Christian Cyclopedia

1. Retention by the pope of the right to appoint to a certain benefice; see also Execrabilis, 1. 2. Retention of tithes. 3. Retention of certain powers (e.g., of absolution of certain sins) by an ecclesiastical superior from an inferior; see also Reserved Cases. 4. In RC, E Orthodox, and Angl. chs., retention of a portion of the consecrated species after Communion to communicate those unable to attend (e.g., sick and dying).