Catholic Dictionary

Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

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RING

A circular band of metal usually worn on the fourth finger. A ring is worn by the Pope, cardinals, bishops, and abbots as a sign of their espousal to the Church. Women religious and some institutes of men wear rings to remind them of their betrothal to Christ. Conferring the ring is an integral part of the marriage ceremony to signify the mutual love of husband and wife, and wearing the ring symbolizes their pledge of marital fidelity.