A plaque of metal, ivory, or wood, generally decorated with some pious carving and provided with a handle. It was used in the Middle Ages to convey the kiss of peace to the faithful, and was first brought to the altar for the celebrant to kiss at the proper place in tke Mass, then brought to each of the congregation in turn at the altar rails. In the medieval Nuptial Mass the kiss of peace was conveyed to the bridegroom by this means and transmitted by him to the bride.
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
Read More