CCW Episode 3 - The Sanctus Bells

"A little before the consecration, when appropriate, a server rings a bell as a signal to the faithful. According to local custom, the server also rings the bell as the priest shows the host and then the chalice." (General Instruction of the Roman Missal, IV - para. 50)

The 'Sanctus Bells' (I mistakenly called them 'Consecration Bells' in the video, so sue me ;-) are a very poignant reminder of the spiritual reality taking place at three specific points during the Eucharistic Prayer:

1. The Epiclesis, or the coming of the Holy Spirit (when the priest has his hands over the gifts to be consecrated).
2. The display of the Most Holy Eucharist (when the priest holds up the now-consecrated host).
3. The display of the Most Precious Blood (when the priest holds up the blood of Jesus in the chalice).

It is sad that the traditional sanctus bells have gone out of use in many parishes, as they are a sharp reminder to parishioners who are not quite paying attention to stand at the ready for the beautiful mystery unfolding on the Altar in front of them! Now, the Sanctus Bells are not required, but many (myself included) have a particular fondness of this gentle reminder to look to the Altar and see Jesus, physically present in the Church!

More reading on the Sanctus Bells:

• Sanctus Bells - in the Adoremus Bulletin
• A thread about the Sanctus Bells on Catholic Forums