Objects used in Mass, 1700–1988, undated, bulk: 1926–1968
Scope and Contents
Objects used during the celebration of Mass, including containers for Communion bread and wine, symbolic altar adornments, and bells.
Cloth altar dressings are found in series XI: Textiles.
Dates
- Creation: 1700–1988, undated
- Creation: Majority of material found within 1926–1968
Creator
- From the Collection: Leonard, William J. (1908-2000) (Compiler, Person)
Language of Materials
This collection is mostly in English, with some materials in French, German, Italian, Latin, Lithuanian, Polish, Slovenian, and Spanish.
Access Note
Collection is open for research.
Definition and use
The Mass is the central piece of Catholic religious life. It features readings from the Bible, a brief sermon or homily, a variety of communal prayers, and, most importantly, the Sacrament of Communion. Because Communion requires the use of a consecrated altar, Mass is usually conducted in a church. Catholics are expected to attend Mass at least once per week, ideally on Sunday. While Catholics trace the Communion ritual back to the Last Supper, the liturgy of the Mass has evolved. Notably and recently, reforms following the Second Vatican Council included conducting Mass in any language rather than only Latin, adjustments in the prescribed movements of the priests, and an expansion of musical options.
Sources:
Fortescue, Adrian. "Liturgy of the Mass." In The Catholic Encyclopedia. Robert Appleton Company, 1910. http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/09790b.htm.
"Mass in the Catholic Church," Wikipedia, August 27, 2024. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mass_in_the_Catholic_Church.
Full Extent
30 Linear Feet (22 containers)
Repository Details
Part of the John J. Burns Library Repository
John J. Burns Library
Boston College
140 Commonwealth Avenue
Chestnut Hill MA 02467 USA
617-552-4861
burns@bc.libanswers.com