MANUTERGIUM (manutergium, esterosirium). — It is the towel used for liturgical washings. According to St Cyril of Alexandria (Mystagogical Catechesis, V, 2), the deacon presents water to the bishop and the concelebrating priests for the purification of their hands; according to the Apostolic Constitutions (VIII, 11, 12), however, this office is performed by the subdeacon. In the Statuta antiqua of Arles (c. 500), the archdeacon delivers to the subdeacon, as symbols of his office, “urceolum cum aqua... ac manutergium,” a ceremony which is still found in the ordination of the subdeacon. At Rome, from the 8th century, the water and the manutergium are presented to the celebrant by the acolytes.
At present the manutergium takes three forms: 1) a large one in the sacristy or a nearby room, for the washing of the hands before the priest vests for the celebration of Mass. This usage dates from the 8th century, and manutergia are prescribed in various synods (e.g., that of Liège [1287]) and instructions (e.g., by St Charles Borromeo). The rubrics indicate its use only before Mass; after Mass it is recommended. 2) A small one for use at the Lavabo during the Offertory. It is forbidden (decr. S. Congr. Rit. n. 2118) to carry it over the chalice when going to and from the altar. It is also used after Communion distributed outside of Mass. The aforesaid Synod of Liège holds this manutergium in high esteem. 3) A larger form, used at Mass and in other pontifical functions. It is also employed for the offering of loaves after the consecration of the bishop.
In the degradation of a subdeacon, the manutergium is also taken from him.