Episcopal Terminology Flashcards
(221 cards)
1
Q
acolyte
A
From the Greek for “to follow”; a liturgical assistant (often but not necessarily a young person) who serves in such various roles as crucifer, torchbearer, banner-bearer, book-bearer, candle-lighter, and server.
2
Q
Advent
A
From the Latin for “coming”; the four weeks before Christmas which constitute the first season of the liturgical year.
3
Q
Advent wreath
A
A wreath with four (or five) candles, used during the four weeks of Advent (with the fifth candle lit at Christmas).
4
Q
affusion
A
The most common form for baptism, in which water is poured over the head of the one being baptized.
5
Q
Agnus Dei
A
An anthem said or sung just before the administration of Communion, beginning, “O Lamb of God.”
6
Q
alb
A
Full-length white vestment used in worship since the sixth century; usually worn with a rope cincture. Worn by presiding and assisting ministers, acolytes, and sometimes choristers.
7
Q
alms
A
Financial contributions used for outreach to the needy or the suffering.
8
Q
alms bason or basin
A
A shallow bowl, usually metal or wood, used to collect and present monetary offerings.
9
Q
altar
A
Table in the chancel used for the celebration of the Holy Communion. It is the central furnishing of the sanctuary.
10
Q
altar rail
A
Railing enclosing the chancel at which people stand or kneel to receive Holy Communion.
11
Q
ambo
A
A pulpit, reading desk, or lectern from which Scripture is read and sometimes the Gospel preached.
12
Q
Amen
A
From the Hebrew for “truly” or “so be it,” it represents an affirmation at the end of a prayer.
13
Q
antependium
A
Fabric decoration for the pulpit, lectern, or altar that “hangs in front” of it.
14
Q
Apocrypha
A
Term used in some traditions to describe additional books of Scripture that were later not included in the Hebrew Bible, but formed a part of the second-century BCE Greek translation; called Deuterocanonical (“second canon”) in the Roman Catholic tradition. Distinguished from the apocryphal books that are not included in any Bible.
15
Q
apse
A
The semicircular (or polygonal) projection or alcove at the end of the chancel in traditional church architecture.
16
Q
archbishop
A
A bishop who leads a province. The Episcopal Church does not use this term for its bishops.
17
Q
archdeacon
A
A senior church leader (usually ordained, and often a priest) who exercises a role in a subdivision of a diocese or with a specific portfolio of tasks.
18
Q
Ascension Day
A
Principal feast occurring 40 days after Easter Day, celebrating Christ’s ascension into heaven.
19
Q
ashes
A
Symbol of repentance and mortality used in the Ash Wednesday liturgy; made by burning palms from previous year.
20
Q
Ash Wednesday
A
First day of Lent; occurs between February 4 and March 10. Name derives from the traditional practice of imposing ashes on worshipers’ foreheads as a sign of penitence.
21
Q
asperges [əˈspɜr dʒiz] (noun)
A
The ceremony of sprinkling with holy water.
22
Q
aspersorium [æs pər ˈsɔr i əm] (noun)
A
The vessel used to carry the blessed water for sprinkling.
23
Q
aspergillium [æs pər ‘dʒɪl əm]
A
The sprinkler (sometimes a leafy branch or small bouquet, often a metal rod with a receptacle attached).
24
Q
assistant (priest)
A
“A priest who serves a parish at the selection and under the direction of the rector. Sometimes called a curate or associate.”
25
assistant bishop
A bishop who serves under contract to a diocese other than the one to which elected originally, under the direction of the diocesan bishop.
26
assisting bishop
A bishop (usually having resigned from a previous jurisdiction, and often in retirement) who assists a diocese by performing some episcopal functions.
27
aumbry [ˈæm bri]: (Sometimes spelled ambry
A small cupboard usually attached to a wall of the sanctuary, in which the holy oils may be kept.
28
baptism
The sacrament of water and the Holy Spirit, in which we are joined to Christ’s death and resurrection and initiated into the church. Usually performed by affusion (pouring water over the head of one held or leaning over a font) or immersion (pouring water over one standing in the font, or lowered into it) rather than submersion (being completely lowered under the surface).
29
Baptismal Covenant
Statements of belief and promises made by baptizands and their sponsors, and the entire assembly, during the baptismal liturgy, and at times of the year as a renewal of those promises.
30
baptistery
The area in which the baptismal font is located; sometimes a separate chapel.
31
Benedictus: (benn-eh-DIK-tus)
Latin title for the Gospel canticle “Blessed be the God of Israel,” in Morning Prayer, from Luke 1:68–79. Also refers to “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord,” in the Eucharist
32
blue
Liturgical color for Advent in some churches; symbolizes hope; sometimes used for feasts of the Virgin Mary.
33
boat
A small vessel, usually of metal, used to carry incense. Sometimes carried by a boat bearer to assist the thurifer.
34
Book of Common Prayer
Abbreviated BCP, this is the official worship formulary of Anglican churches; the version used in the Episcopal Church is based on the English edition of 1662, revised in 1785–1789 to include portions of the 1549 version; further revised in 1892, 1928, and 1979.
35
Book of Occasional Services
A collection of authorized rites supplemental to those in the Book of Common Prayer.
36
burse
Square fabric-covered case in which the communion linens are often carried to and from the altar.
37
candlelighter
Long-handled device used to light and extinguish candles
38
candlestick
Ornamental base holder for candle.
39
canon
1) The officially recognized content of the Bible, varying from church to church; 2) A church law; 3) A clerical title indicating a role in the governance of a cathedral, or on the staff of a bishop; sometimes honorary.
40
cassock
Full-length black garment worn as part of the clergy habit (and also by some acolytes and choristers). Bishops and deans of cathedrals sometimes wear a cassock in violet or purple.
41
catechumen
A person (usually an adult or older youth) preparing for Holy Baptism through a process of formation and special rites leading up to baptism, often at the Easter Vigil.
42
catechumenate
The process for preparing adults and older youth for Holy Baptism, often culminating at the Easter Vigil. It is a process of growth in spirituality, worship, service, as well as learning, and is based on the practice of the early church.
43
celebrant
The presiding cleric, whether bishop or priest, at the Eucharist, and, by extension, at other sacramental rites, such as baptism.
44
ceremonial
The actions that take place during worship. Worship is constituted of both rite and ceremonial, word and action.
45
censer
Vessel in which incense is burned; also called a thurible.
46
cerecloth [ˈsɪərˌklɔθ]
Fabric impregnated with wax and used under the altar linen, originally to protect it from exposure to the oils used to consecrate the altar.
47
chalice
Cup used for the wine in the Holy Eucharist.
48
chalicist
The person, ordained or lay, who administers the chalice at Communion
49
chancel
Elevated area where the altar and, in some churches, the pulpit/ambo are located.
50
chapel
1) A separate church building often founded by a larger congregation as a mission and usually supported by it; 2) An area of a church with its own seating and altar, often used for smaller ceremonies and offices.
51
chaplain
1) A minister who serves in an institution such as a hospital, prison, or school with particular care for the patients, prisoners, or students; 2) A deacon or priest (or sometimes lay person) who accompanies and assists a bishop during a liturgy.
52
chasuble: (CHAH-zuh-bel)
The principal vestment for the Eucharistic liturgy; worn like a poncho by the priest or bishop over alb and stole.
53
chimere [tʃɪˈmɪər]
A vestment resembling a long sleeveless vest, usually open at the front, worn by a bishop over the rochet. Usually red or black.
54
choir
1) The group of singers who minister in the liturgy; 2) The area of the church in which the singers and other ministers are seated, usually between the nave and the sanctuary, but in some churches in the apse.
55
chrism
Fragrant oil blessed by a bishop and used for anointing in Holy Baptism.
56
Christ the King
A common name for the last Sunday of the church year, the last Sunday after Pentecost, the proper for which celebrates the sovereignty of Christ.
57
Christmas
Principal feast of the church year which celebrates Christ’s birth; also known as the Nativity of Our Lord.
58
ciborium: (sih-BOR-ee-um
Covered vessel that holds bread for the Holy Communion.
59
cincture: (SINK-chur)
Rope belt worn with an alb, or a band of fabric worn with a cassock.
60
coadjutor bishop
A bishop who is elected to succeed as diocesan, but who begins ministry before the resignation or retirement of the preceding diocesan.
61
collect: (CAW-lect)
(n) A prayer that addresses God, describes an attribute of God or a situation, and bids a petition, ending with an invocation of mediation; often used after a set of intercessions to “collect” and conclude them, and at the opening of a liturgy.
62
columbarium (CAW-lum-BAAH-ree-yum
Wall or other structure with niches in which ashes from cremation are placed. From the Latin for “dove-cote.”
63
common
(n) A set of liturgical texts (collect, preface, readings) that can be used for various observances, for which a set of unique texts (a proper) have not been provided.
64
Compline: (KAHM-plin)
From the Latin for “completion,” referring to the prayers that complete the day’s worship. An order for night prayer used as the last office before bed.
65
confirmation
A pastoral rite, consisting of a reaffirmation of baptismal vows, with a blessing and the laying on of hands by a bishop.
66
consecration
The setting apart of something or someone for holy purposes; said of the bread and wine in Communion, ordinands, and church buildings.
67
cope
Long cape worn by worship leader, lay or ordained, for certain processions and ceremonial occasions.
68
corporal
Square white linen cloth placed on the center of the altar, on which the Eucharistic vessels are placed for the celebration of Holy Communion.
69
corpus
Latin for “body.” Carved figure of Christ attached to a cross; together, cross and corpus are a crucifix.
70
cotta: [ˈkɒt ə]
Short white vestment worn over a cassock by acolytes and choir members. (aka surplice)
71
credence: (KREE-dentz)
Shelf or table near the altar which holds sacramental vessels ready for use.
72
crosier: (KROH-zher)
Staff often carried by a bishop in his/her own diocese as a sign of shepherding authority.
73
crucifer
The acolyte who carries the processional cross.
74
crucifix
Cross with a corpus attached.
75
cruciform
(adj) Constructed in the shape of a cross; typical of many church buildings of the gothic type.
76
cruet
Glass vessel containing wine or water for the Holy Communion. Sometimes used for oil when anointing.
77
curate
A title usually used for assistant clergy in a parish who serve under the direction of the rector.
78
Daily Office
The daily liturgies of readings and prayer, including Morning Prayer, Noonday Prayer, Evening Prayer, and Compline.
79
dalmatic [dælˈmæt ɪk]
A vestment, rectangular in shape, with loose short sleeves, worn by a deacon at the Eucharist.
80
deacon
Member of an order of the ordained ministry, charged particularly with a servant role on behalf of those in need, and to assist bishops and priests in the proclamation of the Gospel and the administration of the sacraments. A “transitional deacon” is one in the process of preparation for ordination as a priest.
81
dean
1) Leader of a deanery; 2) Chief cleric of a cathedral.
82
deanery
A subdivision of a diocese usually consisting of several parishes, sometimes led by a dean.
83
Deuterocanonical
Another name for the Biblical Apocrypha.
84
diocesan bishop [daɪˈɒs ə sən]
The sole or principal bishop of a diocese [ˈdaɪ ə sɪs].
85
dossal [ˈdɒs əl]
Fabric mounted on the wall or on posts behind an altar.
86
east, liturgical
The direction to the rear of the altar, regardless of geographical east.
87
Easter
Principal season of the church year which celebrates Christ’s resurrection. Easter Day (which occurs between March 22 and April 25) is known as the Sunday of the Resurrection and as the “queen of feasts.” The Easter season lasts for 50 days, a “week of weeks” plus the Day of Pentecost.
88
Easter Vigil
Festive liturgy on Easter Eve that includes the lighting of the new fire and procession of the paschal candle, readings from Scripture, Holy Baptism with the renewal of baptismal vows, and the first Eucharist of Easter.
89
eastward facing altar
An altar set along the liturgical east.
90
eastward position
A celebration of the Holy Eucharist in which the celebrant and congregation face liturgical east together during portions of the Eucharistic Prayer addressed to God.
91
Ecclesiasticus
One of the Deuterocanonical books (or Apocrypha); called “Sirach” in some translations. (not to be confused with the canonical Ecclesiastes.)
92
elements
The physical things used in the celebration of the sacraments: bread and wine in Holy Communion, and water in Holy Baptism.
93
Epiphany
Principal feast celebrated on January 6, marking the visit of the Magi to Jesus and the consequent revelation of Christ to the world.
94
Eucharist
) From the Greek for “thanksgiving”; a name for the Holy Communion. The sacrament of Word, bread, and wine (in which the elements convey the Body and Blood of our Lord) for which we give thanks, and through which we are nourished and strengthened in Christ’s name and sustained in baptismal unity in him.
95
Evening Prayer
An evening worship liturgy of Scripture readings and prayer; also known as Vespers.
96
ewer: (YOO-er)
A pitcher of water used at the baptismal font.
97
fair linen
Top white linen cloth covering the altar and thus serving as the table cloth for the Holy Eucharist.
98
flagon: (FLAG-un)
Pitcher-like vessel from which wine is poured into the chalice for the Holy Eucharist.
99
font
From the Latin for “fountain”; the pool or basin that holds water for Holy Baptism.
100
fraction
Ceremonial breaking of the bread in the Holy Communion liturgy.
101
free-standing altar
An altar behind which the priest or bishop stands (facing the congregation) during the celebration of the Eucharist.
102
friar
A man who has made religious vows in a community; from the Latin for “brother.” The first friars were Franciscan and Dominican.
103
frontal
Fabric hanging that covers the entire front of the altar, usually in a seasonal liturgical color; see also Laudian frontal.
104
funeral pall
Large cloth cover draped on a casket when brought into the church for the burial liturgy. If an urn is used for ashes, a small pall is often used to cover it.
105
Gloria
An ancient hymn of praise sung at the beginning of the Holy Eucharist in Christmastide and at other festive times, and as a canticle in the Daily Office; it begins with the angels’ song to the shepherds, “Glory to God. …”
106
Gloria Patri
The closing attribution of all glory to God in the Trinity of Persons, used at the end of Psalms and some canticles in the Daily Office.
107
gold
Liturgical color for Easter Day as an option to white, giving special prominence to this single most important feast of the year.
108
Good Friday
The Friday in Holy Week that observes Christ’s crucifixion and death.
109
Gospel side
The left side of the sanctuary, when facing the altar. So called due to the tradition of reading the Gospel from that position.
110
gradine
The step or shelf at the rear of an eastward facing altar.
111
Greek cross
Ancient form of the cross in which the four arms are of equal length.
112
green
Liturgical color for the seasons after Epiphany and Pentecost; symbolic of growth in the Christian way of life.
113
Holy Trinity
The doctrine of One God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
114
Holy Water
Water that has been blessed for use in baptism or for use in the blessing of persons, places, or things. Some churches are equipped with a stoup in which water is available for persons to dip a finger and make the sign of the cross as a reminder of their baptism.
115
Holy Week
The week beginning on the Sunday of the Passion/ Palm Sunday and ending with Holy Saturday, recalling the events of the last days of Christ’s life.
116
host
Wafer, made of unleavened bread, for the Holy Eucharist.
117
icon:
An image of Christ or a saint of the church, thought of as more than a mere picture, but as a “window into heaven.” Often handwritten with egg-tempera and pigments, with gold-leaf adornment.
118
incense
Mixture of resins for ceremonial burning, symbolic of our prayers rising to God (see Psalm 141); one of the gifts of the Magi to Jesus on the Epiphany.
119
intinction
From the Latin for “to dip”; the practice of receiving the Eucharistic elements by dipping the host into the wine.
120
Kyrie
An invocation of mercy sung or said during the Eucharist and the Offices of Noonday and Compline; it can be in Greek or English, and in threefold, sixfold, or ninefold forms.
121
Laudian frontal
A type of frontal that entirely covers all sides of an altar (to the floor).
122
lavabo: (lah-VAH-boh)
The point in the Eucharist when the celebrant, and other ministers, wash their hands; from the Latin, “I will wash.”
123
lavabo bowl/towel
Bowl and cloth used for the act of cleansing the celebrant and other ministers’ hands in the Eucharist or after the imposition of ashes or oil.
124
lectern
Reading stand from which the Scripture readings may be proclaimed.
125
lectionary
The appointed system of Scripture readings for the days of the church year. Also refers to the book that contains these readings.
126
lector
One who reads the first and second readings from Scripture in the Eucharistic liturgy, or the biblical readings in other rites.
127
Lent
From the Anglo-Saxon for “spring”; the penitential 40-day season (excluding Sundays) before Easter, beginning with Ash Wednesday. Symbolic of Christ’s 40 days in the wilderness. Lent is traditionally the season when candidates prepare for Holy Baptism at the Easter Vigil.
128
Lenten veil
Cloth used to cover crosses, sculpture, pictures, and other objects during Lent.
129
linens
Refers to all of the various white fabrics used in the sanctuary and in other rites: altar linens, communion linens (corporal, pall, and purificator), and other linens (covers for the credence and offertory tables, lavabo towel, and baptismal towel).
130
litany
A form of prayer sung responsively between a leader and the congregation; the Great Litany is one of the first liturgical compositions in English and is used in its present form during Lent or in times of crisis; there is also a Litany for Ordinations addressing the particular concerns of the church with prayer for those being ordained.
131
liturgy
From the Greek for “public works” (that is, work undertaken on behalf of the whole people); the worship of the church in general, or any particular worship service.
132
Liturgy of the Word
That portion of the Eucharistic liturgy preceding the communion, focused on the reading, hearing, and exposition of Scripture.
133
Magnificat: (mahg-NIFF-ih-kaht)
Latin title for the Song of Mary, “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,” which is a canticle at Evening Prayer, and is from Luke 1:46–55.
134
matins: (MAT-ins)
From the Latin for “morning”; morning liturgy of Scripture reading and prayer; also known as Morning Prayer. Sometimes spelled mattins.
135
Maundy Thursday: (MAWN-dee)
From the Latin mandatum for “commandment”; the Thursday in Holy Week which commemorates the institution of the Holy Communion at the Last Supper, during which Jesus commanded his disciples to love one another and washed their feet. The footwashing itself is sometimes called “the Maundy.”
136
memorial garden
Usually a courtyard garden on church property in which ashes are interred or scattered after cremation.
137
mensa
The top surface of an altar (from the Latin for “table”).
138
mixed chalice
So called from the custom of adding a small amount of water to the wine administered at the Eucharist.
139
miter: (MY-ter)
From the Greek for “headband”; a liturgical hat worn by a bishop.
140
monk
A man who has made monastic vows in a religious community, usually devoted to prayer and manual work in the monastery.
141
Morning Prayer
Morning liturgy of Scripture reading and prayer; also known as matins.
142
narthex
Entrance hall, lobby, or gathering space of a church building which leads to the nave.
143
nave
From the Latin for “ship”; the section of the church building between the narthex and the chancel, where the congregation assembles for worship.
144
new fire
The fire kindled on Easter Eve, used to light the paschal candle for the Easter Vigil. Symbolic of Christ’s risen presence.
145
north, liturgical
The direction to the left when facing the altar. Also called “the Gospel side,” due to the traditional reading of the Gospel from that side of the sanctuary.
146
nun
A woman who has made monastic vows, usually in a contemplative community.
147
Nunc dimittis: (NOONK dih-MIH-tiss)
Latin title for the Song of Simeon, the canticle from Luke 2:29–32, “Lord, you now have set your servant free,” used in Evening Prayer and Compline.
148
oblations
Offerings of bread, wine, and money brought to the altar during the offertory.
149
offertory
Portion of a liturgical rite when the offerings of the people are received and presented.
150
office
Any liturgical celebration, but usually used to mean the Daily Office (Morning and Evening Prayer, Noonday Prayer, and Compline).
151
Ordinal
The ritual appointed for ordination of bishops, priests, and deacons.
152
ordinary
1) Those parts of the Eucharistic liturgy that do not change from week to week; 2) The diocesan bishop, usually in the phrase “canon to the ordinary,” often a senior priest chosen to work as the bishop’s pastoral and/or administrative assistant.
153
orphrey: (OR-free)
Ornamental band or border on a chasuble or other vestment or altar hanging.
154
pall
Linen-covered square placed over rim of the chalice; see also funeral pall.
155
paraments
Cloth hangings of various seasonal liturgical colors used to adorn the altar and pulpit/ambo/ lectern.
156
Paschal candle
Large candle carried in procession during the Easter Vigil, lit during the Easter season, symbolizing Christ’s resurrected presence. At other times of the year, it is placed near the font and lighted for Holy Baptism; may also be placed near the casket during the burial liturgy.
157
passion red
The deep red liturgical color used in Holy Week. Symbolic of the blood of the passion of Christ.
158
paten: (PATT-en)
Plate used to hold bread or hosts during the Eucharist.
159
pectoral cross
A cross on a chain or cord, worn around the neck; normally worn by bishops, and often by members of religious communities.
160
Pentecost
From the Greek for “fifty”; a principal feast of the church year, occurring 50 days after Easter. Celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit on the disciples gathered in Jerusalem.
161
Phos hilaron: (FOHS HILL-uh-ron)
Greek for “joyful light”; hence, the Greek name for the canticle in Evening Prayer which begins “O gracious light.”
162
piscina
A special drain in the sacristy which goes directly into the ground, used for disposal of water used to rinse vessels and wash linens after the Holy Communion.
163
preface
A short text that introduces the Sanctus in the Holy Communion; it varies with and is proper to the season or the celebration.
164
presider
The bishop or priest who leads the celebration of the Eucharist or another rite.
165
Presiding Bishop
The primate and chief pastor of the Episcopal Church. Some other churches, including other members of the Anglican Communion, also use this title for their primate or senior bishop.
166
prie-dieu: (pree-DYOO)
French term for the individual or dual (for weddings) kneeler-with-bookrest used in worship services, as well as at other times when kneeling for prayer is desired.
167
priest
An order of the ordained ministry of the church. Also called a “presbyter.”
168
primate
The principal bishop who is responsible for leadership in a national church; in the Episcopal Church this is the Presiding Bishop, who is elected for a term of nine years.
169
processional cross
A cross or crucifix on a tall staff used to lead processions.
170
proper
The varying portion of the Eucharistic liturgy that is appointed for the day (or season) of the church year; that is, the texts “proper” to that day which include the collect of the day, Scripture readings, and preface.
171
pulpit
Raised reading desk in the chancel from which the Gospel may be read and the sermon preached; see also ambo.
172
purificator
Square, folded linen napkin used to cleanse the edge of the chalice during the distribution of Holy Communion.
173
purple
Liturgical color for Advent and Lent.
174
pyx (picks)
A small container used to carry Eucharistic Bread to those unable to attend worship due to illness.
175
rector
A priest who has charge of a parish, usually called by the congregation and instituted by the bishop, and having tenure; responsible for the spiritual oversight of the congregation.
176
red
Liturgical color, symbolic of the fire of the Holy Spirit. Used on the Day of Pentecost, and feasts of apostles and martyrs.
177
religious: (n)
A general term for one who has taken vows in a community of monks, nuns, brothers, or sisters.
178
reredos: (RAIR-eh-doss)
Carved stone or wood panel behind and above an altar.
179
reserved sacrament
The portion of Bread (and sometimes Wine) not consumed as part of the Holy Eucharist, but retained in a special repository, often called a tabernacle, for distribution to the sick, and in some traditions, as a focus for devotional practices.
180
rite: The text of a liturgy. Worship is constituted of both rite and ceremony, word and actio
The text of a liturgy. Worship is constituted of both rite and ceremony, word and action.
181
rochet
Long white vestment (usually with full sleeves gathered at the wrist) worn by bishops under the chimere.
182
rubric
From the Latin for “red”; a direction for the conduct of a liturgy. Rubrics were usually printed in red. In many modern editions and bulletins, italics are used.
183
sacraments
Outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace, given by Christ, as sure and certain means by which we receive that grace, and as a pledge to assure us of that reception.
184
sacristy
A room used for storage and preparation of items used in worship; also used for clergy and server vesting before worship.
185
sanctuary lamp
A candle sometimes suspended from the ceiling or mounted on the chancel wall; in Roman Catholic and some Episcopal churches, it symbolizes the presence of the reserved sacrament.
186
sanctuary
The part of the church building that contains the altar and is set apart for the celebration of the Eucharist.
187
Sanctus
The song glorifying God beginning “Holy, Holy, Holy” and following the Preface in the Holy Eucharist.
188
sedilia
In some churches, a set of seats in the sanctuary for the celebrant and assistants.
189
sign of the cross
Gesture of tracing the outline of the cross with the hand, as a mark of belonging to Christ in Holy Baptism (during which it is first placed on one’s forehead).
190
station
1) Place from which Communion is administered; 2) One of the fourteen portions of the Way of the Cross.
191
stole
Cloth band in liturgical color worn over the alb or surplice over a deacon’s shoulder, or around a priest’s or bishop’s neck; signifies the order and office of ministry and the yoke of obedience to Christ.
192
stoup
Receptacle near the entrance of a church in which holy water is retained for persons to use in making the sign of the cross as a reminder of their baptism.
193
stripping of the altar
Ceremony at the conclusion of the Maundy Thursday liturgy, in which all appointments, linens, and paraments are removed from the altar and chancel in preparation for Good Friday.
194
subdeacon
Formerly a member of an order of ministry served prior to ordination as a deacon, now a liturgical office often served by a lay person.
195
suffragan bishop
A bishop elected to serve in a diocese along with the diocesan, but with tenure.
196
Sunday of the Passion
The first day of Holy Week, also known as Palm Sunday. Commemorates both Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem and his crucifixion.
197
superfrontal
A short fabric hanging for the front of an altar, used alone or as an additional adornment to a frontal.
198
surplice
White vestment worn over the cassock; used especially for the Daily Office. The name derives from the Latin for “over the fur” and goes back to the days of unheated churches.
199
Te Deum laudamus: (tay DAY-um lau-DAH-moos)
Latin for “We praise you, God”; a title for the canticle used in Morning Prayer.
200
Tenebrae: (TENN-eh-bray)
From the Latin for “shadows”; a liturgy of Holy Week, in which candles on a special stand are extinguished one by one.
201
thurible
Vessel in which incense is burned; also known as a censer.
202
thurifer
The person who carries the thurible.
203
torch
Large candle on a staff carried in processions, often flanking the processional cross or gospel book.
204
torchbearer
An acolyte who carries a processional torch.
205
Transfiguration
Feast celebrated on August 6, recalling Christ’s transfiguration on the mountain.
206
Triduum: (TRIH-doo-um)
Latin for “three days”; the three sacred days from Maundy Thursday evening through Easter Eve, which together celebrate the unity of the Paschal mystery of Christ’s death and resurrection.
207
Trinity Sunday
The First Sunday after Pentecost on which the church celebrates God as the Holy Trinity.
208
Trisagion
A prayer invoking the mercy of the Holy, Mighty, and Eternal God, sung or said as part of the Eucharist or at other times.
209
tunicle
A vestment similar to a dalmatic, worn by a subdeacon.
210
unction
The action of anointing a person with oil.
211
veil
Cloth placed over sacramental vessels before and after the celebration of Holy Communion
212
versicle and response
Brief lines of Scripture (often from the psalms) sung or said responsively in certain rites, including the Daily Office.
213
vespers
From the Latin for “evening”; an evening liturgy of Scripture readings and prayer. Also known as Evening Prayer.
214
vestry
The lay governing body of a parish, responsible for the maintenance of the buildings and property, and for finances. (Formerly another name for the sacristy, or place in which clergy vested.)
215
vicar
A priest who serves at the direction and appointment of the bishop in a mission congregation. Occasionally a curate serving in a mission founded by a larger parish, under the direction of its rector; from the Latin for “in the place of.”
216
vigil
A liturgy held on the eve of a feast, such as the Easter Vigil.
217
warden
A senior lay leader of a congregation, having specific legal and ecclesiastical responsibilities.
218
Way of the Cross
A ritual commemorating the Passion of Christ, consisting of fourteen stations, often marked with an image of each event, consisting of a Scriptural passage, versicle and response, and prayer; often used as a Lenten devotion, it appears in the Book of Occasional Services.
219
white
Liturgical color for Easter Day and Christmas, giving special prominence to these most important feasts. Gold may also be used.
220
zucchetto
A skull-cap or small circular cap that fits the top of the head, worn by some clergy and members of religious communities; some bishops wear a purple zucchetto.
221
Rogation Days are days of prayer and supplication, traditionally observed to ask God's blessing on agriculture, the land, and all human labor.
In the Episcopal Church:
There are three Rogation Days observed on the Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday before Ascension Day (which falls 40 days after Easter).
