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Veiling statues?

Question

Question

Can you tell me why they originally veiled crosses and statues duringLent?

--Veil in Vale

Answer

Answer

This custom was followed so that people would not continue focusing on "the externals," but on the "internals." Lent was/is a time of personal conversion and personal reflection, especially on the interior life. We focus on carrying our own cross and following the Lord. During Holy Week, our reflection turns to remembering Christ's passion, suffering and death. We also have a "visual fast," helping us for the Easter season when all is uncovered and renewed, both physically and spiritually.