A Glossary Of Terms For Sacramental Vessels

Along with the Table or altar, the vessels used for sacrament are also important in communicating its meaning. This article defines many of the terms used in describing sacramental vessels. Chalices are commonly made of precious metals, or at least plated with such metals. Other materials, such as glass or ceramic, are also suitable, provided they are not porous. As the most conspicuous of the sacred vessels, it is desirable that chalices be well designed and finely crafted. It is also important that they not be top-heavy. Patens intended for wafer bread ("well" patens) are usually designed to fit on top of the chalice, which is a convenience when bringing the vessels to the altar at the offertory. Patens intended for leavened bread are, of necessity, considerably larger, as well as being deeper. They also may be made of any suitable material. It is desirable that the paten used be large enough to hold all the bread to be consecrated at the service. When necessary, additional paten…