Re: Re: reorganisation and destruction of irish catholic churches

Perhaps more to the point on the significance of the Ciborium is the idea of Thalamus or bridal chamber which derives from the Temple in Jerusalem and the High Priest’s annual entry into the Holy of Holies recalling the covenant-alliance made between God and Israel.

Similarily, in Christian worship, the priest approaches the altar recalling the new covenant-alliance made between God and mankind in the blood of Christ.

As in the Old Testament, so in the New Testament, the covenant alliance is understood in terms of a marriage covenant between Christ and his Bride, the Church. Hence, the whole spousal theology which has surrounded the Ciborium and its use in Christian architectrure from the very earliest time. Every time the Mass is celebrated, the covenant-alliance is confirmed, renewed and made present.

The idea is perhaps better conserved among the Oriental Churches through the use of the iconostasis and the veiling of the sanctuary proper by the use of doors or curtains.

Dr. Helen Dietz has written most interestingly on this subject.