| Acolyte |
“Companion” or “one who helps.” A special ministry of helping in the worship services. |
| ALB |
The long white vestment worn by an acolyte. Commonly called the “robe.” |
| Alms Basin |
The long brass plate, which is used to hold the collection plates. |
| Alms Bearer |
The acolyte who distributes and collects the collection plates. |
| Altar |
The table on which Holy Communion is celebrated. |
|
Bishop's Chair
(or Cathedra)
|
The large chair on the Gospel side of the chancel or sanctuary. |
| Bread Box |
The vessel that holds bread that has not yet been consecrated for Holy Communion. |
| Candle Bearer |
The acolyte who carries the candle (also called the “torch”) and follows the crucifer. Also called the “torch bearer.” |
| Candle Lighter |
The instrument used to light and extinguish the candles. The taper is the wick to light the candles. The bell is to extinguish the candles. |
| Cassock |
The basic vestment worn by a lay reader, chalice bearer, and choir member. |
| Chalice |
The cup which is used to administer the wine at Holy Communion. |
| Chancel |
The part of the Church which includes the sanctuary. The chancel steps separate the nave and the chancel. |
| Ciborium |
The chalice with a lid that holds consecrated bread, i.e., bread that is ready for Holy Communion. |
| Collection Plates |
The plates used to collect the offering from the congregation. |
| Cotta |
The white shirt-like vestment worn over the cassock. |
Credence Table
(or shelf) |
The table used for the bread, wine and water for Holy Communion and the alms basin and collection plates. |
| Crucifer |
The acolyte who carries the cross. |
| Cruet |
The small pitcher or container for water or wine. |
| Epistle Side |
The right side of the Church when facing the altar. |
| Eucharist |
Holy Communion. Greek word for “Thanksgiving.” |
| Eucharist Candles |
The two single, tall candles on the altar. |
| Ewer |
The pitcher with water used at Baptism. |
| Flagon |
An extra large pitcher usually to hold wine. |
| Font |
The stand in which the Baptismal bowl is placed for Baptisms. |
| Gospel Candle |
The candle on the left side of the altar when facing the altar. THE GOSPEL CANDLE NEVER BURNS ALONE (BY ITSELF). |
| Gospel Side |
The left side of the Church when facing the altar. |
| Lectern |
The stand on which the Bible is placed. |
| Missal |
The name of the Prayer Book on the altar. |
| Narthex |
The part of the Church, which is the back of the Church, generally at the entrance, doors. |
| Nave |
The part of the Church where the congregation sits. The nave is between the narthex and the chancel. |
| Paten |
The plate which is used for the bread in Holy Communion. |
| Paschal Candle |
The large, tall, white candle symbolizing the risen Christ. It is used from Easter through Ascension Day. |
| Pew |
The bench on which the congregation sits. |
| Prayer Desk |
The two single kneeling benches in the chancel on which the priest and lay reader kneel. |
| Pulpit |
The raised platform where the sermon is preached. |
| Purificator |
The small linen napkin used at Holy Communion. |
| Sacristy |
The room where the Altar Guild prepares those things for the worship service. Can also be the room where the acolytes and others vest and prepare for the service. |
| Server |
The acolyte who assists the priest at Holy Communion. Generally called the “First Server.” |
| Stole |
A priest’s vestment showing his or her office. Looks like a long colored scarf. |
| Surplice |
The long white vestment which the clergy wear. |
| Tippet |
The long black scarf, similar to a stole, worn by the priest showing the priest’s seminary. |
| Vestments |
The general name of the clothing worn by those persons (including acolytes) who participate in the worship services. |
