leitourgós

Leitourgós is a Greek term traditionally translated as “public worker” or “one who performs a public service.” It is derived from Greek elements commonly understood as meaning public or people-related work. The word is closely linked to the concept of leitourgia, in which private individuals undertake duties or financial contributions for the common good.

In ancient Athens and other Greek city-states, leitourgós referred to a citizen who carried out a public service or liturgy. These duties could be religious, ceremonial, or civic, and were often funded or organized by wealthy individuals as a form of public philanthropy, a practice known as euergetism. The leitourgós thus played a key role in maintaining religious festivals, public rituals, and other state-sponsored activities.

In early Christian Greek usage, leitourgós evolved to denote a person who performs liturgical duties in the church, such as administering or leading public worship. The term thus broadened from a secular public function to include religious officiants and ministers involved in liturgy.

In modern Greek, leitourgós has shifted toward a secular meaning: a civil servant or public employee. The related noun leitourgía, still used for worship or liturgical service, reflects the historical connection between public service and religious ritual in Greek culture.

See also: liturgy, euergetism, public service, church liturgy.