The Tabernacle
Along with the altar, the most important object in a Catholic
consecrated hosts. Some of these consecrated hosts are for Communion
in the desert in a tent, the word tabernacle literally means “tent.”
The Catechism of the Catholic Church in paragraph 1379 says that
the tabernacle “should be located in an especially worthy place in
the church.” In most Catholic churches, the tabernacle is located
just behind or near the altar. Some churches have a small chapel
reserved for the tabernacle.
A tabernacle must be made of non-transparent material. It must
also be immovable, and be kept locked so that the Blessed Sacrament
The Catechism number 1183 tells us that “The dignity, placing, and
security of the Eucharistic tabernacle should foster adoration before
Because we believe that Jesus is truly present, Catholics should
genuflect or bow before the tabernacle, as a sign of reverence.
For further study:
CCC 1183 • CCC 1379
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church is the tabernacle. The tabernacle is the repository
where the Eucharist is kept – Jesus truly present in the
to the sick. As God made himself present to the Israelites
cannot be stolen or desecrated.
the Lord really present in the Blessed Sacrament of the altar.”
Notes