Expert: George A. Card,sfo, M.I - 10/19/2006

Question
What is the purpose/meaning of the zuchetto? I know about the color differences (red/magenta)

Answer
Peace

Dear Kevin


Zuchetto:


The scull cap worn by Catholic clergy is called the zucchetto (It.). It is similar in appearance, but not identical, to the yarmulke, which Jewish men are required to wear during any sacred ceremonies or in a sacred place.  In his book on ecclesiastical protocol, The Church Visible, James-Charles Noonan devotes a chapter to it.   

It original use was purely practical. Clerics were tonsured, had a ring of hair removed off the top of their head when they embraced celibacy. The skull-cap was meant to cover it and retain body  heat, an absolute necessity in the unheated churches and monasteries of the past. From this practical use it acquired the role of identifying ecclesiastical rank by the color of the zucchetto.   

Current use is governed by a Motu Proprio of Pope Paul VI in 1968, who made the zucchetto obligatory only for members of the hierarchy. Other clerics may use it. Previously, a seminarian became a cleric on the assumption of celibacy which occurred with sub-diaconate. Since that stage leading to Holy Orders was abolished for the Latin-Rite, a man becomes a cleric with ordination to the diaconate.

You mention that you know the difference between red and magenta. In case you dont know about the black and the black. White is for the pope, Black for priests and deacons, that use them.

As you see, I havent mentioned any symbolism. That because I haven't found any. I hope this has been of some help.


                          your servant but His first
                                  george