10 Confusing Objects You'd Find in a Catholic Church, Explained
If you’ve ever been inside a Catholic church, or are anything like me, then you’ve probably seen a lot of the items on this list but have no idea what they are actually called. As a child, I just made up names for everything, but apparently, there are proper names and uses for each of these 10 items from the church:
1. This incense burner:
What you thought it was called: Smokey Chain Thingy
What it is actually called: Censer and Boat
Use: Carries incense which is used for the wine and bread before Communion.
2. These cloth things:
What you thought it was called: Napkin
What it is actually called: Purificator
Use: Cleans the chalice.
3. Big white crackers:
What you thought it was called: Insufficient Snack.
What it is actually called: Eucharist
Use: Eucharist means "Thanksgiving." The Eucharist is not a representation of the body of Christ, but it is believed that Christ is present in the Eucharist.
4. Funny little hats:
What you thought it was called: The thing Heuy, Dewie and Louis wear in Ducktales?
What it is actually called: Zucchetto
Use: Worn by members of the Catholic Clergy every day.
5. Oddly shaped crown:
What you thought it was called: Bedazzled Beehive.
What it is actually called: Triregno
Use: Worn by the pope to signify the three powers: teaching, sanctifying, governing.
6. I'm not even sure:
What you thought it was called: Really ornate mirror?
What it is actually called: Monstrance
Use: A sacred vessel that houses the consecrated Eucharist.
7. Rope:
What you thought it was called: The thing my mom used to tie back the curtains in the living room.
What it is actually called: Cincture
Use: Helps to keep the Alb (a long white garment) in place.
8. Special bathrobes:
What you thought it was called: Oversized sweater.
What it is actually called: Chasuble
Use: Symbolizes the virtue of charity and the service which the priest assumes on the day they are ordained.
9. This bowl:
What you thought it was called: Fancy bowl
What it is actually called: Ciborium
Use: Holds the Hosts that are used for communion.
10. Those big buildings with all of the above in them:
What you thought it was called: Church
What it is actually called: Nave
Use: This is where parishioners stand or sit during Mass.
Now go and impress all of your friends.