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A homily (from Greek ὁμιλία, homilía) is a commentary that follows a reading of scripture, giving the "public explanation of a sacred doctrine" or text. The works of Origen and John Chrysostom (known as Paschal Homily) are considered exemplary forms of Christian homily.
In Catholic Church, Anglican, Lutheranism, and Eastern Orthodox churches, a homily is usually given during Mass (Divine Liturgy or Holy Qurbana for Orthodox and Eastern Catholic Churches, and Divine Service for the Lutheran Church) at the end of the Liturgy of the Word. Many people consider it synonymous with a sermon.
The English language word homily is derived from the Ancient Greek word ὁμιλία homilia, which means intercourse or interaction with other people (derived from the word homilos, meaning "a gathering"). The word is used in ("wicked homiliai corrupt good morals"). The related verb is used in (as homiloun), and in (as homilei), both used in the sense of "speaking with". The word later came to have a more technical sense. According to The Catholic Encyclopedia, Origen was the first to distinguish between logos (sermo) and homilia (tractatus).
In colloquial, non-religious, usage, homily often means a sermon concerning a practical matter, a moralize lecture or admonition, or an inspirational saying or platitude, but sermon is the more appropriate word in these cases.
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