CHAPTER XIV

THE MISSAL

THE Missal is the next thing that claims our consideration. It is a large book in folio, printed in Latin in red and black letters, and containing all the Masses that are to be said throughout the year. It begins with the first Sunday of Advent. The portions printed throughout in red letters are termed the rubrics. They give the directions by which a priest is to be guided in performing the various actions of the Mass. Attached to the Missal are five large ribbons, or book-marks, corresponding in color to the five colors used in the sacred vestments. It is customary to mark the Mass of the day with the ribbon that suits it in color. That part of the Missal called the “Canon” has slips of leather attached to its leaves for the greater convenience of the priest.