Monstrance

A frame or vessel, typically made of gold or silver, used to display the consecrated bread of the eucharist for veneration or Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. Also known as an ostensorium. The term is from the Latin “to show or display.” The monstrance has a round, flat window in which the consecrated bread is placed for viewing. The holder for the consecrated host is known as the luna or lunette. The frame beyond the luna traditionally has a design of rays that seem to emanate from the center of the monstrance where the eucharistic host is placed. Modern versions of the monstrance may be simpler in design. Monstrances are seen in some Episcopal parishes with Anglo-catholic piety that practice eucharistic devotions. See Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament; see Luna.