If you attend the traditional Mass, you will notice that many women wear a chapel veil or head covering. Newcomers sometimes wonder about this custom — what it means, and whether it is expected. The short answer is that it is a beautiful and time-honored practice, freely chosen, and never required.
A custom of reverence
The veil is, above all, a sign of reverence in the presence of Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. For many women it is a small, quiet gesture of devotion — a way of setting apart the sacred time of the Mass, of approaching the holy with humility and love. Some find in it an echo of Our Lady, who is so often depicted veiled, and a way of imitating her recollection before God.
Freely chosen, never required
It is important to say this plainly and warmly: wearing a veil is entirely optional. No one will think less of a woman who does not wear one, and no one should ever feel pressured. Many faithful women wear one; many do not; both come to worship with equal welcome. If you are a visitor, please come exactly as you are. The Lord looks upon the heart, and your presence is what matters.
If you wish to try it
For those who feel drawn to the custom, a simple lace or cloth veil is all that is needed, and most are inexpensive. Some parishes keep a few on hand to borrow. There is no “wrong” way to begin; let it be, like the Mass itself, a matter of devotion rather than display.
A spirit of charity
Whatever one chooses, the heart of the matter is reverence and charity — reverence before God, and charity toward one another. In a community that welcomes the faithful from many backgrounds and walks of life, we make room for one another with gentleness. Come to the Mass; worship with your whole heart; and let smaller customs be exactly what they are meant to be — aids to devotion, freely embraced.
For more on what to expect, see Attending the Traditional Mass for the First Time.