Excommunicate

To formally exclude or expel someone from membership in a church or religious community, typically by depriving them of their rights and privileges. This often involves a pronouncement that the individual is no longer in communion with the faithful, thereby denying them access to sacraments and other religious practices. Historically, excommunication could have severe social and political ramifications, including legal disadvantages and social ostracism. The act is often considered a severe disciplinary measure taken against those who have committed serious offenses against religious doctrines or moral codes, or who have challenged the authority of the church. The process may vary between different denominations, but the central tenet remains the removal of religious fellowship and a condemnation of their actions based on the respective religious doctrine or legal system. Excommunication represents a powerful form of social control within a religious context.

Excommunicate meaning with examples

• After publicly denouncing the church's teachings, the theologian was excommunicated. The community was shocked, but followed the edict. He now could not receive communion or any sacrament which caused him to doubt his previous actions. This severing of ties was a decisive act to control those who dissent and uphold church doctrine and rules of behavior.
• The Grand Inquisitor declared that the heretic was to be excommunicated. The ruling was that any church member caught associating with the heretic would also face excommunication, creating fear and obedience in the town. His expulsion had severe societal consequences; his business dried up, and people would not speak with him
• For centuries, those deemed political adversaries have been threatened with excommunication. The threat has been a powerful tool to suppress dissent. The act serves as a powerful deterrent, compelling conformity within their religious communities and maintaining the established power structures.
• When the member of the monastic order was found in violation of his vows, the abbot determined that excommunication was necessary. This decision, which was followed promptly, marked a somber day for his brother monks. They feared the consequences of being seen with him in the future.
• The Pope announced that a high-ranking official would be excommunicated after an investigation into financial corruption revealed serious misconduct and heresy, sparking widespread condemnation from other senior officials. It sent shockwaves throughout the religious institution. The decision aimed to uphold the Church's reputation and maintain the standards that were expected of the religious leaders.