The tradition of women covering their heads in church dates back to the first days of the Church. St. Paul in 1st Corinthians says that women should cover their heads as a sign of submission to their husbands, as the Church, the Bride of Christ, is submissive to Christ. We symbolize the Bride of Christ, and should cover our heads in His presence as a sign of humility. St. Paul goes on to state that it is not only because of this beautiful symbolism, but "because of the presence of the angels." That is, the angels in adoration, present at the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Traditionally, women wore veils during audiences with the Holy Father, the Vicar of Christ. If we are supposed to wear a veil in the presence of Christ's advocate on earth, we should certainly wear a veil in the True Presence. Color, as in many other aspects of the Church does have symbolism. In many countries with Catholic roots, such as Spain, Italy, and many Latin American countries, married women traditionally wear black, while unmarried women wear white as a sign of purity and virginity. Whether you attend the Novus Ordo Mass or the Traditional Tridentine Rite, Our Lord should be given as much reverence and respect as possible. Veiling is a beautiful way to show this reverence that Our Lord deserves. It is an act of humility completely contrary to Satan's rebellious cry, "Non Serviam!" that is, "I will not serve!"
