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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PISCINA

An excavation or basin, provided with a drain directly to the earth, for the disposal of water that has been used for some sacred purpose and is no longer needed. The name is also given to the baptismal font or cistern. A sacrarium, synonymous with piscina, receives the water from the washing of the sacred vessels and linens. It is generally located in the sacristy of a church. (Etym. Latin piscis, fish.)