First Communion Veils

The tradition of wearing first communion veils in the communion ceremony is a unique part of religious history. Though the requirement of the veil has changed as the liturgical rules in various countries have shifted, some parents still choose to outfit their girls in first communion veils, harking back to early traditions. The requirement may also depend on the specific parish.

The History of First Communion Veils

The veil's historical significance dates back to Roman Catholicism and the early Christians, whose women traditionally covered their heads in and outside of the church. The veil was associated with marital fidelity, as well as virginity. As recently as the 1960s, Catholic women were required to wear a head covering when entering a house of worship.

Since religious rules shifted in the '60s, in western Christianity especially, the wearing of veils for everyday purpose is required no longer. Nowadays, the wearing of the veil as traditional attire is evident only on special occasions, such as a woman's wedding day or a girl's first communion. Even on those occasions, it is possible that the woman or child may choose not to wear a veil.

First communion veils often resemble a bride's wedding day veil, with an ornamented ring on top, connected to a long piece of mesh fabric, such as tulle. Finding first communion veils is not difficult, as many places that carry first communion dresses also offer the proper accessories. Making a little girl's first communion a special day can be as simple as finding the right accessories, and the first communion veil adds an elegant touch.