At this time of year in the circles of liturgical commentators, there is frequently a discussion about why RED vestments are used on Palm Sunday, instead of purple; and likewise on Good Friday. There are various theories about the intentions of the revisionists of the Holy Week liturgists in the 1950s and 1960s in making this change, including the one that goes " this was the colour used in an earlier period of the Roman Rite. "
Maybe that is true, but it is a claim that needs to be qualified.
We do know that the use of Roman purple is a very ancient one liturgically, but this colour in ancient times was not the fuchsia seen today in the robes of prelates of the Church; it was a much darker colour. The reason for that is that the robes of Imperial Rome were double-dyed and resulted in a colour almost like clotted blood.
If we keep in mind this very deep colour it is easy to imagine that what was described as Roman Purple was not so very different from dark red or even black. Consequently, it becomes easier to understand why what might be described or specified in very old liturgical texts as red, black or Roman purple might be describing much the same colour.
According to the Missale Romanum of 1970, Palm Sunday and Good Friday are observed with red vestments. Although not stipulated in any of the liturgical books, the shade of red vestments used on Palm Sunday and Good Friday ought not be a fiery red. Such a fiery red is more suitable for Masses of the Holy Spirit.
The set of vestments in this post is in a deep shade of red and accords with the theory outlined above about the ancient use of a dark penitential colour.
It is simple, but dignified. Made from dupion silk and fully lined, the chasuble is ornamented with a dominant TAU formed from a braid unique to the Studio, being a reproduction of a design by AWN Pugin.
The chasuble is in the Studio's
Saint Martin style, which is very ample and folds beautifully when the arms of the wearer are elevated.
Click on the image for an enlarged view.
The Saint Bede Studio : vestments made by Catholics for Catholics.
Enquiries : stbede62@gmail.com
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To all readers of this blog and to customers and friends of the Saint Bede Studio, may many Graces be yours on the sacred Day of our Lord's Resurrection.
