At Mass, several pieces of linen work together around the chalice and the altar. They are sometimes called the five sacred linens: the corporal, the purificator, the pall, the chalice veil and the lavabo towel. Each has a distinct purpose, and each needs the right fabric, size and care. This guide explains what they are, how they are used, and how to keep them in good condition.
The five linens at a glance
| Linen | Purpose | Typical material |
|---|---|---|
| Corporal | A square cloth spread on the altar under the chalice and paten. | White linen, often with a small cross. |
| Purificator | A small towel used to wipe the chalice and the priest's fingers. | Soft, absorbent linen or cotton. |
| Pall | A stiffened square cover placed over the chalice. | Linen over a rigid insert. |
| Chalice veil | A cloth that covers the chalice and pall before and after the consecration. | Linen, damask or a fabric matching the vestments. |
| Lavabo towel | A small towel used when the priest washes his hands. | Soft linen or cotton. |
The corporal
The corporal is the square cloth spread on the altar at the beginning of the Liturgy of the Eucharist. The chalice and paten are placed on it, and it defines the immediate area of the sacrifice. It is usually white linen, folded in a square, and may have a small cross embroidered at the center or near the edge. The corporal should be large enough to hold the sacred vessels comfortably and flat enough to lie smoothly on the altar cloth.
The purificator
The purificator is a small, absorbent towel used to wipe the chalice and the priest's fingers. It is folded in three and often marked with a small cross. Because it touches the Precious Blood, it should be made of a soft, absorbent fabric that washes clean without leaving lint. Linen and cotton are the usual choices; a polyester blend is less absorbent and is better avoided for this piece.
The pall
The pall is a stiffened square cover placed over the chalice. It protects the contents and keeps the veil from touching the rim. A pall usually consists of a linen cover over a rigid insert, often card or plastic, and may be embroidered to match the set. The cover should be smooth and clean, and the insert should be removable so the linen can be washed.
The chalice veil
The chalice veil covers the chalice and pall before the consecration and after Communion. It is often made of the same fabric and color as the vestments, which makes it a visible link between the altar and the priest. A veil can be plain or embroidered; the important thing is that it falls evenly and does not crease sharply over the pall.
The lavabo towel
The lavabo towel is used when the priest washes his hands during the preparation of the gifts. It is usually a small, soft towel, often white, and may be hung over the edge of the altar or held by the server. It should be absorbent, quick to dry and free of decorative elements that could catch on the finger bowl.
The altar cloth and the fair linen
The five linens are used with the altar cloth that covers the mensa. The top layer, often called the fair linen, is usually white linen and may be the largest single piece in the set. Our altar tablecloths are made in widths from 90 to 150 cm and lengths from 200 to 500 cm, with Richelieu embroidery and guipure lace. The complete set of chalice linens is available in our chalice linen sets category.
Care and storage
Wash the linens separately from everyday laundry, using a mild detergent and cool water. Treat wine stains promptly by rinsing from the back of the fabric and soaking in cold water; avoid hot water, which can set the stain. Iron the pieces while still damp, using a pressing cloth over embroidery. Store the set flat or rolled in a clean cotton bag, and keep the pall insert dry. Rotate two or three sets so each piece has time to rest between uses.
Choosing a set for your parish
If you are preparing a new set, start with the corporal and purificator, then add the pall, veil and lavabo towel. Choose a white linen ground for the pieces that touch the sacred vessels, and coordinate the veil with the vestments. For a complete explanation of the altar linens, read our guide to the corporal, purificator, pall and altar cloths.
