Maniple

A eucharistic vestment, typically an oblong band of silk or linen, worn above the left wrist. The maniple is usually of the same color and material as the eucharistic stole. Its earliest use was as a handkerchief held in the left hand. It later became an ornament of secular rank. Although it may have had practical uses at one time, it also came to be a symbol of rank in the church. It was associated with subdeacons and higher orders of clergy. The maniple is seldom used in the Episcopal Church.