A white linen cloth, usually with a cross in the center, used to protect any particles of the Precious Body and Blood of Jesus from falling onto the altar cloth.

The corporal is placed by the altar guild on pall on the chalice. The deacon unfolds the corporal and places it in the center of the altar during the preparation of the altar at the Offertory.

It is always folded and unfolded so as to protect any particles from being lost. The corporal is like the body winding sheet used to hold the crucified body or Our Lord in the tomb.