Church Furnishings
Missal Stands
Missal stands hold the altar missal open at the right height and angle, so the priest can read the prayers of the Mass with ease.
About this collection
About Missal Stands
A missal stand holds the Roman Missal at the right angle for the priest, and it is one of the most visible pieces on the altar. This collection offers missal stands in polished and lacquered brass, from simple folding stands to Gothic, figural and claw-foot designs, one set with stones.
Most have an adjustable book rest about 14 by 11 inches that folds nearly flat and rises to roughly 12 or 13 inches. Many stands are made to match our candlestick series, so the altar can be furnished in one style.
What to check
Measure your missal, especially if it is a large altar edition, and compare it with the book rest size. Check the angle adjustment your priest prefers, and match the stand to your candlesticks and crucifix. Listed prices currently run from about $570 to $1,195. Call or request a quote. Freight is billed separately. See also altar cards and altar candlesticks.
Missal Stands
In the Sacred Liturgy
The missal is the large book containing the prayers and readings of the Mass. On the altar it rests on a missal stand, a small sloping book rest that holds the book open, steady and readable, so the priest can pray without bending over the altar or holding the heavy volume.
In the Traditional Latin Mass the missal moves during the liturgy. It begins on the Epistle side of the altar, is carried to the Gospel side for the Gospel, and later returns to the Epistle side for the prayers after Communion. The server carries the missal on its stand, so a stand must be light enough to lift easily yet solid enough to stay firm on the altar. A cushion is sometimes used instead of a stand.
Missal stands are made of brass, bronze or carved wood. Brass stands are often richly ornamented, with claw feet, engraving or decorative stones, and are chosen to match the other altar furnishings.
Thy word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path
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