Credence

Credence (really the table prepared, from the same root as ready, but not connected with creed), the small side table in the chancel of a church, on which bread and wine are set ready for consecration at the Holy Communion. The term was applied to sideboards in the Middle Ages, and the ecclesiastical use in England seemingly is due mainly to Archbishop Laud and Bishop Andrewes. Its legality has been disputed, but it has been sanctioned by the courts.