votive Mass

noun

, Roman Catholic Church.

1. a Mass that does not correspond with the office of the day but is said, as for a special intention, at the choice of the celebrant.

Word History and Origins

Origin of votive Mass¹

First recorded in 1730–40

Example Sentences

In the meantime the votive mass was nearing its close.

From Project Gutenberg

In the Chapel of the Divine Mother a quiet votive mass commenced almost with his entry, and the flickering little flames of the candles, lighted before the altar, poorly illuminated the darkness.

From Project Gutenberg

Much better would it be, in such a case, to say the Mass of the day occurring, or some other votive Mass. With regard to the third question, we beg to say that the ciborium or particles ought to be placed on the altar-stone, and that not only during the consecration, but to the communion.

From Project Gutenberg

There was a "Red Mass," a votive Mass of the Holy Ghost, sung on the next morning in the Tower.

From Project Gutenberg

This week with much pomp Chicago's Cardinal was to celebrate his 25th anniversary as a bishop, with a solemn pontifical votive mass of thanksgiving in Chicago's Holy Name Cathedral.

From Time Magazine Archive