What is the Corporal?
The corporal is a white linen cloth, square in shape, that is spread on the altar during the celebration of Mass. Its main function is to receive the bread and wine that will be consecrated, protecting the altar from any fragments or drops. The term “corporal” comes from the Latin “corpus,” which means body, in reference to the Body of Christ that will be present on the altar.
Symbolism of the Corporal
The corporal symbolizes the shroud in which the body of Jesus was wrapped after his death on the cross. Its purity and white color recall the holiness of the Body of Christ and its immaculate conception. By spreading the corporal on the altar, the Church remembers the sacrifice of Jesus and his resurrection, preparing the place for the miracle of transubstantiation.
Practical Application of the Corporal
During the preparation of the altar, the corporal is carefully spread by the priest or deacon. At the offertory, the bread and wine are placed on the corporal, ready to be consecrated. After communion, the corporal is carefully cleaned to collect any fragments of the Body of Christ, which are then consumed or kept with the utmost reverence. The corporal is folded in a specific way to prevent any sacred particles from being dispersed.
What is the Purificator?
The purificator is a small rectangular white linen cloth used to purify the chalice and paten during Mass. It is used to dry the chalice after communion and to remove any fragments of the Body of Christ from the paten. The purificator is an essential tool for maintaining cleanliness and respect for sacred objects.
Symbolism of the Purificator
The purificator symbolizes the veil with which Veronica wiped the face of Jesus during his passion. Its function of cleaning and purification recalls the need to purify our hearts to worthily receive the Body and Blood of Christ. The white color of the purificator symbolizes the purity and holiness necessary to approach the sacrament of the Eucharist.
Practical Application of the Purificator
During Mass, the priest uses the purificator to dry the chalice after each communion, ensuring that no drops of the Blood of Christ remain. He also uses the purificator to clean the paten from any fragments of the Body of Christ. After Mass, the purificators are washed separately from other fabrics, out of respect for their sacred use. The water used for washing is then poured into a special place, such as the sacrarium.
What is the Pall?
The pall is a small square of cardboard covered in white linen, used to cover the chalice during Mass. Its main function is to protect the chalice from any impurities, such as dust or insects, and to keep the consecrated wine safe. The pall is a simple but essential element to ensure the dignity and respect of the Eucharistic sacrament.
Symbolism of the Pall
The pall symbolizes the stone that was placed to close the tomb of Jesus. By protecting the chalice, the pall recalls the custody and protection of the Body and Blood of Christ. Its white color symbolizes the purity and holiness of the Eucharistic sacrament, which must be treated with the utmost reverence and respect.
Practical Application of the Pall
During Mass, the pall is placed over the chalice after the consecration of the wine, protecting it until the moment of communion. After communion, the pall is removed and the chalice is purified with the purificator. The pall is carefully stored along with the other sacred objects, ready to be used in the next Eucharistic celebration.
The Importance of Materials: Linen
A fundamental aspect of these liturgical objects is the material from which they are made: linen. Linen is a natural, durable, and high-quality fabric that symbolizes purity and dignity. Its fiber is particularly suitable for liturgical use, as it is easy to clean and maintain. Furthermore, linen is a material that evokes a sense of sacredness and respect, helping to create an atmosphere of prayer and reverence during the Eucharistic celebration.
The Role of Embroidery and Decoration
Although the corporal, purificator, and pall are traditionally made of simple white linen, it is also possible to find specimens decorated with embroidery or other ornaments. These embroideries, often made by hand, can represent Christian symbols, such as the cross, the Lamb of God, or other sacred motifs. The decoration of these liturgical objects adds a further level of meaning and beauty to the Eucharistic celebration, helping to create a richer and more engaging visual and spiritual experience.
Care and Maintenance of Liturgical Objects
The care and maintenance of the corporal, purificator, and pall are of fundamental importance to ensure their dignity and respect. These sacred objects must be washed separately from other fabrics, using mild detergents and clean water. After washing, they must be carefully ironed and stored in a clean, dry place. Any stains or damage should be repaired promptly to prevent the objects from losing their integrity and symbolic meaning.
Where to Buy Quality Corporals, Purificators, and Palls
If you are looking for high-quality corporals, purificators, and palls for your parish or for personal use, we invite you to visit the HaftinaUSA website. We offer a wide selection of liturgical articles made with the best materials and with the utmost attention to detail. On our site, you will find corporals, purificators, and palls in simple white linen, as well as specimens decorated with embroidery and ornaments. We are certain that you will find the perfect item for your needs and to enrich your liturgical experience.
Conclusion: A Treasure of Meanings
The corporal, purificator, and pall are much more than just liturgical objects. They are powerful symbols of the Catholic faith, which help us to understand the mystery of the Eucharist more deeply. Their practical application and their symbolism invite us to live the Mass with greater awareness and reverence, opening our hearts to the love and grace of God. Taking care of these sacred objects is a concrete way to honor the Body and Blood of Christ and to witness our faith to the world.