OFFERTORY
Offertory
(noun) the part of the Eucharist when bread and wine are offered to God
offertory
(noun) the offerings of the congregation at a religious service
Source: WordNet® 3.1
Etymology
Noun
offertory (plural offertories)
(Christianity) An anthem formerly sung as part of the Roman Catholic Mass or during the corresponding part of the Anglican Communion. [from 14th c.]
(Christianity) The part of the Eucharist service when offerings of bread and wine are placed on the altar and when any collection is taken; also, the money or other things collected. [from 15th c.]
(Christianity, historical) A linen or silken cloth anciently used in various ceremonies connected with the administration of the Eucharist.
Source: Wiktionary
Of"fer*to*ry, n.; pl. Offertories . Etym: [L. offertorium the place
to which offerings were brought, in LL. offertory: cf.F. offertoire.]
1. The act of offering, or the thing offered. [Obs. or R.] Bacon. Bp.
Fell.
2. (R.C.Ch.)
(a) An anthem chanted, or a voluntary played on the organ, during the
offering and first part of the Mass.
(b) That part of the Mass which the priest reads before uncovering
the chalice to offer up the elements for consecration.
(c) The oblation of the elements.
3. (Ch. of Eng. & Prot. Epis. Ch.)
(a) The Scripture sentences said or sung during the collection of the
offerings.
(b) The offerings themselves.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition