Homilies are a integral element to the Catholic church. Homilies are similar to Sermons but Homilies are also different too. Homilies are only given during a church mass. Homilies are a reflection of the lectionary readings. Homilies can only be given by a priest or deacon. Homilies are commentaries that follow a reading of scripture. Homilies are necessary for the nurturing of the Christian life. Homilies are never given by a lay person. Homilies are to be may even be given by a bishop who is present but cannot concelebrate. Homilies are to be given on sundays and holy days of obligation. Homilies is a word derived from the greek word homilia (from homilein) which means to have communion with a person. Protestant clergy often use the term Homilies to describe a short sermon.