A parish house is a building next to or near a church where the clergy live or where church activities take place. In many Christian communities, especially Catholic, Episcopal, and Anglican ones, the parish house serves as the residence for the priest or minister who leads the congregation. It's sometimes called a rectory or parsonage.

The parish house often becomes a hub for church life beyond just housing clergy. Many have meeting rooms where Sunday school classes gather, where church committees plan events, or where community groups hold activities. Some parish houses include offices where the clergy meet with parishioners who need guidance or help. Others have kitchens where volunteers prepare meals for people in need.

Historically, providing a parish house was the congregation's way of taking care of their spiritual leader, ensuring they had a comfortable home close to the church. This practical arrangement meant the priest or minister could be quickly available when parishioners needed them, whether for emergencies, counseling, or leading services. Today, some parish houses still serve as clergy residences, while others have been converted entirely into administrative offices and meeting spaces for the church community.