autem diver

1. obsolete A thief or pickpocket who steals from people during church services. "Autem" is an obsolete slang word for church, and "diver" in this sense is obsolete slang for a pickpocket. The autem divers move stealthily among the congregation, lifting the purses and coins from those focused on the sermon. I know I had more money than this in my pocket. The autem divers must have gotten to me! Is there anything more disgraceful than an autem diver? How could someone steal from innocent old ladies during a church service?

2. obsolete A lay officer of the church in charge of the poor and needy. "Autem" is an obsolete slang word for church, and "diver" in this sense is slang for one who lives in a cellar (i.e., among the poor). The autem diver oversees the distribution of bread to the poorest of the parish. If you need a hot meal, speak to our autem diver—he can help you. The pain and suffering I saw people endure as the autem diver was truly awful.