Which term refers to the decorative covering worn by a priest during a mass?

The correct term for the decorative covering worn by a priest during a mass is "vestment." Vestments are specific garments that have ceremonial significance and are worn by clergy during religious services, particularly in Christian traditions. These garments can vary in style and color depending on the liturgical season or occasion, and they serve to signify the role of the priest as well as the solemnity of the ceremony.

By contrast, a chalice refers to the cup used during the Eucharist to hold wine, while an altar cloth is a covering for the altar itself, often adorned with symbols or colors. A pall is a type of cloth that covers a casket during a funeral, rather than being worn as clothing by a priest. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the unique terminology related to religious practices.