The long white linen tunic worn beneath the other vestments as a sign of baptismal purity.
The alb is the common undergarment of all sacred ministers, a full-length tunic of white linen reaching to the feet. Its name comes from the Latin alba, "white," and it signifies the purity of soul with which the minister approaches the altar — the white garment of Baptism made visible.
Binding the body
The alb is gathered at the waist with a cord called the cincture, and at the neck, where it does not already cover the everyday collar, an amice of white linen is added. Together these form the foundation upon which the stole and chasuble are laid.
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