Summary
In the liturgical celebration of Mass, the Offertory rites begin with the offering of bread. Following the Latin tradition and commanded by God for Passover, unleavened bread is used to symbolize purity and better preservation during Eucharistic presence. The priest elevates an immaculate host on a paten, signifying its destiny as Christ himself, the pure victim. This act includes prayers such as “Suscipe Sancte Pater,” where the priest acknowledges his unworthiness but extends intention to the Church’s salvation of souls. This gesture clearly manifests the sacrificial nature of the Mass, with an emphasis on the term “host” meaning a living victim destined for sacrifice. The subdeacon then carries a veiled paten symbolizing reverence before divine majesty, echoing the adoring angels’ practice of covering their faces in sacred fear.
Key Topics
Papal audience, Eucharist, Leavened bread
