Ostension (Christianity)

In Christianity, ostension is a solemn display of sacred objects and relics for adoration.[1]

Often a special vessel, called monstrance or ostensorium, is used for display of objects of piety on an altar or as a reliquary. The tradition of ostension of the Blessed Sacrament is traced to at least 12th century, before the introduction of special ostensoria.[2]

References

  1. ^ Scott Montgomery, "Exposure of Relics", In: Encyclopedia of Medieval Pilgrimage Online
  2. ^ Herbermann, Charles, ed. (1913). "Ostensorium". Catholic Encyclopedia. New York: Robert Appleton Company.

Further reading

Jenny Ponzo, Obliteration, Ostension, Ostentation: The Visibility of the Sacred Body in Catholic Culture