Asterisk (liturgy)

The wildcard also Asteriskos (Greek ἀστερίσκος, asterískos, " little star, star ") is a liturgical instrument, used mainly in the Byzantine liturgy, temporarily also in the Roman papal mass.

Form and purpose

The device is consists of two metal strips that are cross-shaped superposed and connected at the intersection, so that they form a kind of star-shaped dome. From this form, the name derives from. As part of the symbolism of birth of the Byzantine Rite prothesis (aka Proskomidie ) recalls the liturgical Asterisos to the Star of Bethlehem, not infrequently illustrated by the fact that one hangs a small star at the intersection of the strips. A paten with Asteriskos 're already in the Sion treasure. From the first turn of the millennium the text and image documents are more common.

When completed prior liturgy beginning prothesis rite of Asteriskos is placed on the paten ( discos ) with that for the Eucharistic celebration are the bread and just as the filled cup each with a protective veil covered later, brought both paten and chalice at the Grand collection to the altar. Prevents the Asteriskos that the velum for the sanctification ( conversion) touches prepared breads and piece of it caught in the cloth and fall when you lift the velum of the paten before the Eucharistic Prayer.

Papal Mass

In the Roman Catholic Church of the wildcard was used only for the solemn papal mass. Compared to the original form of magnificently crafted copies were made ​​soon. The rite of Holy Mass stipulated that the Pope announced on the throne, so to him the Host and the chalice had to be brought from the altar. These continued to the wildcard to the paten, and a cardinal deacon brought the cloaked with a veil Eucharistic gift to the papal throne. Otherwise, the Roman rite always foresaw that the celebrant at the altar communicated. With the liturgical reform after the Second Vatican Council was accompanied by a reform of the papal Mass, so that the Pope is now communicating like all other bishops and priests at the altar. In order for the wildcard became superfluous and fell into disuse in the Roman rite. Pope Benedict XVI. used the wildcard again, but no longer in the traditional function. It is set at fairs in the open air before the consecration on the paten. Thereby, the Host can not be blown away by the wind.