Terminology

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Sacred Space

Chancel 
Area just beyond communion rail used by officiating clergy and assistants

Narthex 
Area just outside the Nave; may be used or greeting, gathering for processions, etc.

Nave 
Area in which the congregation sits

Sacred Things

Alb 
Full-length white robe worn by worship leaders

Ambo 
Structure used for both reading of the lessons and the sermon, when only one is used

Baptismal Font 
Vessel that holds the water for Holy Baptism

Chalice 
Cup used for the wine in Holy Communion

Ciborium 
Vessel that holds the wafers for Holy Communion

Cincture 
Rope belt tied around the alb

Altar
Raised platform in the sanctuary.

Corporal Cloth
The cloth that is the "base" for the Altar.  The Chalice is placed on top of the Corporal Cloth.

Pall (pronounced "Paul")
The square that is placed on the top of the Chalice.

Parament
The colored vail that is placed over the pall and Chalice.  The color of the parament coincides with the current Church Year color. (Click here to see, 'The Meaning and Use of Liturgical Colors .'

Burse
Placed on top of the parament and contains the purificators.  The Burse is always the same color as the Parament.

Purificators
Small white linens that are used for holding the bread and for covering the bread.

Chalice
Cup that holds wine on the Altar.

Plate
Bread plate that goes on the Credence Table.

Cup Trays
Silver trays that hold individual communion cups.  Should be wiped down with a damp cloth after each use.  Can be washed in mild soapy water.  Should be cleaned periodically with silver cleaner.

Lectern
Stand at the front of the Altar where lessons and sermons are given from.

Alter Table
Table in the center of the Altar that communion ware is placed on.

Missle
Book or music stand on the Altar.

Credence Table
A small table at the foot of the statue of Jesus.  Holds the trays of communion cups and the bread.

Stole 
Strip of material, in proper liturgical color, worn over the shoulders of the clergy

Baptismal Candle
Large candle that is normally placed at the baptismal font.  Used only during festival times.  

Paten 
Plate on which the bread for Holy Communion is placed

Lectionary 
Selected biblical readings for liturgical use throughout the church year