humerales

Humerales are a type of garment historically worn in the Catholic Church. They are part of the vestments used during liturgical celebrations. A humerale is essentially a shoulder cape, often made of linen or silk, that is worn over the alb and under the chasuble. Its primary function is to cover the shoulders and upper chest, and it typically has a rectangular shape.

The origin of the humerale can be traced back to ancient Roman garments. In the early Christian church, it evolved from the paenula, a type of cloak. Over time, its form and usage became more standardized within liturgical contexts. The humerale is not a vestment that is worn by all clergy in every circumstance, but rather by those with specific roles or during particular ceremonies.

The use of the humerale is most commonly associated with the solemn High Mass. It is worn by the priest and sometimes by assisting ministers, such as deacons or subdeacons. The color of the humerale traditionally matches the liturgical season or feast day, adhering to the same color symbolism as other vestments like the chasuble and stole. While its use has become less common in some modern liturgical practices, it remains a part of the traditional vestment set for certain churches and denominations that follow older liturgical rites.