Vatican Councils: Councils called by the pope of all bishops of the Church. These councils are usually called to discuss specific matters of interest to the Church.

Vatican Congregation: A Vatican body which is responsible for an important area in the life of the Church, such as worship and sacraments, the clergy, and saints causes.

Veneration of the altar: The reverencing of the altar with a kiss and the optional use of incense.

Vespers: A portion of the Church's divine office recited each day by priests. Also called Evening Prayer.

Vestment: The vesture the ministers wear.

Vow: A promise made to God with sufficient knowledge and freedom, which has as its object a moral good that is possible and better than its voluntary omission.