Q. 1. What is the purpose of the "monstrance?"

A. 1. The "monstrance," also known as an ostensorium (or an ostensory), is the vessel used in the Roman Catholic Churches for the exhibition of an object of piety, such as the Consecrated Eucharistic Host during Eucharistic adoration or Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.

It is also used as reliquary for the public display of relics of some saints. The word monstrance comes from the Latin word monstrare, while the word ostensorium came from the Latin word ostendere. Both terms mean "to show". The monstrance is intended for the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament.

The monstrance comes in different sizes. It is usually made of gold or silver colored metals, some being adorned with precious stones and/or has religious symbols in its design. Monstrances are typically elaborate in design and feature a small glass window in the center to display a Consecrated Host and sun-like rays extending outward from the center to draw attention to the Host.

The monstrance is frequently carried in Church processions and is exposed during certain devotional ceremonies.