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GLOSSARY OF TERMS

 

ALB: The white robes the servers wear when serving Mass.

CINCTURE: The colored cords which are tied around the waist.

PROCESSIONAL CROSS: The portable cross which is only carried when entering and leaving the church.

SANCTUARY: The area of the church in which the altar is located.

ALTAR: The table where the bread and wine are placed for the sacrifice of the Mass.

SACRAMENTARY: The red book which the priest uses for all the prayers he says during the Mass.

AMBO: The podium from which the readings are proclaimed and the homily is preached.

CORPORAL: The square white cloths on the altar on which are placed the bread and chalices of wine.

CREDENCE TABLE: The table near the back wall of church on which are placed the empty chalices, the water pitchers and towel.

PURIFICATORS: The small white cloths that are used to wipe the rim of the chalices.

CIBORIUM: The gold container containing the Body of Christ which the deacon brings from the tabernacle to the altar just before communion.

TABERNACLE: The gold container in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel which houses the Body of Christ in between Masses.