Ambry vs Aumbry: How Are These Words Connected?

When it comes to religious furnishings, there are a lot of terms that can be confusing, especially when they sound similar. Two such terms are ambry and aumbry. If you’re not sure which one to use, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.

Ambry and aumbry are both words that refer to a type of cabinet used in religious settings. However, there are some differences between the two. Ambry is the more common of the two terms, and it generally refers to a cabinet that is used to store sacred vessels such as chalices, patens, and cruets. Aumbry, on the other hand, is a less common term that usually refers to a cabinet that is used to store the reserved sacrament, or the consecrated bread and wine used in the Eucharist.

So, which one should you use? It depends on what you’re referring to. If you’re talking about a cabinet that is used to store sacred vessels, then ambry is the proper term to use. If you’re talking about a cabinet that is used to store the reserved sacrament, then aumbry is the correct term.

Throughout the rest of this article, we’ll take a closer look at these two terms and explore their history, usage, and significance in religious settings.

Define Ambry

An ambry is a type of cabinet or niche that is used to store sacred objects or items of value, particularly in a religious setting. The word “ambry” comes from the Latin word “amphora,” which means “a jar with two handles.” Ambries were often used in medieval times in churches as a secure place to store items such as chalices, vestments, and other liturgical objects. They were typically made of wood and were often intricately carved or decorated with religious symbols and motifs.

Define Aumbry

An aumbry, on the other hand, is a type of cupboard or recess that is used to store the reserved sacrament in a Christian church. The word “aumbry” comes from the Latin word “armarium,” which means “a cupboard or closet.” Aumbries are typically located near the altar or sanctuary and are used to store the consecrated host, which is reserved for use in administering the sacrament of Holy Communion to the sick or infirm. Aumbries are often made of wood and are sometimes decorated with religious symbols or designs.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

When it comes to using words correctly in a sentence, it’s important to understand their meanings and context. This is especially true for words that are similar in spelling and pronunciation, such as ambry and aumbry.

How To Use Ambry In A Sentence

Ambry is a noun that refers to a recess or cupboard in a church used for storing sacred vessels, vestments, and other items used in religious services. Here are a few examples of how to use ambry in a sentence:

• The priest placed the chalice in the ambry after the Mass.
• The ambry was filled with holy water for the baptism ceremony.
• The sacristan organized the items in the ambry for easy access.

As you can see, ambry is typically used in the context of religious services and items.

How To Use Aumbry In A Sentence

Aumbry is also a noun that refers to a recess or cupboard in a church used for storing sacred vessels, vestments, and other items used in religious services. However, it is typically used to refer to a more ornate or elaborate cupboard. Here are a few examples of how to use aumbry in a sentence:

• The aumbry in the cathedral was made of solid gold.
• The priest carefully placed the relic in the aumbry for safekeeping.
• The aumbry was adorned with intricate carvings and jewels.

As you can see, aumbry is also typically used in the context of religious services and items, but with a focus on the ornate or elaborate nature of the cupboard.

More Examples Of Ambry & Aumbry Used In Sentences

As previously mentioned, both ambry and aumbry are words that refer to a type of cabinet or storage space typically used in religious settings. Here are some more examples of how these words can be used in sentences:

Examples Of Using Ambry In A Sentence

• The priest opened the ambry to retrieve the holy oils.
• The ambry in the church was filled with sacred vessels.
• She carefully placed the chalice back in the ambry after the service.
• The ambry was securely locked to protect the valuable contents inside.
• The ancient ambry was a beautiful example of medieval craftsmanship.
• He knelt in front of the ambry to pray before the sacrament.
• The ambry was carved from solid oak and adorned with intricate carvings.
• She dusted the ambry carefully to keep it in pristine condition.
• The priest blessed the ambry before it was installed in the chapel.
• The ambry was designed to hold the most precious items of the church.

Examples Of Using Aumbry In A Sentence

• The aumbry in the chapel held the reserved sacrament.
• The aumbry was located in the wall behind the altar.
• She lit the candle in the aumbry as a sign of reverence.
• The aumbry was made of brass and had a simple, elegant design.
• He carefully placed the holy bread in the aumbry after the service.
• The aumbry was decorated with intricate patterns and symbols.
• The priest opened the aumbry to retrieve the reserved sacrament.
• The aumbry was a place of great reverence and devotion.
• She knelt in front of the aumbry to pray in silence.
• The aumbry was a reminder of the sacredness of the Eucharist.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to ecclesiastical furniture, the terms ambry and aumbry are often used interchangeably. However, these terms refer to two distinct pieces of furniture with specific purposes. Here are some common mistakes people make when using ambry and aumbry interchangeably, and why they are incorrect:

Confusing The Purpose Of Ambry And Aumbry

One of the most common mistakes people make is confusing the purpose of ambry and aumbry. While both are used for storing religious items, they serve different purposes. An ambry is a cabinet used to store items such as holy oils, while an aumbry is used to store the reserved sacrament. Confusing the two can lead to improper storage of important religious items, which can be disrespectful.

Misspelling Ambry Or Aumbry

Another common mistake is misspelling ambry or aumbry. While these terms sound similar, they are spelled differently. Ambry is spelled with an “m,” while aumbry is spelled with an “a.” Misspelling these terms can lead to confusion and misunderstandings, especially when communicating with others about ecclesiastical furniture.

Using Ambry And Aumbry Interchangeably

Finally, people often use ambry and aumbry interchangeably, not realizing that they refer to two distinct pieces of furniture. Using these terms interchangeably can lead to confusion and miscommunication, especially when discussing specific items or pieces of furniture.

Tips To Avoid These Mistakes

To avoid making these common mistakes, it is important to understand the differences between ambry and aumbry, and to use the correct terminology when referring to them. Here are some tips to help you avoid these mistakes:

• Learn the differences between ambry and aumbry, and their specific purposes.
• Practice spelling these terms correctly, and double-check your spelling when communicating with others.
• Use the correct term when referring to a specific piece of furniture or religious item.
• When in doubt, ask for clarification or consult a reference guide to ensure you are using the correct terminology.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between ambry and aumbry, context plays a significant role in determining which term to use. The two words have similar meanings, but their usage can vary depending on the context in which they are used.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Here are a few examples of different contexts in which the choice between ambry and aumbry might change:

Religious Context

In a religious context, an ambry is a cabinet or cupboard that is used to store sacred vessels, such as chalices and ciboria, as well as oils and other holy objects. An aumbry, on the other hand, is a recess or niche in a church wall that is used to store the reserved sacrament, which is the consecrated bread and wine used in the Eucharist.

So, in a religious context, the choice between ambry and aumbry depends on what is being stored. If it is sacred vessels and other holy objects, then ambry is the appropriate term. If it is the reserved sacrament, then aumbry is the correct term.

Historical Context

In a historical context, ambry is often used to refer to a medieval storage chest or cabinet that was used to store valuables, such as money, documents, and other important items. An aumbry, on the other hand, was used in medieval times to store the sacrament, as well as other holy objects.

So, in a historical context, the choice between ambry and aumbry depends on the type of item being stored. If it is valuables, then ambry is the appropriate term. If it is holy objects, then aumbry is the correct term.

Architectural Context

In an architectural context, an ambry is a recess or niche in a wall that is used to store objects, such as books or statues. An aumbry, on the other hand, is a small cupboard or niche in a church wall that is used to store the reserved sacrament, as well as other holy objects.

So, in an architectural context, the choice between ambry and aumbry depends on the size and location of the storage space. If it is a larger recess or niche used to store non-religious objects, then ambry is the appropriate term. If it is a smaller cupboard or niche used to store holy objects, then aumbry is the correct term.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the usage of ambry and aumbry is generally straightforward, there are a few exceptions where the rules may not apply.

When Ambry Refers To A Person

One exception to the rule of using ambry for a recessed cabinet or niche in a church is when ambry is used to refer to a person. In this case, ambry is an archaic term for a bishop’s staff or crozier. For example, “The bishop entered the church, holding his ambry high.”

When Aumbry Refers To A Type Of Wood

Another exception is when aumbry is used to refer to a type of wood. Aumbry wood is a type of hardwood that is known for its durability and strength. This wood is commonly used in the construction of furniture and cabinetry. For example, “The aumbry wood cabinets in the kitchen were built to last for generations.”

When Ambry And Aumbry Are Used Interchangeably

Finally, there are instances where ambry and aumbry are used interchangeably, particularly in modern usage. This is because the two terms have become somewhat synonymous over time. However, it is important to note that this is not always the case, and that traditional usage still distinguishes between the two terms.

Ambry	Aumbry
Recessed cabinet or niche in a church	Cupboard or cabinet for storing sacred vessels in a church
Archbishop’s staff or crozier (archaic)	Type of hardwood used in furniture and cabinetry

Practice Exercises

Now that you have a better understanding of the differences between ambry and aumbry, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test. Below are some practice exercises to help you improve your understanding and use of these words in sentences.

Exercise 1

Choose the correct word to complete each sentence:

1. The priest placed the sacramental wine in the __________.
2. The medieval castle had an __________ for storing valuables.
3. The museum’s __________ contained ancient artifacts.
4. The church’s __________ was filled with holy oils.

Answer Key:

1. ambry
2. aumbry
3. aumbry
4. ambry

Exercise 2

Write a sentence using each of the following words:

• Ambry
• Aumbry
• Tabernacle
• Sacristy

Explanations:

• An ambry is a cabinet or cupboard used to store sacred vessels and oils in a church.
• An aumbry is a recessed cupboard in a church used to store sacred vessels and oils.
• A tabernacle is a container used to house the Eucharist in a church.
• A sacristy is a room in a church where the priest prepares for mass and stores vestments and other liturgical items.

Example Sentences:

• The priest carefully placed the chalice back in the ambry after mass.
• The aumbry in the medieval castle was filled with gold coins.
• The tabernacle in the church was made of solid gold.
• The sacristy was filled with the scent of incense and beeswax candles.

Conclusion

After exploring the differences between ambry and aumbry, it is clear that these two terms are not interchangeable. While they both refer to a type of cabinet used for storing religious items, ambry specifically refers to a cabinet used in a Christian church to store holy oils and other sacramental items, while aumbry refers to a cabinet used in a Catholic church to store the Eucharist.

It is important to pay attention to the nuances of language and grammar, especially when it comes to religious terminology. Using the wrong word can lead to confusion and miscommunication, which can be particularly problematic in a religious context.

Key Takeaways

• Ambry and aumbry are not interchangeable terms.
• Ambry is used in a Christian church to store holy oils and sacramental items, while aumbry is used in a Catholic church to store the Eucharist.
• Paying attention to language and grammar is important, especially in a religious context.

By continuing to learn about grammar and language use, we can ensure that we are communicating effectively and accurately, both in religious settings and in our everyday lives.