Question first
appeared on October 1, 2000
Why is the beautiful woodwork of the altar
allowed to be exposed during Advent and Great Lent, but covered during the rest
of the year?
The
pure white linen cloth that covers the entire altar is called the "katasarkion."
Like the sacrament of Holy Baptism, upon which the consecration of a church is
patterned, the altar table is first washed with water, rose water and holy oil.
After it is dried off and anointed with holy chrism, it is adorned with the
katasarkion. This cloth is likened to a "baptismal" garment and is
meant to remain on the altar table for all time. The outer altar covers are the
ones that are changed with different colors corresponding with the varying
seasons of the church cycle.
The
katasarkion is now removed during Great Lent each year only for the purpose of
having it repaired if necessary and laundered.
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