Definition of: offertory

(ô′fər·tôr′ē, -to′rē, of′ər-) noun plural ·ries Eccl.
1. Usually cap. A section of the eucharistic liturgy, usually following the saying of the creed, during which the bread and wine to be consecrated are offered, and the alms of the congregation are collected.
2. Any collection taken during a religious service; also, the part of a service when it is taken.
3. An antiphon, hymn, or anthem sung during the offertory.
4. A prayer of oblation said by the celebrant over the bread and wine to be consecrated. [<Med. L offertorium an offering <LL offertus, pp. of L offerre. See OFFER.]