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The History and Meaning of Veiling Statues and the Crucifix During Lent

This past week I was in Colorado to visit our 6- and 8-year-old granddaughters.  We attended their Saturday Vigil Mass on Laetare Sunday.  Two things caught my attention.  First, the priest did not wear the traditional rose-colored vestment which is optional. Secondly, was that the church had already veiled their crucifix.   During Lent, veiling the crucifix and statues is optional, but the more common practice is to veil beginning with the Fifth Sunday of Lent, Passion (Passiontide) Sunday.

Two years ago, I wrote an article on this ancient practice, but from the perspective on “why some Catholic churches veil their statutes.” This time, I wish to go a little deeper and approach the topic from a historical perspective. 

Historical Roots of Tradition

The veiling of images during Lent can be traced to medieval Europe, where it emerged from a custom known as the Hungertuch or “hunger cloth.” Beginning as early as the 9th century, large cloths were hung in front of the altar during Lent to conceal it from view. These cloths served both a symbolic and practical purpose: the cloths emphasized the penitential nature of the season and were sometimes used to shield the sanctuary during public penances.

Over time, the practice evolved. Instead of covering only the altar, churches began veiling individual statues and crucifixes. By the 12th century, the custom had spread widely throughout the Western Church. The color purple—associated with penance, mourning, and preparation—became the standard for these veils.

Although the 1960s liturgical reforms made veiling optional, the tradition remains beloved in many parishes. Its endurance speaks to its powerful ability to shape the spiritual imagination.

Theological Meaning and Symbolism

At its heart, veiling is a symbolic gesture that invites the faithful into deeper reflection. The final two weeks of Lent, known as Passiontide, shift the Church’s focus from general penitence to the contemplation of Christ’s suffering and death. Covering sacred images intensifies this shift.

Just as Lent encourages fasting from food, veiling encourages a kind of visual fasting. Removing familiar images from sight creates a sense of emptiness and longing. The absence of beauty mirrors the spiritual barrenness of sin and the solemnity of Christ’s approaching Passion.

The veils also build anticipation for Easter. When the coverings are removed at the Easter Vigil, the sudden return of color, light, and imagery becomes a powerful symbol of the Resurrection. The unveiling is not merely decorative—it is a liturgical revelation.

Some theologians connect veiling to the Gospel passage in which Jesus “hid himself” from the crowds as His hour approached. The covered crucifix reflects this sense of mystery and withdrawal. The faithful are invited to enter into the hiddenness of Christ’s suffering, contemplating the depth of His sacrifice.

A Tradition That Speaks Without Words

In a world saturated with images, the simple act of covering them can be surprisingly moving. Veiling invites silence, reflection, and a renewed awareness of the sacred. It reminds the faithful that Lent is not merely a season of giving things up but of preparing the heart for the joy of Easter.

The tradition endures because it speaks a language beyond words—a language of absence, longing, and ultimately, revelation.