A diocese is an administrative DISTRICT within the Christian Church, typically headed by a BISHOP. It is made up of several parishes, which are smaller districts with their own churches and clergy. The term diocese comes from the Greek word 'dioikesis' meaning 'ADMINISTRATION'. A diocese is also known as a DISTRICT, BISHOPRIC, or SEE. The BISHOP of a diocese is responsible for overseeing the spiritual and temporal affairs of the parishes within the diocese.