Definition

A person who is responsible for the care of the church's sacred objects and the preparation of the altar for services.

Example

The sacrist took great care in arranging the altar for the Sunday service.

Conversation

Do you know what a sacrist does at a church?

Yeah, I think they take care of the altar and the church's supplies.

Exactly! I learned that while volunteering last week.

That's cool! It must be interesting to see all the behind-the-scenes work.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sacrist is derived from the Latin word "sacrista" (meaning a keeper of sacred things), which comes from "sacer" (meaning sacred or holy) and the suffix "-ista" (meaning one who practices or is associated with). The term refers to a person responsible for the care of the sacristy and sacred vessels in a church.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is a 'keeper' ('sacrista') of 'sacred' ('sacer') items in a church — that's why a sacrist is someone who takes care of holy things.

Visually Confused Words