Question: In India, it is not uncommon to see altars fully covered with sarees or other colored cloths as part of decoration. At times, these coverings also include captions, images or thematic elements related to the liturgical season or a particular feast. Are there liturgical norms or directives governing the covering and decoration of the altar? Is the use of an antependium alone envisaged by the Church, or is it permissible to cover the entire altar with cloths corresponding to the liturgical color of the season or feast? Additionally, it is sometimes observed that the liturgical color of the day is coordinated with the tabernacle veil. Is there any guidance or regulation regarding such practices? What would be a theologically and liturgically sound approach to these forms of altar decoration? — G.C., Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
