Mantilla

I've had a lot of questions lately on the use of a veil, or more formally a mantilla.  I plan to use this post as a reference for future questions.

Photo credit: Rockhurst University Campus Ministry

I started wearing the veil at the prompting of a friend in high school.  Back then I wasn't really sure of specific reasons for my wearing it yet--I wore it because it was pretty (still true!).  Over time, my reasons solidified.

• For me, it's a devotion to the Blessed Virgin.  Wearing a veil helps me unite myself with her even more.
• It actually helps me stay focused during Mass.  If I wear it in a certain way, then the veil appears in my peripheral vision on both sides of my head.  If I start wandering during Mass or Adoration, I'll see my veil and remember where my focus belongs.

There are more reasons out there...it's more traditional, the Church never said not to wear it, etc., but those reasons above are the reasons I have claimed for my own.  Now, there are certain situations when I choose not to wear a mantilla.  It's a tad awkward at weddings, so I leave it off.  My parents are still iffy on it, so to make them more comfortable I don't wear it when we're at Mass together.  Also, I've been asked not to wear it for times when I've been a Eucharistic minister or lector at Mass, as some are unfamiliar with the practice and might have been confused by it.  Otherwise, if you see me around, I'll have it on!

Here are a couple of my favorite sites to refer about the wearing of the mantilla:
http://www.ignitumtoday.com/2011/12/15/a-few-reasons-to-wear-the-veil-at-mass/
http://www.mantillawithme.com/Welcome.html

And last but not least, a video about how to wear the mantilla!