A chantry is an ecclesiastical term that may have either of two related meanings: 1. * a chantry service, a Christian liturgy of prayers for the dead, which historically was an obiit, or 2. * a chantry chapel, a building on private land, or an area in a parish church or cathedral reserved for the performance of the "chantry duties". In the Medieval Era through to the Age of Enlightenment it was commonly believed such liturgies might help atone for misdeeds and assist the soul to obtain eternal peace.