Chasuble
Chasuble
The chasuble is the outermost liturgical vestment worn by clergy during the celebration of the Eucharist in Western-tradition Christian churches. This vestment is primarily used in Roman Catholic, Anglican, and Lutheran traditions. In Eastern Orthodox Churches and Eastern Catholic Churches, the equivalent vestment is known as the phelonion.
Historical Origins
The chasuble traces its origins to a conical poncho-like garment called the paenula or casula, meaning "little house," worn in the late Roman Empire. This garment was originally a roughly oval piece of cloth with a central hole for the head, falling below the knees on all sides.
Evolution of Design
From the 13th century onward, the design of the chasuble began to evolve. By the 15th and 16th centuries, the sides of the vestment were gradually shortened, resulting in its modern form, which typically reaches only to the wrists. This change made the garment more practical and easier to wear.
Liturgical Significance
The chasuble has deep liturgical significance and is worn over other vestments such as the alb and the stole. The [alb] is a long, white garment that represents purity and is derived from the Latin word albus, meaning "white." It is often worn with a cincture, a type of belt.
Related Vestments
Other related vestments include the dalmatic, worn by deacons, and the maniple, a liturgical vestment used primarily within the Latin Rite of the Catholic Church. The sacristy is the room in Christian churches where these vestments are stored and prepared for services.
Liturgical Colors
The chasuble, like other liturgical vestments, is often found in various colors to represent different liturgical seasons and celebrations. These liturgical colors include white, red, green, purple, and black, each symbolizing different aspects of the Christian faith.
Fermo Chasuble of St. Thomas Becket
An example of a historically significant chasuble is the Fermo chasuble of St. Thomas Becket, a garment belonging to Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1162 until his murder in 1170.
Sacristy
A sacristy is a room in Christian churches used for storing vestments, sacred vessels, and other church furnishings. This room is essential for the preparation and organization of items used in religious services.