S IN.)

Paraclete.--Another name for the Holy Ghost, signifying one who is
invoked to aid or comfort. It was this word our Lord used when He
said, "I will send you another Comforter," _i.e._, Paraclete.
Elsewhere, the word is also translated _Advocate_.

Paradise.--The place where the souls of the righteous dwell during
the INTERMEDIATE STATE (which see). The name is also applied to the
happy abode of Adam and Eve before the Fall.

Parish.--The term "Parish" as used in the American Church signifies
a local congregation having a church building, and duly organized
under the title of "Rector, Wardens and Vestrymen." It is always
given a name, such as St. John's, Christ Church, Trinity, etc. It
is competent for any number of persons, usually not less than ten,
to associate themselves together to form a Parish. In the articles
of association, the Parish acknowledges and accedes to the
Constitution, Canons, Doctrines, Discipline and Worship of the
Protestant Episcopal Church in the Diocese in which it is located.
If on presentation of these articles, the Council or Convention of
the Diocese gives its consent, the Parish shall be accounted duly
established. {206}

The word is derived from the Greek _Paroikia_, and was originally
used to designate the sphere of a Bishop's jurisdiction as
distinguished from that of an Archbishop, but when the former was
gradually parcelled out into smaller portions these began to be
called _Parishes_.

Parish House.--By reason of the growing activities of the American
Church, it is found necessary to have some building other than the
church where the active and sometimes secular work of the Parish
can be carried on, a place where societies, guilds, schools, etc.,
can have their own proper "workshop." Such building is called the
"Parish House," and is absolutely necessary for any active and
growing Parish.

Parish Register.--A book in which all births. Baptisms, Confirmations,
deaths, and marriages that occur in the Parish are recorded,
together with the list of Families and Communicants. The importance
of the Parish Register and the care with which it should be kept
will appear when it is considered that it is a legal document.

Parishioner.--One who belongs to a Parish. The Parish partakes of
the character of the people who compose it; if they are earnest and
devoted, loyal and true to the Church's appointments, the Parish is
sure to be prosperous. In other words, the Church lives as