

Diarium – A daily log kept by a Vatican office.

Diaspora – Catholic communities in non‑Catholic lands; the Vatican supports them.

Dicaeologia – The science of canonical equity.

Dictamen – The art of composing official Vatican correspondence.

Dictator – A derogatory term for a pope accused of autocratic governance.

Dictatus Papae – A list of 27 papal claims attributed to Gregory VII.

Didaskaleion – A pontifical institute for higher studies.

Dies – A day; dies assignatus is a court date at the Rota.

Dies Irae – A sequence used in Requiem Masses; its suppression was political.

Dies Non – A day when the Vatican tribunal does not sit.

Difesa – The defense in a canonical trial.

Difficilis – A difficult case requiring special Vatican attention.

Digestum – The Roman legal digest, cited in Rota decisions.

Digitalis – A digital archive of Vatican documents.

Dignitas – Dignity; dignitas connubii is the dignity of marriage.

Dignitario – A dignitary of a Vatican basilica.

Dilectus – A beloved son; a papal address to a bishop.

Dimissio – A letter of dismissal from a religious institute.

Dimissoriae – Letters dimissory allowing ordination outside one’s diocese.

Dimissus – A cleric dismissed from the clerical state.

Diocesi – Diocese; the Vatican directly governs certain dioceses (e.g., Rome, Ostia).

Dipartimento – A department within a dicastery.

Diploma – A Vatican academic degree.

Diplomazia – Diplomacy; the Holy See’s diplomatic corps.

Direttore – A director of a Vatican office.

Diritto – Law; diritto canonico is canon law.

Dispensatio – Dispensation (see Dispensation).

Dispositio – The dispositive part of a papal legal document.

Disputatio – A theological dispute regulated by the CDF.

Dissensus – Formal disagreement with a Vatican document.

Dissonantia – Doctrinal dissonance; the CDF investigates.

Distributio – The distribution of Vatican benefices.

Districtus – A territorial district of a Vatican congregation.

Diversorium – A guesthouse for Vatican visitors.

Divortium – Divorce; the Church does not recognize it, but annulments are granted.

Doctrina – Doctrine; Doctrina Socialis Ecclesiae is Catholic social teaching.

Documentum – A Vatican document; documentum reservatum is confidential.

Doge – The head of a former Italian republic; Vatican relations with Venice were complex.

Dogni – A slang term for a Vatican security informant.

Domenica – Sunday; papal Angelus is delivered on Domenica.

Domestico – A domestic prelate, an honorary title.

Dominicae Cenae – A 1980 letter on the Eucharist by John Paul II.

Dominicale – A Sunday vestment.

Dominicum – The Lord’s day; Vatican holidays include dominica.

Domus – A house; Domus Vaticana is the pope’s household.

Donazione – A donation to the Holy See, regulated by canon law.

Donna – A woman; Vatican norms on women’s roles in liturgy have evolved.

Dormitio – The Dormition of Mary; Vatican ecumenical dialogues discuss it.

Dos – A dowry paid to a religious institute; Vatican regulates its use.

Dossale – A hanging behind the altar; its design reflects liturgical politics.

Dossier – A file prepared for a Vatican congregation.

Dottore – A doctor of the Church; the pope declares new doctors.

Dottrina – See Doctrina.

Dubium – A doubt submitted for Vatican clarification.

Ducale – A ducal title recognized by the Holy See.

Ducatus – A duchy under papal temporal sovereignty (historical).

Duce – “Leader”; the Vatican’s relationship with Mussolini’s Duce was formalized in the Lateran Pacts.

Duomo – A cathedral; the Vatican has jurisdiction over the Lateran Duomo.

Dura Lex – “Hard law”; but dura lex sed lex (hard law but it is law).

Dyscolia – A difficulty in a Vatican office’s functioning.

Ecclesia – Church; Ecclesia Catholica is the universal Church.

Ecclesia Dei – A 1988 commission for traditionalists; suppressed in 2019.

Ecclesia Mater – “Mother Church”; a Vatican self‑description.

Ecclesia Prima – “First Church”; a title for St. John Lateran.

Ecclesia Reformata – “Reformed Church”; Vatican dialogues with Reformed churches.

Ecclesia Subsistit – “The Church subsists in”; a Vatican II term about the Church of Christ.

Ecclesiola – A small church; a term for a schismatic group.

Economato – The financial office of a Vatican dicastery.

Economo – The treasurer of a Vatican office.

Edictum – An edict of a Vatican tribunal.

Editio – An edition; editio typica is the official version of a liturgical book.

Editto – A public order issued by the Governorate.

Editoria – Vatican publishing; Editrice Vaticana is the Vatican Publishing House.

Educatio – Education; Vatican norms for Catholic schools.

Effatum – A saying of a pope, not binding but politically influential.

Effettivo – An effective or substantive Vatican decision.

Efficacia – Legal efficacy; the condition for a Vatican act to be valid.

Egenus – A poor person; Vatican charity prioritizes the egenus.

Ego – “I”; papal documents use ego in the person of the pope.

Egregia – An outstanding curial official.

Egressio – Departure; egressio from the conclave is forbidden.

Eisenhower – U.S. president who met Pope John XXIII; a model for papal‑U.S. relations.

Elemosina – Alms; the Elemosineria Apostolica distributes papal charity.

Elemosiniere – The papal almoner.

Elevatio – The elevation of the host at Mass; also a pope’s elevation to the throne.

Eligenda – Things to be elected; a consistory agenda item.

Eligi – To be chosen; posse eligi is the right to be elected pope.

Eligio – Election; eligio canonica is canonical election.

Eligitur – “He is elected”; the formula announcing a new pope in the conclave.

Elucubratio – A careful study by a Vatican theologian.

Elusio – Evasion of a Vatican law.

Emarginatus – A cleric living on the margins of church structure.

Emeritus – Retired; a pope emeritus or bishop emeritus.

Emigratio – Emigration; Vatican pastoral care for emigrants.

Eminenza – Eminence; the title for a cardinal.

Eminentissimo – Most eminent; the formal address for a cardinal.

Emissarius – A secret papal emissary.

Emolumentum – Income from a Vatican office.

Enciclica – See Encyclical.

Enclave – Vatican City is an enclave within Rome.

Encryptatio – Encryption used in Vatican digital communications.

Encyclica – See Encyclical.

Endosso – A financial endorsement by the Vatican Bank.

Enigma – A code name for a Vatican cipher machine.

Ensemble – A group of curial officials working together on a project.

Ente – An entity; Ente Vaticano is any Vatican body.

Eo Ipsum – “By that very fact”; a legal consequence attached automatically.

Eparchia – An Eastern Catholic diocese.

Eparchus – An Eastern Catholic bishop.

Ephemerides – A daily Vatican news summary.

Episcopalis – Episcopal; Episcopalis Communio is a 2018 apostolic constitution on synods.

Episcopatus – The episcopate; its college with the pope.

Episcopus – Bishop; Episcopus Romae is the pope.

Episcopus Emeritus – A retired bishop.

Episcopus Vagans – A “wandering bishop” without canonical mission.

Epistola – A letter; Epistola Apostolica is an apostolic letter.

Epistola Encyclica – Encyclical letter.

Epitome – A summary of a Vatican document.

Epoca – A period; Vatican historical archives are divided by epoca.

Eques – A knight of a papal order.

Equester – Knightly; Ordo Equester Sancti Sepulcri is a papal order.

Equiparatio – The equating of two canonical statuses.

Equitas – Equity; canonical equity.

Eremus – A hermitage; Vatican law for hermits.

Erga – Toward; erga omnes (toward all) – Vatican acts with universal effect.

Ergo – Therefore; a logical connector in Vatican legal reasoning.

Errata – Errors; errata corrige is a correction slip.

Error – Error; error in persona (error of person) invalidates marriage.

Eruditio – Learning; required for Vatican diplomatic service.

Esame – An examination for a Vatican position.

Esarcato – An exarchate; an Eastern Catholic jurisdiction.

Esarca – An exarch; an Eastern Catholic bishop.

Esecutore – An executor of a Vatican decree.

Esercizio – Exercise; esercizio della giurisdizione is exercise of jurisdiction.

Esigenza – A requirement; Vatican financial transparency esigenze.

Esistente – Existing; a Vatican office esistente.

Esortazione – Exhortation; see Apostolic Exhortation.

Espansione – Expansion; Vatican diplomatic espansione after 1929.

Esperto – An expert; Vatican esperti advise congregations.

Espiscopio – A bishop’s residence in Rome.

Esposizione – Exhibition; Vatican museums’ esposizioni.

Espresso – An express Vatican courier.

Essenza – Essence; the essenza of papal primacy.

Estensore – The drafter of a Vatican document.

Estimo – A valuation of Vatican property.

Estinzione – Extinction; estinzione di un ufficio (abolition of an office).

Esumazione – Exhumation; required for certain beatification causes.

Et – “And”; the smallest word in Vatican legal texts, subject to debate.

Età – Age; canonical età for orders.

Eterno – Eternal; the pope as Eterno Padre in some prayers.

Ethos – The moral character of Vatican institutions.

Etichetta – Etiquette; Vatican etichetta is highly codified.

Etymologia – Etymology; Vatican Latinists debate etymologia.

Eucaristia – Eucharist; the central Vatican liturgy.

Eugenico – Eugenics; Vatican condemned it in the 1930s.

Eunuco – Eunuch; historically barred from orders.

Europa – Europe; Vatican diplomacy focuses on Europa.

Eusebio – Eusebius of Caesarea; his history is cited in Vatican archives.

Eutanasia – Euthanasia; Vatican opposes it.

Evangelium – Gospel; Evangelium Vitae is a 1995 encyclical.

Eventus – Outcome; eventus damni is the outcome of damage in a case.

Eversio – Subversion; a canonical crime.

Evocatio – The transfer of a case to a higher Vatican tribunal.

Ex Abundanti – “Out of abundance”; doing more than required.

Ex Aequo – “From equity”; a decision based on fairness.

Ex Apostolatus – “From the apostolate”; a phrase in missionary documents.

Ex Audientia – “From an audience”; a decision made by the pope personally.

Ex Caritate – “Out of charity”; Vatican financial aid.

Ex Cathedra – “From the chair”; an infallible papal definition.

Ex Cessione – From a cession; a legal transfer.

Ex Conscientia – From conscience; a Penitentiary decision.

Ex Consuetudine – From custom; a source of Vatican law.

Ex Contractu – From a contract; a Vatican legal action.

Ex Cultu – From worship; liturgical law.

Ex Defectu – From defect; a marriage nullity ground.

Ex Dicasterio – From a dicastery; an official act.

Ex Dilectione – From love; a papal gift.

Ex Divina – From divine law; immutable.

Ex Dote – From a dowry; property management.

Ex Ecclesia – From the Church; a papal teaching.

Ex Eventu – From the outcome; a retrospective judgment.

Ex Fide – From faith; a doctrinal statement.

Ex Filio – From the Son; the Filioque clause.

Ex Forma – From the form; a requirement for validity.

Ex Gratia – From grace; a gratuitous Vatican favor.

Ex Historia – From history; a Vatican archival reference.

Ex Honore – From honor; a non‑binding title.

Ex Imperio – From authority; a jurisdictional act.

Ex Jure – From law; a legal right.

Ex Lege – From the law; a statutory provision.

Ex Libris – From books; a Vatican library mark.

Ex Limine – From the threshold; a preliminary dismissal.

Ex Matrimonio – From marriage; a legal status.

Ex Missione – From a mission; a nuncio’s authority.

Ex Natura – From nature; natural law.

Ex Nihilo – From nothing; creation, also a donation.

Ex Officio – By virtue of office; automatic authority.

Ex Omni – From every; universal application.

Ex Optica – From optics; a visual symbol.

Ex Ordine – From the order; a procedural step.

Ex Pacto – From a pact; a treaty obligation.

Ex Papae – From the pope; a papal act.

Ex Parte – From one side; a one‑sided Vatican decision.

Ex Pectoris – From the heart; a secret appointment.

Ex Persona – From the person; a personal act.

Ex Plenitudine – From fullness; the pope’s plenitude of power.

Ex Post – After the fact; a retrospective law.

Ex Praecepto – From a precept; a command.

Ex Principio – From a principle; a foundational statement.

Ex Privilegio – From a privilege; a special right.

Ex Professo – By profession; an expert opinion.

Ex Proprio – From one’s own; a motu proprio.

Ex Publica – From public; a public document.

Ex Quibus – From which; a legal list.

Ex Ratione – From reason; a logical conclusion.

Ex Recognita – From recognition; an approved text.

Ex Regula – From a rule; a general norm.

Ex Reservata – From reservation; a reserved case.

Ex Scripto – From writing; a written document.

Ex Se – From itself; inherently.

Ex Silentio – From silence; an argument from silence.

Ex Speciali – From special; a particular grant.

Ex Tempore – From time; a temporary act.

Ex Testamento – From a will; a testamentary gift.

Ex Traditione – From tradition; handed down.

Ex Tunc – From then; retroactive effect.

Ex Utero – From the womb; Vatican bioethics.

Ex Voto – From a vow; a votive offering.

Ex Voluntate – From will; a voluntary act.

Exaccion – An excessive tax; forbidden in Vatican law.

Exactor – A collector of Vatican revenues.

Exaltatio – Exaltation; the elevation of the pope.

Examen – An examination; examen conscientiae is an examination of conscience.

Exarchatus – An exarchate.

Exaudi – “Hear”; a papal audience.

Excambium – An exchange of Vatican property.

Excardinatio – Transfer from one diocese to another.

Excedens – Exceeding; excedens potestatem (exceeding authority).

Exceptio – An exception; exceptio veritatis (truth exception).

Excessus – Excess; excessus potestatis (abuse of power).

Excidium – Ruin; excidium urbis (ruin of the city).

Excipiens – The person raising an exception.

Excitatorium – A letter urging action.

Exclamatio – An exclamation; a formal protest in a Vatican congregation.

Excludens – Excluding; a reason for exclusion.

Exclusio – Exclusion; exclusio a conclavi (exclusion from conclave).

Excommunicatio – Excommunication.

Excommunicatus – An excommunicated person.

Excretio – A secretion; irrelevant but appears in Vatican medical ethics.

Exculpatio – Exculpation; a defense.

Excusatio – An excuse; excusatio non petita (an excuse not asked for).

Executio – Execution; executio sententiae (execution of a sentence).

Exemplar – A copy; exemplar authenticum (authentic copy).

Exemptio – Exemption from local bishop’s authority.

Exercitium – Exercise; exercitium jurisdictionis (exercise of jurisdiction).

Exhaustio – Exhaustion; exhaustio recursus (exhaustion of appeals).

Exhibitio – A presentation; exhibitio documentorum.

Exhortatio – An exhortation.

Exigens – Requiring; exigens necessitatem.

Exiguitas – Smallness; the Vatican’s territorial exiguitas.

Exilium – Exile; popes have experienced exilium.

Existentia – Existence; existentia ecclesiae.

Exitus – Outcome; exitus conclavis.

Exoneratio – Exoneration; exoneratio ab officio.

Exorbitans – Exorbitant; exorbitans potestas.

Exorcista – Exorcist; a minor order, now suppressed.

Exordium – The opening section of a Vatican document.

Exornatio – Decoration; of Vatican churches.

Exostra – A stage; Vatican theater is rare.

Expatriatio – Expatriation; Vatican citizens abroad.

Expectativa – An expectation; expectativa beneficii.

Experientia – Experience; required for curial office.

Expertus – An expert witness.

Expletio – Fulfillment; expletio voti.

Explicatio – Explanation; explicatio doctrinae.

Explicit – “It is finished”; the end of a document.

Exploratio – Exploration; exploratio voluntatis (exploring the will).

Exponens – The petitioner in a Vatican case.

Expositio – Exposition; expositio motivi.

Expostulatio – A complaint; expostulatio cum Romano Pontifice.

Expressio – Expression; expressio unius est exclusio alterius.

Exprobratio – A reproach; used in Vatican diplomatic notes.

Expromissio – A debt assumption; Vatican finance.

Expulsio – Expulsion; expulsio ex territorio.

Exsequiae – Funeral rites; papal exsequiae.

Exsequendum – To be executed; a mandate.

Exsequutio – Execution; exsequutio diplomatica.

Exstinctio – Extinction; exstinctio officii.

Extensio – Extension; extensio iurisdictionis.

Exterritorialitas – Extraterritoriality; Vatican properties enjoy it.

Extinctio – Extinction; extinctio personae.

Extorsio – Extortion; a canonical crime.

Extra – Outside; extra muros (outside the walls).

Extra Commercium – Outside commerce; sacred objects.

Extra Dubium – Beyond doubt; a clear case.

Extra Ecclesiam – Outside the Church; nulla salus.

Extra Iudicium – Outside court; an administrative act.

Extra Legem – Outside the law; not regulated.

Extra Omnes – “Everyone out”; the conclave order.

Extra Ordinem – Out of order; a procedural violation.

Extra Petita – Beyond what was requested; a judicial error.

Extra Processum – Outside the process; an extra‑judicial act.

Extra Statum – Outside the state; a Vatican citizen abroad.

Extra Synagogam – Outside the synagogue; a historical phrase.

Extractus – An extract; extractus ex actis.

Extraneus – A stranger; not a Vatican citizen.

Extravagantes – Papal laws not included in the main canon law collections.

Extrema Unctio – Extreme unction; now the Anointing of the Sick.

Extremis – At the point of death; Vatican norms for extremis.

Exul – An exile; popes have been exules.

Exultet – The Easter proclamation; a Vatican liturgical text.

Fabrica – The building committee of a basilica.

Fabricarius – A member of a fabrica.

Facere – To do; facere sequitur esse (doing follows being).

Facilitas – Ease; facilitas absolutiva.

Facsimile – A copy; facsimile authenticum.

Factio – A faction within the Curia.

Factum – A fact; factum probandum.

Facultas – A faculty or permission.

Facultas Absolvendi – Faculty to absolve.

Facultas Benedicendi – Faculty to bless.

Facultas Concedendi – Faculty to grant.

Facultas Dispensandi – Faculty to dispense.

Facultas Ordinandi – Faculty to ordain.

Facultas Praedicandi – Faculty to preach.

Facultas Regendi – Faculty to govern.

Facultas Subdelegandi – Faculty to sub‑delegate.

Falcata – A curved knife; used in papal sacrifices (historical).

Fallacia – Fallacy; fallacia papalis.

Falsarius – A forger of Vatican documents.

Falsitas – Falsity; falsitas in causa.

Fama – Reputation; fama sanctitatis.

Familiaris – A member of the papal household.

Familia – The pope’s household.

Famulus – A servant; famulus papae.

Fanaticus – A fanatic; Vatican condemns religious fanaticism.

Fanum – A temple; pagan fanum replaced by churches.

Fasciculus – A bundle of documents.

Fasti – Annals; Fasti Vaticani.

Fatalis – Deadly; fatalis annus.

Fautor – A supporter; fautor haeresis.

Favores – Favors; favores apostolici.

Feast – A liturgical feast; Vatican regulates them.

Februarius – February; the month when many consistories are avoided.

Fecialis – A herald; Vatican diplomatic feciales.

Fecunditas – Fecundity; fecunditas matrimonii.

Feria – A weekday; feria IV is the audience day.

Ferialis – A weekday Mass; simplified.

Ferrariensis – A cardinal from Ferrara; a faction.

Fervorinus – A legal case requiring urgency.

Fessio – A confession; fessio fidei.

Festivitas – A feast; festivitas papalis.

Fetialis – See Fecialis.

Fex – Dregs; fex populi (the rabble).

Fiamma – Flame; the Holy Spirit as fiamma.

Fiat – “Let it be done”; the pope’s approval.

Fiat Lux – “Let there be light”; a Vatican motto.

Fibula – A clasp; fibula papalis.

Fictio – A legal fiction.

Fidelis – A faithful person; the fideles.

Fidelitas – Fidelity; fidelitas papae.

Fides – Faith; fides catholica.

Fides Publica – Public faith; Vatican documents have it.

Fiducia – Trust; fiducia papalis.

Filius – Son; filius ecclesiae.

Fimbria – A fringe; on vestments.

Finis – End; finis ecclesiae.

Finis Terrae – End of the earth; Vatican missions.

Firma – Signature; firma papalis.

Firmatio – Confirmation; firmatio electionis.

Firmitas – Strength; firmitas sedis.

Fiscus – Treasury; fiscus vaticanus.

Fissio – Split; fissio ecclesiae.

Fixum – Fixed; fixum stipendium.

Flabellum – A fan; used in papal ceremonies.

Flamma – Flame; see Fiamma.

Flamma Papalis – Papal flame; a symbol.

Flecto – To bend; the knee bends before the pope.

Flexibilis – Flexible; Vatican diplomacy is flexibilis.

Flos – Flower; flos sanctorum.

Foedus – Treaty; foedus lateranense.

Fons – Source; fons iuris.

Foraneus – Foreign; a foreign bishop.

Foras – Outside; foras ecclesiam.

Forca – A gallows; Vatican abolished capital punishment.

Forma – Form; forma canonica.

Formalis – Formal; formalis obiectum.

Formatio – Formation; clerical formatio.

Formularius – A form book for Vatican documents.

Formulary – See Formularius.

Fornicatio – Fornication; a sin.

Fors – Chance; fors conclavis.

Fortalitium – A fortress; Castel Sant’Angelo.

Fortasse – Perhaps; used in cautious Vatican statements.

Fortiter – Strongly; fortiter in re.

Fortuna – Fortune; fortuna papae.

Forum – A court; forum internum (internal forum).

Forum Externum – External forum; public jurisdiction.

Forum Internum – Internal forum; conscience jurisdiction.

Fossa – A ditch; Vatican boundaries.

Fossatus – A moat; historical.

Fotografia – Photography; forbidden in some Vatican areas.

Fractio – Breaking; fractio panis.

Fragilitas – Fragility; human fragilitas.

Frater – Brother; a religious brother.

Fraternitas – Brotherhood; fraternitas sacerdotalis.

Fraudator – A defrauder; fraudator ecclesiae.

Fraus – Fraud; fraus canonica.

Fregellae – An ancient town; Vatican excavations.

Frequens – Frequent; frequens communio.

Frequentatio – Attendance; frequentatio conciliorum.

Fretum – Strait; Vatican diplomacy in the Strait of Hormuz.

Frigidarium – A cold room; in Vatican palaces.

Frons – Front; frons ecclesiae (church facade).

Frontispicium – Frontispiece; of Vatican documents.

Fructus – Fruit; fructus beneficii.

Frumentum – Wheat; Vatican charity.

Frustra – In vain; frustra legis.

Fuga – Flight; fuga papae.

Fugitivus – A fugitive; fugitivus a conclavi.

Fulcrum – A support; Vatican financial fulcrum.

Fulgur – Lightning; a symbol of divine power.

Fumata – Smoke; fumata bianca (white smoke for election).

Fumata Nera – Black smoke; failed conclave vote.

Fumata Bianca – White smoke; successful election.

Fumus – Smoke; fumus persecutionis (smoke of persecution).

Fundatio – Foundation; fundatio ecclesiae.

Fundator – Founder; of a religious order.

Fundus – Land; Vatican fundus.

Funebris – Funeral; funebris oratio.

Funis – Rope; the funis papalis.

Fur – A thief; fur ecclesiae.

Furca – A fork; furca papalis.

Furtum – Theft; furtum sacrum.

Fusus – Spindle; fusus papalis.

Gabbia – Cage; the gabbia of St. Peter’s.

Gabella – A tax; gabella vaticana.

Gabinettista – A member of a Vatican cabinet.

Gaius – A Roman jurist; cited in Rota decisions.

Galanteria – Courtesy; Vatican diplomatic galanteria.

Galerus – A cardinal’s hat; also a red galero.

Gallicano – See Gallicani (term 176).

Gallo – A rooster; a symbol of papal vigilance.

Gamba – A leg; gamba papale.

Gangraena – A gangrene; a metaphor for heresy.

Garbata – Graceful; Vatican etiquette.

Garum – A fish sauce; ancient Roman, irrelevant.

Gas – Gas; Vatican environmental policy.

Gaudium – Joy; Gaudium et Spes.

Gaza – Treasure; gaza vaticana.

Gazetta – A newspaper; Gazzetta Vaticana.

Gelata – A freeze; gelata papale.

Gematria – Numerology; used in some Vatican codes.

Gemma – A gem; papal rings.

Genealogia – Genealogy; genealogia papae.

Generalato – The office of a superior general.

Generalis – General; generalis confessor.

Genius – Spirit; genius loci.

Genuflexio – Genuflection; before the pope.

Genus – Kind; genus humanum.

Geographia – Geography; Vatican diplomatic geography.

Geologia – Geology; Vatican on creation.

Geometria – Geometry; Vatican architecture.

Gerarchia – Hierarchy; gerarchia vaticana.

Gergo – Jargon; Vatican gergo.

Germania – Germany; a key Vatican diplomatic partner.

Gesta – Deeds; Gesta Romanorum.

Gestio – Management; gestio rerum.

Gigante – Giant; the gigante of St. Peter’s.

Giro – A financial transfer; giro vaticano.

Giubileo – Jubilee; Giubileo Straordinario.

Giudice – Judge; giudice rotale.

Giudizio – Judgment; giudizio finale.

Giuramento – Oath; giuramento papale.

Giurisdizione – Jurisdiction; giurisdizione papale.

Giurista – Jurist; Vatican giurista.

Giustizia – Justice; Giustizia Vaticana.

Gladius – Sword; gladius spiritualis.

Globus – Globe; the globus cruciger.

Gloria – Glory; Gloria in Excelsis.

Glossa – A gloss; on canon law.

Glossator – A commentator on canon law.

Gnomon – A sundial; Vatican has one.

Gradus – Step; gradus iurisdictionis.

Graduale – A liturgical book.

Graecus – Greek; Vatican relations with Greece.

Gratia – Grace; gratia papale.

Gratis – Free; gratis et amore Dei.

Gratitudo – Gratitude; Vatican diplomatic currency.

Gratuitas – Gratuitousness; gratuitas beneficii.

Grave – Grave; grave onus.

Gravitas – Gravity; Vatican gravitas.

Gravius – More grave; delictum gravius.

Gregalis – A follower; of a cardinal.

Gregorianum – The Gregorian University.

Gremium – Lap; in gremio ecclesiae.

Gressus – Step; gressus papalis.

Grex – Flock; the pope’s grex.

Grosso – A coin; Vatican grosso.

Grotto – A cave; Vatican grottos.

Grumus – A heap; of Vatican documents.

Grund – Ground; Vatican extraterritorial grund.

Gubbio – A town; papal visits.

Guerra – War; Vatican on guerra.

Guida – A guide; guida vaticana.

Guido – A name; St. Guido.

Gula – Gluttony; a sin.

Guttus – A flask; for holy oils.

Gymnasium – A school; Vatican gymnasium.

Gyrus – A circle; the gyrus of St. Peter’s.

Habena – A rein; habena papalis.

Habere – To have; habere ius.

Habitatio – Residence; habitatio papae.

Habitus – Garment; habitus papalis.

Hac Vice – For this occasion; a dispensation.

Haeresis – Heresy; haeresis papalis.

Haereticus – Heretic; haereticus deponendus.

Hagiographa – Sacred writings; Vatican archives.

Hagios – Holy; Greek term.

Halitus – Breath; the Holy Spirit.

Hallel – A psalm; Vatican liturgies.

Hamaxa – A carriage; papal hamaxa.

Harena – Sand; Vatican soil.

Harmonia – Harmony; Vatican diplomacy.

Haschisch – Hashish; Vatican drug policy.

Hasta – A spear; hasta papalis.

Haud – Not; haud facile.

Haus – House; German.

Hausa – A language; Vatican Radio broadcasts.

Hebdomada – A week; Hebdomada Sancta.

Hebdomadarius – The weekly officiant.

Hecatomb – A sacrifice; historical.

Hectica – Fever; papal illness.

Hegumen – An abbot; Eastern.

Heilige – Holy; German.

Heilsgeschichte – Salvation history.

Helix – A spiral; Vatican architecture.

Heraldus – A herald; heraldus papalis.

Herba – Grass; herba vaticana.

Herbarius – An herbalist; Vatican gardens.

Hereditas – Inheritance; hereditas papalis.

Heremus – Hermitage; heremus vaticanus.

Hermeneutica – Hermeneutics; Vatican hermeneutica.

Hesperia – Italy; Vatican in Hesperia.

Hetaeria – A brotherhood; Greek.

Heterodoxus – Heterodox; Vatican condemns.

Heure – Hour; French.

Hexaemeron – Six days of creation.

Hiatus – A gap; in Vatican documents.

Hibernia – Ireland; Vatican diplomacy.

Hic – Here; hic et nunc.

Hierarchia – Hierarchy; hierarchia vaticana.

Hieratica – Hieratic; Vatican script.

Hierophant – A priest; of pagan cults.

Hilaritas – Cheerfulness; Vatican ideal.

Hinc – Hence; hinc inde.

Hippodromus – A racetrack; Vatican has none.

Hircus – A goat; hircus papalis.

Hirundo – A swallow; symbol.

Hispania – Spain; Vatican relations.

Historia – History; historia vaticana.

Hodie – Today; hodie nobis.

Hodiernus – Of today; hodiernus usus.

Holocaustum – A burnt offering.

Homo – Man; homo vaticanus.

Honestas – Honesty; Vatican standard.

Honor – Honor; honor papalis.

Honorarium – A fee; for Vatican services.

Hora – Hour; hora canonica.

Horarium – A schedule; Vatican horarium.

Hortus – Garden; Hortus Vaticanus.

Hospes – Guest; hospes papalis.

Hospitale – Hospital; Vatican has one.

Hostia – Host; the Eucharist.

Hostis – Enemy; hostis ecclesiae.

Huic – To this; huic rei.

Humanitas – Humanity; Vatican teaching.

Humilitas – Humility; papal virtue.

Humor – Moisture; irrelevant.

Humus – Soil; Vatican humus.

Hyacinthus – A gem; papal ring.

Hydria – A water vessel.

Hygia – Health; Vatican clinic.

Hymnus – A hymn; Vatican hymnus.

Hypapante – The Presentation; a feast.

Hyperbasis – A transgression.

Hypostasis – Person; in theology.

Hypotheca – A mortgage; Vatican property.

Hysteron – Later; hysteron proteron.

Iacere – To throw; iacere anathema.

Iactus – A throw; iactus retis.

Iam – Already; iam diu.

Ianuarius – January; Vatican year begins.

Iaspis – Jasper; a gem.

Ibidem – In the same place; citation.

Ichnographia – A ground plan; Vatican buildings.

Icona – An icon; Vatican has many.

Ictus – A blow; ictus fulminis.

Idem – The same; idem per idem.

Identitas – Identity; Vatican identitas.

Ideo – Therefore; ideo credo.

Idioma – Language; Vatican idiomata.

Idiota – A layman; unlearned.

Idolum – An idol; Vatican condemns.

Ieiunium – Fasting; Vatican norms.

Ientaculum – Breakfast; papal ientaculum.

Ieremiae – Jeremiah; cited.

Iesus – Jesus; the center.

Ignis – Fire; ignis inferni.

Ignorantia – Ignorance; ignorantia invincibilis.

Igitur – Therefore; igitur missa est.

Illa – That; illa dies.

Ille – That man; the pope.

Illius – Of that; illius ecclesiae.

Imago – Image; imago papae.

Imbecillitas – Weakness; imbecillitas papae.

Imber – Rain; imber benedictus.

Imbibitio – Absorption; of Vatican norms.

Imbreviatura – A summary.

Immaculata – Immaculate; Immaculata Conceptio.

Immaterialis – Immaterial; Vatican property.

Immediatus – Immediate; immediatus subiectus.

Immensus – Immense; immensus Dei.

Immissio – Insertion; immissio manuum.

Immo – Indeed; immo vero.

Immortalitas – Immortality; of the soul.

Immutabilitas – Immutability; of doctrine.

Impedimentum – An impediment; to marriage or orders.

Imperator – Emperor; Vatican relations.

Imperfectus – Imperfect; imperfectus consensus.

Imperium – Authority; imperium papale.

Impetratio – Obtaining; impetratio dispensationis.

Impetus – Force; impetus iuventutis.

Impius – Impious; impius papalis.

Impleo – I fill; impleo officium.

Imploratio – Imploring; imploratio subsidii.

Impositio – Imposition; impositio manuum.

Impossibilis – Impossible; impossibilis obligatio.

Impotentia – Impotence; marriage impediment.

Imprimatur – Let it be printed.

Imprimenda – To be printed.

Imprimis – Especially.

Improbatio – Disapproval.

Improprius – Improper.

Impulsus – Impulse; motu proprio.

Impuritas – Impurity.

Imputatio – Imputation; of guilt.

In Absentia – In absence.

In Actu – In act.

In Aeternum – Forever.

In Agenda – On the agenda.

In Altum – Into the deep.

In Audientia – In audience.

In Bonis – In good standing.

In Camera – In private.

In Canonica – In canon law.

In Capitulo – In chapter.

In Causa – In the case.

In Cena Domini – On the Lord’s Supper.

In Ceteris – In other things.

In Choro – In choir.

In Claustro – In the cloister.

In Comitiis – In the assembly.

In Conclavi – In conclave.

In Concursu – In competition.

In Confessione – In confession.

In Conscientia – In conscience.

In Consilio – In council.

In Consistorio – In consistory.

In Contumaciam – In default.

In Crastino – On the morrow.

In Cruce – On the cross.

In Curia – In the curia.

In Decreto – In the decree.

In Defectu – In defect.

In Dictamine – In drafting.

In Dies – Daily.

In Dimissione – In dismissal.

In Divinis – In sacred things.

In Dubio – In doubt.

In Ecclesia – In the church.

In Effectu – In effect.

In Efficacia – In efficacy.

In Essendo – In being.

In Eventu – In the outcome.

In Excelsis – In the highest.

In Executivis – In execution.

In Exitu – In the exit.

In Extremis – At the point of death.

In Facto – In fact.

In Fide – In faith.

In Fine – In the end.

In Forma – In form.

In Foro – In court.

In Frigore – In cold.

In Fructu – In fruit.

In Fuga – In flight.

In Fumata – In the smoke.

In Futuro – In the future.

In Genere – In general.

In Gremio – In the lap.

In Hac – In this.

In Honore – In honor.

In Idem – In the same.

In Illo – In that.

In Incognito – Incognito.

In Infinitum – Infinitely.

In Integrum – Entirely.

In Interim – In the meantime.

In Iudicio – In judgment.

In Iure – In law.

In Ius – Into law.

In Loco – In place.

In Lucem – Into light.

In Manibus – In the hands.

In Marge – In the margin.

In Materia – In the matter.

In Medias Res – Into the middle of things.

In Memoriam – In memory.

In Mensa – On the table.

In Mente – In mind.

In Merito – On the merits.

In Minus – Less.

In Modum – In the manner.

In Moribus – In morals.

In Natura – In nature.

In Necessariis – In necessities.

In Nuce – In a nutshell.

In Obligatione – Under obligation.

In Officio – In office.

In Omni – In every.

In Optima – In the best.

In Ordine – In order.

In Pace – In peace.

In Pagina – On the page.

In Paribus – In equals.

In Parte – In part.

In Passu – In step.

In Pectore – In the heart.

In Perpetuum – Forever.

In Persona – In person.

In Plano – On the plain.

In Pleno – In full.

In Pluribus – In many.

In Possesso – In possession.

In Praxi – In practice.

In Primis – In the first place.

In Principio – In the beginning.

In Privato – In private.

In Probatione – In probation.

In Processu – In process.

In Promptu – In readiness.

In Propria – In one’s own.

In Puncto – On the point.

In Puris – In pure.

In Qua – In which.

In Quibus – In which (plural).

In Re – In the matter.

In Rebus – In things.

In Recursu – On appeal.

In Regula – In the rule.

In Rem – Against a thing.

In Rerum – In things.

In Res – Into things.

In Retibus – In nets.

In Retro – In the back.

In Sacris – In sacred things.

In Saecula – Forever and ever.

In Scriptis – In writing.

In Secunda – In the second.

In Seipso – In itself.

In Sensu – In the sense.

In Sessioni – In session.

In Simili – In a similar case.

In Solo – Alone.

In Specie – In particular.

In Statu – In a state.

In Structura – In structure.

In Subsidium – As a help.

In Summa – In summary.

In Tempore – In time.

In Terminis – In terms.

In Teste – In witness.

In Textu – In the text.

In Toto – Entirely.

In Transitu – In transit.

In Tribunali – In tribunal.

In Tutto – In everything.

In Ultimo – In the last.

In Unione – In union.

In Universo – In the universe.

In Urbe – In the city.

In Usum – For use.

In Utroque – In both.

In Vacante – During vacancy.

In Valore – In value.

In Verbo – In the word.

In Veritate – In truth.

In Via – On the way.

In Vice – In place.

In Victoria – In victory.

In Virtute – By virtue.

In Vita – In life.

In Voto – In a vow.

In Vulgari – In the vernacular.

In Vulnera – Into wounds.

In Xtum – Into Christ (abbreviation).

In Zenit – At the zenith.

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Glossary of Vaticanism and Vatican Politics (Part Four)

Incardinatio – The canonical act of enrolling a cleric into a particular diocese.

Incarnatio – The Incarnation; central to Vatican christological politics.

Incensatio – The ceremonial use of incense during papal liturgies.

Incensus – A censured person; one under Vatican penalty.

Inceptio – The beginning of a Vatican office’s term.

Incertitudo – Uncertainty; a ground for dispensation in some cases.

Incestus – Incest; a matrimonial impediment.

Inchoatio – An incomplete act; requiring Vatican ratification.

Incineratio – The burning of conclave ballots after each vote.

Inclusio – A clause including specific categories in a Vatican law.

Incolatus – Residence in a territory without full citizenship.

Incompatibilitas – Incompatibility of two church offices.

Incompetentia – Lack of jurisdiction in a Vatican tribunal.

Incomprehensibilis – Incomprehensible; a divine attribute.

Inconveniens – Inconvenient; a factor in granting dispensations.

Incorporatio – The merging of a religious institute into another.

Incorrectio – A formal correction issued by a Vatican congregation.

Incrustatio – The decoration of Vatican altars with marble.

Incubatio – A period of waiting before a Vatican decision.

Inculpatio – Blameworthiness in a canonical crime.

Incultatio – The adaptation of Vatican liturgy to local cultures.

Incumbens – The incumbent of a Vatican office.

Incuria – Negligence in curial administration.

Incusatio – An accusation before a Vatican tribunal.

Indagatio – An investigation into a bishop’s governance.

Indebitus – Undue; an undue payment to the Vatican.

Indefectibilitas – The Church’s indefectibility; a Vatican teaching.

Indelibilitas – The indelible character of baptism and orders.

Indemnitas – An indemnity paid to the Holy See.

Independens – Independent; a title claimed by some religious orders.

Index – The list; see Index Librorum Prohibitorum.

Indicatio – A formal indication from a Vatican congregation.

Indictio – The convocation of a council or synod.

Indifferentismus – Indifferentism; condemned by Vatican I.

Indigena – A native clergy member; Vatican promotes indigenous vocations.

Indigentia – Poverty; a condition for Vatican charity.

Indignitas – Unworthiness; a ground for removal from office.

Indirecte – Indirect; Vatican’s indirect power in temporal matters.

Indissolubilitas – The indissolubility of marriage.

Individuum – An individual; Vatican norms on human dignity.

Induciae – A truce; Vatican mediation of ceasefires.

Inductio – The induction of a bishop into his diocese.

Indulgentia – An indulgence; see Indulgence.

Indumentum – A vestment; regulated by Vatican liturgical law.

Industria – Diligence; required of curial officials.

Indutiae – See Induciae.

Inefficacia – Ineffectiveness; of a Vatican act due to defect.

Infallibilitas – Papal infallibility; defined in 1870.

Infamia – Infamy; a canonical penalty.

Infans – An infant; age for baptism.

Infantia – Infancy; a stage of life.

Infatuatio – Foolishness; a term in some Vatican documents.

Infectio – Infection; Vatican bioethics.

Infidelis – An unbeliever; Vatican relations with non‑Christians.

Infinitas – Infinity; a divine attribute.

Infirmitas – Illness; grounds for papal resignation.

Inflammatio – Inflammation; Vatican medical ethics.

Inflatia – Inflation; Vatican financial management.

Inflectio – A bending; the knee before the pope.

Influxus – Influence; Vatican influxus in world affairs.

Informalis – Informal; informalis observantia.

Informator – A reporter; an informant within the Curia.

Infra – Below; infra scriptum.

Infra Annum – Within a year; a legal deadline.

Infra Dioecesim – Within the diocese.

Infra Muros – Within the walls.

Infra Petita – Within the requests.

Infra Scriptum – Written below.

Infra Septa – Within enclosures.

Infra Tempus – Within the time.

Infractio – A breach; of a Vatican law.

Infrequens – Infrequent; infrequens communio.

Infringere – To infringe; forbidden.

Infructuosus – Fruitless; a Vatican office without work.

Infundere – To pour; baptismal water.

Ingenuitas – Ingenuousness; Vatican diplomatic style.

Ingressus – Entry; ingressus in conclave.

Ingruens – Approaching; an emergency.

Inhaerentia – Inherence; of jurisdiction.

Inhibitio – An inhibition; a stay of proceedings.

Inhonestas – Dishonesty; grounds for removal.

Inhumanitas – Inhumanity; condemned.

Iniuria – Injury; a canonical delict.

Iniustitia – Injustice; Vatican opposes.

Inlatio – A bringing; inlatio manuum.

Inlisio – A striking; historical.

Innocentia – Innocence; presumed in Vatican trials.

Innominatus – Unnamed; innominatus contractus.

Innotescere – To become known; a Vatican notification.

Innovatio – Innovation; resisted by traditionalists.

Inobservantia – Non‑observance; of Vatican rules.

Inopportunus – Inopportune; a reason to delay a Vatican decision.

Inordinatus – Disorderly; inordinatus affectus.

Inpensio – Expense; Vatican budgeting.

Inpetratio – See Impetratio.

Inpietas – Impiety; a sin.

Inploratio – Imploring; a formal request.

Inponere – To impose; a penalty.

Inportunitas – Importunity; pressure on the Vatican.

Inpossibilitas – Impossibility; excuses from law.

Inpotentia – See Impotentia.

Inpraegnantia – Pregnancy; Vatican bioethics.

Inprimere – To imprint; the indelible character.

Inprimis – Especially; in Vatican documents.

Inprobare – To disapprove; a Vatican act.

Inpromptu – In readiness; see In Promptu.

Inpugnare – To attack; the Vatican defends itself.

Inpulsus – Impulse; motu proprio.

Inpuritas – Impurity; a sin.

Inquisitio – Inquiry; a canonical investigation.

Inquisitor – An investigator; historical.

Insania – Insanity; grounds for nullity.

Inscendere – To ascend; the papal throne.

Inschola – In school; Vatican seminaries.

Inscriptio – The inscription on a papal document.

Inscriptus – Registered; a Vatican citizen.

Insectatio – Persecution; of the Church.

Insecureitas – Insecurity; Vatican security concerns.

Insensatus – Foolish; a term of reproach.

Inseparabilitas – Inseparability; of marriage.

Insertio – Insertion; into a Vatican register.

Insidiae – Ambushes; Vatican security.

Insidiator – A plotter; against the Vatican.

Insignia – Insignia; of papal office.

Insignificans – Insignificant; a small benefice.

Insimulatio – An accusation.

Insipiens – Foolish; a scriptural term.

Insistentia – Insistence; diplomatic pressure.

Insolubilitas – Insolubility; of marriage.

Insolventia – Insolvency; Vatican financial rules.

Inspectio – Inspection; by a Vatican visitor.

Inspector – A Vatican inspector.

Instabilitas – Instability; grounds for dismissal.

Instans – Urgent; instans negotium.

Instar – Like; instar omnium.

Instauratio – Restoration; instauratio liturgica.

Instigatio – Instigation; of a canonical crime.

Institutio – Institution; a canonical act.

Institutum – An institute; of consecrated life.

Instrictio – A binding; of a document.

Instructio – An instruction; a Vatican directive.

Instrumentum – An instrument; a legal document.

Insufficientia – Insufficiency; of evidence.

Insula – An island; Vatican extraterritorial properties.

Insultus – An insult; a canonical delict.

Insuppressio – Non‑suppression; of a religious order.

Integrum – Entire; restitutio in integrum.

Intellectus – Understanding; Vatican theology.

Intemperantia – Intemperance; grounds for removal.

Intentio – Intention; required for validity.

Inter – Between; inter alia.

Inter Caetera – Among other things; a bull.

Inter Communia – Among common things.

Inter Conclavia – Between conclaves.

Inter Curiam – Within the Curia.

Inter Dicasteria – Between dicasteries.

Inter Gentes – Among nations.

Inter Graecos – Among Greeks.

Inter Hispanos – Among Spaniards.

Inter Italos – Among Italians.

Inter Latinos – Among Latins.

Inter Missiones – Among missions.

Inter Partes – Between parties.

Inter Pontifices – Among pontiffs.

Inter Provinciales – Among provincials.

Inter Regentes – Among rulers.

Inter Romanos – Among Romans.

Inter Sanctos – Among saints.

Inter Se – Among themselves.

Inter Seniores – Among elders.

Inter Stipites – Among the clergy.

Inter Suos – Among their own.

Inter Vivos – Between living persons.

Intercessio – Intercession; of the pope.

Interdictum – An interdict; a penalty.

Interesse – Interest; Vatican financial.

Interfector – A killer; excommunicated.

Interim – Meanwhile; an interim appointment.

Interiora – Inner things; Vatican archives.

Interitus – Destruction; of Vatican property.

Interlocutio – An interlocutory decree.

Intermedius – Intermediate; a rank.

Internatus – Innate; a right.

Internuncius – An internuncio; a lower diplomat.

Interpellatio – A formal query to a Vatican office.

Interpres – An interpreter; Vatican translation services.

Interregnum – The vacancy between popes.

Interrogatio – An interrogation; in a Vatican trial.

Interruptio – Interruption; of a Vatican process.

Intersticium – An interval; between ordinations.

Interventio – Intervention; by the Holy See.

Interventus – A coming between; Vatican mediation.

Intestatus – Intestate; Vatican inheritance law.

Intimatio – A formal notification.

Intinctio – Intinction; dipping the host in wine.

Intolerabilis – Intolerable; grounds for dispensation.

Intolerantia – Intolerance; Vatican condemns.

Intonatio – Intonation; of the Gloria.

Intra – Within; intra annum.

Intra Claustra – Within cloisters.

Intra Curiam – Within the Curia.

Intra Muros – Within the walls.

Intra Septa – Within enclosures.

Intra Textum – Within the text.

Intractabilis – Intractable; a difficult case.

Intraneus – An insider; a curial official.

Intransitivus – Intransitive; a verb in Vatican Latin.

Intricatio – Complexity; of a legal case.

Introductio – Introduction; of a cause.

Introductus – Introduced; a candidate.

Intromissio – Admission; to a Vatican office.

Intrusus – An intruder; into a church office.

Intuitus – Regard; intuitus fidei.

Intumescentia – Swelling; medical.

Inundatio – Flood; Vatican disaster relief.

Inurbanitas – Rudeness; diplomatic fault.

Inusitatus – Unusual; a rare Vatican act.

Inutilis – Useless; a void act.

Invacillans – Unwavering; Vatican doctrine.

Invalesco – To prevail; a custom.

Invalidus – Invalid; a null act.

Invectio – An invective; rare in Vatican diplomacy.

Inventarium – An inventory; of Vatican goods.

Inventio – Discovery; of relics.

Investitura – Investiture; historical.

Investigatio – Investigation; by Vatican police.

Invicem – Mutually; invicem se.

Invictus – Unconquered; the Church.

Invidia – Envy; a sin.

Invisibilitas – Invisibility; of the Church’s essence.

Invitatus – Invited; a guest.

Invocatio – Invocation; of the Holy Spirit.

Involucrum – A wrapper; of Vatican documents.

Involuntarius – Involuntary; an act.

In vulnera – Into the wounds; a prayer.

Ipse – Himself; the pope.

Ipsissima – The very words; of the pope.

Ipsissimus – The very same; a papal phrase.

Ipsius – Of himself; ipsius ecclesiae.

Ipsum – Itself; ipsum esse.

Ira – Wrath; a deadly sin.

Iratus – Angry; a papal mood.

Irregulare – Irregular; an impediment.

Irreligiositas – Irreligion; condemned.

Irremissibilis – Unforgivable; a sin.

Irremovabilis – Irremovable; a pastor.

Irreparabilis – Irreparable; damage.

Irreprehensibilis – Blameless; required for clergy.

Irrequietus – Restless; a seeker.

Irretitus – Entangled; in sin.

Irreverentia – Irreverence; liturgical.

Irrevocabilis – Irrevocable; a papal act.

Irrisio – Mockery; of sacred things.

Irritabilitas – Irritability; a vice.

Irritans – Annulling; a clause.

Irritatio – Annulment; of a marriage.

Irritus – Null; void.

Isagoge – An introduction; to canon law.

Isolated – A Vatican diplomat cut off from communication.

Isonomia – Equality; before the law.

Ister – The Danube; Vatican diplomacy.

Italicum – Italian; Italicum votum.

Itaque – Therefore; a conjunctive.

Ite – Go; Ite missa est.

Iter – A journey; papal iter.

Iteratio – Repetition; of a baptism.

Iudex – Judge; Iudex Christi.

Iudicium – Judgment; Iudicium Dei.

Iugum – Yoke; iugum Christi.

Iunctim – Jointly; a Vatican negotiation.

Iuniores – Juniors; younger cardinals.

Iura – Rights; iura ecclesiae.

Iuramentum – An oath.

Iuratio – Swearing; of an oath.

Iuridicus – Judicial; potestas iuridica.

Iurisdictio – Jurisdiction.

Iurisprudentia – Jurisprudence; of the Rota.

Iurista – A jurist; Vatican.

Ius – Law; Ius Antiquum.

Ius Commune – Common law.

Ius Divinum – Divine law.

Ius Ecclesiasticum – Church law.

Ius Gentium – Law of nations.

Ius Humanum – Human law.

Ius Naturale – Natural law.

Ius Papale – Papal law.

Ius Patronatus – Patronage right.

Ius Publicum – Public law.

Ius Quiritium – Roman civil law.

Ius Sanguinis – Right of blood; Vatican citizenship.

Ius Soli – Right of soil; not used.

Iussum – A command; papal.

Iustificatio – Justification; theology.

Iustitia – Justice; Iustitia et Pax.

Iuvenilis – Youthful; a cardinal under 80.

Iuventus – Youth; Vatican youth policy.

Kalendae – Calends; first of the month.

Kalendarium – A calendar; Vatican.

Katechon – One who restrains; papal role.

Kerygma – Proclamation; Vatican preaching.

Koinonia – Communion; Vatican ecumenism.

Koinonos – A partner; Vatican.

Kolobion – A tunic; Eastern.

Kontakion – A hymn; Eastern.

Kyrie – Lord; Kyrie eleison.

Kyrios – Lord; Greek.

Labarum – A standard; Vatican flag.

Labes – A stain; of sin.

Labium – A lip; labium papale.

Labor – Work; Vatican labor law.

Labores – Labors; papal.

Lac – Milk; a symbol.

Lacerna – A cloak; papal.

Lacrimae – Tears; papal.

Lactatio – Nursing; imagery.

Lacuna – A gap; in canon law.

Lacus – A lake; Vatican.

Laesio – Injury; laesio enormis.

Laetitia – Joy; Laetitiae.

Lama – A blade; irrelevant.

Lamentatio – Lamentation; papal.

Lampas – A lamp; Vatican.

Lana – Wool; for pallia.

Lancea – A spear; lancea Christi.

Languor – Illness; papal.

Lapis – A stone; Vatican.

Lapsus – A fall; lapsus linguae.

Largitas – Generosity; Vatican.

Latens – Hidden; latens crimen.

Lateranensis – Lateran; Basilica Lateranensis.

Latinistas – A Latinist; Vatican.

Latria – Worship; due to God.

Latro – A thief; latro in cruce.

Latus – Broad; latus clericus.

Lauda – A hymn; Vatican.

Laudatio – Praise; Vatican.

Laureatus – A laureate; Vatican.

Laurus – Laurel; Vatican.

Laus – Praise; Laus Deo.

Lautitia – Splendor; Vatican.

Lavacrum – A bath; baptismal.

Lavatio – Washing; of feet.

Laxismus – Laxism; condemned.

Lectio – A reading; Vatican.

Lector – A reader; minor order.

Lectulus – A bed; papal.

Legatio – A legation; Vatican.

Legatus – A legate; papal.

Legenda – A legend; Vatican.

Legendum – To be read; Vatican.

Legifer – A lawgiver; pope.

Legio – A legion; Vatican.

Legis – Of law; legis doctor.

Legislatio – Legislation; Vatican.

Legitimatio – Legitimation; of children.

Legitimus – Legitimate; legitimus usus.

Lei – A garland; irrelevant.

Lenitas – Mildness; Vatican.

Lens – A lens; Vatican telescope.

Leo – A lion; papal symbol.

Leones – Lions; Vatican.

Lepra – Leprosy; Vatican care.

Lepus – A hare; irrelevant.

Lesio – See Laesio.

Lethargus – Lethargy; a vice.

Lethum – Death; post lethum.

Leuca – A league; distance.

Levamen – Relief; Vatican charity.

Levatio – Lifting; of the host.

Levis – Light; levis culpa.

Levitas – Lightness; frivolity.

Lex – Law; lex orandi.

Lex Credendi – Law of believing.

Lex Supplicandi – Law of supplicating.

Liasion – Liaison; Vatican.

Libellus – A booklet; Vatican.

Liber – A book; Liber Pontificalis.

Libertas – Freedom; libertas ecclesiae.

Libido – Lust; a sin.

Libra – A pound; weight.

Libram – A balance; justice.

Librarius – A scribe; Vatican.

Libri – Books; Vatican.

Licentia – Permission; Vatican.

Licet – Although; a conjunctive.

Licitus – Lawful; licitus usus.

Lien – A spleen; irrelevant.

Ligamen – A bond; marriage.

Lignum – Wood; cross.

Lilium – Lily; symbol.

Limen – Threshold; limen apostolorum.

Limes – A limit; Vatican.

Lingua – Language; Vatican.

Lingua Latina – Latin; official.

Linteum – Linen; altar.

Liquor – Liquid; wine.

Lira – A coin; obsolete.

Lis – A lawsuit; Vatican.

Littera – A letter; littera apostolica.

Litterae – Letters; litterae dimissoriae.

Lituus – A staff; papal.

Liturgia – Liturgy; Vatican.

Locus – A place; locus sanctus.

Locutio – Speech; papal.

Logica – Logic; Vatican.

Logos – Word; Christ.

Lombardus – A Lombard; historical.

Loricatus – Armored; a penitent.

Lorum – A thong; vestment.

Lotium – Urine; irrelevant.

Lucerna – A lamp; Vatican.

Lucrum – Profit; forbidden for benefices.

Luctor – I struggle; a motto.

Luctus – Mourning; Vatican.

Ludus – Game; forbidden.

Lues – Plague; Vatican.

Lumen – Light; Lumen Gentium.

Luna – Moon; symbol.

Lunula – A crescent; host holder.

Lupus – A wolf; heretic.

Lustrum – A five‑year period.

Lux – Light; lux mundi.

Luxuria – Lust; a deadly sin.

Macellum – A market; Vatican.

Maceratio – Mortification; asceticism.

Machina – Machine; Vatican.

Macies – Thinness; fasting.

Macula – A stain; sin.

Mactatio – Slaughter; sacrifice.

Macula Peccati – Stain of sin.

Magister – Master; magister palatii.

Magisterium – Teaching authority.

Magistratus – Magistrate; Vatican.

Magna – Great; Magna Carta.

Magnificat – The canticle; Vatican.

Magnus – Great; Magnus Pontifex.

Maior – Greater; maior excommunicatio.

Maior Domus – Mayor of the palace.

Maiestas – Majesty; papal.

Mala – Evil; mala fides.

Male – Badly; male dictum.

Maleficium – Evil deed; witchcraft.

Malesuada – Evil‑persuading; greed.

Malice – Malice; canonical.

Malleus – Hammer; Malleus Maleficarum.

Malum – Evil; malum in se.

Mandatum – A mandate; Vatican.

Manes – Spirits; pagan.

Mane – Morning; Vatican.

Manganum – A machine; printing.

Manifestatio – Manifestation; of conscience.

Manipulus – A handful; vestment.

Manna – Manna; symbol.

Mansio – A dwelling; Vatican.

Mansuetudo – Gentleness; virtue.

Mantellum – A mantle; papal.

Manuale – A manual; Vatican.

Manus – Hand; impositio manuum.

Mappa – A cloth; Vatican.

Mappula – A napkin; vestment.

Mare – Sea; Vatican.

Margarita – A pearl; Vatican.

Maria – Mary; Vatican.

Maritus – Husband; marriage.

Marmor – Marble; Vatican.

Marsupium – A purse; Vatican.

Martyr – Martyr; Vatican.

Masculus – Male; orders.

Massa – A mass; of documents.

Mater – Mother; Mater Ecclesia.

Materia – Matter; materia sacramenti.

Matrimonium – Marriage.

Matrona – A matron; Vatican.

Maturitas – Maturity; age.

Mausoleum – Mausoleum; Vatican.

Maxilla – Jawbone; relic.

Maxime – Most; especially.

Mea – My; mea culpa.

Medela – Healing; Vatican.

Media – Means; media salutis.

Mediator – Mediator; Christ.

Medicina – Medicine; Vatican.

Medietas – Half; a share.

Meditullium – Center; Vatican.

Medium – Middle; medium aevum.

Medulla – Marrow; essence.

Mel – Honey; symbol.

Membrum – A member; of the Church.

Memoria – Memory; memoria of saints.

Mendacium – A lie; sin.

Mendicus – A beggar; Vatican charity.

Mensa – Table; mensa papalis.

Mensis – Month; Vatican.

Mentio – Mention; Vatican.

Mentor – Advisor; Vatican.

Mercatus – Market; Vatican.

Merces – Reward; Vatican.

Mercenarius – A hireling; bad pastor.

Meretrix – A prostitute; symbol.

Meridies – South; Vatican.

Meritum – Merit; Vatican.

Messis – Harvest; mission.

Meta – A goal; Vatican.

Metallum – Metal; Vatican.

Metamorphosis – Transformation; Vatican.

Metanoia – Repentance; Vatican.

Metaphora – Metaphor; Vatican.

Metus – Fear; nullity ground.

Meum – My; meum et tuum.

Micans – Shining; Vatican.

Miles – Soldier; Swiss Guard.

Militia – Military service; Vatican.

Mille – Thousand; years.

Millennium – Millennium; Vatican.

Mina – A coin; biblical.

Minimus – Least; Vatican.

Minister – Minister; Vatican.

Ministerium – Ministry; Vatican.

Ministra – Female minister; debated.

Ministratio – Service; Vatican.

Minor – Lesser; minor excommunicatio.

Minus – Less; in minus.

Mirabilia – Wonders; Vatican.

Miraculum – Miracle; Vatican.

Miseratio – Pity; Vatican.

Misericordia – Mercy; Vatican.

Missa – Mass; Vatican.

Missale – Missal; Vatican.

Missio – Mission; Vatican.

Missus – Sent; nuncio.

Mistura – Mixture; of rites.

Mitigatio – Mitigation; of penalty.

Mitra – Mitre; bishop’s hat.

Mixtus – Mixed; mixtus consensus.

Moderamen – Moderation; Vatican.

Modernitas – Modernity; Vatican.

Modestia – Modesty; Vatican.

Modicum – A little; Vatican.

Modificatio – Modification; Vatican.

Modulus – A measure; Vatican.

Modus – Manner; modus procedendi.

Moenia – Walls; Vatican.

Mola – Millstone; punishment.

Moles – Mass; Vatican.

Mollities – Softness; vice.

Momentum – Moment; Vatican.

Monasterium – Monastery; Vatican.

Moneta – Money; Vatican.

Monitor – Adviser; Vatican.

Monitum – A warning.

Monitus – Warned; a penalty.

Monoculus – One‑eyed; impediment.

Monopolium – Monopoly; forbidden.

Monstrantia – Showing; Vatican.

Monstrum – Monster; symbol.

Mons – Mountain; Vatican.

Montanista – A Montanist; heretic.

Monumentum – Monument; Vatican.

Mora – Delay; Vatican.

Morbus – Disease; Vatican.

Mordax – Biting; criticism.

Mors – Death; mors papae.

Morsus – Bite; conscience.

Mortalis – Mortal; sin.

Mortificatio – Mortification; ascetic.

Morus – A fool; morus.

Mos – Custom; mos maiorum.

Mosaicus – Mosaic; Vatican.

Motus – Motion; motus animi.

Mox – Soon; Vatican.

Mucro – Sword; symbol.

Mulier – Woman; Vatican.

Multa – Many; multa sunt.

Multi – Many; cardinals.

Multiloquium – Much talk; avoided.

Multitudo – Multitude; Vatican.

Mundus – World; Vatican.

Municeps – Citizen; Vatican.

Munificentia – Munificence; Vatican.

Munus – Office; Vatican.

Murus – Wall; Vatican.

Mus – Mouse; symbol.

Musca – Fly; symbol.

Musica – Music; Vatican.

Mutatio – Change; Vatican.

Mutua – Mutual; mutua relatio.

Myrrha – Myrrh; gift.

Mysterium – Mystery; Vatican.

Mysticus – Mystical; Vatican.

Narratio – Narration; Vatican.

Nasus – Nose; Vatican.

Natio – Nation; Vatican.

Natura – Nature; Vatican.

Natus – Born; natus est.

Navis – Ship; Church.

Nebula – Cloud; symbol.

Necessarius – Necessary; Vatican.

Necessitas – Necessity; Vatican.

Nefas – Wrong; forbidden.

Negatio – Denial; Vatican.

Negligentia – Negligence; Vatican.

Negotiatio – Business; forbidden for clergy.

Negotium – Business; Vatican.

Nemo – No one; nemo iudex.

Nepos – Nephew; nepotism.

Nervus – Nerve; strength.

Netto – Net; Vatican finance.

Neuter – Neither; neutral.

Nexus – Bond; marriage.

Niger – Black; niger color.

Nihil – Nothing; nihil obstat.

Nimis – Too much; excess.

Nisi – Unless; nisi probetur.

Nix – Snow; white smoke.

Nobilis – Noble; black nobility.

Nocens – Guilty; Vatican.

Nocturnus – Nocturnal; prayers.

Nodus – Knot; problem.

Nomen – Name; nomen papale.

Nominatio – Nomination; Vatican.

Non – Not; non placet.

Norma – Norm; Vatican.

Nostra – Our; Nostra Aetate.

Nota – Note; Vatican.

Notarius – Notary; Vatican.

Notitia – Notice; Vatican.

Novus – New; Novus Ordo.

Nox – Night; Vatican.

Nubilis – Marriageable; age.

Nudus – Naked; truth.

Nullus – None; null.

Numerus – Number; Vatican.

Nummus – Coin; Vatican.

Nunc – Now; nunc et semper.

Nuncius – Nuncio; messenger.

Nuptiae – Wedding; Vatican.

Nutrix – Nurse; Church.

Oas – Oasis; Vatican.

Obedientia – Obedience; Vatican.

Obeliscus – Obelisk; Vatican.

Oberratio – Wandering; error.

Oblatio – Offering; Vatican.

Obligatio – Obligation; Vatican.

Obliquus – Oblique; indirect.

Oblivio – Forgetfulness; Vatican.

Obnoxius – Subject; liable.

Obscuritas – Obscurity; Vatican.

Observantia – Observance; Vatican.

Obstaculum – Obstacle; Vatican.

Obstructio – Obstruction; Vatican.

Obtentus – Pretext; Vatican.

Obtestatio – Entreaty; Vatican.

Occasio – Occasion; Vatican.

Occidentalis – Western; Vatican.

Occultus – Hidden; occultum crimen.

Occupatio – Occupation; Vatican.

Oceanus – Ocean; Vatican.

Octava – Octave; Vatican.

Octo – Eight; conclave days.

Oculus – Eye; Vatican.

Odium – Hatred; sin.

Offensa – Offense; Vatican.

Offertorium – Offertory; Mass.

Officium – Office; Vatican.

Oleum – Oil; holy oil.

Olim – Formerly; Vatican.

Oliva – Olive; peace.

Olympias – Olympiad; Vatican.

Omen – Sign; Vatican.

Omissio – Omission; sin.

Onus – Burden; Vatican.

Opera – Work; Vatican.

Opificium – Craft; Vatican.

Opimum – Rich; benefice.

Opinio – Opinion; Vatican.

Opportunitas – Opportunity; Vatican.

Oppositio – Opposition; Vatican.

Opus – Work; Opus Dei.

Oratio – Prayer; Vatican.

Orbiculus – Small circle; host.

Orbis – World; Urbi et Orbi.

Ordo – Order; holy orders.

Organum – Instrument; Vatican.

Orientalis – Eastern; Vatican.

Origo – Origin; Vatican.

Ornamentum – Ornament; Vatican.

Ornatus – Adorned; Vatican.

Orphanus – Orphan; Vatican.

Orthodoxus – Orthodox; Vatican.

Os – Mouth; os papae.

Osculum – Kiss; osculum pacis.

Ostensio – Showing; Vatican.

Ostium – Door; Vatican.

Ostracismus – Ostracism; Vatican.

Ostrea – Oyster; irrelevant.

Ostrogothus – Ostrogoth; historical.

Otium – Leisure; Vatican.

Ova – Eggs; symbol.

Ovile – Sheepfold; Church.

Ovis – Sheep; flock.

Pactio – Agreement; Vatican.

Pactum – Pact; Lateran.

Paganus – Pagan; Vatican.

Pagina – Page; Vatican.

Palatium – Palace; Apostolic.

Palea – Chaff; worthless.

Pallium – Pallium; metropolitan.

Palma – Palm; martyrdom.

Papa – Pope; papa emeritus.

Papabilis – Papabile; candidate.

Papalis – Papal; papalis curia.

Papyrus – Papyrus; Vatican.

Par – Equal; par cum par.

Parabola – Parable; Vatican.

Paradisus – Paradise; Vatican.

Paragraphus – Paragraph; Vatican.

Paralepsis – Omission; rhetorical.

Paraliticus – Paralytic; healing.

Paramentum – Vestment; Vatican.

Paramount – Supreme; Vatican.

Paranoia – Paranoia; Vatican.

Paraph – A flourish; signature.

Paraphernalia – Personal goods; Vatican.

Parare – To prepare; Vatican.

Parca – Frugal; Vatican.

Parens – Parent; Vatican.

Parere – To obey; Vatican.

Paritas – Equality; Vatican.

Parochia – Parish; Vatican.

Pars – Part; pars petens.

Particeps – Participant; Vatican.

Particula – Particle; host.

Partitio – Division; Vatican.

Partus – Birth; Vatican.

Parvitas – Smallness; Vatican.

Passio – Passion; Christ’s.

Passus – Step; Vatican.

Pastor – Shepherd; pope.

Pastoralis – Pastoral; Vatican.

Patens – Open; patens ostium.

Pater – Father; pope.

Patina – Dish; Vatican.

Patria – Fatherland; Vatican.

Patrimonium – Patrimony; Vatican.

Patriota – Patriot; Vatican.

Patronus – Patron; Vatican.

Pauper – Poor; Vatican.

Pax – Peace; Vatican.

Pectus – Chest; in pectore.

Peculium – Property; Vatican.

Pecunia – Money; Vatican.

Pedes – Feet; washing.

Peior – Worse; peior conditio.

Pellis – Skin; parchment.

Penetralia – Inner parts; Vatican.

Penitentia – Penance; Vatican.

Penna – Feather; pen.

Pensio – Pension; Vatican.

Pensum – Task; Vatican.

Pentateuchus – Pentateuch; Vatican.

Pentecostes – Pentecost; Vatican.

Penuria – Shortage; Vatican.

Per – Through; per se.

Peractus – Completed; Vatican.

Perceptio – Reception; Vatican.

Percussio – Striking; percussio pectoris.

Perditus – Lost; sinner.

Peremptorius – Peremptory; deadline.

Perfectio – Perfection; Vatican.

Perfidia – Perfidy; sin.

Perforatio – Piercing; nails.

Periculum – Danger; Vatican.

Periurium – Perjury; sin.

Perlucens – Transparent; Vatican.

Permissio – Permission; Vatican.

Perpetuitas – Perpetuity; Vatican.

Perplexitas – Perplexity; Vatican.

Persona – Person; persona papalis.

Perspicuus – Clear; Vatican.

Persuasio – Persuasion; Vatican.

Pertinacia – Obstinacy; sin.

Perusta – Burnt; heresy.

Perversio – Perversion; sin.

Pes – Foot; pes ecclesiae.

Petitio – Petition; Vatican.

Petra – Rock; Peter.

Petrus – Peter; first pope.

Pietas – Piety; virtue.

Pilatus – Pilate; Vatican.

Pilgrimatio – Pilgrimage; Vatican.

Piscator – Fisherman; pope.

Piscis – Fish; symbol.

Pius – Pious; popes.

Placet – It pleases; vote.

Plaga – Wound; plagae Christi.

Planeta – Planet; vestment.

Planta – Plant; Vatican.

Plasmus – Molding; creation.

Plenitudo – Fullness; power.

Plenus – Full; plenum ius.

Plumbum – Lead; bulla.

Plurale – Plural; plurale tantum.

Plurimus – Very many; Vatican.

Pluviale – Raincoat; cope.

Pneuma – Spirit; Holy.

Polis – City; Vatican.

Politia – Polity; Vatican.

Pollex – Thumb; consecration.

Pomerium – Boundary; Vatican.

Pompa – Procession; Vatican.

Pontifex – Pontiff; pope.

Pontificale – Pontifical; book.

Pontificatus – Pontificate; term.

Pontificius – Pontifical; familia pontificia.

Popa – A priest; pagan.

Populus – People; Vatican.

Porta – Door; holy door.

Portio – Portion; Vatican.

Portitor – Carrier; Vatican.

Positio – Position; sainthood.

Possessio – Possession; Vatican.

Possibilis – Possible; Vatican.

Post – After; post mortem.

Postulatio – Postulation; of a bishop.

Potestas – Power; papal.

Prae – Before; prae ceteris.

Praeceptum – Precept; command.

Praeconium – Proclamation; Vatican.

Praedestinatio – Predestination; Vatican.

Praedicatio – Preaching; Vatican.

Praelatus – Prelate; Vatican.

Praemium – Reward; Vatican.

Praescriptio – Prescription; Vatican.

Praesens – Present; praesens corpus.

Praesepium – Manger; Vatican.

Praeses – President; Vatican.

Praestantia – Excellence; Vatican.

Praesumptio – Presumption; Vatican.

Praeter – Beyond; praeter legem.

Praetorium – Praetorium; Vatican.

Precarium – Precarious; grant.

Preces – Prayers; Vatican.

Precipuus – Chief; Vatican.

Precisio – Precision; Vatican.

Preconium – See Praeconium.

Prelatura – Prelature; personal.

Premonstratio – Showing; Vatican.

Prepositio – Preference; Vatican.

Presbyter – Priest; presbyterium.

Prescientia – Foreknowledge; Vatican.

Prescriptio – See Praescriptio.

Presentatio – Presentation; Vatican.

Preservatio – Preservation; Vatican.

Presidens – Presiding; pope.

Presidium – Guard; Swiss.

Pressio – Pressure; Vatican.

Prestigia – Tricks; Vatican.

Presumptio – See Praesumptio.

Pretium – Price; Vatican.

Prevaricatio – Prevarication; sin.

Prima – First; prima sedes.

Primarius – Primary; Vatican.

Primatus – Primacy; papal.

Primicerius – First; chief.

Primitiae – First fruits; offering.

Primogenitus – Firstborn; Christ.

Primus – First; pope.

Princeps – Prince; pope.

Principalis – Principal; Vatican.

Prior – Prior; religious.

Prioratus – Priory; Vatican.

Privatus – Private; privatus pontifex.

Privilegium – Privilege; Vatican.

Pro – For; pro hac vice.

Probatio – Proof; Vatican.

Procedimentum – Procedure; Vatican.

Processio – Procession; Vatican.

Processus – Process; Vatican.

Proclamatio – Proclamation; Vatican.

Proconsul – Proconsul; Vatican.

Procreatio – Procreation; Vatican.

Procurator – Procurator; Vatican.

Prodigium – Prodigy; Vatican.

Prodromus – Forerunner; Vatican.

Productio – Production; Vatican.

Professio – Profession; religious.

Profugus – Fugitive; Vatican.

Progenies – Offspring; Vatican.

Progignere – To beget; Vatican.

Programma – Program; Vatican.

Progressio – Progress; Vatican.

Prohibitio – Prohibition; Vatican.

Proiectio – Projection; Vatican.

Prolatio – Utterance; Vatican.

Prologus – Prologue; Vatican.

Promissio – Promise; Vatican.

Promotor – Promoter; promotor fidei.

Promulgatio – Promulgation; Vatican.

Pronus – Prone; adoration.

Propagatio – Propagation; faith.

Properare – To hasten; Vatican.

Propheta – Prophet; Vatican.

Propinquitas – Kinship; impediment.

Propositio – Proposition; Vatican.

Proprietas – Property; Vatican.

Propter – On account of; propter Deum.

Prorogatio – Prorogation; Vatican.

Prosa – Prose; Vatican.

Proscriptio – Proscription; Vatican.

Proselytus – Proselyte; Vatican.

Prospectus – Prospectus; Vatican.

Prosternatio – Prostration; Vatican.

Prostitutio – Prostitution; sin.

Prostratio – Prostration; Vatican.

Protectio – Protection; Vatican.

Protestatio – Protestation; Vatican.

Protocollum – Protocol; Vatican.

Protodiacomus – Proto‑deacon; cardinal.

Protomartyr – First martyr; Stephen.

Protonotarius – Protonotary; apostolic.

Protos – First; Greek.

Prototypus – Prototype; Vatican.

Proximus – Nearest; neighbor.

Prudens – Prudent; Vatican.

Pruna – Ember; sin.

Prunum – Plum; irrelevant.

Psalmodia – Psalmody; Vatican.

Psalterium – Psalter; Vatican.

Pseudo – False; pseudo‑papa.

Publicus – Public; publicus minister.

Pudicitia – Chastity; virtue.

Puer – Boy; altar server.

Pugillaris – Notebook; Vatican.

Pugna – Fight; spiritual.

Pugnus – Fist; symbol.

Pulcher – Beautiful; Vatican.

Pulpitum – Pulpit; Vatican.

Pulsatio – Knocking; Vatican.

Pulvis – Dust; ashes.

Punctum – Point; Vatican.

Pungens – Pricking; conscience.

Punire – To punish; Vatican.

Pupilla – Pupil; orphan.

Purgatio – Purification; Vatican.

Purgatorium – Purgatory; Vatican.

Puritas – Purity; Vatican.

Purpura – Purple; cardinal.

Purpuratus – Purple‑clad; cardinal.

Putare – To think; opinion.

Pyxis – Box; host.

Quadragesima – Lent; 40 days.

Quadrans – Quarter; coin.

Quadrivium – Four subjects; Vatican.

Quadrum – Square; Vatican.

Quaerere – To seek; Vatican.

Quaestor – Treasurer; Vatican.

Qualitas – Quality; Vatican.

Quandocumque – Whenever; Vatican.

Quantitas – Quantity; Vatican.

Quantum – How much; Vatican.

Quarta – Fourth; quarta pars.

Quartus – Fourth; rank.

Quasi – As if; quasi domicilium.

Quaternio – Quaternion; four.

Quatriduum – Four days; Vatican.

Quattuor – Four; cardinal virtues.

Quem – Whom; quem petitis.

Querela – Complaint; Vatican.

Questio – Question; Vatican.

Qui – Who; qui pro quo.

Quia – Because; quia absurdum.

Quid – What; quid pro quo.

Quidam – A certain; anonymous.

Quies – Rest; Vatican.

Quilibet – Anyone; quilibet catholicus.

Quinque – Five; wounds.

Quinta – Fifth; quinta essentia.

Quintus – Fifth; rank.

Quippe – Indeed; quippe qui.

Quirinalis – Quirinal; palace.

Quis – Who; quis est.

Quisque – Each; Vatican.

Quivis – Anyone; Vatican.

Quo – Where; quo vadis.

Quod – Which; quod semper.

Quomodo – How; quomodo sedet.

Quondam – Former; quondam episcopus.

Quoque – Also; Vatican.

Quot – How many; quot annis.

Quotidianus – Daily; Vatican.

Quousque – How long; quousque tandem.

Also See

Google’s Knowledge Graph

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