Linen Launderers

Each week, members of the team take turns collecting, laundering and ironing and folding the small cloths that are used on the altar during Mass.

These are:

The corporal

This white linen cloth is spread out on the altar immediately in front of the priest. The sacred vessels that contain the bread and wine which will become the Body and Blood of Christ are placed on it.

The purificators

These are used to wipe the lip of the Chalice during distribution of Holy Communion. A purificator is also used to clean and purify the Chalice, Paten and Ciborium after the distribution of Holy Communion.

The lavabo towel

This finger towel is used by the priest to dry his hands after he has washed them before beginning the Eucharistic Prayer. (Lavabo is Latin for I shall cleanse.)

This is a reminder not only of the fact that the redeeming sacrifice of Christ that cleansed us from our sins is about to be made present to us, but also of Pontius Pilate washing his hands before condemning Jesus to death by releasing Barabbas. (Matthew 27:24)

If you would like to help the parish in this way, please contact the Parish Office at 0208 850 1666 or parishoffice@christchurcheltham.org.uk