Episcopal Glossary

Magnificat - The song of Mary (Luke 1:46-55) normally used as one of the canticles at Evening Prayer; also, may be used as a Song of Praise on Feasts of St. Mary or at other times (see BCP, 65 or 119).

Maniple - A band of cloth worn, in some places, over the left arm by the celebrant at the Eucharist. It is of the same liturgical color as the stole and chasuble (see Eucharistic Vestments).

Mardi Gras - literally "fat Tuesday"; a festival day ending a period of celebration and excess; usually occurs mid to late February, sometimes early March. Immediately followed by Ash Wednesday and Lent. Traditional Mardi Gras celebrations are held in Mobile and New Orleans.

Marshal - an official of universities and some religious organizations who organizes processions, seatings, etc.

Mass - the Roman Catholic name for the Christian sacramental meal but sometimes used by conservative Episcopalians to refer to communion or eucharist; The celebration of the Holy Eucharist.

Master of Ceremonies - A person designated to direct the ceremonial at the liturgy.

Matins - Morning Prayer.

Maundy - See Washing of Feet; also, BCP, 274.

Maundy Thursday - Thursday in Holy Week (see BCP, 274); the name is from Latin `mandatum' referring to Christ's commandment concerning foot-washing; also the day on which the first Lord's Supper was celebrated.

Ministers - The celebrant, officiant and any others (lay persons or ordained) who assist in the celebration of the liturgy.

Ministry -  See BCP p. 855.

Missal - See Altar Book.

Missal Stand - The stand (or, in some places, a pillow) upon which the Altar Book rests when in use at the altar.

Mission - a local Episcopal congregation that has not yet attained the status of a church with a full-time priest; also a church that has lost its church status and reverted to mission status. Usually a mission does not have a full-time minister and does not have the full complement of daily or weekly services.

Mitre/Miter - The triangular-shaped head covering worn by a bishop; not often used in Episcopal churches.

Monstrance - A receptacle for the Blessed Sacrament used at Benediction.

Morning Prayer - a morning worship service without communion; now this service has generally been replaced by a eucharistic or communion service.

Mr./Mrs./Ms. - used in referring to clergy when the full name is not used: The Reverend John C. Smith, but: The Reverend Mr. Smith; the Very Reverend John Q. Public, but: the Very Reverend Mr. Public.