Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Ministry \Min"is*try\, n.; pl. Ministries . [L. ministerium. See
   {Minister}, n., and cf. {Mystery} a trade.]
   1. The act of ministering; ministration; service. ``With
      tender ministry.'' --Thomson.

   2. Hence: Agency; instrumentality.

            The ordinary ministry of second causes. --Atterbury.

            The wicked ministry of arms.          --Dryden.

   3. The office, duties, or functions of a minister, servant,
      or agent; ecclesiastical, executive, or ambassadorial
      function or profession.

   4. The body of ministers of state; also, the clergy, as a
      body.

   5. Administration; rule; term in power; as, the ministry of
      Pitt.

Source : WordNet®

ministry
     n 1: religious ministers collectively (especially Presbyterian)
     2: building where the business of a government ministry is
        transacted
     3: a government department under the direction of a minister