ministry

Etymology

From Middle English mynisterie, borrowed from Old French menistere, in turn borrowed itself from Latin ministerium; equivalent to minister + -y.

noun

1. 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
   She works for the ministry of finance.
   He works for the ministry of defence.
   I work for the ministry of education.
   They work for the ministry of agriculture.
2. The complete body of government ministers (whether or not they are in cabinet) under the leadership of a head of government (such as a prime minister)
   The premier offered his last ministry's resignation to the monarch, and is asked to form a new one in accordance with the election results.
3. A ministration
4. The active practice and education of the minister of a particular religion or faith.
5. (Christianity) The clergy of nonapostolic Protestant churches.
6. (Christianity) Work of a spiritual or charitable nature.
   the present ministry of the Holy Spirit