Definition

1. Noun:
   • The work, duties, or vocation of a minister of religion: The activities and service performed by a person who is ordained for religious leadership, such as a pastor, priest, or clergy member.
   • A government department headed by a minister: A major division or branch of a government that is responsible for a specific area of public administration.
   • The building where a government department's business is conducted: The physical offices or headquarters of a government ministry.
   • The body of ministers of religion, especially collectively: A group of clergy, particularly within a specific church or denomination.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • He felt a calling to the ministry and began his theological studies. (Referring to the religious vocation)
  • The Ministry of Education announced new policies today. (Referring to a government department)
  • The meeting was held at the ministry on Downing Street. (Referring to the government building)
  • The ministry of the local church gathered for a retreat. (Referring to the collective group of clergy)

Advanced Usage

• "To enter the ministry": To begin a career as a minister of religion.
  • After years of contemplation, she decided to enter the ministry.
• "To form a ministry": To establish a new government, specifically the group of ministers (the cabinet).
  • After the election, the prime minister will form a new ministry.

Variants and Related Words

• Minister (n): 1. A member of the clergy. 2. A head of a government department.
• Ministerial (adj): Relating to a government minister or ministry.
  • The decision was made at a ministerial level.
• Administration (n): The process or activity of running a government or organization. (Can be a synonym in the context of government management, but not specifically a department).

Synonyms

• For government department: Department, office, bureau, secretariat.
• For religious vocation: Clergy, priesthood, pastoral work, holy orders.

Related Phrases

• Shadow ministry: In some political systems, the group of opposition party members who scrutinize and offer alternatives to the policies of specific government ministers.
  • She serves as the spokesperson for health in the shadow ministry.

Related Idioms

• A ministry of all believers: A theological concept emphasizing that every Christian has a role to play in the work of the church, not just the ordained clergy.
  • The pastor's sermon focused on the principle of the ministry of all believers.

Noun

1. the work of a minister of religion
   • he is studying for the ministry
2. a government department under the direction of a minister
3. building where the business of a government department is transacted
4. religious ministers collectively (especially Presbyterian)