Dictionary
A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
CATAFALQUE
A stand or platform to support a coffin. At a funeral Mass the coffin contains the body of the deceased. At an anniversary Mass the absolutions are given at the catafalque as though the body were present. Sometimes it is made of wood and covered with a pall. Six candles usually burn around it during absolution services.
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
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