Mary Mother of God

Roman Catholic Church

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1) Purificators vs. Finger Towels - How to differentiate

There has been some confusion between finger towels and purificators.  We have some finger towels that have crosses on them and at times they have inadvertently been used in place of purificators.  The purpose of this info alert is to show the difference between the two.

Finger Towels are either plain with no cross, or the cross is visible on the folded towel either  centered or just below the center.  They are generally smaller than purificators, although at times they are close in size.

Purificators are generally larger than finger towels, and always have a cross.  The cross is at the center of an unfolded purificator, such that when folded, it is visible at the top of the purificator at the fold:

2) Handling of Corporals

Taking care of corporals after Mass:

After Mass, it is possible that there may be particles of the Host on the corporal.  For this reason, after every Mass, any corporal that was used should be carefully shaken into the sacrarium and then the sacrarium sink should be rinsed.  If the corporal is to be re-used, it should be refolded, otherwise it may be put into the hamper.

Folding corporals:

When folding the corporal, lay it flat with seams down, cross at bottom.  Fold the cross up one third, fold the top down one third, then fold sides in, one third each.   If the corporal was ironed incorrectly, it may not lie flat. 
Set the folded corporal on top of the chalice in this direction, with the chalice’s cross facing you, so that when Father opens the corporal on the Altar it opens in the correct direction .

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