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How the humeral veil is made

The veil is made of fine fabrics, decorated with precious embroidery, and is rectangular in shape. The length of the humeral veil  is about 2.5 meters, while the width is 60 centimeters. This special liturgical vestment is fixed onto the shoulders of the officiant thanks to metal clasps or cloth ribbons.

The veil is made of fine fabrics, decorated with precious embroidery, and is rectangular in shape. The length of the humeral veil is about 2.5 meters, while the width is 60 centimeters. This special liturgical vestment is fixed onto the shoulders of the officiant thanks to metal clasps or cloth ribbons.

The humeral veil consists of two flaps that descend softly on the celebrant's chest. This veil is worn during the procession of Corpus Christi, to carry the Eucharist, to cover the hands of the priest during the transportation of the monstrance, respecting the consecrated host contained inside.The humeral veils are an integral part of the cope, from which they take on the same designs and colors.

Its characteristic color is usually ivory, but it can be combined with the color of the sacred dress used according to the liturgical time. The main element of the splendid embroidery that adorns the humeral veil is a Host surrounded by rays, but sometimes the decorations can vary taking different shapes, such as bunches of grapes, ears of corn or the JHS symbol and the Greek cross.

The story behind the veil

The use of humeral veils dates back to the ancient Rome, when it was common to offer something to a special person with a towel or a mappula, as a sign of respect. With the passage of time, this gesture became part of the Catholic liturgical celebration, as a sign of veneration for the consecrated host contained in the monstrance, as God cannot be touched with his bare hands.