Here is a basic glossary, not intended to be exhaustive, of the vessels and items used during the Liturgy. While by no means an exhaustive list, CQBO finds that the following terms are valuable to know, especially when preparing for Catholic quiz bowl tournaments.
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Alb | A long white garment worn by priests and servers, symbolizing purity. |
| Altar | The table used for the celebration of the Eucharist. |
| Altar Cloths | Cloth coverings placed on the altar, including the mensa |
| Altar Stone | A stone embedded in the altar containing relics of saints. |
| Ambo | The elevated stand from which the Scriptures are proclaimed. |
| Antiphonary | A book containing antiphons, the sung responses in the Liturgy of the Hours. |
| Aspergillum | A liturgical implement used to sprinkle holy water for Asperges |
| Burse | A case used to carry the corporal to and from the altar. |
| Chalice | A sacred vessel used to hold the wine that becomes the Blood of Christ. |
| Chasuble | The outermost vestment worn by the priest during Mass. |
| Ciborium | A covered container used to hold the consecrated hosts for distribution and reservation. |
| Cincture | A cord used as a belt to gird the alb. |
| Corporal | A square white linen cloth upon which the chalice and paten are placed. |
| Credence Table | A small side table in the sanctuary for holding items needed for Mass. |
| Crozier | A ceremonial staff carried by bishops as a symbol of their pastoral office. |
| Cruets | Small vessels used to hold water and wine for the Mass. |
| Gradual | A chant or book used in the liturgy, containing Psalms sung after the first reading. |
| Humeral Veil | A long scarf-like vestment used during Benediction to cover the hands. |
| Lavabo | A ritual washing of the hands by the priest, also refers to the bowl used. |
| Lectern | A stand for reading Scriptures or leading prayer, distinct from the ambo. |
| Lectio Divina | A meditative way of reading Scripture in stages. |
| Lectionary | The liturgical book containing Scripture readings for Mass. |
| Liturgical Colors | Colors used in vestments and altar coverings corresponding to the liturgical calendar. |
| Liturgical Year | The cycle of seasons and feasts that structure the Church’s worship. |
| Maniple | A liturgical vestment worn over the left arm, symbolic of the toils of the ministry. |
| Missal | The liturgical book containing the prayers, chants, and instructions for the celebration of Mass. |
| Missalette | A small booklet containing the readings and prayers for Mass. |
| Monstrance | A vessel used to display the consecrated Eucharistic host for adoration. |
| Ostensorium | Another term for a monstrance. |
| Pall | A stiffened square card covered with cloth used to cover the chalice. |
| Paschal Candle | A large candle blessed at Easter symbolizing the light of Christ. |
| Paten | A small plate, usually made of precious metal, used to hold the host during the Eucharist. |
| Processional Cross | The cross carried at the head of liturgical processions. |
| Processional Torch | A lighted candle carried in procession, typically during solemn liturgies. |
| Purificator | A small linen cloth used to wipe the chalice after each communicant. |
| Reredos | An ornamental screen or decoration behind the altar. |
| Sacrarium | A special sink in the sacristy where sacred substances are disposed directly into the ground. |
| Sacristy | The room where vestments and sacred vessels are kept and prepared. |
| Sanctuary | The sacred space around the altar. |
| Sanctuary Lamp | A lamp that burns near the tabernacle to indicate the presence of the Blessed Sacrament. |
| Sanctus Bells | Bells rung during the Mass to alert the faithful to key moments. |
| Stole | A long strip of cloth worn by clergy as a sign of their office. |
| Tabernacle | A locked box or container where the Eucharist is reserved. |
| Tabernacle Key | The key used to access the tabernacle. |
| Thurible | A metal censer suspended by chains, used for burning incense. |
| Thurible Boat | A small container used to hold incense before it is placed in the thurible. |
| Vestment Case | A case or container used to store or transport liturgical vestments. |
| Votive Candle | Candles lit for special intentions or prayers. |
| Zucchetto | A skullcap worn by bishops and the pope. |
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