Definitions

Episcopalians use some peculiar words and terms when referring to things of the church. So, to help others understand what we’re talking about, here are some explanations in no particular order.

Lessons. A word we use sometimes in reference to the portions of the Bible read aloud during the worship service, AKA the scriptures.

The Eucharist. A shorthand term referring to our regular Sunday morning worship with communion.

Nave. The large room in which we worship, sometimes called the sanctuary.

Narthex. The area one enters at the back of the nave, where is kept the Baptismal Font.

Baptismal Font. A large bowl or other receptacle holding water for baptism.

Chalice. The cup for the wine that is consecrated and administered at the eucharist. The chalice normally has a footed base.

Vestments. Items of special clothing worn by those serving at the altar.

Alb. A long white garment, which is the basic garment worn by ordained and lay ministers at the eucharist and at other church services. The alb (from Latin alba, meaning white) is derived from the undertunic of the Greeks and Romans of the fourth century. It may be girded at the waist.

Undercroft. Level below the main worship space, usually with classrooms or other gathering places.

Elements. The bread and wine to be used for communion

Sacristy. The room where the ministers prepare to lead worship and where vestments and other items are kept.

Vestry. Group of lay persons elected to assist the rector in leadership and administration.

Rector. A priest who has been chosen by the congregation and installed by the diocesan bishop to lead the congregation in worship and in ministry to the community.

Parish. The congregation and ministers worshiping in a particular church.