Cantharus (Christianity)

A cantharus, also known as a phiala, is a fountain used by Christians for ablution before entering a church.

[1][2][3] These ablutions involve the washing of the hands, face, and feet.

[5] The practice of ablutions before prayer and worship in Christianity symbolizes "separation from sins of the spirit and surrender to the Lord.

"[4] Eusebius recorded this practice of canthari located in the courtyards of churches, for the faithful to wash themselves before entering a Christian house of worship.

[2][1] In the present-day, canthari are found in Eastern Christian and Oriental Christian churches, though in Western Christianity (especially in the Roman Catholic, Lutheran and Anglican traditions) the cantharus gradually transformed into the holy water font.