The Surplice is a long vestment made of white linnen and worn over the purple cassock when the wearer works in the Sanctuary, when the Alb is not worn. The Surplice is given to candidates during their ordination to the Order of Cleric, and shouldn't therefore be worn by lay Servants. The surplice should cover the cassock until the knies. This vestment has wide sleeves, but is never adorned with lace. An opening is left to allow the easy passage of the head of the wearer.

The surplice is also worn by people in Major Orders, with the exception of the Bishop, when not celebrating the holy Eucharist. It is worn under the cope during the Services requiring the use of a cope, according to the Liturgical instructions.

Pattern for the Surplice