Since the Second Vatican Council many traditions of the Catholic Church have disappeared. The Mantilla, chapel veil, worn by Catholic women while attending the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has mostly disappeared. Catholic women should reconsider wearing the chapel veil to uphold the symbolism of the Mary-like modesty demonstrated by women through the history of the Church. The most beautiful use of the veil in the Catholic Church is the chapel veil that adorns the head of a woman.

The 1917 Code of Canon Law mandates the use of the chapel veil during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. This practice developed a negative connotation during the feminist revolution during the 1960’s. The chapel veil is not an oppression of women. It is a sign of true feminine dignity and motherhood. A veil is always used to signify and announce the presence of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

The 1983 Code of Canon Law states that “In doubt, the revocation of a previous law is not presumed” (1983 Code of Canon Law, Canon 21) and that a custom is only revoked by a contrary custom or law (1983 Code of Canon Law, Canon 28). “Unless the law makes express mention of [a contrary custom or law], it does not revoke centennial or immemorial customs” (1983 Code of Canon Law, Canon 28). The 1983 Code of Canon Law gives no contrary custom or law concerning the use of the chapel veil therefore it cannot be revoked.

During Holy Communion the chapel veil worn by the Catholic woman joins herself to our Blessed Mother becoming a true tabernacle of Our Lord Jesus Christ. It was through Our Blessed Mother, a woman, that Our Lord came into the world to die for our sins.