burses (corporal)
- Scope note
- Envelope-like cases formed from two squares of stiffened material or of cardboard lined with fabric; used to carry and hold the folded corporal (altar cloth). In Roman form the burse is ordinarily made of two juxtaposed pieces about twenty-five centimeters (or ten inches) square, bound together at three edges, leaving the fourth open to receive the corporal. The fabric of the case is of the liturgical color appropriate to the liturgical calendar. The use of the burse is relatively recent. When the corporal reached its present small dimensions, it was carried to the altar in the Missal or in a bag (burse) or box. For the larger box-like containers used to carry or store corporals, use "corporal cases."
- Date of creation: 18-Nov-2024
Accepted term: 18-Nov-2024