neophyte

n. [ L. neophytis, Gr. neo`fytos, prop., newly planted; ne`os new + fyto`s grown, fyto`n that which has grown, a plant, fr. fy`ein to grow: cf. F. néophyte. See New, and Be. ] 1. A new convert or proselyte; -- a name given by the early Christians, and still given by the Roman Catholics, to such as have recently embraced the Christian faith, and been admitted to baptism, esp. to converts from heathenism or Judaism. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Hence: A novice; a tyro; a beginner in anything. [ 1913 Webster ]