The words monstrance cover, monstrance veil and tabor are often used as if they mean the same thing. They do not. One is a fabric cover, one can be a fabric cover or a rigid case, and one is a stand. This guide explains the difference and helps you choose the right item for exposition, adoration and storage.
The Three Terms at a Glance
- Monstrance veil — a fabric veil draped over the monstrance.
- Monstrance cover — a broader term: a fabric veil or a rigid travel and storage case.
- Tabor — the stand or throne on which the monstrance is placed for exposition.
What Is a Monstrance Veil?
A monstrance veil is a cloth that covers the monstrance when the Blessed Sacrament is not exposed. It is usually made of tulle or embroidered fabric and comes in lengths from about 90 cm to 140 cm. The veil protects the vessel from dust and marks reverence; it is removed before exposition and Benediction.
If you need the fabric cover, see our monstrance veils.
What Is a Monstrance Cover?
“Monstrance cover” is the wider term. It can mean the fabric veil described above, or a rigid case used to transport and store the monstrance. A rigid cover is usually lined, has a handle or latches, and is designed to protect the metal and the lunette during travel. A fabric cover is the veil used in the sanctuary.
When you search for a monstrance cover, check whether the product is fabric or rigid. The two are not interchangeable: a rigid case is for storage and transport, while a fabric veil is for liturgical use.
What Is a Tabor?
A tabor is the stand or throne on which the monstrance is placed during exposition. It raises the monstrance to a visible height and gives it a stable base. It is not a cover and it is not worn by the minister. The tabor may be a simple wooden stand or an elaborate metal throne.
If you need the stand, see our monstrances and the guide How to Choose a Monstrance for Your Church or Chapel.
Comparison Table
| Item | What it is | When it is used |
|---|---|---|
| Monstrance veil | Fabric veil draped over the monstrance | When the Blessed Sacrament is not exposed; processions |
| Monstrance cover | Fabric veil or rigid case | Liturgical use or storage and transport |
| Tabor | Stand or throne for the monstrance | Exposition and adoration |
Which One Do You Need?
If you need to cover the monstrance in the sanctuary, choose a fabric monstrance veil in the right length. If you need to transport or store the monstrance, choose a rigid case. If you need to raise the monstrance for exposition, choose a tabor or a monstrance with an integrated stand.
Many parishes need more than one item: a veil for the sanctuary, a case for travel, and a tabor for exposition. Measure the monstrance before ordering any of them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a monstrance cover the same as a monstrance veil?
A: Not always. A monstrance cover can be a fabric veil or a rigid case. A monstrance veil is specifically the fabric cover draped over the monstrance.
Q: What is a tabor?
A: A tabor is the stand or throne on which the monstrance is placed for exposition. It is not a cover and it is not worn by the minister.
Q: Do I need a veil if I already have a monstrance cover?
A: If your cover is a rigid case for storage, you still need a fabric veil for liturgical use. If your cover is a fabric veil, you already have the liturgical cover.
Q: Can a monstrance veil be used as a travel cover?
A: A fabric veil protects from dust but not from impact. For transport, use a rigid, lined case and keep the veil for the sanctuary.
Q: What size veil fits a monstrance on a tabor?
A: Measure the monstrance from the base to the top of the sunburst, add 10–20 cm for the drape, and choose 90, 100, 120 or 140 cm accordingly. See the Monstrance Veil Size Guide.
Q: Is a humeral veil the same as a monstrance veil?
A: No. A humeral veil is worn over the priest's or deacon's shoulders. A monstrance veil is draped over the monstrance. See our humeral veils for the worn garment.
Related Reading
See the monstrance veils, the monstrances, and the comparison Ciborium Veil vs Chalice Veil vs Monstrance Veil.
