between times, should be well made and durable art works; they may range from
bronze sculpture to something as simple as carefully made Roman numerals in
wood, and they may be placed at the floor as well as on walls.
e.
The Tabernacle. The eucharistic bread consecrated but not consumed
at Catholic mass is preserved for use at subsequent masses or for distribution
to people who are ill or otherwise unable to attend mass. Catholic piety
values the privileges of praying in the presence of this Sacramental Body, and
therefore it is kept in a container called a tabernacle, in an accessible but
private place. The tabernacle, being a treasury, is usually of metal,
beautifully and carefully designed, well made, and lockable. It may be
cylindrical in shape or a rectilinear box. In either case the opening is on a
vertical surface and is usually a pair of doors. Ciboria, which are goblet-
like vessels in which eucharistic breads are kept, are placed in the
tabernacle.
The tabernacle is secured firmly in place. It may be on a pedestal about
4 feet (1200 mm) high or on a shelf or bracket. Near at band, perhaps as part
of the pedestal, is a shelf; this is necessary so that a person can remove the
ciboria, set them down, close the tabernacle and then lift them again from the
shelf.
Associated with the tabernacle is a lamp in which a flame burns whenever
the Reserved Host is present in the tabernacle. It may be suspended nearby or
otherwise mounted. The lamp usually consists of wax in a glass cylinder
slightly less than 3 inches (75 mm) in diameter and a little more than 9
inches (225 mm) tall. It is normally set Into a second glass cylinder which is
usually red, but need not be. This lamp may, as an alternative, burn oil, in
which case dimensions may be chosen at will. See Facility Plate 24, page
37.06-87.
f.
Candlesticks. Flame, as symbols of the spirit and the sign of
celebration is a universal complement of liturgy. Aside from menorahs, the
number of candles is not rigidly established but two or four are present even
in small chapels. Because altar/tables are free standing anything set on the
surface may interrupt visibility, so floor-standing candlesticks are
preferred. They consist of candle holder and drip cup, staff and base, and
many varieties are possible. If the base is separable from the staff, candles
can be carried in procession as torches; the staff is then set in a socket in
the base, or otherwise secured. The candles used are usually white and about 2
inches (50 mm) in diameter. Their holder is about 40 inches (1000 mm) above
the floor. See Facility Plate 25, page 37.06-89.
A special candlestick and candle reminiscent of resurrection and
called the baptismal or paschal candle is provided to stand, during
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