Christian Cyclopedia

Little is known of the origin of their use. Order for their RC use was est. by Innocent III and Pius V (see Popes, 10, 21). The basic colors have been retained in Angl. and Luth. chs.White symbolizes innocence and holiness, majesty and glory, festivity and joy; red, color of fire and blood, symbolizes the Holy Ghost, martyrdom, fervor, and love; green symbolizes hope, peace, and life; violet is the color of penitence and mourning; black symbolizes humiliation, sadness, deep mourning, and death. ...