THE VEILING TRADITION
Veiling of religious images with violet during Passiontide
For 1500 years the church has veiled the altar (Hunger Cloth) and all images except Stations of the Cross as an extra penance for the eyes.
This is still done starting on Passion Sunday, in fitting with the last words of the day’s reading (“Jesus hid himself,” John 8:59) to visualize the darkness of sin, the mourning of the divine Bridegroom and to usher the most solemn part of Lent.
In a way, those are widow’s garments. Veils are removed on Good Friday. Families can do this at home too as a reminder of the season. Here is additional information:
• The liturgical meaning of Passion Sunday
•An SSPX mom’s account and application
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