Meaning

• 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."

• 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."

• A ministration

• The active practice and education of the minister of a particular religion or faith.

• The clergy of nonapostolic Protestant churches.

• Work of a spiritual or charitable nature.

  "the present ministry of the Holy Spirit"