SEXTON Meaning and
Definition
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A sexton refers to an individual who is responsible for the maintenance and care of a church or religious building, as well as the surrounding cemetery. They typically hold a custodial role within their religious community. The term originates from the medieval Latin word "sacristanus," which means "keeper of sacred objects." However, the role of a sexton is not limited to safeguarding religious artifacts alone.
Primarily, a sexton's duties involve ensuring the cleanliness and orderliness of the church premises. They may sweep floors, clean pews, dust surfaces, polish silverware, launder linens, and maintain the overall cleanliness and beauty of the sacred space. Sextons also play a vital role in the setup and preparation of religious ceremonies, ensuring that all required items and provisions are in place.
In addition to the church itself, sextons are often responsible for maintaining the cemetery adjacent to the religious building. They may oversee burials, dig graves, maintain grave markers, and ensure a respectful and well-kept environment in the cemetery. Sextons may also be involved in the maintenance and gardening of the churchyard or grounds, including mowing lawns, planting flowers, and trimming trees or hedges.
Overall, a sexton acts as a caretaker, custodian, and administrator of religious properties, ensuring their cleanliness, upkeep, and functionality. They contribute immensely to the spiritual and physical well-being of the religious community they serve.
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An inferior officer of a church, who prepares graves, attends to the burials, cleans the church, &c.; a gravedigger.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of SEXTON
The word "sexton" comes from the Old English word "seaxtun", which means "sacristan" or "guardian of the church". It is derived from the Old English word "seax", meaning "knife" or "dagger", and "tun", meaning "enclosure" or "settlement". In medieval times, the sexton was responsible for preparing the church for religious services, maintaining the church grounds, and ringing the bells. The term has since evolved to refer to a person who assists with various tasks related to the church or graveyard, such as burying the dead, maintaining the property, or acting as a caretaker.
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