Ecclesia

/ɪˈkliːziə/ noun

Definition

In ancient Greece, the assembly of citizens with political power; also used to mean a church or congregation.

Etymology

From Latin 'ecclesia', derived from Greek 'ekklesia' meaning 'assembly' (ek- 'out' + kalein 'to call'). Originally referred to the assembly called out from the general population in ancient Athens.

Kelly Says

The word 'ecclesia' literally means 'called out'—and that's exactly what the ancient Athenians did when they needed to make important decisions, calling citizens out from their homes to gather and vote!

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