Continuing our look at some of the vestural customs and items to be found in the Church, there is a rather unique custom for Carthusian nuns relating to the occasional use of the stole and maniple -- the latter worn on the right arm, instead of the left as is the case with its normal usage by clerics. This was something I had shown many years ago in my NLM days, but I thought it fit to bring out again and provide a few updates to it. The Catholic Encyclopedia explains the custom:
"The Carthusian nuns have retained the privilege of the consecration of virgins, which they have inherited from the nuns of Prébayon. The consecration, which is given four years after the vows are taken, can only be conferred by the diocesan. The rite differs but slightly from that given in the "Pontifical". The nun is invested with a crown, ring, stole and maniple, the last being worn on the right arm. These ornaments the nun only wears again on the day of her monastic jubilee, and after her death on her bier. It is a consecrated nun who sings the Epistle at the conventual Mass, though without wearing the maniple."This privilege can be seen in this painting:
A closer look:
Another couple of images shows this usage a bit better (another similar view):
The Church's tradition is indeed a rich and multi-faceted thing and we should take time to appreciate it.
