Confraternity (noun)

1. A society of people with a common interest or purpose.
2. A Christian organization or association, especially of lay people, dedicated to mutual support and aid.
3. A group of lay people attached to a particular church or religious community and dedicated to works of piety and charity.

Origin:

Late middle english: from old french confraternité, from medieval latin confraternitas, from confrater "brother".

Examples:

1. The local confraternity of artists met once a week to discuss their work and exchange ideas.
2. The confraternity was established to provide support for people in need.
3. The confraternity of lay people worked to raise funds for various charitable causes.
4. The confraternity was dedicated to promoting the spiritual development of its members.
5. The confraternity played an important role in the life of the church and its community.