Altar Bell

Altar Bell

In the Latin Rite of the Catholic Church, in Lutheranism, in Methodism, and in the Anglican Communion, an altar or sanctus bell is typically a small hand-held bell or set of bells. The primary reason for the use of sanctus/altar bell(s) is to create a joyful noise to the Lord as a way to give thanks for the miracle taking place atop the Altar of Sacrifice. A ancillary function of the bell(s) is to focus the attention of those attending the Mass that a supernatural event is taking place on the altar. Such bells are also commonly referred to as the Mass bell', sacring bell, Sacryn bell, saints' bell, sance-bell, or sanctus bell (or "bells", when there are three). and are kept on the credence or some other convenient location within the sanctuary.

Read more about Altar Bell:  Anglican Use

Famous quotes containing the words altar and/or bell:

    Wherever an altar is found, there civilization exists.
    Joseph De Maistre (1753–1821)

    Its quick silver bell beating, beating
    And down the dark one ruby flare
    Pulsing out red light like an artery,
    Karl Shapiro (b. 1913)