Liturgical lavabo | Glass pitcher and basin

Liturgical lavabo | Glass pitcher and basin

• Glass pitcher with a height of 21 cm (8.26 in).
• Glass plate or basin with a diameter of 29 cm (11.41 in) and a height of 6 cm (2.36 in).
• Designed for the liturgical handwashing during Mass.
• Transparent glass.
• Other liturgical glass lavabos are also available. 

Symbolism and use of the liturgical handwashing during Mass

The liturgical handwashing in the Catholic Church is an essential rite within the celebration of Mass. The priest washes his hands during the offertory, before the consecration of the bread and wine.

This act symbolizes the spiritual purification of the priest, who washes his hands as an expression of his desire for purity before coming into contact with the sacred elements of the Eucharist.

• Origin of the liturgical handwashing

The liturgical handwashing has its roots in the ancient purification practices of Israel, mentioned in apostolic texts and by the Church Fathers, such as Saint Cyril of Jerusalem.

The ritual has been preserved in liturgical tradition, regulated by the General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM). The General Instruction establishes the steps the priest must follow to wash his hands before coming into contact with the Eucharistic elements. 

• Meaning

The priest washes his hands with the liturgical lavabo for a dual purpose. On one hand, it is a gesture of hygiene. On the other hand, it represents the inner cleansing of the priest, recalling the spiritual purity necessary to perform the Eucharistic sacrifice.

While the priest washes his hands, it is a good time for introspection, both for the priest himself and for all the faithful. A moment to look inward, checking whether our soul is clean enough to receive the Body of Christ. 

• Liturgical procedure

During the offertory, an acolyte pours water over the priest's hands while he recites a prayer in a low voice, which traditionally includes verses 6-7 of Psalm 26: "I wash my hands in innocence." In some modern liturgical versions, an alternative prayer focused on purification may be recited.