What practice began in the middle ages by Christians and was carried on into the colonies?

The practice that began in the Middle Ages by Christians and continued into the colonies is the use of a pall. Palls, which are heavy cloths, are specifically used to cover a coffin or casket during funerals and burial ceremonies. The symbolism of the pall is significant—it represents the concept of equality in death, covering everyone identically regardless of social status. This practice aligns with Christian beliefs that emphasize the dignity of all individuals in death and reflects the customs of ecclesiastical funerals during the Middle Ages.

The use of palls became a common feature in Christian burials, where they served not only a practical function but also reinforced the religious and community aspects of funerals. While embalming, cremation, and burial in church yards are also related to historical funerary practices, the specific tradition of using a pall is emblematic of both the Middle Ages and the evolving practices in the colonies, highlighting its historical significance in the context of Christian funerary customs.