Here is a glossary of terms for some of the items used on the altar during Eucharist. These are listed in the order they would appear during the course of the Mass.

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Sanctuary. This is the part of the church where the altar is.

Altar. The table where the sacrifice of the Eucharist is offered.

Sacramentary. Sometimes referred to as the Roman Missal, this is the book used by the priest which contains all the prayers for the Mass.

Ambo. The lectern, or pulpit, where the Scriptures are read.

Lectionary. This is the book on the ambo which contains the Bible readings used at Mass.

Corporal. A square piece of white cloth placed on the altar; the paten and chalice are placed on it during the Eucharistic prayer.

Paten. A flat dish, usually made of the same material as the chalice, for the host.

Host. The flat wafer of unleavened wheat bread used as one of the elements of the Eucharist. It comes from the Latin hostia, meaning ‘sacrificial victim.’

Chalice. The cup holding the wine/precious blood.

Purificator. Slim, white cloth used to wipe the chalice.

Ciborium. The vessel containing the consecrated hosts distributed during communion, or reserved in the tabernacle.

Tabernacle. A small cupboard where the Blessed Sacrament not consumed during Mass is reserved.