ITEM OF INTEREST 
I Wonder
This is an occasional column that answers questions about the Episcopal Church.

I wonder about the meanings of  terms related to the Episcopal Church.

Acolyte: From the Greek for "to follow"; a lay liturgical assistant (often but not necessarily a youth) who serves in such various roles as crucifer, torchbearer, bannerbearer, bookbearer, candlelighter, and server. 


Altar: Table in the Chancel used for the celebration of the Holy Communion. It is the central furnishing of the worship space.
Ambo: Another (more historic) name for the pulpit, reading desk, or lectern.
Celebrant: The presiding cleric, whether bishop or priest, at the Eucharist, and by extension, at other sacramental rites, such as baptism. 
Chancel:  Elevated area where the altar and, in some churches, pulpit/ambo are located. 
Eucharist: From the Greek for "thanksgiving"; the name for the Holy communion. The sacrament of Word, bread, and wine (in which the two earthly elements constitute the body of our Lord) for which we give thanks, and through which we are nourished and strengthened in Christ's name and sustained in baptismal unity in him. 
Source: The Episcopal Handbook (Morehouse Publishing:New York 2008, pp. 211-216)