Chasuble

Chasuble (Lat. casula, a little cottage, because, according to St. Isidore of Seville, it covers the whole person), originally the outer garment of the poorer classes, clergy and laity alike, under the later Roman Empire. Gradually, however, its use became confined to the clergy, and its shape much modified. Originally a sleeveless circular cloak, with an opening for the head, and (we are told) a hood, it has become oval in the Roman Church, and is often elaborately decorated. In the Roman Church it is reserved for the officiating priest at the mass. In the Anglican Church it is often worn by the High Church clergy when celebrating Holy Communion. The Eastern Church also has it.