Catholic Dictionary

Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

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STRIKING THE BREAST

An ancient sign of sorrow and repentance, to strike one's breast with the hand (Luke 18:13), which has become a part of the liturgy. It is prescribed at Mass during the penitential rite.