Religion in Middle Ages - Definitions

What does Churches mean?

A special building where Christians gather to pray, sing, and learn about God. Churches are also where important events happen, like baptisms, weddings, and funerals.

What does Pilgrimage mean?

A pilgrimage is a special journey that a person takes to a holy place. People go on pilgrimages to show there faith, ask for help from God, or say thank you. One famous Christian pilgrimage is going to a place called Lourdes in France.

What does Pope mean?

The Pope is the head of the Roman Catholic Church. He is seen as the most important leader for all Catholics all over the world. The Pope lives in a city called Vatican City, which is in Rome, Italy.

What does Monastery mean?

A monastery is a quiet place where monks live together. They spend there time praying, working, and helping people. Monasteries often grow there own food and help care for the sick or poor.

What does Monk mean?

A monk is a man who chooses to live a religious life away from the outside world. He lives in a monastery with other monks. Monks pray everyday, follow strict rules, and try to live a simple, peaceful life.

What does Sin mean?

A sin is when someone does something wrong, especially something that goes against God’s rules or teachings. For example, lying or being unkind can be seen as sins in Christianity.

What does confession mean?

Confession is when a person talks to a priest and tells them about the sins they have done. The person asks for forgiveness, and the priest may give them something to do to show they are sorry (like saying a prayer).

What does Crusade mean?

A crusade was a religious war during the Middle Ages. Christian soldiers went to the Holy Land (like Jerusalem) to try take it back from the Muslim control. People believed going on a crusade was a way to serve God and be forgiven for sins.