“[Christ] calls her to become one with Him: to come under his side and become flesh of His flesh and bone of His bone. […] The covering of the head with a veil symbolizes the reality of woman sheltered in the side of her Source and becoming one with Him. She becomes covered and hidden in her Divine Spouse.”
— Saint John Chrysostom
Hi Catholic Curious!
This week past, we had a good discussion surrounding the veiling of women in Church and also clerical head coverings. We spoke about the biblical basis of the “ancient discipline” of veiling (canon law 1262), some reasons behind modern veiling, and also discussed the now-optional practice with changes made in 1983 canon law. We spoke about how holy things are veiled, that veiling can be in devotion to Mary, and how men and women are different (though equal!). We highlighted the tradition of hats in the priesthood including Bishops’ mitres, Papal hats, and the more common biretta. Use of the biretta in Mass reminds us of important moments such as the Eucharistic prayer, the mention of Jesus’ name, or of Mary’s name.
Below please find a range of resources to explore further. You are free to “eat the watermelon and spit out the seeds” as I remind you that veiling is an optional and personal choice, though it has a great theological significance and longstanding tradition. 🙂
In Christ,
Katy De’Ath
RESOURCES
VIDEO: Concealed by a Veil, Meaning Revealed (21 mins)
VIDEO: Theological Significance of Veiling (16 mins)
| RESOURCES on VEILING |
| What’s That Thing On Your Head?!What’s that thing on your head? It might seem like a rude question, but it can actually open up a whole world of interesting conversations….and it’s how we began our evening. We were looking at all the Catholic head coverings, including the…Read more teensforchrist2017.wordpres… |
Catholic Curious 
Leave a comment