What the altar means

An altar can look like a table, but its meaning goes much deeper than a place to set the chalice and the book. The Catechism explains that it represents both Christ’s sacrifice and the banquet in which he gives himself to his people. These belong to the same Eucharistic mystery.

The altar therefore points to a person: Jesus Christ. The kiss makes that reverence visible before the congregation has heard the first reading or joined in the Eucharistic Prayer. [2]

When does the priest kiss it?

In the Roman Rite, the priest and deacon kiss the altar on arriving at the beginning of Mass. They also venerate it with a kiss at the conclusion, before leaving. The General Instruction of the Roman Missal identifies the kiss as an act of veneration. [3]

Is it because there are relics in the altar?

Relics are part of the story of Catholic altars. The Church preserves the tradition of placing authentic relics of saints beneath an altar that is dedicated. But that tradition does not mean every altar contains relics, or that the kiss is only about a relic. The altar itself receives reverence because of its relationship to Christ and the Eucharist. [4]

Something to notice next time

Watch for the kiss as the entrance procession reaches the sanctuary. Before trying to follow every word and movement, let this one gesture settle your attention. You might quietly offer the coming Mass to God, bringing with you whatever has occupied your thoughts on the way to church.

Sources & further reading

  1. USCCB: The structure and meaning of the Mass — Introductory Rites
  2. Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1382–1383 — the altar, sacrifice, and communion
  3. General Instruction of the Roman Missal, 49 and 90 — reverence at the beginning and end of Mass
  4. General Instruction of the Roman Missal, 296 and 302 — the altar and relics

This explainer describes the Roman Rite. The links above distinguish liturgical instructions from commentary and reflection. Suggest a correction.