Church and Liturgical Objects and Terms
Liturgical Objects Used in Church

The Chalice
Altar Linens and Cloths
-
Altar cloth: A rectangular white cloth that covers the altar for the celebration of Mass.
-
Corporal: A square cloth placed on the altar beneath the chalice and paten. It is folded to catch any particles of the Host that may accidentally fall.
-
Purificator: A small rectangular cloth used for wiping the chalice.
-
Lavabo towel: The towel the priest uses to dry his hands after washing them during the Mass.
Sacred Vessels
-
Chalice: The vessel which holds the wine that becomes the Precious Blood of Christ.
-
Paten: The golden “plate” that holds the bread that becomes the Sacred Body of Christ.
-
Ciborium: A golden vessel with a lid that is used for the distribution and reservation of Hosts.
-
Pyx: A small, closing golden vessel that is used to bring the Blessed Sacrament to those who cannot come to the church.
Other Items Used at Mass
-
Cruets: These hold the wine and the water that are used at Mass.
-
Lavabo and pitcher: Used for washing the priest’s hands.
-
Altar candles: Mass must be celebrated with natural candles.
(more than 51% bees wax), which signify:
Paschal Candle and Liturgical Symbols
-
A new Paschal candle is prepared and blessed every year at the Easter Vigil. This light stands near the altar during the Easter Season and near the baptismal font during the rest of the year. It may also stand near the casket during the funeral rites.
-
It represents the presence of Christ, our light.
Liturgical Elements and Ritual Items
-
Bells: Rung during the calling down of the Holy Spirit to consecrate the bread and wine.
-
The sanctuary lamp: A candle, often red, that burns near the tabernacle when the Blessed Sacrament is present.
-
The aspersorium: The bucket used to carry holy water for sprinkling.
-
The aspergillum: The sprinkler used to cast holy water on people, places, or objects.
-
The thurible: Used for carrying and burning incense.
-
The incense boat: Holds the incense before it is placed in the thurible.
Sacred Oils
-
Oil of Chrism
-
Oil of the Sick
-
Oil of the Catechumens
Books Used in the Liturgy
-
The Roman Missal: Contains the ceremonial instructions and prayers for the celebration of Mass.
-
The Lectionary: Contains the biblical readings arranged for the celebration of Mass.
-
The Book of the Gospels: Used for the proclamation of the Gospel reading.
-
The Ordo: A liturgical aid that helps guide the celebration of the liturgy. One is typically found on the sacristy counter.
Vestments
-
Alb: A full-length white garment worn by the priest and deacon.
-
Cincture: Worn around the alb if it does not fit closely to the body.
-
Stole: A long strip of fabric worn around the neck that matches the liturgical color of the day.
-
Priests wear it around the neck and over the breast.
-
Deacons wear it diagonally from the left shoulder to the right side.
-
-
Chasuble: Worn by the priest over his other vestments; symbolizes the yoke of Christ and the priesthood.
-
Dalmatic: The distinctive vestment of the deacon; unlike the chasuble, it has sleeves.
-
Cope: A cape-like vestment worn during processions and liturgical celebrations outside of Mass.
-
Black cassock and white surplice: Typically worn by altar servers.