In the Roman Rite of the Catholic Church, Lutheranism, and Anglicanism, an altar bell (also Mass bell, sacring bell, Sacryn bell, saints' bell, sance-bell, or sanctus bell^[1]) is typically a small hand-held bell or set of bells. The primary reason for the use of such bells is to create a "joyful noise to the Lord" as a way to give thanks for the miracle taking place atop the altar.^[1]

An ancillary function of the bells is to focus the attention of those attending Mass that a supernatural event is taking place on the altar.^[1] These are kept on the credence table or some other convenient location within the chancel.

The tradition of bell ringing during the consecration finds its historical roots in the Latin Mass era, where much of the celebrant's dialogue was uttered in subdued tones. During the Middle Ages, the widespread use of rood screens often obstructed the view for many congregants, necessitating the need for auditory signals to denote significant moments within the Mass. Consequently, the ringing of bells emerged as a practical solution, effectively drawing attention to the solemn act of consecration.

While the original practical motivations for bell ringing may have diminished with time, the practice persists as an integral component of liturgical tradition. Its enduring presence serves a dual purpose: not only does it maintain continuity with historical practices, but it also functions as a subtle yet poignant reminder to worshipers, redirecting their focus towards the sacred altar and reinforcing the sanctity of the momentous proceedings unfolding before them.^[2]

In the Roman Catholic Church

Benediction

Bells may also be rung during Eucharistic adoration and benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.^[1]

Lutheran

In branches of Lutheranism, altar bells are rung at the two appropriate times during the Words of Institution ("This is my body... This is the cup of my blood...") to signify the real presence.^[15]

Anglican

Some Anglican parishes, in particular those that are Anglo-Catholic, use an altar bell which is rung to signify the Real Presence of Christ in the sacred Elements. During the Eucharist, it is usually rung three times - once before the Words of Institution, and once at each elevation of the Host and of the Chalice. It may also be rung to indicate the time that the faithful may come forward to receive Communion when the priest drinks the wine from the chalice.^[16]

The bells are also rung when the monstrance or ciborium is exposed or processed, for example when moving the reserved Sacrament from a side altar to the high altar. Custom differs concerning its use at Low Mass, or during Lent and Holy Week.^[1]

In some churches, particularly in the Anglo-Catholic tradition, a large (and sometimes decorated) gong, struck with a mallet, may be used during the celebration of mass as an alternative to the altar bell.^[16]

References

 This article incorporates text from a publication now in the public domain: Schulte, Augustin Joseph (1907). "Altar (in Liturgy)". In Herbermann, Charles (ed.). Catholic Encyclopedia. Vol. 1. New York: Robert Appleton Company.