Episcopal Glossary

Occasional Services, Book of - A book containing optional services and prayers authorized for use by the Episcopal Church.

Offertory - The presentation, reception, preparation, and offering of the gifts at the beginning of The Holy Communion, the second part of the Eucharist.

Offertory Sentence - A passage of scripture that may be said or sung at the beginning or during the Offertory (see BCP, 333 or 361).

Offertory Procession - At the Eucharist, the presentation of the bread, wine, and other gifts by members of the congregation.

Office - See Daily Offices.

Officiant - A person who officiates at the Daily Offices and other rites.

Oil - A liquid substance blessed by a bishop or priest for use in the Ministration to the Sick (BCP, 455). See also Chrism.

Ordination - a speical service for inducting a person into holy orders; the ritual that makes a person a priest or minister.

Orphery -  An embroidered band on an ecclesiastical vestment or hanging.