Topic: Why did women cover their heads?

Date originally posted: March 20, 2002

Source of this posting: Moderator response to emailed question

Moderator who originally posted this source: K. Martyn

Question:  What was the reason why women were asked to cover their heads by the Catholic Church during Mass?

Answer:

Oh yes, I remember those days.  And, woe-be-tide the student who failed to bring her beanie on Mass day!  A kleenex and bobby pin would just not do it.  As a matter of fact, our heads were supposed to be covered appropriately at any time we entered the church - Mass or whatever. 

I believe the custom comes from Paul's first letter to the Corinthians (11:2-16). St. Paul's point was that one should dress with propriety and modesty when worshiping.  The custom that women cover their heads when entering a Catholic Church carried on for several decades beyond what was considered "the norm" in our society.  Canon Law accommodates for changes in social customs. 

The underlying point here is that one should dress with modesty when attending church.