Definition: Government department, at the administrative level normally headed by a minister (or equivalent rank, e.g. secretary of state), who holds it as portfolio, especially in a constitutional monarchy, but also as a polity

Alright class, settle down, let’s take a look! That dictionary definition is quite a mouthful, isn't it? Let’s break it down piece by piece, and make it easier to understand. “Ministries” can be a tricky word, so let’s unpack what it really means. Essentially, when we talk about "ministries," we're not just talking about government departments like you might think. It goes deeper than that – it’s all about service . Here’s how we can understand it: Think of a Minister: The dictionary mentions a “minister,” which is often our political leaders - the Secretary of State, for example. They're in charge! A Portfolio of Purpose: That "portfolio" part is key. It means they're responsible for a specific area – maybe education, or health, or defense. It’s like a job description, but with a bigger impact. But it’s More Than Just Government! The really important bit here is that "ministry" also refers to service . Think about it this way: A religious ministry - This is where you'll hear the word most often. It describes the work of priests, pastors, or other religious leaders who serve their community and spread their faith – offering guidance, support, and spiritual care. Charitable ministries - These are groups that focus on helping others: feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, providing education... they’re all about making a positive difference! Even personal ministries: Sometimes “ministry” refers to something you do in your own life – being a good friend, offering support to someone struggling, or simply showing kindness. So, in short, "ministries" means service and dedication – whether it’s on a grand governmental scale or a small, heartfelt one. Does that make more sense now? Do you have any questions about what we've covered today? Let's discuss!