Pronunciation: [pˈaɹɪʃənə] (IPA) 
The word "parishioner" is spelled with two syllables: /pəˈrɪʃənər/. The first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound, like the "a" in "about". The second syllable has a short "i" sound, like the "i" in "it", followed by the sound "sh" and the letters "-ə-n-ə-r". This word refers to a member of a particular religious community or parish, and it's important to spell it correctly to avoid confusion or miscommunication.
A parishioner is an individual who belongs to a specific parish, typically within a religious context. Derived from the term "parish," which historically referred to a specific geographic area or community associated with a particular church or religious organization, a parishioner actively participates in the religious life and activities of the designated parish.
As a member of a parish, a parishioner often attends regular religious services such as Mass, prayer meetings, or worship gatherings. They adhere to the specific beliefs, doctrines, and practices associated with their respective religious denomination or faith community. Parishioners may also engage in activities such as sacraments, religious education, or volunteering within their parish.
Parishioners form an integral part of the religious community, contributing to the vitality and growth of their respective parishes. They often play active roles in various ministries, serving as ushers, lectors, choir members, or leaders of different church groups. Parishioners often build relationships, offer support, and engage in fellowship with fellow members of their parish, fostering a sense of belonging and community within the congregation.
Ultimately, a parishioner signifies an individual who actively participates in the religious life of a specific parish, respecting its traditions, values, and expectations, while helping to create a vibrant community centered on faith and spiritual well-being.
A native or an inhabitant of a parish.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "parishioner" can be traced back to the late 14th century and has its roots in the Old French word "paroissien", which meant "parishioner" or "inhabitant of a parish". The Old French term, in turn, derived from the Latin word "parochianus", meaning "of a parish". The Latin word originated from the Greek word "paroikos", which referred to a sojourner or dweller near or beside, and eventually came to mean someone in a religious congregation.
