(Developed and written for St. Anne of Grace Episcopal Parish, Seminole, Florida,by Linda Buckley)

Altar Desk A moveable support consisting of a book-plate on a short stem or pillar to hold the Missal on the Altar during the Eucharist. The desk should be removed from the Altar when not in use.

Altar Rails Low rails of wood, wrought iron or stone placed at the entrance to the Sanctuary for the protection of the Altar and its ornaments; as a support for the communicants when they come to receive the Blessed Sacrament. Visually, an extension of the Lord's table.

Altar of Repose See place of Reservation.

Altar Vessels The chalice, paten and ciborium. Also called sacred vessels.

Ambo See Lectern and pulpit.

Amen A Hebrew word meaning "so be it," "so may it be", "so it is", "verily," "firmly," to agree with what has just been said. It should be said aloud in services at the end of most prayers, hymns, creeds, oaths.

Amice An oblong piece of linen with tie strings, worn over the shoulders of the priest over the cassock and tied with its strings in front. A Eucharistic vestment. It was anciently worn on the head by the priest when vesting and only turned back to form a collar when me was prepared to go to the Altar. Hence, it came to symbolize the helmet of salvation.

Anne and Joachim The parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary about whom little is known other than stories from the apocryphal gospel, known as Protevangelium of James or The Nativity of Mary. It is in honor of Anne that St. Anne of Grace is named.

Anno Domini (A.D.) In the year of the Lord. Usually written anno Domini. Always written before the date, e.g., A.D. 2000.

Antecommunion Another name for the Liturgy of the Word, the first half of the Eucharistic celebration.

Anthem A text from Scripture or other sources that is sung or said during the liturgy; also called the Antiphon.

Anthem at Fraction The words that are said or sung at the Breaking of the Bread.

Apostles' Creed The Apostles' Creed derives its name from the fact that it contains the main teachings of the Apostles. It was not written by the Apostles themselves. Parts are believed to date from A.D. 150. In its present form, it dates from about the fourth century. It was probably based on Matthew 28:l9, and followed the baptismal confessions of the early Church. It is a condensed outline of the Christian Faith, without theological explanations and an affirmation of loyalty to the Faith.

Ascension The Feast commemorating the Ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ to glory. This Feast is forty days after Easter and always occurs on a Thursday.

Ash Wednesday The day of special devotion that marks the beginning of the Lenten observance. See Imposition of Ashes.

Asperges Sprinkling with Holy Water as a reminder of Baptismal vows. It is appropriate to make the sign of a cross when sprinkled.

Aspergillum A branch, brush, or perforated metal globe, with a handle, used for sprinkling holy water.

Assisting Ministers Persons who assist the celebrant.

Athanasian Creed Traditionally said or sung in churches throughout the Anglican Communion on Trinity Sunday as an affirmation of the Trinity.

Aumbry A receptacle to hold the Reserved Sacrament, that is affixed to a wall, or sits on a shelf apart from an altar (see Tabernacle). An aumbry may also be used as a place where chrism and oil are kept; this aumbry is separate from the one used for the Sacrament, and is not identified by the burning of a Sanctuary Lamp.

Baldachino (Also spelled baldachin or baldaquin) A canopy which is built over the dossal and is the same width. Preferably made from wood.

Banns The public announcement of a marriage during an assembly for worship.

Baptism The sacrament of initiation by which a person is born anew by Water and the Holy Spirit and made a member of Christ's Body.

Baptismal Font The basin or tub for the administration of the Sacrament of Holy Baptism.

Baptismal Water The water blessed by a bishop or priest for use at Baptism. Also used in the font and stoups for crossing oneself when entering and leaving church.

Bells See Sanctus Bell, Sacristy Bell.

Benediction Any blessing by a bishop or priest; or, a special service of devotion to Our Lord present in the Blessed Sacrament in which the Host is placed on the Altar and is reverenced. The blessing is received in silence through the Blessed Sacrament. Also see monstrance.

Bier The stand upon which a casket rests during the Burial of the Dead.

Bier Lights Two or more candles that are placed around the coffin or urn at the Burial of the Dead.

Bishop A successor of the apostles, the chief pastor of a diocese, and when present is the principal celebrant at sacramental liturgies.

Bishop's Candle A candle placed on the altar or shelf, noting the Bishop's presence.

Bishop's Chair A chair set apart in cathedrals and some churches, reserved especially for the bishop (sometimes called the Bishop's Throne or Cathedra). Also, a moveable chair or stool (faldstool) used when the bishop is present and sits for various parts of the liturgy (confirmation, ordinations, etc.).

Blessed Sacrament The consecrated bread and wine of the Eucharist which are the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Boat A small container, with a lid and spoon, in which incense is kept before it is placed in the thurible.

Book of Common Prayer or BCP of 1979 The official liturgy of the Episcopal Church.

Bow An inclination of the head or bending the body in reverence. There are three types: Simple Bow: Involves a bowing of the head and upper body slightly; Moderate Bow: a little deeper bow than the simple bow; and Profound Bow: Involves a bowing at the waist to a slight incline position.

Bread Box The container in which the bread or hosts for the Eucharist are kept. This is presented to the celebrant at the Offertory by the server or a member of the congregation.

Bucket A container, equipped with a handle, for Holy Water.

Burse A pocket or envelope of stiff board covered with material of the same liturgical color as the vestments, in which the corporal or purificators may be kept when not in use on the altar.

BVM Blessed Virgin Mary

Candelabrum A multi-branched candlestick, usually of three, five, or seven branches. The three represent the Holy Trinity; the five, the five wounds of Christ; and the seven, the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit. (Plural: candelabra)

Candle bearer See Torchbearer.

Candle Lighter/Extinguisher A long pole with a two-pronged end. One side is a tube into which is inserted a taper; a knob is used to raise or lower the taper for lighting of candles. The other side is a bell-shaped snuffer used to extinguish the candles.

Candlemas The Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord in the Temple, February 2nd. The term comes from the tradition of blessing candles on this feast and carrying them in procession as a symbol of the "Light to Lighten the Nations" (Nunc Dimittis).

Canon Prayer of Consecration in the Communion service. Law of the Church. Clergy connected with a cathedral.

Canticle A hymn, usually taken from Scripture, sung or said after the lessons at Morning or Evening Prayer, or as the Song of Praise at the Eucharist.

Cassock A long garment with sleeves, normally black, worn over street clothes when one serves at the altar. It buttons in the front, and should be long enough to cover the ankles. The wearing of a cassock symbolized the setting aside of one's self.

Cassock-Alb A combination of the amice and alb worn in place of cassock and surplice or amice, alb, and cincture. It is normally white and should be long enough to cover the ankles. A cincture around the waist should be worn with this vestment, although it is not essential. A surplice is not worn over the cassock-alb, but a tunic may be.

Cathedral The chief church of a diocese. In it is the cathedra, or throne, or chair, of the bishop. The pastor of a cathedral under the bishop is usually called the dean.

Celebrant The principal officiant at the Eucharist and other Sacraments. The bishop is the normal celebrant, or, if the bishop is not present, a priest.

Celebrant's Chair See Sedilia.

Censer See Thurible.

Chalice A metal or ceramic cup into which the wine and a little water for the Eucharist is poured.

Chalice Bearer A lay minister, trained and supervised by a priest, and licensed by a bishop to assist the priest in a specific parish in the administration of the Sacrament when a sufficient number of clergy are not available.

Chalice Veil A square piece of material of the same liturgical color as the vestments used to cover the chalice and paten when they are not in use. The burse with the corporal or purificators inside rests on top of the veiled chalice,

Chancel or Choir The area of the church between the nave and the sanctuary.

Charcoal Substance upon which incense is burned in the thurible. There are various types of "self-lighting" charcoals.

Chasuble A long, wide sleeveless vestment, worn by the celebrant at the Eucharist. It is usually oval when laid out flat, with an opening in the center to accommodate the celebrant's head. It is of the liturgical color of the day or season and usually worn over all other vestments (Eucharistic Vestments).

Choir A group of singers who assist in the celebration of the liturgy. They may be either in the chancel or in some other part of the church.

Chrism Oil consecrated by a bishop for use at Baptism (BCP, 307).

Chrismation The anointing of a person with chrism at Baptism (BCP, 308).

Christmas The Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ celebrated on December 25th. The Christmas season extends through January 6, the Feast of the Epiphany.

Church Year See BCP, 15.

Ciborium A covered metal or ceramic vessel in which the Blessed Sacrament is kept when reserved in a tabernacle or aumbry.

Cincture A rope, usually white, worn with the alb or cassock-alb, tied with a slip knot at the right side of the waist and allowed to hang down the right side. The ends of the rope may have either knots or tassels. This rope is sometimes called a girdle.

Coals The burning charcoal in the thurible.

Collect A prayer that is sung or said on behalf of the people by the celebrant or officiant at liturgical celebrations.

Colors, Liturgical By tradition, various colors are used for the vestments and altar hangings for the different seasons and feasts of the Church Year. In Western use the tradition is:

Red-on Pentecost, Feasts of Martyrs, and during Holy Week and visitations of the bishop.

White-on Feasts of our Lord, Feasts of Saints who were not martyrs, Feasts of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and at the Burial of the Dead.

Green-on the Sundays and Ordinary days of the Year after Epiphany and Pentecost.

Blue-is used during Advent and is also associated with the Blessed Virgin Mary. It represents hope, expectation, Heaven and is the color of royalty. Purple or Violet-for penitential occasions, during Lent, in some places at Requiems or the Burial of the Dead, and in some places Advent.

Black- for Good Friday and All Souls' Day and in some places for the Burial of the Dead and Requiems.

Rose-on Gaudete (III Advent) and Laetare (IV Lent)

Lenten Array-in some places used during Lent in place of purple (see Lenten Array).

Each color has specific meaning.

Comfortable Words See BCP, 332.

Commendation The rite at the conclusion of the Burial of the Dead (BCP, 482 or 499 or Parish Requiem Booklet).

Communion Rail See Altar Rail.

Communion Rail Gates See Altar Rail Gates.

Compass Rose, The Also called the Compasrose; Is the emblem of the Anglican Communion. The center holds the Cross of St. George, reminding Anglicans of their origin. The Greek inscription: "The Truth Shall Make You Free" (John 8:32) surrounds the cross, and the compass recalls the spread of Anglican Christianity throughout the world. The miter at the top emphasizes the role of the episcopacy and apostolic order that is the core of the Churches of the Communion.

Concelebrant An ordained bishop or priest who celebrates the Eucharist with the principal celebrant.

Confession of Sin A public prayer of penitence at the Eucharist, the Daily Offices and other times, including the Reconciliation of a Penitent.

Confirmation A mature public affirmation of the faith and commitment to the responsibilities of one's Baptismal vows, and, the laying on of hands by the bishop .

Confraternity of the Blessed Sacrament (CBS) The oldest devotional society in the Anglican Communion. Its rule of life promotes the celebration of the Holy Eucharist as the chief act of the Divine Service and intercessory prayer.

Cope A long cape, worn over the shoulders by the celebrant and others at various liturgies, including, but not limited to processions, the Burial of the Dead, etc. or by a bishop. It is usually of the liturgical color of the day or season, has a clasp at the chest and is worn over alb and stole or over cassock and surplice.

Corporal A large square white cloth, usually linen, that is placed on the altar at the time of the Offertory and upon which the chalice and paten are placed.

Corpus The figure of Christ on a crucifix.

Corpus Christi Latin for the Body of Christ. It is commemorated on the Church Calendar on June 6. It is marked at St. Anne's by the celebrations of the First Communions of children.

Credence or Credence Table A shelf or table, usually to the right of the altar, on which the vessels and other items for celebration of the Eucharist are kept.

Creed The affirmation of the faith of the Church

Cross bearer See Crucifer.

Crozier The bishop's staff representing a shepherd's crook.

Crucifix A cross upon which a figure of Christ is represented, either crucified or in Eucharistic vestments.

Cruets Glass or metal containers for the wine and water used at the Eucharist. Cruets have handles and tops (either a removable stopper or a lid that can be raised). If the cruets are metal, it is helpful if the wine cruet has a "V" engraved upon it for "vino"-Latin for wine and the water cruet an "A" engraved upon it for "aqua"-Latin for water. At St. Anne's the wine is marked with a red dot. This makes for easy identification of the contents. Cruets should be held in the palm of the hand with handles facing out when the celebrant or other person will be pouring as at the Offertory. When the server is to pour from a cruet (as at the lavabo or ablutions) it should be held by the handle.

Daily Offices Morning Prayer, Noonday Prayer, Evening Prayer, and Compline. An Order of Worship for the Evening is also considered an Office.

Dalmatic Similar to the tunic and worn by the deacon.

Deacon An ordained assisting minister whose main functions at the Eucharist are to read the Gospel, (normally lead the Prayers of the People), prepare the gifts at the Offertory, assist with the administration of Communion, help with the ablutions, and dismiss the people. In the absence of a bishop or priest, a deacon may administer Communion from the Reserved Sacrament.

Dismissal The words said or sung by the deacon or celebrant at the conclusion of the Eucharist. The response to the dismissal is "Thanks be to God" (during the Fifty Days of Easter, "Thanks be to God, alleluia, alleluia.").

Divine Liturgy, The See Liturgy; also, Eucharist.

Dossal or Dorsal An ornamental curtain hung flat or in folds back of and above the altar. It usually has a baldachino or canopy.

Doxology Words said or sung in praise of the Holy Trinity (Gloria Patri; also, the conclusion of each Eucharistic Prayer.

Dust-Cover A cloth placed over the altar cloth at times when the altar is not in use.

Easter The day celebrating the Lord's Resurrection and the Fifty Days following.

Easter Eve See Great Vigil of Easter.

Elements The bread and wine to be consecrated at the Eucharist.

Elevations The lifting up of the Consecrated Elements after the Words of Institution, at the conclusion of the Great Thanksgiving, or at the Invitation to Communion. It is appropriate to make the sign of the cross.

Ember Days Three days out of each season reserved for prayer and fasting.

Epiclesis or Invocation Also called liturgical pointing. Asking that the Holy Spirit bless or make holy the gifts of bread and wine and the people receiving. Crossing is appropriate.

Epiphany The Feast of the Manifestation of Our Lord Jesus Christ observed on January 6th. The Epiphany Season continues until the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday.

Episcopal Pertaining to bishops; to the Episcopal Church in the United States, or any national church of the Anglican Communion.

Epistle The lesson at the Eucharist preceding the Gospel taken from one of the Letters of the New Testament, the Acts of the Apostles, or the Book of Revelation.

Epistle Side The south side of the Altar or chancel. The Altar traditionally faces the east (Jerusalem); if not, the altar is still considered to be the ecclesiastical east.

Epistoler The reader of the Epistle. (See Subdeacon.)

Eucharist The principal act of worship on Sundays and other Feasts (see Divine Liturgy, Mass, Lord's Supper, Liturgy, The Holy Communion).

Eucharistic Prayer That part of the Great Thanksgiving beginning with the salutation and preface and concluding with the doxology and Amen.

Eucharistic Vestments The stole, (maniple), and chasuble worn by the celebrant at the Eucharist. The stole may either be worn under the chasuble or, in some places, over it. The Eucharistic vestments are worn over amice, alb, and cincture, or over a cassock-alb.

Evensong Sung Evening Prayer

Ewer See Flagon, for water at Baptism or on Maundy Thursday at the Washing of Feet.

Exsultet The poem of praise that is sung or said during the first part of the Great Vigil of Easter by the deacon or other person appointed.

Exposition See Benediction, Adoration.

Fair Linen See Altar Cloth.

Faldstool A portable folding seat used by a bishop. See Bishop's Chair.

Fast A day of special devotion (Ash Wednesday, other weekdays of Lent and of Holy Week, Good Friday and all other Fridays of the year, except for Fridays in the Christmas and Easter seasons, and any Feasts of our Lord which occur on a Friday) observed by acts of discipline and self-denial and is not done without prayer.

Feast A day of celebration associated with the life of Our Lord, of the Saints, or days of thanksgiving. Every Sunday is a feast day.

Fifty Days of Easter The From the Great Vigil of Easter up to and including the Day of Pentecost.

Flagon A large metal or ceramic pitcher often used for wine and water to be consecrated at the Eucharist. If more than one chalice is used during the administration of Communion, the flagon or an additional cruet filled with wine and water is placed on the altar at the Offertory, and other chalices are brought to the altar after the Breaking of the Bread. There should be only one chalice on the altar during the Great Thanksgiving.

Font See Baptismal Font; also, a fixed receptacle for holy water (stoup) at the entrance to the church or in the sacristy.

Frontal A covering for the altar, usually of the same material as the vestments or of the liturgical color of the season or feast. It may either cover all sides of the altar, or only the front. The altar cloth is spread over the frontal.

Funeral See The Burial of the Dead.

Gaudete The third Sunday of Advent in which the color, rose, is used to lighten the severity of the penitential season.

Genuflection The bending of the right knee when reverencing the Blessed Sacrament and at other times of solemn reverence. When receiving a bishop's blessing, the bending is done with the left knee. It is appropriate to genuflect entering and leaving a pew if the Reserved Sacrament is present; passing the Altar if the reserved is present; at the Incarnatus at a Solemn High Mass, e.g., Christmas; and at the words: "We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you: Because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world" during the Stations of the Cross.

Gifts The offerings of Bread and Wine and Alms presented to the celebrant at the Offertory of the Eucharist.

Girdle See Cincture.

Gloria in Excelsis See Song of Praise.

Gloria Patri (Glory be to the Father...) The Doxology which concludes the recitation of a Psalm at the beginning of the Eucharist; at the end of the Psalms in the Daily Offices; and at other times.

Good Friday The Friday before Easter Day on which the Passion and Death of our Lord Jesus Christ is observed with the Noon Stations of the Cross, the Proper Liturgy of Good Friday and the Mass of the Presanctified. See parish booklet. Cassocks are worn without surplices.

Gospel The final lesson in The Word of God taken from one of the four Gospels in the New Testament. It is normally read by a deacon or priest, and as a sign of reverence, the people and assisting ministers stand when the Gospel is proclaimed and do the Gospel signing of the Cross.

Gospel Book The book with an ornamented cover which contains the Gospel lessons appointed for use at the Eucharist. It is carried in procession (at the entrance) and at the proclamation of the Gospel by the deacon or other reader. "It is desirable that the lessons and Gospel be read from a book or books of appropriate size and dignity."

Gospel Side The north side of the altar or sanctuary, the left side, facing the altar where the Gospel is traditionally read during the Eucharist.

Gospel Signing Making the sign of the cross on the forehead, lips, and heart, signifying the place of the Gospel in our mind, on our lips and in our heart.

Gospeller See Deacon.

Gospel Procession The movement of the deacon or celebrant with torches (incense and processional cross) to the place of the proclamation of the Gospel the nave, the lectern, or the pulpit.

Gradual Psalm The psalm appointed to be read or sung after the lesson at the celebration of the Eucharist.

Great Thanksgiving The major prayer of the Eucharist beginning with the salutation and preface and concluding with the Lord's Prayer.

Holy Communion The second part of the Holy Eucharist, following the Word of God and beginning with the Offertory. This term may also refer to the whole service in the same way as Mass, Lord's Supper, Holy Eucharist, or The Divine Liturgy.

Holy Saturday The day before EasterSunday (see Great Vigil of Easter).

Holy Water Water blessed by a bishop or priest for use in blessing the people, in the setting apart of objects for use in the church, or for other liturgical purposes. Holy Water is often used upon entering and leaving the Church, at the Burial of the Dead, at Weddings, and at other times at the discretion of the priest.

Holy Week The week commemorating our Lord's Passion and Death: The Sunday of the Passion: Palm Sunday; Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of Holy Week; Maundy Thursday; Good Friday; and, Holy Saturday. The Great Vigil of Easter is the climax of Holy Week and the beginning of the Fifty Days of Easter celebrating the Resurrection of our Lord.

Host Literally, a sacrificial victim. The consecrated bread in the Eucharist.

Hours of Prayer Name given the monastic pattern of the Divine Office, made up of Matins (night), Lauds (dawn), Prime (6 am), Terce (9 am), Sext (Noon), None (3 pm), Vespers (Evening prayer), and Compline (before going to bed). Lauds and Vespers are the oldest and most important hours in Anglicanism as times of corporate praise at the beginning and end of the day.

Hymn Sacred poetry, sometimes referred to as prayers, set to music and sung during the liturgy.

Humeral Veil A wide scarf or veil worn around the shoulders of the priest and designed to show greater respect to the Blessed Sacrament. Usually worn at Benediction.

Icons Used in the East as a very stylized means of meditation. God always lies beyond our comprehension and these images are merely aids to devotion, "a window to heaven". God is worshiped, not the image.

Imposition of Ashes Placing of ashes on the foreheads of worshipers on Ash Wednesday.

Incense A mixture of perfumed spices, burned on the coals in the thurible, and used as a sign of prayer, honor, and solemnity at liturgical functions. It is a living link between Jewish and Christian antiquity (Mal 1:11; Rev 5:8). It also represents the purification and preparation for God's presence. In other words, it is symbolic of one world meeting the next.

Intinction Administration of the Eucharist by dipping the Host into consecrated wine.

Introit The hymn, psalm, or anthem sung or said at the entrance of the ministers at the Eucharist.

Invitatory At Morning Prayer: the Venite, Psalm 95, Jubilate, or Christ our Passover: At Evening Prayer: 0 Gracious Light (Phos Hilaron) or other suitable hymn or psalm. The Invitatory is used at the beginning of an Office after the opening versicle and response and before the appointed psalms.

Kneeling A posture signifying reverence or penitence.

Kyrie Eleison (Lord have mercy.) See Song of Praise

Lady Chapel A side chapel in which the Reserved Sacrament is kept. This designation is used in the Anglican Communion. Lady refers to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Laetare Also known as "Refreshment Sunday" or "Mothering Sunday" or the fourth Sunday of Lent. The color of rose is used to lighten the severity of the penitential season.

Laity From the Greek word laos, people; all baptized members of the church, usually distinguished from the ordained clergy.

Lavabo The washing of the celebrant's fingers after the Offertory at the Eucharist or at other times such as when oil or chrism is used or after the imposition of ashes on Ash Wednesday.

Lavabo Bowl The metal or ceramic dish into which the water is poured by the server at the lavabo.

Lavabo Towel A piece of cloth, usually linen, presented to the celebrant by the server at the lavabo to dry the fingers. It is presented hung over the server's left arm.

Lay Reader A person licensed by the Bishop to read the lessons at the Eucharist or at the Daily Offices and who may assist the celebrant or officiant in other ways; if specifically licensed by the Bishop, may administer the chalice at Communion.

Lay Eucharistic Ministers Specifically licensed by the Bishop, may administer the chalice at Communion and may, if licensed, take the Sacrament to the sick or those unable to attend Church.

Lectern The book-stand or podium from which the lessons and sometimes the Gospel are read at the Eucharist and other Offices. Also called an Ambo.

Lectionary The appointed lessons and psalms for use at the Eucharist and Daily Offices.

Lector A person who reads a lesson at the liturgy.

Lent The season of penitence and preparation for Holy Week and Easter which begins on Ash Wednesday.

Lenten Array In some places, the use of sack-cloth or similar fabric in place of purple for vestments, coverings, and hangings during Lent and Holy Week.

Lenten Cross A plain wooden processional cross painted red with black edges used during Lent and Holy Week.

Lesser Feasts and Fasts A book containing the collects, lessons, psalms, and short biographical material for the minor saints' days and observances found in the church calendar.

Lesson The first reading from Scripture at the Eucharist; the scripture readings at the Daily Offices or at other liturgies.

Litany Any form of prayer with petitions and responses; the Great Litany.

Liturgical Colors See Colors, Liturgical.

Liturgy The "work of the people." In Western usage this term may apply to any public celebration of the Church. In the Churches of the East, The Divine Liturgy refers specifically to the celebration of the Holy Eucharist.

Lord's Supper, The The celebration of the Holy Eucharist.

Lord's Table, The See Altar.

Magnificat The song of Mary (Luke 1:46-55) normally used as one of the canticles at Evening Prayer; also, may be used as a Song of Praise on Feasts of the Blessed Virgin Mary or at other times. The sign of the cross may be made at the beginning of this Gospel canticle.

Maniple A band of cloth worn, in some places, over the left arm by the celebrant at the Eucharist. It is of the same liturgical color as the stole and chasuble.

Mary, The Hail The Angelic salutation of St. Gabriel to the Virgin Mary see Luke 1: 28, 42.

Mass The celebration of the Holy Eucharist.

Mass of the Presanctified Communion in one kind, Reserved from Maundy Thursday Mass, as there is no celebration of the Mass on Good Friday.

Master of Ceremonies (MC) A person designated to direct the ceremonial at the liturgy.

Matins Morning Prayer.

Maundy Derived from Middle English, mounds, a command; from Latin, mandare. See Washing of Feet.

Maundy Thursday Thursday in Holy Week; also, on this day Our Lord established the Holy Priesthood, when He commanded His Apostles to "Do this for the anemesis (recreation of remembrance) of me".

Michaelmas Named in honor of St. Michael (who protects God's people) and All Angels (September 29). St. Michael is also known as the Champion of the Church. In addition, Michaelmas is the fall semester in British public (private) schools.

Ministers The celebrant, officiant and any others lay persons or ordained who assist in the celebration of the liturgy.

Missal See Altar Book.

Missal Stand The stand or, in some places, a pillow upon which the Altar Book rests when in use at the altar.

Miter The triangular-shaped head covering worn by a bishop.

Monstrance A receptacle for the Blessed Sacrament used at Benediction.

Narthex Originally an area, or room, separated from the nave by a wall, columns, or rails. In the early Church, it was where the candidates for baptism attended worship. Today, any vestibule is called a narthex.

Nave The area of the church where the people gather for the liturgy. Its ceiling is traditionally like that of a boat (ark).

Nicene Creed The creed adopted at the Council of Nicea in A.D. 325 and expanded at the Council of Constantinople in A.D. 381. Its purpose was to defend the orthodox faith against the heresy of Arianism and is based on the baptismal creed of Jerusalem. It is recited at the Holy Eucharist. It is longer and more theological than the Apostles' Creed.

Novena A nine day period of prayer in preparation for some particular feast, such as, Pentecost, or some special concern. The first novena was kept at the command of the Risen Christ, by the Apostles, the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the disciples in the upper room from the day of our Lord's Ascension to Pentecost.

Nunc Dimittis The Song of Simeon (Luke 2:29-32) normally used as one of the canticles at Evening Prayer and Compline. This canticle is also used at Candlemas. The sign of the cross may be made at the beginning of this Gospel canticle.

Occasional Services, Book of A book containing optional services and prayers authorized for use by the Episcopal Church.

Offertory The presentation, reception, preparation, and offering of the gifts at the beginning of The Holy Communion, the second part of the Eucharist.

Offertory Sentence A passage of Scripture that may be said or sung at the beginning or during the Offertory.

Offertory Procession At the Eucharist, the presentation of the bread, wine, and other gifts by members of the congregation.

Office See Daily Offices.

Officiant A person who officiates at the Daily Offices and other rites.

Oil A liquid substance blessed by a bishop or priest for use in the Ministration to the Sick. See also Chrism.

Our Lady of Walsingham The most popular and best known Marian shrine of the Anglican Communion recognized for its ministries of prayer and healing. Located in the village of Walsingham in Norwich, Great Britain.

Pace Step The step or platform on which the altar is placed.

Pall A stiffened square of linen or other white cloth that is placed over the chalice to keep objects from falling into the wine. The term may refer also to the cloth covering the casket or urn during the Burial of the Dead.

Palm Sunday The Sunday of the Passion (the Sunday before Easter).

Palms Branches blessed at the Palm Sunday Liturgy and carried by the people in procession. We traditionally save these palms and bring to Church for burning on Shrove Tuesday to be used for the Imposition of Ashes on Ash Wednesday.

Paschal Candle A large white candle, which may be decorated with a cross, the year of blessing, A (alpha) and (omega), grains of incense, and other symbols of the resurrection. It is lighted at the beginning of the Great Vigil of Easter and burns for all services during the Fifty Days of Easter. At other times, it is kept near the Baptismal Font and lighted for Baptisms and in procession at the Burial of the Dead, and placed in its holder near the casket or urn. It is symbolic of Jesus Christ (Pascha means Passover) and serves as a visual reminder of Jesus being the light of the world and our responsibility to take that light into the world.

Paschal Candle stand A large wooden or metal stand in which the Paschal candle is placed. The stand rests on the floor, and is of such height that the candle is prominent.

Passion Week See Holy Week.

Paten A metal or ceramic plate on which the bread for the Eucharist is placed after it is presented by the server or a member of the congregation.

Penance See Confession of Sin.

Pentecost, Day of The conclusion of the Fifty Days of Easter and the commemoration of the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples. It is also known as Whitsunday.

Pentecost, Season of The Sundays and Weekdays following the Day of Pentecost and ending on the Saturday before the First Sunday of Advent.

Phos Hilaron See Invitatory.

Piscina A sink for washing the vessels used at the Eucharist and for reverently disposing of Wine that has been consecrated. The piscina does not drain into a sewer or disposal system, but directly into the ground.

Place of Reservation The side altar or Lady Chapel or other place apart from the main altar of the church where the Blessed Sacrament is reserved on Maundy Thursday for use at the Good Friday Liturgy and the Mass of the Presanctified . Also called Altar of Repose; see Aumbry, Tabernacle.

Post Communion The Prayer of Thanksgiving after the Holy Eucharist. There are also proper Post Communion prayers appointed for various occasions.

Prayers of the People Prayers on behalf of the congregation and all members of the church militant, expectant, and triumphant.

Preces Responsive petitionary phrases, e.g., those which precede the collect of the day at Morning and Evening Prayer. See Suffrages.

Preface The first part of The Great Thanksgiving up to the Sanctus. Proper Prefaces are appointed for certain occasions.

President's Chair See Sedilia.

Prie dieu An individual kneeling bench with shelf.

Processional Cross A metal or wooden cross or crucifix affixed to a pole and carried in processions. See also Lenten Cross.

Prostrate Lying face down before the altar in submission on Good Friday and the ordination of a priest.

Propers The Collect, Epistle, and Gospel for the day.

Psalm A portion from the ancient Jewish hymn book found in Scripture (The Book of Psalms) commonly called the Psalter.

Psalter See Psalm. The collection of 150 Psalms. St. Augustine said: "Each word of the Psalter is spoken in the name of Christ and the Church."

Pulpit The place from which the sermon is preached and from which the Gospel may be read. Also called an Ambo.

Purificator A linen or other white cloth used for cleansing the chalice during the ablutions, or for wiping the chalice during the administration of Communion

Pyx A receptacle for reserving the Blessed Sacrament for use in Communion of the Sick.

Reconciliation or Confession May be scheduled any time, but traditional at Advent and Lent.

Requiem A celebration of the Eucharist for the commemoration of the dead.

Reserved Sacrament The consecrated Bread and Wine reserved for administration to the sick or others who could not attend the celebration of the Eucharist. The Reserved Sacrament may also be a focal point of prayer and is usually kept in the Lady Chapel or a side altar and is marked by a Sanctuary lamp (candle).

Reverence of the Altar of the Blessed Sacrament A genuflection or solemn bow at the altar of the Reserved Sacrament.

Rite Customary form for conducting a service.

Rite I The liturgies in The BCP in traditional language.

Rite II The liturgies in The BCP in modern language.

Rogation Days Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of the week of the Ascension. They are days of special intercession in thanksgiving for the coming of the season of growth. Rogation may be marked by a special procession and conducted on at Sunday prior to the Eucharist.

Rosary A method of praying thought to be Celtic in origin, using beads of a specific number to recall prayers and meditations on the holy mysteries, those fundamental to Christian faith. The word, rosary, seems to refer to Mary's garden of roses.

Rubric The ceremonial and other directions found printed in italics in BCP. The word comes from the Latin for "red" since the directions were traditionally printed in that color.

Sacrament An outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace. Also referred to as mysteries.

Sacrament, Dominical Sacraments specifically commanded by Our Lord: Baptism and the Holy Eucharist.

Sacraments, Minor Not unimportant, but not specifically commanded by Our Lord: Reconciliation (Confession), Ministration to the Sick (Unction), Confirmation, Holy Matrimony, and Holy Orders.

Sacramentals Actions, prayers, and things blessed by the Church that we may deepen our spiritual commitment to Our Lord by devoutly using them. Also referred to as manual acts of worship including: Holy Water, signing the Cross, vestments, Saints and Holy Days, bells, asperges, fasting, bowing, genuflecting, striking the breast, adoration of the Reserved Sacrament, votive lights, incense, Stations of the Cross, meditation through the Adoration, Benediction, icons, novenas, and the rosary. All may, none must, some should.

Sacrament Lamp A clear or white or red container with oil or a candle that burns in front of or near the place where the Blessed Sacrament is reserved. This candle is never extinguished when the Sacrament is present. The Sacrament Lamp may also be known as the Sanctuary Lamp or Light, Aumbry Light, or Tabernacle Light..

Sacristy A room or rooms where the vessels, vestments, and other liturgical objects are kept, and where the celebrant, officiants, and assistants vest before the liturgy. Generally, a place of preparation for liturgy or sacred service. There may be an acolyte sacristy as well as a celebrants sacristy.

Sacristy Bell A bell in the sacristy rung at the entrance of the ministers.

Sanctuary The area of the church surrounding the altar.

Sanctuary Lamp or Light See Sacrament Lamp.

Sanctus The acclamation "Holy, holy, holy . . ." sung or said at the conclusion of the Preface of the Great Thanksgiving.

Sanctus Bell A bell or set of bells in the sanctuary that is rung or struck during the Sanctus, elevations, and at other times.

Sedilia The chair from which the celebrant presides at the Word of God. In some places, this may be called the President's Chair. It is usually flanked by chairs for the assisting ministers and others.

Sequence Hymn A hymn sung between the Epistle and Gospel after the Alleluia Verse which normally relates to the lessons appointed for the day.

Server (acolyte) One who assists at the altar.

Shell, Baptismal The metal or ceramic cup or dish used to pour water during the administration of Holy Baptism.

Shrove Tuesday From old English word, "to shriven"; the act of confession and the absolving of the penitents by the priest on the day before the beginning of Lent.

Sign of the Cross The tracing on one's forehead, chest and shoulders of the outline of the Cross. See Gospel signing.

Simple Bow The inclination of one's head as a sign of respect,

Solemn Bow or Profound An inclination from the waist as a sign of reverence

Song of Praise The hymn or canticle at the beginning of the Eucharist following the Acclamation.

Spoon A utensil used with the boat to place incense on the hot coals in the thurible.

Staff, Pastoral See Crozier.

Stand See Missal Stand.

Station In a solemn procession, a place where a pause is made for a versicle, response, and collect, such as at the creche at Christmas, at the entrance to the church on Palm Sunday, or at the Baptismal Font on the Day of Pentecost.

Stations of the Cross See Way of the Cross.

Steps, Altar The one or more steps leading up to the altar. Traditionally, there is a subdeacon's step, a deacon's step and the pace (top) step.

Stole A long strip of material worn by bishops, priests, and deacons when officiating at the Eucharist or other sacramental functions. The priest wears the stole around the neck and hanging down in front (either crossed or straight) over an alb or surplice. The deacon wears the stole over the left shoulder and crossed under the right arm, again either over an alb or surplice. The stole is of the liturgical color of the day and matches the material of the other vestments.

Stripping of the Altars On Maundy Thursday all altars are stripped, reminding us of what the world is like without our Savior.

Striking the Breast (Rite One) Three times as bells are rung to signify the priest's consummation of the Eucharist. With each strike the priest says: "Lord I am not worthy to receive you, but only say the word and I shall be healed". These words may be said with the priest.

Subdeacon A lay person who assists the deacon and celebrant, and normally reads the Epistle at the Eucharist.

Suffrages The individual petitions of a litany; short petitionary phrases used as versicles and responses. See Preces.

Sunday of the Passion The Palm Sunday.

Sursum corda Latin for "Lift up your hearts". Name given to the dialogue between the celebrant and the people at the beginning of the Eucharistic prayers.

Surplice An ample white vestment -worn over a cassock. It has full sleeves, a round or square yoke (neck), and is at least midcalf in length.

Tabernacle A box or receptacle for the Reserved Sacrament located on an altar; usually the Lady Chapel. See also Aumbry.

Tabernacle Curtain A curtain inside the Aumbry or Tabernacle which is made in two parts, representing the tear in the curtain of the temple in Jerusalem on the day of Jesus' crucifixion.

Taper A long narrow wax-covered wick that is put into the candle lighter; or, a small candle for use by members of the congregation at vigils and other services; also, any candle.

Te Deum A canticle used at Morning Prayer, as a Song of Praise at the Eucharist, or added to a service on days of special Thanksgiving.

Tenebrae A night office of Psalms and readings, monastic in origin, used on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of Holy Week; the word means shadows and comes from the darkness in which the office is recited as the 15 candles are extinguished.

Throne A term sometimes used for the Bishop's Chair.

Thurible The container in which incense is burned.

Thurifer The server whose duty is to handle the thurible and boat.

Tongs A two-pronged hand-held device for holding charcoal
when lighting.

Torch A candle on a pole or stand that is carried by an acolyte.

Torchbearers Acolytes who carry torches or processional candles.

Towel A cloth used to wipe the celebrant's hands, also called the lavabo towel.

Tract A sentence of scripture sung or said in place of the alleluia verse during Lent.

Triduum The Paschal triduum is the three day season, counted sunset to sunset, Maundy Thursday evening through Easter Sunday evening. During these days we keep one festival, our Passover, our Easter.

Trinity Sunday The first Sunday after the Pentecost and the only major Holy Day named for a doctrine. Until recently, Sundays were dated after Trinity, a custom believed to have grown in popularity due to St. Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury.

Tunic or Tunicle A vestment with ample sleeves worn over an alb or cassock alb of the same liturgical color as the vestments of the celebrant or some other festive color. This vestment is usually worn by the subdeacon, and may be worn by the Crucifer on festive occasions.

Urn A receptacle containing the remains of a body that has been cremated.

Veil A covering (see Chalice Veil).

Venite (L, Behold...) See Invitatory

Veneration of the Cross On Good Friday, after the cross has been brought into the church, it may either be venerated while all kneel in place or each person may come forward individually to venerate the cross. In some places, the veneration is an act of kissing the foot of the cross.

Versicle A short sentence, often taken from the Psalms, sung or said at the liturgy and followed by a response from the people.

Vessels, Sacred See Chalice; Paten; Ciborium; Flagon.

Vestment An article of clothing worn over street clothes by those officiating or assisting at liturgical celebrations.

Vigils A period or service of preparation or " prayer watch" before major festivals
or celebrations (see Great Vigil of Easter; Vigil of Pentecost)

Votive A term applied for prayers or celebration of the Eucharist which are celebrated for a special purpose or occasion or theme rather than according to the Church year.

Washing of Altars This act is performed by ministers and servers after the stripping of the altars on Maundy Thursday.

Washing of Feet The rite performed on Maundy Thursday commemorating Our Lord's washing of the feet of the apostles at the Last Supper.

Watch, The Kept before the Blessed Sacrament at Altar of Repose. The prayer vigil kept at the Place of Reservation after the Maundy Thursday liturgy until Good Friday morning.

Way of the Cross A Procession with stations commemorating the Passion and Death of Our Lord Jesus Christ. St. Francis is credited with the origination of "stations of the Cross".

Wedding The Celebration and Blessing of a Marriage between a man and a woman.

Word of God, The The first part of the Holy Eucharist ending with the Peace. The focus of this part of the Eucharist is on the reading of Scripture and prayers of praise and petition.

Words of Institution That part of the Eucharistic Prayer recalling the words and actions of Our Lord at the Last Supper.