General of the Barnabite Order, liturgist, born Monza, Italy, 1569; died Milan, Italy, 1683. Recognized early as an authority on liturgical subjects, he was a member of the committee for the revision of the Pian Breviary under Clement VII (1592-1605). His chief work, dedicated to Pope Urban VIII (1623-1644), who appointed him perpetual consultor to the Congregation of Rites in recognition of his great services, is entitled, "Thesaurus sacrorum rituum." In it, Gavantus traces the historical origin of sacred rites, treats of their mystical significance, gives rules as to the observance and obligation of the rubrics, and explanations bearing on the subject matter of the work.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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