The Significance of Covering Crucifixes and Statues During Lent

In the last few weeks of Lent, lots of Catholic churches and homes cover up their crucifixes and statues. It might seem a bit odd or confusing, but there's a deep spiritual reason behind it. By covering these sacred images, people are encouraged to dive deeper into the seriousness of Lent and get their hearts ready for the joy of Easter.

The new crucifix over the altar is veiled.

Why Are Crucifixes and Statues Covered?

In the U.S., starting on the Fifth Sunday of Lent, statues and crucifixes get covered up with veils until Good Friday or the Easter Vigil. These veils, usually in purple or violet, are a sign of penance and mourning. It's a way for Catholics to keep their attention on Christ's Passion instead of getting distracted by the beauty of the images.

By covering up these visible images, the Church nudges people to focus more on the Mass. It also creates a feeling of anticipation and longing for the resurrection, which makes celebrating Easter even more meaningful!

How Does This Practice Enhance Lent?

Lent is a season of reflection, repentance, and preparation. Covering statues and crucifixes supports these goals in several ways:

• Heightened Awareness: The veils draw attention to the solemn nature of the season, reminding Catholics that Lent is a time for serious spiritual preparation.

• Focus on Scripture and Prayer: Without the distraction of visual images, parishioners can listen more attentively to the readings and prayers, especially those about Christ’s Passion.

• Building Anticipation: The hidden images create a sense of mystery and expectation, deepening the joy when they are unveiled at Easter.

  
  

Families are encouraged to adopt this tradition at home. Covering religious statues can help children and adults alike understand the significance of Lent and prepare their hearts for Easter. It becomes a tangible way to live the liturgical season beyond Sunday Mass.

Statues over the side altar at St. Mary are veiled until Easter.

Practical Tips for Families

Catholic families can bring this tradition into their daily lives with simple steps:

• Cover home crucifixes and statues with purple cloth starting on the Fifth Sunday of Lent.

• Use this time to read the Passion narratives from the Bible together.

• Discuss the meaning of the veils and how they point toward Easter.

• Unveil the images on Easter Vigil or Easter Sunday to celebrate the resurrection.

  
  

This practice can deepen the family’s connection to the liturgical calendar and make the journey through Lent more meaningful.