PARISH

PARISH. The English word derives from the Greek verb, paroikeo, “to sojourn,” as in a temporary dwelling. Its use for an ecclesial community derives from the ancient Christian manner of speaking of the Church as “sojourning” (paroikousa) in this or that locale, i.e., as a temporary resident, because the true home of the people of God is the heavenly Jerusalem. In present-day use, the word signifies the subdivision of a diocese or eparchy (q.v.) presided over by a presbyter (priest) who represents the ruling bishop.