A neophyte is a beginner. In the context of Christianity, the term often refers to: » 1. new convert to the religion, in the Catholic and Orthodox Churches an adult convert is considered a neophyte for one year after conversion. Roman Catholic neophytes are considered full members of the Church, but may not act as sponsors for others planning to join, 2. newly ordained priest, » 3. person who recently took a monastic vow. 4. In ecology, a neophyte is a plant species recently introduced to an ar… (More on Neophyte)