Church Objects, Vestments, and Liturgical Practices in Catholic Mass

The chalice

The vessel which holds the wine that becomes the Precious Blood of Christ.

The paten

The golden 'plate' that holds the bread that becomes the Sacred Body of Christ.

The ciborium

A golden vessel with a lid that is used for the distribution and reservation of Hosts.

The pyx

A small, closing golden vessel that is used to bring the Blessed Sacrament to those who cannot come to the church.

The purificator

A small rectangular cloth used for wiping the chalice.

The cruets

Hold the wine and the water that are used at Mass.

The lavabo and pitcher

Used for washing the priest's hands.

The altar cloth

A rectangular white cloth that covers the altar for the celebration of Mass.

The altar candles

Mass must be celebrated with natural candles (more than 51% beeswax), which signify the presence of Christ.

The lavabo towel

Which the priest dries his hands after washing them during the Mass.

The corporal

A square cloth placed on the altar beneath the chalice and paten, folded to catch any particles of the Host that may accidentally fall.

Paschal candle

A new candle prepared and blessed every year at the Easter Vigil, standing near the altar during the Easter Season.

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 there.

The aspersorium

The bucket used to carry holy water for sprinkling.

The aspergillum

The sprinkler for casting 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 for burning.

Sacred Oils

Oil of Chrism, Oil of the Sick, Oil of the Catechumens.

The sacrarium

A drain in the sacristy that flows directly into the earth, used for respectfully disposing of holy water, blessed ashes, and the water used to wash the altar clothes.

The Roman Missal

The book containing the ceremonial instructions and prayers for the celebration of Mass.

The Lectionary

The book containing the biblical readings arranged for the celebration of Mass.

The Book of the Gospels

The book from which the Gospel reading is proclaimed.

Ordo

A liturgical aid published to foster the celebration of the liturgy.

The alb

A full-length white garment worn by the priest and deacon.

The stole

A long strip of fabric worn around the neck, matching the color of the day.

The chasuble

Worn by the priest over his other vestments, symbolizing the yoke of Christ and of the priesthood.

The cope

A cape-like vestment that may be worn during processions and liturgical celebrations outside of Mass.

The cincture

Worn around the alb if it does not fit closely to the body.

The dalmatic

The distinctive vestment of the deacon, which has sleeves.

The processional cross

Hearkens back to the days of the Roman army when the standard-bearer would carry the insignia of a particular legion into battle.

The Sanctuary

The elevated portion of the church where the clergy and other ministers perform their proper functions in the worship of God.

The Nave

The main body of the church where the congregation gathers.

The Sacristy

The room where the sacred vestments, vessels, and other items used in the celebration of the liturgy are stored and prepared.

The Altar

The sacred table on which the sacrifice of the Mass is offered to God.

The Ambo

The lectern from which the readings are proclaimed.

The Presider's Chair

The chair on which the priest sits during Mass.

The Credence Table

The table on which objects are kept during the celebration of Mass.

The Tabernacle

The golden container in which the Blessed Sacrament is reserved.

The Ambry

The cabinet in which the three holy oils are kept.

Liturgical Colors

Colors used in the liturgy to symbolize different themes.

Standing

Shows a special level of respect and readiness.

Genuflection

Made by bending the right knee to the ground, given to the Blessed Sacrament.

Kiss

The Book of the Gospels and the altar are customarily venerated with a kiss.

Profound bow

Made to the altar whenever one passes in front of it during Mass.

Bow of the head

Made during Mass at the name of Jesus and other significant names.

Sitting

Signifies attentiveness, especially to the readings from Sacred Scripture.

Kneeling

Signifies adoration of God and humility before him.

Striking the breast

Done during the Confiteor, acknowledging our sinfulness.