MANUTERGIO (manutergium, estersorium). — It is the towel used in liturgical ablutions. According to Cyril of Alexandria (Catechesis mystagogica, V, 2), the deacon gives the bishop and the concelebrating priests water with which to purify their hands; according to the Apostolic Constitutions (VIII, 11, 12), however, this duty is performed by the subdeacon. In the Statuta antiqua of Arles (from 500), the archdeacon hands the subdeacon, as insignia of his office, « urceolum cum aqua... ac manutergium », a ceremony which is still found in the ordination of the subdeacon. At Rome, since as early as the eighth century, the water and the m. have been presented to the celebrant by the acolytes.
At present the m. exists in three forms: 1) a large one in the sacristy, or in a nearby room, for washing the hands before the priest vests for the celebration of Mass. This usage dates back to the eighth century, and m. are prescribed in various Synods (e.g., that of Luttich [1287]) and instructions (St. Carlo Borromeo). The rubrics indicate its use only before Mass; after Mass it is recommended. 2) A small one to be used at the Laubao in the Offertory. It is forbidden (decree of the S. Congr. Rit. no. 2118) to carry it on the chalice when going to and returning from the altar. It is also used after Communion distributed outside Mass. The aforementioned Synod of Luttich holds this m. in high regard. 3) Of larger form, it is used in Mass and in other pontifical functions. It also serves for the offering of the breads after the bishop’s consecration.
In the degradation of a subdeacon, the m. is also taken away from him.