Veillais

Veillais is a term that historically referred to a type of vigil or watch, particularly in a religious or devotional context. In some cultures, it was associated with the practice of staying awake through the night, often in a church or sacred space, for prayer, meditation, or to commemorate a saint's day. This observance was meant to show piety and devotion.

The practice of veillais could also extend to secular settings, such as keeping watch over a deceased person before burial, a custom known as a wake. In this context, the veillais served as a period of mourning and communal support for the bereaved. It allowed friends and family to gather, share memories, and offer comfort.

The term itself derives from the Old French word "veiller," meaning "to watch" or "to stay awake." Over time, the specific customs associated with veillais evolved and varied depending on regional traditions and the specific purpose of the vigil. While the term may not be in common usage today, the underlying concepts of devotional watchfulness and communal remembrance persist in various forms across different societies.