Altar wine QUESTION from Jeffrey Shaw March 22, 2001 Some years ago our church made a switch to white wine to avoid staining the linen (don't even ask). In order to return to the traditional use of red, or port as I recall, I was told to please write a proposal to the Priest and lay council. Is there historical evidence of the use of red wine throughout history? Other than the obvious representation of Christ's blood, are their any particular justifcations rooted in history or traditon calling for its propriety?
Thanks for any help you can provide.
Best regards, Jeffrey Shaw
ANSWER by Mrs. Suzanne Fortin, B.A. on March 29, 2001 Dear Jeffrey,
Unfortunately, I have no information relating to the colour of wine used for the Mass. As you might expect, it's something that would be overlooked, as it's simply taken for granted that the Church only requires that wine be used, whether it is red or white or another colour. I think your presentation will have to rely on purely theological and esthetic arguments.
Thank you for your question.
God Bless, Suzanne Fortin
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