06/02/2026
WHAT ARE THE PARTS OF THE ALTAR?
Understanding the Heart of Catholic Worship
“At every Mass, the altar stands at the center of Catholic worship. Yet many Catholics do not realize that even the altar itself contains rich symbolism and sacred meaning.”
Every Catholic has seen the altar.
It is the focal point of the celebration of the Holy Mass, the place where the Eucharistic sacrifice is offered and where heaven and earth meet in worship.
Yet many Catholics know surprisingly little about the altar itself.
In Catholic tradition, the altar is not simply a table. It is one of the most sacred furnishings within a church because it represents Christ Himself and serves as the place where the sacrifice of the Cross is made present sacramentally during the Mass.
Understanding its parts helps Catholics appreciate both its beauty and its profound spiritual significance.
1. WHAT IS THE ALTAR?
The altar is the sacred table upon which the Eucharistic sacrifice is celebrated.
From the earliest centuries of Christianity, the altar has been regarded as the center of liturgical worship.
It is here that bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit.
For this reason, the Church requires that the altar be treated with great reverence and dignity.
Before Mass, the altar is prepared.
During Mass, it becomes the center of the Eucharistic celebration.
After Mass, it remains a sacred reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and presence.
2. THE ALTAR MENSA
The mensa is the flat upper surface of the altar.
The word mensa comes from the Latin word for “table.”
This is the part upon which:
* the corporal is placed
* the chalice rests
* the gifts are presented
* and the Eucharistic sacrifice is celebrated
Because of its sacred purpose, the mensa is treated with particular reverence.
3. THE ALTAR BASE OR SUPPORT
Beneath the mensa is the altar’s supporting structure.
Depending on the church, this may consist of:
* pillars
* solid stone supports
* carved wood
* or other dignified materials
Its purpose is both practical and symbolic.
Just as Christ is the foundation of the Church, the altar stands firmly upon its base.
4. THE ALTAR CLOTH
The altar cloth is the white cloth placed upon the altar.
The Church requires that at least one white altar cloth cover the mensa during the celebration of Mass.
The cloth serves both practical and symbolic purposes.
It reflects the dignity of the altar and recalls the linen cloths associated with Christ’s burial.
5. THE RELICS OF SAINTS
In many churches, relics of saints are placed beneath or within the altar.
This ancient Christian practice dates back to the early Church, when Mass was often celebrated over the tombs of martyrs.
The presence of relics reminds Catholics of the communion of saints and the witness of those who gave their lives for Christ.
6. THE ALTAR CROSS
Near or upon the altar is a crucifix or altar cross.
The cross reminds worshippers that every Mass makes present the one sacrifice of Christ on Calvary.
The Eucharist and the Cross can never be separated.
The altar cross helps keep this truth before the eyes of the faithful.
7. THE ALTAR CANDLES
Candles are placed upon or near the altar during Mass.
They symbolize:
* Christ the Light of the World
* reverence
* prayer
* and the sacredness of the liturgical celebration
The number of candles used may vary depending on the liturgical occasion.
8. THE ALTAR STEPS (WHERE PRESENT)
In some churches, the altar is elevated by one or more steps.
These steps help distinguish the sanctuary from the nave and emphasize the importance of the altar as the center of worship.
They also remind believers that the liturgy draws them toward heavenly realities.
IN SUMMARY: THE HEART OF CATHOLIC WORSHIP
The altar is far more than a piece of church furniture.
It is the sacred place where Christ’s sacrifice is sacramentally made present and where the faithful gather around the Eucharistic mystery.
Its various parts; the mensa, base, altar cloth, relics, altar cross, candles, and steps, each contribute to its beauty, dignity, and spiritual meaning.
Every time Catholics attend Mass, the altar quietly proclaims the central mystery of the Christian faith:
Christ died, Christ is risen, and Christ remains present among His people.
Today, reflect:
When I look at the altar during Mass, do I recognize it as the sacred center of Catholic worship?
“The altar is the table of sacrifice, the table of the Lord, and the heart of the church’s liturgical life.”
If this helped you understand your Catholic faith better, share it and tell us:
Which sacred object or place in the Church would you like us to explain next?
SOURCE:
Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1182)
General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM 296–308)
Dedication of a Church and an Altar
Code of Canon Law
Church Teaching on Sacred Liturgy
Be Prayerful. Be Inspired
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