Catholics believe that "what tradition hands down frequently has a practical origin beyond merely the visually impressive"

"... what tradition hands down frequently has a practical origin beyond merely the visually impressive spectacle that to sceptical modern eyes it had appeared to have become."

-- Dominic Scarborough, a regular commentator in the press and internet on Catholic affairs, on the use of the sedia gestatoria. His company, Proteus Risk, advises companies on security issues. For more on this, visit A Priest Life.

CNS file photo: John Paul I was the last pope to be carried aloft by the sediari, or chairbearers.