Monstrance - another unique Catholic Symbol

You may have been in a Catholic church during Adoration or Benediction and wondered what that golden vessel that holds the Eucharistic Host, the bread wafer, for display is called. It’s a unique Roman Catholic Symbol

In the English language we call it a Monstrance. In the Latin language used universally in the Roman Catholic Church it is called an Ostensorium. Monstrance is derived from the Latin word “monstrare” which means “to show”. In the English language the word “demonstrate” has the same derivation and it’s meaning, according to the Webster Dictionary, is “to show clearly”.

So why do Catholics have this special vessel to show or display the Eucharistic host? In the Catholic Church, doctrine holds that the bread and wine are transformed into the actual body and blood of Jesus Christ during their consecration at the mass. This is known as Transubstantiation - the transforming of the bread and wine into the body and blood. Once consecrated and transformed they are given the same adoration as is given to Jesus.

While the Host is displayed in the Monstrance no human hands are to touch it. That’s why you see the priest or bishop or even the pope wearing a veil that covers their shoulders and hands when holding the Monstrance.

There you have it. Another unique yet very important symbol of the Catholic Church .