Goa, Dec. 9 -- In a remarkable and historically rich liturgical tradition, theCerulean Indultstands out as one of the Roman Catholic Church's most distinctive privileges, allowing the use ofcerulean blue vestmentsfor Masses celebrated in honor of theImmaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This exception, which applies to feast days, octaves, and votive Masses dedicated to Mary's sinless conception, departs from the standard Latin Rite norms in which blue vestments are otherwise prohibited.

This unique indult was first granted toSpain, whose deep devotion and theological advocacy played a central role in shaping global Marian piety. From there, the privilege was extended to Spain's former colonies, including thePhilippines,Latin...