Dear Fr. Pisut,
We attended a Confirmation Mass at a parish outside of our diocese and noticed a couple of things that were either different or lacking altogether from the altar.
The first difference was the sanctuary candle was enclosed in white glass and not red as we are accustomed to seeing. Is there anything in the G.I.R.M. that dictates the color of the sanctuary lamp?
The second difference was the complete lacking of a crucifix on the altar or anywhere else in the sanctuary. This seems very unusual.
Any insight you can give to these questions is much appreciated.
Sincerely,
Gloria
Gloria,
Paragraph 316 of the General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM) states: "In accordance with traditional custom, near the tabernacle a special lamp, fueled by oil or wax, should be kept alight to indicate and honor the presence of Christ." Traditionally, it is the curtain that used to be required to veil tabernacles that was the sign of the Real Presence. While the color of candle is not specified red is most likely the traditional color. Perhaps is symbolizes the red flame of Christ's love. Technically speaking, accordingly to the canonical language in the GIRM, it doesn't not even seem that it is strictly required to have a candle. The word "should" is the operative term. However, it is nevertheless a very strong affirmation of the practice and I would not recommend discontinuing it as it is strongly encouraged by the Church and a clear popular sign to people of the presence of Christ in the tabernacle.
In reference to your other question regarding the presence of a crucifix in the sanctuary paragraph 117 states: "Also on or close to the altar, there is to be a cross with a figure of Christ crucified." This can be the processional cross (crucifix). The word "is" is stronger than "should" and basically mandates the presence of a crucifix. The point of this is to remind us that the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is a participation in the one sacrifice of Christ on the cross for our salvation. An image of the resurrected Christ, while not wrong in and of itself, is not to be the prominent image in the sanctuary but rather the crucifix. This was addressed in the 2004 document Redemptionis Sacramentum which deal with abuses in the liturgy.
Fr. Pisut
