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Alb |
The full length white linen robe worn by ministers during liturgical functions. Derived from the Greco-Roman under tunic, albs are often adorned with colored bands (orphreys) and embroidered with lace extending from the waist to the ankles. This ornamentation, however, should not detract from the simplicity and modesty of the garment. Worn by the ancient Greeks and Romans, the garment symbolizes purity of heart. |
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Cincture |
The cord, belt or girdle used to gather an alb at the wait. It is either white or the color of the day, and usually has a tassel at either end. The cincture is a symbol of chastity. The term also refers to the belt of an ecclesiastical habit. (Many albs now have the cincture attached or are worn without the cincture). |
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Chasuble |
The outermost garment worn by bishops and priest during the celebration of the mass. Modeled after the outer cloak worn by Greeks and Romans in the later years of the Roman Empire. It is sleeveless and make of silk, velvet, or some other cloth appropriate for an ecclesiastical vestment. It represents the yoke of Christ, and is a symbol of the all-encompassing nature of Christian charity. In Roman times, it was an all-weather cloak worn over other clothing. The color of the chasuble changes with the season or feast that is being celebrated. |
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Stole |
A liturgical vestment made of a long strip of cloth, several inches wide, which is worn by deacons, priests, and bishops; a deacon wears it over his left shoulder (like a sash) and underneath his dalmatic, while a priest of bishop wears it around his neck (allowing it to hang straight down in the front) and under his chasuble. It is worn at Mass, while administering the other sacraments, and when preaching. Its color corresponds with the liturgical color of the day or season. In ancient Rome, the scarf was a symbol of authority. Today, it is a symbol of priesthood. |