A monstrance, sometimes called an ostensorium, is a sacred object used in some Christian traditions to display the Blessed Sacrament for adoration. It’s made so that people can easily see and honor the consecrated host.
Design and Materials
Monstrances are often quite ornate, constructed from materials like solid brass plated with 24k gold. Many designs incorporate intricate details, engravings, and religious imagery.
A key feature is the luna holder, which keeps the consecrated host safely inside the monstrance. These holders are sometimes made of clear acrylic glass so that the host is easily visible.
For example, the “Light of the World” monstrance features a 24K gold plated circular Luna and ruby rhinestones. Other monstrances feature a spectacular Gothic design, often standing around 35 inches tall with a 9-inch base diameter.
The Vocations Monstrance
Back in 2004, Pope John Paul II blessed six monstrances for the Year of the Eucharist. These weren’t just any monstrances; they were designated for Eucharistic adoration with a special intention: to encourage vocations to ordained ministry and consecrated life.
The monstrance assigned to North America made quite the journey, touring more than 45 dioceses in the U.S. and Canada. If a diocese wants to host the Vocations Monstrance, they can still put in a request through their Diocesan Vocation Director.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can hold the monstrance?
Typically, a priest or deacon holds the monstrance during Eucharistic Adoration and Benediction. Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion may also be permitted to hold the monstrance, but this is usually under the direction and supervision of a priest or deacon and depends on local liturgical norms and the bishop’s guidelines.
Why can’t the priest touch the monstrance?
That’s not quite right! The priest can touch the monstrance, but never directly touch the Eucharist itself. When handling the Blessed Sacrament within the monstrance, the priest will use a humeral veil, a long rectangular cloth that covers the priest’s hands and forearms. This ensures that the priest’s bare hands do not directly touch the monstrance or the Eucharist, out of reverence.
Why does the monstrance look like the sun?
The design of the monstrance, often radiating outwards like the sun, is deeply symbolic. The sun represents Christ as the Light of the World, radiating grace and truth to all. Just as the sun illuminates and sustains life, so too does Christ in the Eucharist nourish and enlighten the faithful. The radiant design emphasizes the transformative power and glory of the Eucharist.
The Bottom Line
Monstrances play a key role in the practice of Eucharistic adoration, a form of prayer and worship centered on the belief that Christ is truly present in the Eucharist.
The continued use of elaborate and artful monstrances, like the Vocations Monstrance, shows the enduring importance of praying within the Church.