AGNUS DEI, a piece of consecrated paste, of great service in the Church of Rome.The name literally signifies Lamb of God; this being supposed an image or representation of the Lamb of God, etc. They cover it up with a piece of stuff, cut in form of a heart, and carry it very devoutly in their processions. The Roman Catholic priests, and religious, make a good penny by selling these Agnus Deis to some, and presenting them to others. The Pope consecrates fresh ones once in seven years, the distribution whereof belongs to the Master of the Wardrobe; and they are received by the Cardinals with a world of reverence, in their mitres. This ceremony they pretend to derive from an ancient custom of the Church, wherein part of the Paschal Taper, consecrated on Holy Thursday, was distributed among the people, to perfume their houses, fields, etc., in order to drive away devils and to free them from storms and tempests. See PASCHAL TAPER.The name Agnus Dei is also popularly given to that part of the Mass, wherein the priest, striking his breast three times, rehearses, with a loud voice, a prayer beginning with the words Agnus Dei.
