Humeral veil

Archbishop Jorge Ortiga

Humeral Veil

The Humeral Veil is a liturgical vestment used primarily within the Roman Catholic Church, as well as in some Anglican, Old Catholic, and Eastern Orthodox Churches. It is a long, rectangular piece of cloth that is placed over the shoulders and used to cover the arms and hands of a priest or deacon when they are carrying the Sacrament or a sacred vessel. The humeral veil symbolizes respect and reverence for the holy objects being handled, preventing direct contact with them.

History and Usage

The origins of the humeral veil can be traced back to the early Christian church, where it was initially used for practical purposes to keep sacred items clean or to protect them from the elements. Over time, its use became more symbolic, representing the humility and reverence of the clergy towards the Eucharist and other sacred objects.

In the Roman Catholic tradition, the humeral veil is most commonly used during the Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, and the procession of the Eucharist on the feast of Corpus Christi. It is also used by the subdeacon to hold the paten during the solemn celebration of the Mass.

Design

The humeral veil is typically made of rich fabric, often matching the liturgical colors of the season or the specific feast day. It is adorned with crosses or other religious symbols and is secured at the front with clasps or ties. The inside of the veil may have pockets at the ends for the wearer to place their hands, ensuring that the sacred objects are not touched directly.

Liturgical Significance

The use of the humeral veil highlights the sacredness of the religious objects it covers and the actions being performed. It serves as a visual reminder of the reverence due to the Holy Sacraments and the care that should be taken in their handling. The veil also symbolizes the separation of the sacred from the profane, underscoring the belief in the presence of Christ in the Eucharist.

Variations

While the Roman Catholic Church is the primary user of the humeral veil, variations of it exist in other Christian traditions. In the Eastern Orthodox Church, a similar vestment known as the epimanikia is used, though its use and symbolism can differ. Anglican and Old Catholic Churches that observe high church liturgies also make use of the humeral veil in a manner similar to the Roman Catholic tradition.

Conclusion

The humeral veil is a significant liturgical vestment that serves both practical and symbolic purposes within the Christian liturgy. Its use across various Christian denominations underscores the universal reverence for the sacred, manifesting a deep respect for the traditions and rituals that define the Christian faith.