What do bells symbolize in the Catholic Church?
Bells are symbolic of many aspects of worship in the Catholic Church, including the making of a “joyful noise” to the Lord referenced in many Psalms. Using bells for worship and praise in church is based on Judaic traditions, according to an article on the Adoremus website.WorshipOne of the earliest symbolic aspects of bells in the Catholic Church was to summon the faithful to worship. According to Adoremus, bells were introduced in the fifth century by Saint Paulinus, Bishop of Nola to summon monks to prayer at the Divine Offices.Divine OfficesIn the Catholic Church, bells still symbolize the Divine Offices, or Liturgy of the Hours, according to the Book of Hours website. The Divine Offices are eight prayer services held every three hours throughout the church day.Sanctus BellThe Sanctus, or holy bell, is rung during the Mass at the time of Holy Communion. According to Adoremus, the bell symbolizes the presence of Christ in the sacrament of Holy Communion.Death KnellThe death knell, o
