Monstrance typically refers to the vessel used by Roman Catholics to present or display the consecrated host, primarily in rituals known as benediction, exposition, or adoration. The vessel is considered a small temple which in fact houses the actual body of Christ. This concept accounts for the frequent extravagance of its design. Most often made of gold or some other precious metal, and decorated with intricate sculpture work or other highly detailed designs, these venerated objects are still often made by hand by local or regional artists.

Although a benediction can be any blessing, it usually refers to the "Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament." The Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament involves the display of the Eucharist in a monstrance set upon the altar. A significant portion of this liturgy includes singing, prayer (particularly the chanting of the Divine Praises), and the silent worship of Christ's presence in the Holy Eucharist. At the end of this liturgy, the celebrant holds the monstrance using a humeral veil he wears over the shoulders and covering his hands. The celebrant blesses the congregation with the displayed Eucharist by tracing the sign of the cross with the monstrance held steadily upright before him. This liturgy can be a rite unto itself but is most often celebrated at the close of other liturgies.

Perpetual adoration is a practice of the Roman Catholic Church in which the Blessed Sacrament is constantly viewed and meditated upon by a volunteer parishioner. The Church believes that the essence of Christ is literally present in the Eucharist and that it actually becomes the body of Christ upon consecration; therefore, the Eucharist serves as a focal point of devotion.