ISSORY
LETTER).

Canticle.--A word derived from the Latin _canticulus_, meaning a
little song, from _cantus_ a song. The term is applied to the
detached Psalms and Hymns used in the services of the Church, such
as the Venite, Benedictus, Magnificat, etc.

Cantoris.--Derived from _cantor_, meaning a singer, and is used to
designate the north side of the choir, where the precentor sits.
Architecturally and ecclesiastically, the Altar is always regarded
as the _east_ whether it is so in reality or not. North side,
therefore, is the left of the Altar as we face it.

Cardinal Virtues.--(See VIRTUES, THE CARDINAL).

Cassock.--A long black coat, fastened in front and {47} reaching to
the feet, worn by the clergy with or without robes and signifying
separation from the world. The cassock is also worn by choristers
and choirmen under their surplices.

Catechism.--A short instruction set forth in the Prayer Book, "to
be learned by every person before he be brought to be confirmed by
the Bishop." The word "catechism" is derived from a Greek word,
and means literally an instruction by word of mouth of such a kind
as to draw out a reply. As it now stands, the catechism is really
an "Unfinished Fragment." It was begun in 1549, under Edward VI. It
was afterwards gradually enlarged, the commandments being given in
full in 1552; the section on the Two Sacraments was added in 1604,
and the "Duty towards my neighbor" was revised in 1662. The
Catechism, as set forth in the Prayer Book, shows five general
divisions, (1) The Christian Covenant; (2) The Christian Faith;
(3) The Christian Duty; (4) The Christian Prayer or Worship, and
(5) The Christian Sacraments or Means of Grace. The rubric at the
end of the catechism provides that "The minister of every Parish
shall diligently, upon Sundays and Holy Days, or on some other
convenient occasions, openly in the Church, instruct or examine so
many children of his Parish sent unto him, as he shall think
convenient, in some part of this Catechism." The object of this
rubric is that the minister may have opportunity to prepare the
younger members of his flock for Confirmation. The Catechism from
its comprehensive exposition of duty and doctrine and its simple,
familiar style of question and answer is well adapted for the
purpose. And on {48} all the five points enumerated the children of
the Parish may be duly instructed in their preparation for Holy
Confirmation, if parents and guardians w