Black vestments on All Souls Day?

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Youngling11

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Hello all! I’m new to the TLM and went to mass today (on All Souls’ Day). Could someone explain the meaning behind the black vestments?

Also, we had some prayers after mass around a small table with a black covering on it. What was going on there?

Thanks and may God bless you all!
 
Youngling11 said:
Hello all! I’m new to the TLM and went to mass today (on All Souls’ Day). Could someone explain the meaning behind the black vestments?
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The black represents death and penance. Another way to think about it I guess is ash, which people wore as a sign of repentance. Plus there’s the symbolism of the ashes of Ash Wednesday: “Remember, man, that thou art dust, and to dust thou shalt return.”
Youngling11 said:
Also, we had some prayers after mass around a small table with a black covering on it. What was going on there?
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That is a catafaque. That would normally be supporting a coffin (or urn) for a deceased person. That’s there to represent all the dead being prayed for at Mass for All Souls Day.
 
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The black vestments are an option for All Souls and funerals at the Ordinary Form Mass as well (just for reference).
 
Not related to TLM, but it is a tradition for Catholics in Korea to wear black veils (women only) when in funeral Mass.
 
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