gremiale

thumb|alt=This French pontifical gremiale has embroidery and lace edging.|A French pontifical gremiale, c. 1650. A gremiale, sometimes anglicized as gremial, is a square or oblong cloth or apron which a Roman Catholic bishop wears over his lap during certain liturgical ceremonies, in order to protect his pontifical vestments (especially the chasuble). It is neither blessed or consecrated, and has no symbolic meaning apart from its practical function.

The use of the gremiale is prescribed by the Cæremoniale Episcoporum and historically by the Pontificale, which contain rubrics for the Roman Rite of the Catholic Church. The gremiale is used by a bishop on the following occasions: during the washing of feet in the Mass of the Lord's Supper during the anointments in connection with Holy orders during the consecration of a church or altar while seated on the Cathedra during the distribution of blessed candles, palms or ashes