Altar Cards
To assist the memory of the celebrant at Mass in those prayers which he should know by heart, cards on which these prayers are printed are placed on the altar in the middle, and at…
Altar Carpets
The sanctuary and altar-steps of the high altar are ordinarily to be covered with carpets.
Altar Cavity
A small square or oblong chamber in the body of the altar, in which are placed the relics of two canonized martyrs.
Altar Cloths
The custom of using three altar-cloths began probably in the ninth century, but at present it is of strict obligation for the licit celebration of Mass.
Altar Frontal
An appendage which covers the entire front of the altar, from the lower part of the table to the predella, and from the gospel corner to that of the epistle side.
Altar Horns
On the Jewish altar there were four projections, one at each corner, which were called the horns of the altar. These projections are not found on the Christian altar, but the word …
Altar Lamp
In the Old Testament God commanded that a lamp filled with the purest oil of olives should always burn in the Tabernacle of the Testimony without the veil.
Altar Lanterns
Used in churches to protect the altar candles and lamp, if the latter for any reason, such as a draught, cannot be kept lit.
Altar Ledge
A step behind the altar, raised slightly above it, for candlesticks, flowers, reliquaries, and other ornaments.
Altar of Our Lady
In general it signifies any altar of which the Blessed Virgin is the titular.
Altar Protector
A cover made of cloth, baize or velvet which is placed on the table of the altar, during the time in which the sacred functions do not take place.
Altar Rail
The railing which guards the sanctuary and separates the latter from the body of the church. Also called the communion-rail.
Altar Screen
A cloth, on which images of Our Lord, of the Blessed Virgin, or of saints, are represented, may be suspended above the altar, unless such images are painted on the wall.
Altar Steps
The number of steps leading up to the high altar is for symbolical reasons uneven; usually three, five, or seven, including the upper platform.
Altar Stone
A solid piece of natural stone, consecrated by a bishop, large enough to hold the Sacred Host and chalice.
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