The light that is kept burning, usually suspended in the middle of the sanctuary, before the tabernacle in which the Blessed Sacrament is reserved. The custom dates from about the 13th century. According to present ecclesiastical legislation, at least one lamp must burn continually before the tabernacle; several may be used, but their number should be uneven. The sanctuary lamp should be fed with olive oil or bees wax; but where olive oil cannot be obtained, the ordinary may permit the use of other, if possible vegetable, oils. Only in extreme necessity may the ordinary permit the use of an electric light. No special color is prescribed; in English-speaking countries a red lamp is generally used.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
Read More