Offertory

Offertory is a term in Christian liturgy for the part of the service in which offerings are presented to God, including money and the bread and wine for the Eucharist. The word comes from the Latin offerre, to offer, and historically referred to the act of presenting gifts at the altar.

In the Roman Catholic Mass, the Offertory occurs after the Liturgy of the Word and before the Eucharistic Prayer. It includes the monetary collection and the presentation of the bread and wine, with prayers over the offerings; some communities sing an Offertory hymn or play a processional piece.

In Anglican, Lutheran, and other Protestant traditions, offertory practices vary. Presentations of gifts, charitable alms, and a collection may accompany a hymn or anthem. The placement and wording of prayers differ by denomination and rite.

In the Orthodox Church, offerings are part of the Divine Liturgy during the Great Entrance, with bread and wine prepared and alms given. The term Offertory is also used for liturgical music that accompanies the presentation of gifts.

Outside worship, offertory can refer to a musical piece performed during this portion of the service, serving to accompany the act of presenting the gifts. Overall, the offertory encapsulates both the material offerings of the faithful and their spiritual preparation for the Eucharist.