apostolate
noun
apos·to·late ə-ˈpä-stə-ˌlāt 
-lət
1
: the office or mission of an apostle
2
: an association of persons dedicated to the propagation of a religion or a doctrine
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the Web Auer was appointed director of the Spanish apostolate soon after returning from Latin America, according to the Archdiocese’s obituary. 
Cassidy Jensen, Baltimore Sun, 27 Aug. 2022 The apostolate evolved into the nonprofit Inner City Development, co-directed by Patti and Rod Radle, who were early volunteers there. Elaine Ayala, San Antonio Express-News, 18 Feb. 2022 That presentation, hosted by the lay apostolate, begins at 6:30 p.m., a rosary of the seven sorrows prayer session begins at 5:30 p.m. Donna Vickroy, Daily Southtown, 28 July 2017 Likewise, the bishop decreed that an apostolate or ministry be created at the Parish of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception to serve the Polish Catholic community that has been served by St. Joseph Parish. Julie Shaw, Philly.com, 24 June 2017
Cassidy Jensen, Baltimore Sun, 27 Aug. 2022 The apostolate evolved into the nonprofit Inner City Development, co-directed by Patti and Rod Radle, who were early volunteers there. Elaine Ayala, San Antonio Express-News, 18 Feb. 2022 That presentation, hosted by the lay apostolate, begins at 6:30 p.m., a rosary of the seven sorrows prayer session begins at 5:30 p.m. Donna Vickroy, Daily Southtown, 28 July 2017 Likewise, the bishop decreed that an apostolate or ministry be created at the Parish of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception to serve the Polish Catholic community that has been served by St. Joseph Parish. Julie Shaw, Philly.com, 24 June 2017 Word History
Etymology
Middle English, borrowed from Late Latin apostolātus, from apostolus apostle + Latin -ātus -ate entry 2
First Known Use
14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1